The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1779

If Leonard was in love with Stella, it meant her personal safety had likely been guaranteed. But being kidnapped by a deranged maniac like him and held on an isolated island… one could only imagine what the past month had been like.

So, even though Stella was back and everyone was gathered together, the atmosphere was strangely silent. No one dared to speak, afraid of making her recall something unpleasant.

Stella had a good idea of what they were all thinking. She had no intention of explaining, instead saying, "Thank you all for your help. None of you have had much rest these past few days, so let's all get some sleep today. Tomorrow, I'll treat you all to dinner."

Since Stella had said so, no one had any objections.

Neville wasn't staying there. He stood up and said, "Star, I'll head home then. Call me if you need anything."

Stella walked him to the door personally, with Joshua following right behind her. Neville had wanted to say something to Stella, but seeing Joshua there, he just said a quick goodbye and left.

At first, Stella didn't notice anything, but then she realized that wherever she went, Joshua followed. When she went to the restroom and found him waiting by the door, she finally sensed something was off.

After a moment's thought, Stella decided she needed to have a serious talk with him. There were things she didn't need to explain to others, but she had to make them clear to Joshua.

In her room, Stella poured two glasses of water, one for herself and one for Joshua.

Joshua accepted the glass she offered. "Thanks."

Stella looked at him and said softly, "Joshua, about Leonard and me, nothing—"

Stella glanced at the darkening sky outside. "Joshua, it's getting late. Let's get a good night's rest. We can talk about everything else tomorrow."

In the past, Joshua would have stood up and left without another word. This time, however, he remained seated on the sofa, looking at her.

"Star, can I stay here tonight?"

Stella was slightly taken aback. Before the kidnapping, she had already decided to move in with him. But the month-long ordeal, along with Leonard's kiss, had left her feeling a certain aversion to overly intimate contact with men. She needed some time to adjust her feelings and state of mind.

As if sensing her hesitation, Joshua quickly explained, "Star, don't worry, I won't do anything. I just want to sleep on the floor in your room, so that when I wake up, you'll be the first person I see."