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."

eyes shimmering like a lake under

"Really?" he asked.

replied without

wistful. "Someone once promised to spend every birthday with

was talking about

one can really guarantee the future. So how about this-let's

the serious lines of his face softened, as if washed

He nodded. "Deal."

he stuck out his pinky

help but

pinky swears were childish, and he hadn't done one with her in

extended her hand, linking her pinky with

"Alright, pinky swear."

like such a short time. Stella

side, keeping the

would be

no idea just

night air had grown chilly, and it was getting

"It's getting late.

somewhere nice and treat Joshua to

to drive back to

half an hour later, Aicken