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

"Really?" he asked.

replied

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

was talking about someone special from his

moment, then said, "You're right. No one can really guarantee the future. So how about this-let's just make a plan for next year. Next

of his face softened, as

He nodded. "Deal."

his

help but

childish, and

extended her hand, linking

"Alright, pinky swear."

year seemed like such a short time. Stella thought, as long as he was

side, keeping

would be easy

just how wrong she'd

had grown chilly,

spoke up. "It's getting late.

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

take about an hour and a half to drive back to the city. She texted Aicken, asking him to take care of

later, Aicken replied: everything was