The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1240

Stella's mood was excellent after seeing Marvin, whom she hadn't seen in a long time. Even her voice was softer than usual.

"The restaurant was incredibly busy tonight, and the service was slow," she explained. "That's why I'm a little late."

Seeing the gentle smile playing at the corners of her eyes, Joshua felt an inexplicable surge of annoyance. He said nothing more, lapsing into silence.

Stella quickly sensed that his mood had soured again.

Assuming it was because her lateness had kept him from his meal, she said promptly, "Sorry I'm late. I'll make sure to be back earlier tomorrow."

Joshua's brow twitched. "Tomorrow? You're going out with Neville again?"

Stella nodded. "Yes. His grandmother is in Solmaris now, and I'm going to pay her a visit."

"I'll go with you," Joshua stated.

"No, you don't have to," Stella refused. "Your wound hasn't fully healed. You should stay here and rest."

Joshua frowned. "I can't let you go alone. What if you run into danger…"

"Joshua, don't worry about me," Stella cut him off. "Neville is picking me up directly tomorrow. I'll be perfectly safe."

Joshua fell silent.

***

Neville knew his grandmother was still skeptical about his sudden "girlfriend," so he handed the phone to Stella. "Star, my grandmother wants to talk to you."

Stella took the phone with a smile. "Hello, Mrs. Connolly."

"Hello, hello, my dear!" Old Mrs. Connolly said, clearly delighted. "I’m getting lunch ready for you. Is there anything you can't eat? I'll let the kitchen know."

Though they had never met, Old Mrs. Connolly's warmth touched Stella's heart. In the past, neither the O'Brien family nor the Williams family had ever bothered to ask what she liked or disliked.

"I don't have any particular dietary restrictions, Mrs. Connolly," Stella said. "Please, prepare whatever is convenient."

"Oh, my dear," her voice was gentle, "you should call me Grandma, just like Neville does. Don't be such a stranger."