From His Invisible Wife to the World's Icon novel Chapter 4

"Hmm."

His response was a noncommittal hum as he took his pen and signed his name right next to hers.-

Staring at his bold, aggressive signature, her mind wandered for a second.

Wasn't her contract supposed to be directly with the institute?

Then again, considering Xavier was the sole financial backer and lead partner of the project, he undoubtedly had the authority to personally authorize it.

As her thoughts drifted, a tall, imposing shadow fell completely over her.

Xavier stood up and extended his hand toward her. Every movement he made radiated an overwhelming, commanding presence—a deeply ingrained resilience and ruthlessness. His piercing gaze locked onto hers. His voice was a low rumble. "I expect you to report to the institute as soon as possible to familiarize yourself with the environment and the team. Welcome aboard, Ms. Sterling."

She looked up at the towering man.

He was incredibly tall, easily clearing six foot three—even taller than Frederick.

In the split second their eyes met, she caught the absolute predatory dominance lurking in his dark gaze.

Unexpectedly intimidated by his sheer aura, she hastily shook his hand. "I will. It's a privilege, Mr. Ford."

The cool touch of his fingers sent a sudden, electric jolt straight through her chest.

He felt strangely familiar, making her want to ask if they had met before.

But a sudden commotion in the restaurant interrupted her thoughts.

She glanced over at the large television screen mounted in the center of the dining room. It was broadcasting breaking entertainment news.

#Billionaire CEO Caught in Cheating Scandal#

The paparazzi photos were damning. They showed Frederick protectively escorting Sierra out of a car and into her apartment building late last night, followed by a shot of him leaving in his chauffeured car this morning.

Lydia remembered the perfectly made bed in the guest room before she left the house.

They hadn't shared a bed in a very long time.

Lately, he had been leaving early and coming home incredibly late. He claimed he needed to work, which was his excuse for sleeping in the guest room.

She had genuinely thought he was just being considerate, trying not to disturb her sleep. She had even felt touched by his gesture.

In reality, he was just staying faithful to the woman he actually loved.

A bitter smile twisted her lips.

"Lydia, are you alright?" Harrison's concerned voice snapped her back to reality.

Realizing she was still gripping Xavier's hand, she hastily let go, her face flushing with embarrassment. "I apologize, Mr. Ford."

The man shot her a completely unreadable look. He sat back down, picking up a hot towel from the waiter to thoroughly wipe his palm.

Lydia's brow twitched.

He was disgusted by her...

The rumors about him being an icy, untouchable ascetic who despised physical contact with women were clearly true.

She completely zoned out for the rest of the meal, but managed to hold it together enough to not completely ruin her impression in front of her new boss.

After lunch, Lydia drove straight to The Foster Group.

She had to finalize this divorce with Frederick today.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify