The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 679

At that moment, Joshua shrugged off his own jacket and draped it over Keen’s head, leaving himself soaked through.

Keen had caught a bit of the rain, but with Joshua shielding him so firmly, he looked far less bedraggled.

Stella hurried over, worry etched on her face. “Keen, are you alright?”

Keen shook his head. “I’m fine, Mom. Mr. Joshua gave me his jacket, so I’m really okay.”

Stella’s eyes flickered with a complicated mix of emotions. “Thank you, Joshua.”

Joshua just wiped his face with a damp sleeve and gave an easy smile. “I’m your assistant, Mrs. O’Brien. Making sure your son’s safe is part of the job.”

Only then did Stella remember—she’d barely returned to the lounge area when Joshua had disappeared. She’d assumed he’d gone off to watch an interesting game or try his hand at something.

Her gaze shifted to Keen, her expression turning stern.

“Keen, why did you run off on your own again? Do you have any idea how many people worry about your safety?”

As Stella scolded Keen, Rachel stepped forward like she always did, trying to play peacemaker.

“Ms. Cameron, Keen’s just a kid. Don’t be so hard on him. He—”

Stella cut her off, her tone icy. “How I raise my child is none of your business. This isn’t a conversation you need to stick your nose into.”

Rachel faltered, then felt a surge of secret delight. With so many people watching, Stella’s sharp words practically confirmed she was being bullied. Surely everyone’s sympathy would be on her side now.

Tears welled in Rachel’s eyes, her face the picture of wounded innocence.