I Was His Wife, Then His Widow, Then No One's But My Own novel Chapter 123

The next day, when Nora arrived at the research institute, she spotted Felix leaning against the wall at the far end of the corridor. He was rubbing his temples, his face looking unusually pale.

Felix saw her too. The lingering buzz from last night's alcohol hadn't fully worn off, and the confession had almost slipped out of his throat on instinct before he violently choked it back down.

He forced a casual smile. "Hey, Nora. Good morning."

Nora took two steps closer, caught the faint scent of alcohol lingering on him, and frowned. "Felix, did you drink last night?"

Felix waved a hand dismissively, his tone deliberately light. "It's nothing. Just went to a networking event last night and had a little."

Nora's frown deepened, her voice carrying a hint of reprimand. "Your health isn't great. Aren't you supposed to avoid alcohol?"

Warmth flooded Felix's chest. She was worried about his health, which meant she still cared. That was enough for him.

He pushed down the emotional surge and smiled. "It's fine, just once in a while. But I'll remember your advice and make sure I don't overdo it."

Seeing his usual playful demeanor, Nora couldn't find it in her to press the issue further. They walked down the hall together.

As soon as they passed the corridor, they bumped right into Zelda Vance. Zelda was holding a folder. Her gaze swept lightly over the two of them before settling on Nora. "Nora, come with me for a second."

Nora agreed, dropped her bag off at her cubicle, and followed Zelda into her office. Standing in front of the desk, she asked curiously, "Mrs. Vance, did you need me for something?"

Zelda turned around to face her, a meaningful smile lingering in her eyes. "What are your thoughts on Felix?"

Zelda smiled, her tone returning to its usual gentle warmth. "Since you don't feel that way, you can head back to work. I was just asking. I know you're probably not looking for a partner right now anyway."

Nora let out a slow exhale and nodded. "Yes. Right now, I just want to put all my energy into my career."

Zelda gave her a sympathetic look and patted her shoulder. "Just don't wear yourself out. Go on."

Nora walked out of the office, only to immediately spot two figures standing at the far end of the hallway.

Finnegan Fletcher was walking Seraphina Shaw inside. He was carrying her bag, his free hand hovering protectively near the small of her back. They stood incredibly close. Seraphina tilted her head up to say something to him, and he lowered his head to listen, a tender smile resting on his lips.

Nora's gaze swept over their faces without lingering for even a second. Expressionless, she turned her head and walked straight toward her cubicle.