Zara’s response was biting and confrontational Soren had rarely seen this version of her. In the past, she had always been submissive. Later on, she became indifferent and distant. But she had never been this abrasive.
He gave a self–deprecating laugh, guessing that this change might have something to do with Immanuel.
“Is he worth changing yourself for? You even stayed by the side of someone who doesn’t love you and kept up a pretense for so long,” Soren commented scathingly.
He didn’t specify who he was referring to, but they both knew.
Silence fell between them. The question had been born out of his own frustration. But now that it hung in the air, Soren found himself dreading her answer. Whether she affirmed or denied it, he realized he couldn’t handle either response.
If she said yes, how could he ever compete with the memory of Andy, the man who had died. protecting her? If she said no, what chance did he–someone who couldn’t even compete with the memory of Andy–have against someone who had taken his place?
Soren didn’t want to know.
But no matter the flurry of activity in his mind, the question had been asked. And Zara would
answer.
She downed the rest of her wine in one gulp and looked at him. Her eyes glistened with tears as she replied, “He’s worth it. Of course, he’s worth it.”
He was Andy, the man who had loved her more than anyone else in the world. Unlike everyone else, Andy loved her simply for being herself. In her heart, no one could compare to him.
They had come so close. They had spent so many happy years together as childhood. sweethearts and were just one step away from becoming husband and wife.
But fate had other plans.
Tears streamed down Zara’s face as she broke down and cried uncontrollably.
Soren hadn’t expected such an emotional reaction to his offhanded question. During the four years she had been by his side, the only time she had ever lost control like this was when her necklace had been destroyed.
Gingerly, he reached out and gently wiped away her tears, When she didn’t resist, he hesitated for a moment before giving in to his emotions and pulling her into his arms.
People were the most vulnerable when they were at their weakest. At that moment, Zara herself wasn’t sure why she didn’t push him away. Instead, she buried her tear–streaked face
Chapter 29
into his shoulder and cried her heart out.
Soren’s suit jacket became stained with her tears. His breath was soft and careful, as though he was afraid of disturbing her moment.
When she had cried enough, she stepped out of his embrace and tilted her head backward to force her tears away. Without sparing him another word or glance, she lifted the hem of her dress and hurried down the stairs.
Soren didn’t stop her. He just stood where he was and watched her retreating figure.
Her fitted gown accentuated her graceful silhouette, and the backless design exposed her flawless skin. The silver sequins shimmered with her every step, captivating him as he
watched her disappear.
Neither of them noticed the surveillance camera behind them that was silently recording the
entire scene.
Downstairs in the banquet hall, Immanuel’s assistant’s phone buzzed with a notification. After glancing at the message, Taylor Fawkes leaned close to Immanuel and whispered something.
Immanuel’s expression didn’t change. He just nodded to acknowledge the update.
Not saying anything, he swirled the orange juice in his glass before taking a sip. The sweet and tangy flavor was pleasant–it was something he usually enjoyed. But for some reason, it felt unsatisfying that night.
By the time Taylor looked back, Immanuel had already walked to the champagne tower and picked up a glass.
The alcohol served at such events was usually mild. But Immanuel, who had a congenital heart condition, had never drunk before. Even champagne that had a low alcohol content was too strong for him. After taking a large gulp too quickly, he began coughing uncontrollably.
Taylor panicked and was utterly baffled by his boss‘ sudden decision to drink. To make matters worse, Immanuel looked like he wanted to finish the rest of the glass
So, Taylor rushed to intervene, but he was too far away.
Before Immanuel could take another sip, a delicate hand reached out and snatched the glass from his grasp. Without giving him a chance to react, Zara’s sharp gaze locked onto his, and she drank the rest of the champagne in one go, directly from the spot where he had just sipped.
