I Was His Wife, Then His Widow, Then No One's But My Own novel Chapter 100

Predictably, Xander let out a low chuckle. "That was never what I was worried about."

He leaned against the headboard, his usual cold scrutiny somewhat diluted by the fever. "When I invest, I never worry about whether the other party can deliver the returns. I trust my own judgment. So, I'll just sit back and see how many surprises you bring to the table."

Nora's lips curved into a soft smile, and she didn't say anything else. A profound silence settled over the room, so thick you could hear a pin drop.

Her mind wandered back to the watch. That morning, she had noticed he wasn't wearing it. She wasn't demanding he wear it; she just desperately wanted to clear the air so he didn't assume she was angling for something illicit.

She just wanted to show her gratitude. That was it.

"Did you not like the watch I gave you, or are you concerned about something else?"

She asked calmly, completely devoid of accusation. "I understand your hesitation. It's completely normal in your position. But I promise you, it was nothing more than a simple thank-you gift."

Xander remained silent for a long moment before tearing his gaze away from her. He stared at the untouched glass of water on the nightstand, his cold voice breaking the tension, sounding almost like an explanation.

"It's a beautiful watch. It's just not practical for the kind of work I do day-to-day. But I appreciate the thought."

He didn't say it outright, but Nora easily picked up on the underlying message. She decided to drop it.

His paranoia wasn't specifically directed at her; it was how he treated the entire world. He had spent years at the absolute top of the food chain, dealing with endless manipulation. Every drink, every compliment, every single gift was laced with strings attached.

He had been conditioned to never trust a soul. She had no right to be offended. Besides, Bonnie was adorable. Spending extra time with her was a win-win.

Seeing the sheer excitement on the little girl's face, Nora couldn't hold back a laugh, reaching out to affectionately stroke her hair. "I think someone else wants some, don't they?"

Bonnie scratched her head sheepishly, offering a guilty little giggle.

"But Dad really does want some! Right, Dad? Tell her!"

Xander's deep gaze softened, displaying that rare, undeniable affection he only ever reserved for his daughter.

"Yes, I'd love some."

He then looked up at Nora, his tone carrying a rare sliver of genuine sincerity. "I'd appreciate that, Ms. Newman."