CHAPTER 53

After arriving at the penthouse, Xavier headed straight for the bathroom. He shed his clothes and stepped under the cold shower, the water cascading over him. As the chill enveloped him, he couldn't help but reflect on the events at the pub.

Why hadn't she seized the opportunity to marry another billionaire, one who actually wanted her? Why was she behaving as if he had wronged her?

His mind drifted back to the image of her tear-streaked face, and his hand instinctively moved to his chest, where his heart pounded furiously. Why did her tears stir something within him, a pang of sadness that he couldn't quite shake off?

No, no...no. They were just crocodile tears. She was a masterful actress, after all.

"Relax, Xavier," he whispered to himself, attempting to push away the nagging doubts gnawing at his mind. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing thoughts.

"It's just been too much drama for one day," he muttered, hoping to convince himself that it was all just an