The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1248

"Don't worry, Mr. Connolly," Joshua replied. "I've troubled you once; I won't do it a second time." He then turned to Stella. "Star, from now on, I'll let you know where I'm going. I promise not to interfere with your time with Mr. Connolly."

Stella felt a strange awkwardness in his words, but before she could pinpoint why, Neville smoothly responded with a smile. "Well, I'd certainly appreciate that."

"Don't celebrate too soon, Mr. Connolly," Joshua said coolly. "As they say, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. And pride comes before a fall."

Stella found their conversation increasingly bizarre, but before she could dwell on it, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Abby.

*Star, I'm safe for now. You can call me anytime if you need anything.*

Stella had discussed Abby's discovery by Harland with Antoney. She had been debating whether to tell Abby the truth. Antoney had advised against it. "It's better not to complicate things. Abby can't keep a secret, and Harland is no fool. The less she knows, the safer she'll be."

He had a point. But as her friend, Stella felt she had to warn Abby to be careful around Harland, lest she be sold out without even realizing it. She typed back a reply.

*Abby, is now a good time to chat?*

*Perfect timing!* Abby replied instantly. *Hehe, and congratulations on the success of your plan, Star!*

After saying their goodbyes, Neville drove off. Joshua watched the car disappear into the night, an inscrutable light in his dark eyes.

***

The next day, Neville picked Stella up and took her to the Connolly residence. Throughout the evening, her phone remained silent. Even after dinner, not a single call came through. Neville found it surprising. As a man, he could read the intentions of another. He had to admit, Joshua had the advantage of proximity and opportunity. He hadn't realized that in the short time he'd been away, Joshua had become so important to Stella.

From their conversation the previous night, Neville knew Joshua wouldn't remain passive. Just as he himself wouldn't miss a chance to spend time with Stella, Joshua would surely try to intervene. If he pulled another stunt while she was with him, Stella would eventually catch on. She had learned that lesson the hard way with Rachel and wouldn't tolerate that kind of behavior.