His Heart Knew Before He Did novel Chapter 8

"I know you've been struggling lately. If you need anything, just ask."

Freezing wind battered her, but she felt as numb as a machine, registering no cold.

Simon had known everything all along.

All those mixed signals he sent had tricked her into believing he actually cared for her.

In reality, she was just a pathetic backup plan.

Though a suffocating wave of despair clawed at her chest, her expression remained perfectly calm.

"No need. I wish you happiness, and I wish you success."

As she watched Simon walk away, the tears she had fought so desperately to hold back finally spilled over.

She had spent her life stumbling through endless darkness, and Simon was the one who had guided her toward the light.

But surviving the bitter winter didn't guarantee a bright future.

Ten years. How could it not break her?

Footsteps approached from behind. Before she could turn, Xavier's voice sliced through the silence.

"The man of your dreams?"

She spun around to find his towering figure standing right in front of her.

Without a word, Xavier lifted his hand, his cool thumb swiping away the tear at the corner of her eye.

"That's your type? He's nothing special."

Lydia jerked her head away, stepping back out of pure instinct.

She wiped her face, forcing her voice steady to hide her shattered pride.

"Eavesdropping on private conversations isn't a good look."

"I wasn't eavesdropping." Xavier handed her a phone. "You left this in my car. I came back to return it."

She took it. "Thanks. I'm going inside.

"Lydia."

"What?"

Xavier didn't speak. He just stared at her red, swollen eyes.

When Lydia met his gaze, she saw a violent, churning intensity hidden in the depths of his stare.

Lydia didn't reply, her face an unreadable mask.

Fiona smirked, practically radiating arrogance as she introduced the man beside her. "This is my husband, Arthur. He works for the city government. He's a section chief, manages dozens of people."

"Right," Lydia said flatly. "Hello, Arthur."

Arthur was a man of few words, simply offering a polite nod.

Fiona then noticed the tall, imposing man standing next to Lydia.

He was striking, with sharp features and a commanding presence.

But his clothes looked worn and cheap, clearly lacking any real value.

He reeked of poverty.

He was definitely a step down from her own wealthy husband.

"And who is this?"

Before Lydia could answer, Xavier stepped up.

"Xavier Vance. Lydia's blind date."