The Cherished Wife

Xavier originally did not want to attend the event. For him, such gatherings were just a source of frustration, especially with the kind of people Winter had invited.

Although he knew them all, he did not particularly like any of them. However, Winter was now his wife, and he couldn't simply ignore her. Besides, the thought of seeing Noelle today ultimately persuaded him to go.

Winter was in the middle of talking to Annie when she saw that Xavier had arrived. She immediately rushed over to him and wrapped her arm around his, greeting him with a sweet smile. "Xavier, you're here!" she said cheerfully. "You worked so late. Are you tired?"

Xavier initially felt a bit reluctant, but seeing the smile on Winter's face and remembering that it was her birthday, he forced a smile. "I'm not tired. But I do hope you're not upset that I'm late."

"Of course not! You're working hard to support us, so how could I be upset?" Winter responded, her tone oozing with affection. "Xavier, a lot of my friends are here tonight, including Noelle!" She continued, holding onto his arm. "Let me introduce you to them!" Xavier's expression tightened slightly, and his pupils contracted when he heard Noelle's name. He nodded. "Alright."

Winter and Xavier proceeded to greet several groups of guests. As Winter kept track of the time, she realized it was almost time for the next part of the evening's plan. She texted Annie: [How's it going with Suzy?]

replied: [It should be done, but Suzy hasn't responded yet. I'm not

there was no reply, and her calls went unanswered. A sense of foreboding crept over Annie, though she could not quite pinpoint what

that Xavier seemed distracted. She suddenly exclaimed softly,

Noelle for a while. She was here earlier," Winter

She had a bit too much to drink, but it's been over half an hour. Why

is it time

about time," Winter agreed, playing along with Annie. "Everyone's here

offered, "I'll go check on her. She's your sister, after

barely contain his

searching for Noelle. However, he had Winter by

together! You two still have some misunderstandings between you. If we both go look