Chapter 77

They stood outside in the balcony in silence for a long while, each lost in their own thoughts. No words needed to be exchanged. Basking in the peace that simply being with him brought was enough.

They watched the sun set and when she yawned, he suggested they go inside.

Even though she didn’t feel remotely sleepy, she lay on the bed beside him and closed her eyes. She had no desire to operate her phone or even switch on the Tv. She didn’t want to come across any news station or article talking about her and Xavier.

He adjusted her until she was lying on him, with her head on his chest and his hands over her neck.

“Thanks for believing me,” he said after a while.

“I was married to your nephew for the worst two years of my life. From him, I know what the rest of his family is like,” she said. “I would be a fool not to believe you.”

He laughed, but it sounded strained. “I am also a part of his family.”

“But they all hate you so that means you’re doing something right.”

“I guess