Billionaire's Match (by Tangy Candy) novel Chapter 320

"That old version of the technology was already obsolete three years ago," Winnie explained. "My mom left it to me as a keepsake before she passed. The core data of the new version is still under the Olson family's control. Even if the patent fees go entirely to them, I could never betray my mother's wishes—or my country."

Michael gazed at her stubborn profile, a complex wave of emotions rising within him.

So Winnie was far clearer-headed and more rational than he had ever imagined.

"Even so," he sighed, "using that technology to get me back home… the price was far too high. You shouldn't have risked yourself for me."

Winnie finally turned to face him, her eyes carrying that familiar stubbornness. "Michael, you're still as indecisive as ever. I said I was willing. You don't need to worry about me."

Normally, Michael might have taken this as another instance of her willfulness. But this time, he sensed something different beneath her words.

If this hadn't required her to personally step in, would she, like in the misunderstanding years ago, have left him without even an explanation?

During the return flight, both were lost in their own thoughts, and for a long time, there was no conversation.

Winnie slept for a while and woke to find there were still over five hours left in the flight. Bored, she was about to order some food when she noticed the seat beside her was empty.

"Where's Michael?" she asked the attendant, anxious.

"I'm here," came his voice. Michael emerged from nearby, and Winnie couldn't help but feel a little awkward.

"I thought you…" she began.

"You were worried about me?" Michael asked, a small smile tugging at his lips.

He had seen her sleeping peacefully earlier and had gone to the back to handle some work. He hadn't expected that the moment she woke, she would immediately look for him. Clearly, this trip to Naraida had been weighing heavily on her.

Winnie didn't answer, but her silence was taken as acknowledgment. Michael slid back into the seat beside her.

"Aren't you busy with work? You'll still have time for me after we get home?" Winnie teased lightly, masking her concern. She sensed the seriousness in his tone and didn't want him to examine her so gravely, as if she were facing some insurmountable hardship.

"As long as you need me, I'll always be here," Michael said without hesitation.

The words hung in the air. Both froze, staring at each other, momentarily lost.

Suddenly, the plane hit turbulence, jolting violently. Winnie instinctively gripped the armrest, her knuckles whitening.

Michael noticed her reaction and gently covered her hand with his. "Don't be afraid. It's just normal turbulence."

Winnie forced a smile. "I'm not afraid."

Despite her words, her hand closed firmly around his.