The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 1165

She'd found like-minded friends in Lauretta, Katrina Greene, and Wendy Burke. Lately, she'd even gotten to know Neville, Marvin Connolly, Foreman, and Mr. Burton.

There were plenty of people who couldn't stand her, but honestly, just as many who liked her.

Stella was about to say that both she and Abby could be his friends when Joshua's voice cut in again.

"Actually, there's another reason I wanted you to come with me today."

Stella lowered her voice, "What reason?"

Joshua took a swig of beer. "Today's my birthday."

Stella froze. "Wait-today's your birthday?"

It hit her then she hadn't prepared a gift.

"I'm sorry," she said hastily. "I didn't know. When we get back, I'll make it up to you, I promise."

Joshua just shrugged. "No one ever remembers my birthday anyway. You coming here with me is enough. Really."

A pang of regret tugged at Stella. If she'd asked more questions when he first mentioned taking her somewhere, maybe he would've told her.

She said softly, "I'll remember your birthday from now on. You won't have to spend it alone again."

her, his eyes shimmering like

"Really?" he asked.

replied without

but his voice was wistful. "Someone once promised to spend every birthday with me.

guessed he was talking about

No one can really guarantee the future. So how about this-let's just make a plan for next year. Next year, I'll be there for your birthday too.

serious lines of his face softened, as if washed in gentle

He nodded. "Deal."

out his pinky

help but

swears were childish, and he hadn't done one

extended her hand,

"Alright, pinky swear."

a short time. Stella thought, as long as he was

by her side, keeping

would be easy

had no idea just

air had grown chilly, and it was

getting late.

already planning ahead-maybe she could reserve a table somewhere nice and treat Joshua to a birthday

and a half to drive back to

an hour later,