Chapter 23

• As Xavier confessed his feelings, Anna smiled softly, her face was mixed with surprise and joy. "Why didn't you say something sooner?" she asked, her voice tender but curious.
• Xavier sighed, his gaze never leaving hers. "From the moment I saw you, Anna, I was in love. But you were with Michael, and I was worried that you wouldn't love me back," he admitted, his tone calm but filled with years of pent-up emotion.
• Anna's smile faltered, a hint of insecurity creeping into her expression. "Xavier, I'm just a divorced woman, and your step brother's ex-wife. You deserve someone younger, more beautiful, and prettier than me," she responded, her voice tinged with doubt.