Chapter 15

Keith's words sent shockwaves through Abigail's heart. She had assumed that Xander, like everyone else, doubted her personal life's integrity. His apparent heartlessness when she confronted him seemed to confirm her fears. Little did she know that Xander had believed in her innocence all along and had given her the opportunity to gather evidence to dispel the rumor. When the scandal had broken years earlier, only her grandmother, Felix, and Melody had trusted her unconditionally. Despite her being his subordinate for just over a month, Xander, the powerful mogul of a massive conglomerate, believed in her as fiercely as her own family. For this, she vowed to be Xander's most loyal and dependable aide, even if it meant forsaking a high salary.

As they returned to the dining table, Xander sipped his soup gracefully, making Abigail admire him even more. When it came to poise, no one could hold a candle to her boss, Mr. Zane. Even the simple act of sipping soup was as elegant and captivating as a world-renowned painting.

Feeling her gaze, Xander asked, "What's caught your eye?"

Abigail grinned, sincerely flattering him. "I just think Mr. Zane is the best boss on the planet."

Keith nudged her, reminding her that Mr. Zane valued competence over flattery.

Unfazed by her comment, Xander coolly advised, saying, "Less talking at the table, please."

Abigail nodded. "Got it."

Soon, employees started filing into the cafeteria. At first, they were cheerful, but upon noticing the prominent figure at the center table, their expressions turned serious— even more so than when they were working. Still, they could not resist sneaking glances at Abigail and Xander. She secretly speculated, 'Has Xander, who never dined in the employee cafeteria, come to show everyone that I remain his executive assistant, unaffected by the recent controversy?'

Abigail whispered her theory, "Mr. Zane, did you come to the cafeteria to support me?"

Setting down his cutlery, Xander elegantly dabbed his mouth with a napkin before replying coolly, "I'm not here to support you, but your efficiency and handling of today's matters have shown me your true value."

His response might have lacked warmth, but it was the highest praise for Abigail's abilities. Though his words were not exactly charming, he had never doubted her and had silently backed her up throughout the ordeal. It was the kindest gesture Abigail had received today. Sincerely, she said, "Mr. Zane, I can't thank you enough."

Xander glanced at her impatiently, noticing the burn on her ear and neck. Feeling a sudden twinge of irritation, he said, "Dr. Sander will be here soon. Make sure you ask her for some medication."

Now aware of her injury, Abigail felt the burn flare up on her neck. "Will do."

After lunch, Dr. Sander arrived with a medical kit before Abigail even had a chance to call her. Without asking about Abigail's condition, she swiftly applied two ointments to her neck. "This will blister and eventually peel. Mix these and apply twice daily. Don't scratch when it starts to itch during the peeling."

The ointment was cool and soothing, bringing Abigail instant relief. Smiling, she said, "Thank you, Dr. Sander."

Dr. Sander affectionately patted her head. "We're all in this together; there's no need for formalities."

Abigail silently committed to remembering everyone who had helped her and shown her kindness today.

In the afternoon, Abigail collected herself and, along with Keith, joined Xander for a high-stakes international video conference. The meeting was jam-packed with discussions, running straight through to the end of the workday. After wrapping up their post-meeting summary, Abigail and Keith ventured into Xander's office to present their report, finding him in the midst of a heated phone call. "Seriously? Do I have to give you a lesson on how to track someone down?" They could not catch the words from the other end, but Xander's icy tone and menacing glare sent shivers down their spines.

Keith and Abigail exchanged worried glances, silently asking each other, "What on earth has gotten into Mr. Zane?"

"Can't you go knock on the door if she doesn't answer the phone?" Xander snapped before abruptly hanging up. He turned to Abigail, his scowl unwavering. "Go make me a cup of coffee."

"Right away, sir." Abigail hurried off.

Xander shot a glance at his phone on the desk, frustration mounting as his lawyer failed to reach his estranged wife. He could not bear the thought of still being connected to the woman who had betrayed him. Tugging at his collar in annoyance, he lit a cigarette.

When Abigail returned with the coffee, she saw Xander smoking and cautiously stepped back. Xander casually flipped through their work report, but before he could finish, his phone rang again. Abigail watched as Xander's expression darkened during the call, and he muttered "worthless" before slamming the phone down. She could not help but wonder if the CEO had swallowed dynamite or something.

At that moment, Xander was indeed seething. Michael had just informed him that they could not find the woman at her home, even asking if she had moved. 'What is she playing at? Does she expect me to contact her myself?' Furious, he sent a text message to Abigail from his personal phone: [This is Nathan, the man you married a year ago. Let's meet up and discuss our divorce!]

The very next second, in the silent office, Abigail's personal phone chimed from her pocket.

[Sweetie, you've received a new text message.]

Xander's gaze instantly snapped toward her.