The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1009

The Williams estate was sprawling—far more than just a single mansion. In fact, there were several buildings dotted across the grounds, and it wasn’t uncommon for the family’s security team to live there as well.

So when Joshua moved into the Williams estate, it didn’t feel out of place at all.

Stella thought for a moment. “Is Joshua okay with this?”

Abby replied, “I asked him. He didn’t mind—said it makes no difference to him where he stays.”

Stella didn’t insist any further. “As long as he’s willing. There are more than enough rooms here, and if I want to bring someone in, it’s never a problem.”

“Good.” Abby finally looked relieved. “Star, while I’m away, if anything comes up, you can always call me. Please, don’t keep things from me.”

Stella’s voice was warm. “I know.”

With that, Abby left.

Once Abby was gone, Stella gently hugged Nocturne Stella. She would never let anyone take away what belonged to her again.

…

The next morning, Stella arrived on time at the place she’d agreed to meet Foreman.

There was an art exhibition currently showing in Solmaris, and Foreman seemed genuinely interested. He’d invited Stella to see it with him.

Though she could no longer play violin, one of her hands still had enough strength to draw. Painting was something she hadn’t done in a long time, and now, with more free time, she could finally revisit that old passion.

When Stella arrived, Foreman was already waiting outside the gallery.

The moment he saw her, his eyes lit up and a gentle smile tugged at his lips. “Star, you made it.”

The three walked into the gallery together.

Although Joshua was technically Stella’s bodyguard, he strolled alongside her, occasionally chatting and laughing with her. They looked nothing like employer and employee—more like old friends reunited after years apart.

Foreman walked on Stella’s other side, but it almost felt as if he didn’t belong.

When Stella heard Joshua casually discussing the paintings, she couldn’t hide her surprise. “Joshua, you know about art?”

Joshua smiled. “A little, not much. I know enough to make conversation, but I can’t discuss the finer points.”

Stella laughed at his candor. “You’re too modest.”

Truthfully, Stella didn’t know much about Joshua’s past. He rarely spoke about himself; she didn’t even know what he’d done before coming here.