I Was His Wife, Then His Widow, Then No One's But My Own novel Chapter 296

Nora let out a soft scoff. "Don't you think that sounds a bit ridiculous, Frederick? Why exactly should I apologize?"

Finnegan's expression hardened. "I've been tirelessly searching for proof that Finnegan is still alive. As his wife, instead of believing in him, you slander him and Seraphina. Nora, don't you think you're being a bit too cold-blooded?"

Nora smiled faintly. "How refreshing. You aren't standing up for yourself, but fighting tooth and nail for Finnegan's honor. I'd be remiss if I didn't praise your absolute selflessness."

Finnegan's eyes darted away, suddenly realizing the gaping holes in his own logic.

"Of course I'm upset for myself! Seraphina is my fiancée. Slandering her is slandering me. You will apologize to both of us, or I won't permit you to return to the Fletcher family!"

Finnegan stood up, thoroughly agitated. "You stay here and reflect on your behavior."

With that, he spun on his heel and walked out. The only thing he cared about was confirming Nora still had feelings for him, and as far as he was concerned, he had his answer. He refused to let her gain the upper hand.

Whether she was allowed back into the Fletcher estate was entirely up to him.

Nora watched him leave, her heart a dead, unmoving stone. The numbness was absolute.

She checked the time. Less than two weeks left. Then, she could finally walk away from this nightmare.

Just then, her phone buzzed. It was her father. Nora's heart jolted, and she slowly answered the call.

"Dad?"

Benedict Newman's cold voice came through the speaker. "Tomorrow is your mother's memorial. Make sure you come home."

Short, precise, and entirely devoid of warmth. He hung up before she could even reply.

Nora took a deep, shuddering breath, forcing her emotions under control. Regardless of everything, her father's call meant he was willing to forgive her. This was a good thing.

Overwhelmed, she immediately called Zelda. "Zelda! Tomorrow is my mother's memorial... and my dad told me to come home!"

Zelda had the phone on speaker, and Xavier heard it too. The two exchanged a glance, and Zelda's voice practically beamed with joy.

"Really? Oh, Nora, that's wonderful! He's softening up. He wants to repair your relationship. You have to make the most of this."

Nora couldn't stop the tears from falling. Her voice choked up. "I know, Zelda. I just wanted to tell you... I'll need to take tomorrow off!"

Zelda was thrilled for her. "Yes, of course, take all the time you need! Come back when everything is settled. Don't rush."

After hanging up, Nora quickly tracked down Felix. "Felix, can you monitor Annabel's data for me tomorrow?"