Madly Yours (Nora Reed) novel Chapter 56

"I understand," Nora said softly. "I'll figure something out."

"That's my good girl." Hearing her relent, Penelope's tone instantly lightened. "I knew you were sensible. Once your brother gets into St. Paul's and makes something of himself, you'll be the first person he thanks."

Nora didn't reply.

"Alright, I won't interrupt your lunch any longer," Penelope said, hanging up with a satisfied click.

The dial tone hummed in Nora's ear.

She held the phone, her fingertips turning icy.

Lowering her eyes, she shoved the phone back into her purse, struggling to rein in her emotions.

"What's wrong?"

Right on cue, Hudson's rich, warm voice broke the silence.

Nora looked up instinctively, her gaze colliding with his deep, fathomless eyes.

"It's nothing," Nora managed a stiff smile. "My mom called about some family stuff."

Hudson didn't pry. He simply glanced at the soup bowl in front of her.

"Your soup is cold. I'll have the waiter bring you a fresh one."

"No, this is fine."

Nora lowered her head and took a sip.

The soup was lukewarm and completely flavorless.

After two bites, she set her spoon down, her appetite completely gone.

Hudson's gaze lingered on her face for a second, but he didn't press the issue.

Nora's mind was racing so fast she didn't even taste the signature truffle soup.

Penelope's words played on repeat in her head.

"Just a matter of him saying the word."

One word.

But she didn't even have the confidence to ask.

Hudson treated her well. She knew that.

But she also knew this was a contract marriage.

All this affection was built on the foundation that she was Jade Reed.

"Something on your mind?"

Nora's heart skipped a beat, but she fought to keep her expression neutral. "No... It's just..."

She pressed her lips together. Deciding there was no point beating around the bush, she asked, "St. Paul's Preparatory... Do you know anything about it?"

Hudson raised an eyebrow. "I know a bit. Why?"

Nora hesitated, searching for the right words. "My brother... Xavi is starting high school this year. My mom wants him to go to St. Paul's, but the Reed family doesn't... have the required connections."

"You want me to help?" he asked. His tone was perfectly flat, devoid of any readable emotion.

Nora nodded, then shook her head. "I know it's a difficult request. If it puts you in a tight spot..."

"It's not," Hudson cut her off smoothly. "I just have to make a phone call."

Nora froze.

It was that simple?

When Penelope had said it was 'just a matter of saying the word', she thought she was exaggerating.

"However..." Hudson shifted his gaze to look her in the eye. "Are you absolutely sure you want Xavier in St. Paul's?"