The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1354

At the mention of Joshua, the smile on Neville's face faded.

He had to admit, compared to Foreman, Joshua was the real threat. He even suspected Joshua had a hand in the scheme that had recently targeted him.

Just as the thought crossed his mind, the lights in the room suddenly dimmed. A soft glow flickered to life in the darkness. A man with a chiseled, statuesque profile emerged, his features traced by the warm, yellow light of candles, melting into the surrounding shadows. The candlelight danced before his eyes, his long lashes casting delicate shadows like stars falling into a deep pool. In the interplay of light and dark, he smiled at Stella, and it felt as if the entire world had fallen silent.

"Star, happy birthday."

Stella's pupils reflected the man's impossibly handsome face. She found herself momentarily mesmerized, her heartbeat stumbling out of rhythm.

Just then, the overhead lights flashed back on. Party poppers went off with a series of loud bangs, showering them in a cascade of colorful confetti. Marvin and Keen had appeared at Stella's side, each holding a popper, looking like two little page boys. It was clear this was a job orchestrated by Joshua.

Seeing their own sons helping their rival create a romantic atmosphere, both Haynes and Neville felt a complex mix of emotions.

Abby, oblivious to the strange tension, grinned. "Well done, boys! You really know how to surprise Star. It's no wonder she's always so good to you." Then, she put on a mock-serious face. "Joshua, I'm starting to get jealous of you."

Stella laughed. "Alright, Abby, stop teasing him."

As the party was winding down, Stella suddenly announced, "I didn't get Joshua a gift for his birthday when it passed. So today, I've prepared something to make it up to him."

Abby smiled. "Joshua, I got you a gift too!"

She and Antoney presented their presents. Keen and Marvin quickly followed suit, revealing they had also come prepared. It was obvious Stella had given them a heads-up.

Though Candida and Lauretta didn't know Joshua well, they had also brought gifts out of politeness. As for Haynes and Neville, they were not without grace and were certainly not above giving a gift.