Chapter 26: Wait and See
Anna’s breath hitched, her pulse stuttering—but the moment that familiar warmth enveloped her, her body melted into its embrace.
"Will," she whispered, her fingers desperately clutching at his arm as she twisted, trying to turn and face him.
A hushed murmur rippled through the room, whispers threading through the stunned silence like the rustling of dry leaves.
"William Stark? He looks so different—so much sharper than before!"
"What is he doing back in the country? Did you know he was coming back?"
"The stock market is bound to react once word spreads. His return could shake the entire business world!"
"And who’s that woman with him? His lover, perhaps? A new conquest? He’s always been quite the playboy..."
Eric inhaled sharply, his expression flickering with disbelief. William Stark. Of all places, of all times—he was here.
His first instinct was to step forward, greet him properly, but the moment he saw how utterly focused William was on the trembling woman in his arms, Eric hesitated. Instead, he simply observed in silence.
Meanwhile, William tightened his hold around Anna, shielding her from prying eyes. One hand cradled the back of her head, pressing her gently against his chest, while the other moved in slow, soothing strokes along her back.
Simple gestures—yet to Anna, they meant everything.