Substitute Wife, Genius CEO novel Chapter 22

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Summer didn't pull away.

If he was offering a free foot massage, she wasn't going to say no.

His hands were large and strong, accurately pressing into the pressure points, making her narrow her eyes in comfort.

"Summer."

Xavier looked up, catching sight of her in a white nightgown. Her dark hair cascaded over her shoulders as she leaned back languidly against the sofa.

The neckline of her nightgown had slipped, revealing the elegant sweep of her collarbone and a smooth shoulder, making her look like a stunning, oblivious feline.

They had been married for seven years; just one glance was enough for his mind to automatically fill in the beautiful curves hidden beneath the silk.

Xavier's Adam's apple bobbed. He lowered his gaze, his eyes landing on the slender, pale foot he was holding.

Her toenails were neatly trimmed, gleaming with a healthy pink sheen. They were gorgeous feet.

For a moment, Xavier's breathing grew heavier.

But he had promised Lily he wouldn't touch Summer anymore.

Thinking of Lily, Xavier steadied his mind, pushed away his distracting thoughts, and picked up the conversation he had started earlier.

"Summer, I know you felt wronged at the estate today. But I was thinking about our upcoming wedding, and my mother wasn't in a good state of mind. You know she has a heart condition. That's why I didn't defend you right away. I'm sorry, it was my fault. I've already fired those two maids, so you don't have to worry."

Summer didn't say a word. Her dark eyes simply stared at him quietly, waiting to hear what other garbage would fall out of his mouth.

"As for Lily, you've completely misunderstood. Not only did we grow up together, but her brother, Miles, is one of my closest friends. More importantly, she saved my life when we were kids. She's my savior."

The private investigator hadn't managed to dig that up.

Summer feigned surprise. "She saved your life?"

Xavier nodded but glossed over the details. "That's why I treat her like a sister. It's different from how I treat other women. You have to believe me, I have absolutely no other intentions toward her. In my eyes, she's just a little sister. You are the one I love. You're my wife."