The Divorce That Brought Us Back novel Chapter 406

After claiming the title of valedictorian, it felt like the entire world was suddenly at her feet.

Nora deeply understood the difference between those who merely clapped when she was already winning and those who threw her a lifeline when she was drowning.

She made a silent vow to engrave the kindness of those who helped her into her heart, and to build ironclad walls against those who wished her harm.

It was during this pivotal shift in her life that she crossed paths with Maloney again.

Maloney undeniably belonged in the first category.

It wasn't an exaggeration to say that without Maloney, the Nora of today simply wouldn't exist.

He was her savior.

Because of that, Nora treated him with the utmost respect, leaned on him emotionally, memorized every detail about him, generously repaid him materially, and supported him fiercely.

"Dinner tonight?"

One afternoon early in her freshman year, Nora was walking back to her dorm with a roommate after class when they bumped into Maloney, who had been on campus giving a guest lecture.

He made his move effortlessly, immediately suggesting dinner.

Before Nora could even process a response, her eager roommate practically shoved her right into Maloney's chest, eyes practically gleaming with gossip.

It wasn't the first time Maloney had asked her out right in front of her friends.

Her roommates were absolutely convinced he was into her.

Nora always shut it down with unwavering certainty. "Impossible."

"I've known him since I was a kid. He just feels sorry for me and looks out for me when he sees me."

"He's just a good guy."

"You guys don't understand his background. There is zero chance he'd ever be interested in me."

Regardless of whether her roommates bought it, Nora truly believed every word.

But that didn't stop her friends from constantly shoving her in his direction.

They even texted her to seize the opportunity.

It was completely ridiculous.

"Are you settling into college life alright?"

"I am."

"Keeping up with the coursework?"

"Yes."

"Is there anything you need my help with?"

"No."

It was a textbook conversation between a concerned elder and a polite junior.

Throughout dinner, Nora's demeanor was intensely rigid.

She kept her head bowed, taking tiny, silent bites of her food. Whenever Maloney asked a question, she answered with a soft, gentle voice, terrified of saying the wrong thing.

After dinner, Maloney insisted on walking her back to the dorm.

Nora tried to take charge. "I can walk back by myself."

The Western restaurant they dined at was only about a mile from the university's main gates—barely a ten-minute walk.

The street was lined with busy storefronts and perfectly safe.

Maloney replied smoothly, "I brought you out, so it's my job to see you back safely."

"I'm perfectly fine on my own."

"I'm walking you."

"It really isn't any trouble."

She had barely spoken two words during their casual dinner chat, but now that it was time to establish some distance, she suddenly found her voice.

Maloney remained resolute in his decision to escort her.

They strolled down the sidewalk, keeping a polite distance of a few feet between them.

They passed late-night diners, boba shops, stationary stores, repair shops, hotels, and internet cafes.

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