Substitute Wife, Genius CEO novel Chapter 408

"He is the most approachable and gentle heir I've ever met in this elite circle. Of course, anyone raised to lead a top-tier family is no ordinary person, and he definitely has his ruthless methods."

"But as long as you don't cross them, they are usually true gentlemen. I'm guessing he's getting close to Leo because Leo is family, and they were both raised by Carlson Sterling. There might be a special kind of bond there."

Summer agreed with that final point.

Leo felt an inexplicable closeness to Xander precisely because they shared the unique experience of being raised by Carlson.

Furthermore, they were both bound to wheelchairs at the moment, grinding through rehab.

The similarities were too striking. It felt like finding a kindred spirit, making it natural for them to grow close.

Miles advised, "Don't worry too much. Let's just wait and see."

Summer nodded.

***

Lilith knew Xander waking up was a catastrophic blow. If she wanted to remain Mrs. Sterling, she had to keep a tight grip on Xavier's heart.

Although taking those two lashes had hurt enough to make her want to die, compared to the horrific wounds on Xavier's back, it was nothing.

Lately, she had dedicated herself entirely to caring for him, tending to his every need with flawless devotion and gentleness.

Between her injuries and her utter physical exhaustion from barely sleeping, she looked terrible.

Her complexion was sickly pale, dark circles bruised her under-eyes, and her clothes hung loosely on her newly thinned frame.

Xavier saw it all and felt his heart ache for her. He forced her out of his hospital room and ordered her to go rest.

Lilith went straight to Lydia Sutton's room.

Lydia's severe burns wouldn't heal anytime soon, confining her to the hospital.

When Lilith arrived, she heard the sound of things smashing inside. Lydia was throwing another tantrum.

Ever since the fire, Lydia's temper had grown increasingly erratic and bizarre.

Sometimes, if a simple reflection of light caught her ruined face, she would fly into a violent rage.

Other times, if she randomly overheard someone say the word 'ugly,' she assumed they were talking about her and lost her mind entirely.

Lilith seriously began to doubt if a woman in this state could even offer her any useful advice.

It had been almost eight years, yet Xander had actually woken up.

Not only was he awake, but his memory was perfectly intact. He remembered every detail of the accident.

He was an absolute monster!

Taking two lashes and staying awake for days to care for Xavier had only bought her a temporary reprieve.

It guaranteed Xavier's protection for now.

But the Sterlings weren't so easily dealt with, and she wasn't entirely confident Xavier could withstand their relentless pressure forever.

Out of options, Lilith had come to consult Lydia.

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