I Was His Wife, Then His Widow, Then No One's But My Own novel Chapter 63

Finnegan's smile deepened, his voice softening effortlessly. "Of course. Where do you want to go?"

Seraphina's voice took on a sweet, coaxing tone. "There's a new French restaurant at The Manhattan Center. Everyone's posting about it online, and it looks incredible. Can we go there?"

"Whatever you want. I'll make the reservation."

"Perfect, I'll be waiting for you."

After hanging up, Finnegan buzzed his assistant into the office.

"Book a table for two at that new French place at The Manhattan Center for tomorrow night."

The assistant jotted it down and turned to leave, but Finnegan stopped him. He remained silent for a few seconds before adding, "And pick up a gift. Have it delivered to Nora's house tomorrow."

The assistant froze, hesitating before asking carefully, "Mr. Fletcher, what should I say? Sending a gift to Nora... it might come across a bit strange."

Finnegan thought about it. "You don't need to say anything. Just deliver the gift. Don't mention who it's from."

The assistant nodded and stepped out.

Silence reclaimed the office. Finnegan leaned back, closing his eyes as he pictured Nora's reaction to receiving the gift.

She would undoubtedly be thrilled.

Elsewhere.

Nora finished getting ready, dressing casually in a white t-shirt and jeans with her hair pulled into a simple ponytail. She was heading to the mall to buy gifts for Xander and Bonnie. Just as she was about to leave, Felix Ford called.

"Are you going shopping today? Let me tag along."

Nora was about to decline, but Felix cut her off. "I'm a guy. I know exactly what guys want. If you go by yourself, you'll end up buying something completely off the mark."

This piece wasn't overly flashy, but the sentiment was what mattered.

Nora asked the clerk to box it up. Shopping bag in hand, she turned to head for the register, only to freeze in her tracks.

Seraphina and Sienna were walking out of the women's boutique across the concourse, arm in arm.

Sienna was carrying two shopping bags, laughing as she leaned affectionately against Seraphina's shoulder.

Seraphina chuckled, playfully swatting Sienna's arm. Both were dressed flawlessly, looking like the ultimate inseparable duo.

Nora watched them, a sharp pang twisting in her chest.

Back when she and Sienna used to shop together, Nora had always been the one carrying the bags.

Sienna would complain about being tired, shove her purchases into Nora's arms, and wink playfully before strolling ahead.