The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 40

**Chapter 40: Xavier Dorian II**

“What if Victor had a hand in making the plane disappear?” Xavier inquired, his brow furrowing with concern.

“I-I doubt his influence stretches that far,” she stammered, her voice trembling slightly. Yet, beneath that uncertainty, a slow, simmering rage ignited within her. “But then again, I hardly know him at all. He orchestrated Nathan’s father’s murder in the most heinous manner imaginable. It seems he is capable of unspeakable evil, willing to extinguish countless lives… just to get to me.”

“But why would he do that?” Serena’s voice was barely above a whisper, a tremor of fear lacing her words. “Is it all because I dared to uncover the truth—that he is not my father?”

“Clearly, there’s something about you that he desperately wants to conceal,” Xavier replied, his tone grave. “He might even be involved in Alice’s disappearance, and it’s possible he has ties to the aircraft that went missing.”

The mere mention of Alice sent fresh tears cascading down Serena’s cheeks. Deep within, she already sensed the dreadful reality. Nathaniel’s private search and rescue teams had scoured every inch of land and sea, leaving no stone unturned, yet they had come up empty-handed. The likelihood of Alice’s survival was dwindling, a bitter truth that gnawed at Serena’s heart.

Time seemed to stretch as Xavier wrapped his arms around her, providing a comforting embrace. She could feel the weight of his sorrow, evident in the way he inhaled deeply, as if trying to absorb her pain.

After a few moments that felt like an eternity, Xavier gently released her and settled back into his chair, the lines of worry etched on his face. “Serena, do you trust me?” he asked, his gaze steady and sincere.

“Yes, I do,” she replied, hastily wiping her tears away, her voice gaining strength.

“Are you absolutely certain you want to keep the baby?” Xavier probed, his expression serious yet caring.

With a firm nod, Serena affirmed, “Yes.”

“Then perhaps it would be wise not to correct the rumors,” Xavier suggested thoughtfully. “Let Victor believe you are no longer a threat.”

“Above all, you must avoid anything that could increase your stress levels. Your body needs to be calm, serene. The doctors will start you on progesterone and other treatments necessary to stabilize your pregnancy. You’ll need to stay in the hospital for at least a week, and even after you’re discharged, rest will be crucial.”

His eyes locked onto hers, a silent plea for her cooperation. “Can you manage that? I won’t allow you to check your phone or speak to Nathan or anyone connected to him. Better yet, let’s get rid of your old SIM card altogether.”

Serena hesitated, her mind racing. “But what about Alice? What about the Hartleys? I can’t just ignore them!”

“I’ll take care of that,” Xavier assured her, his tone firm yet gentle. “I will reach out to the Hartleys myself. If there’s any news about Alice, whether good or bad, I will be the one to share it with you. But only after you’re discharged and stable.”

He still sported those glasses that lent him an air of seriousness, but his features had matured significantly. His physique appeared more robust, and his posture radiated confidence. She recalled him with slightly longer hair, but now his caramel locks were neatly trimmed, and his gray eyes held a quiet authority that had been absent before.

“Once you’re discharged, I’ll assist you in securing a research position at my company,” Xavier said, a hint of a smile breaking through his serious demeanor. “I’m now the Vice President of Operations at VanderMed Technologies. Our company is distinct from Kline Biosolutions. While you focused on drug research, we specialize in developing and enhancing medical equipment. Nevertheless, a strong research background is vital.”

He added with encouragement, “You’ll thrive there. And I remember how you originally wanted to study AI before Victor forced you into Biochemistry. What are your thoughts on that?”

Serena’s lips curled into a faint smile, her spirits lifting. “I think… that sounds amazing. I know I’m qualified, and I could delve into AI while working.”

Xavier grasped her hand firmly, his voice steady yet imbued with warmth. “I promise you, I will help you. Rexam will be a safer place… a sanctuary where you can finally begin anew.”

Serena gazed at him, her heart swelling with gratitude for the unwavering certainty in his words. For reasons she couldn’t quite articulate, she believed him completely. People often say that when life shatters everything familiar, it’s because the truth is yearning to break free.

Little did she know, in Rexam City, the truth she had been desperately seeking was already waiting, poised to emerge into the light.