Second Love [Completed]

21. What was that??

Heya! I'm back again with the new update and I hope you all will like it

New cover by phoenix_alpha

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Xavier's P.O.V

The engagement announcement had sent shockwaves through both our lives.

Everywhere I went, people offered congratulations with wide grins and knowing looks. Colleagues at the office—some genuinely happy, others merely indulging in gossip—shook my hand, whispering how unexpected this was.

Unexpected was an understatement. A month ago, I was unaware of her actual presence hiring fucking detective to find her. Now, she was my fiancée in the eyes of the world. It didn't help that before this, she had been rumored to be involved with Hayashi Ken, a well-known philanthropist, while I had been linked to Cassandra Rivera, one of the top-ranking models in the industry. The tabloids were eating this up, dissecting our sudden engagement as if it were the most thrilling mystery.

My PR manager had called me earlier that morning, voice laced with amusement and concern. "You should see the headlines, Xavier. They're getting creative. Some are calling it the engagement of the decade, others—well, let's just say they're implying a lot about sudden changes of heart."

I pinched the bridge of my nose. "Let me guess. Betrayal, scandal, secret love affairs?"

She laughed. "You got it. Apparently, you're a ruthless businessman who stole the philanthropist's woman, and Susan is a heartbreaker who left a model crying in her wake."

I sighed. Of course, the media would milk this for all it was worth. As much as the media's obsession irritated me, there was one issue more pressing: Adrian.

He still worked at my company, a constant reminder of Susan's past and one I refused to tolerate any longer. I couldn't have him lingering around her, poisoning her thoughts with old affections and regrets. That had to change—and soon.

Jason, my best friend and legal advisor, leaned back in his chair, watching me carefully. "You can't just fire him, Xavier. Adrian is an excellent resource. If you make a move like that, it'll be obvious why."

I clenched my jaw. "Then what do you suggest? Because having him here isn't an option."

Jason tapped his fingers against the desk thoughtfully. "A strategic relocation. Permanently transfer him somewhere far—Europe, Asia, anywhere that puts an ocean between him and Susan. He gets a respectable position, you get peace of mind, and no one questions it."

I considered it. Adrian was a good employee, but I wasn't about to let him stay within arm's reach of Susan. "Make it happen. I don't care where, just get him out of here."

My mother and Susan's had taken it upon themselves to ensure my fiancée looked the part of a perfect, refined wife. I knew Susan well enough to understand that she had no intention of playing that role, but arguing with our mothers was pointless.

Just as I was contemplating an escape plan, my phone buzzed. My mother's name flashed across the screen, and I barely had time to sigh before answering.

"Xavier," she said in her usual poised yet authoritative tone. "Clear your calendar for the next few days."

I frowned. "Why?"

"Because your fiancée should be your priority now. Business can wait."

I barely suppressed a groan. I knew better than to argue, especially when she had already decided my schedule for me. "Of course, Mother."