What She Overheard in Her Own Marriage novel Chapter 353

Finnian paused, wondering if she was sick or feeling unwell.

"This is your favorite vintage. Why the sudden change?"

Noelle's eyes curved into a sweet smile. It made her happy that Finnian remembered her preferences so perfectly.

"I just can't, that's all. As for the reason..." A secretive smile played on her lips.

At that moment, the door pushed open.

Julian Kendrick walked in. Seeing Noelle, he broke into a grin and teased, "Well, don't you look pretty in pink today. Like a peach blossom in spring—I can't take my eyes off you."

"Julian, could you not flatter me every single time? You're going to make me blush," Noelle said, feigning annoyance.

"Alright, alright, I'll stop," Julian laughed, his smile only growing brighter. "I'm just speaking the truth. Are you going to be so bossy that I'm not even allowed to be honest?"

"I've always been this bossy, and you know it," she huffed delicately.

Julian's smile widened. It was obvious he enjoyed her playful scolding.

Finnian watched their banter quietly.

If he had any lingering doubts or headaches about setting them up, seeing the absolute adoration on Julian's face put his mind at ease.

This was enough.

"Julian, come sit down. It's just the three of us today."

Julian pulled out a chair and sat, looking surprised. "What? Quentin and the others were too busy?"

Noelle's smile instantly froze, her eyelashes fluttering nervously.

Finnian poured a glass of wine for himself and Julian. "No, I only invited the two of you."

Julian's expression turned serious. He took the wine glass, but just as he was about to take a sip, Finnian spoke again. "Actually, I asked you both here today because there's something I need to tell you."

Beneath the table, Noelle's fingers dug into the fabric of her dress. She stared at Finnian, a flash of anxiety in her eyes.

Completely in the dark, Julian leaned back in his chair, waiting for Finnian to continue.

Finnian fell silent for a few seconds. Just as he opened his mouth to speak, Noelle abruptly stood up.

"I'm not." Finnian met his gaze. "Julian, if you like her, I hope you treat her well. And I fully support you pursuing her."

"What?" Julian froze, staring at Finnian in sheer disbelief.

Finnian kept his expression dead serious. "As her older brother, her family, I want her to find a man who will love her, respect her, and understand her. And I think you're the best man for the job."

"Wait... I..." Julian was completely caught off guard. Hearing Finnian entrust Noelle to him so formally left him stunned, struggling to find the right words.

"Take a breath. We still need to talk to Noelle about this. When she gets back, I'll explain everything clearly," Finnian said, seeing the mix of shock and pure joy on Julian's face.

Julian blinked, finally processing the reality of the situation. "Finnian, are... are you serious? But everyone in our circle knows that the bond between you and Noelle isn't just sibling affection. You guys—"

"It is purely sibling affection. Nothing else. You have my word," Finnian cut in, decisively shutting down Julian's assumption.

Just as the words left Finnian's mouth, a sharp noise came from the hallway—the sound of something dropping.

Both men turned to look. Standing in the doorway was Noelle, frozen mid-bend as she picked up her fallen bag. Her eyes were rimmed with red. The next second, she spun around and bolted. She had clearly overheard their conversation and realized exactly why Finnian had arranged this dinner.

"Finnian, go after her! She's definitely upset!" Julian urged frantically, his heart dropping.