The Cherished Wife by Chweety

Xavier originally did not want to attend the event. For him, such gatherings were just a source of frustration, especially with the kind of people Winter had invited.

Although he knew them all, he did not particularly like any of them. However, Winter was now his wife, and he couldn't simply ignore her. Besides, the thought of seeing Noelle today ultimately persuaded him to go.

Winter was in the middle of talking to Annie when she saw that Xavier had arrived. She immediately rushed over to him and wrapped her arm around his, greeting him with a sweet smile. "Xavier, you're here!" she said cheerfully. "You worked so late. Are you tired?"

Xavier initially felt a bit reluctant, but seeing the smile on Winter's face and remembering that it was her birthday, he forced a smile. "I'm not tired. But I do hope you're not upset that I'm late."

"Of course not! You're working hard to support us, so how could I be upset?" Winter responded, her tone oozing with affection. "Xavier, a lot of my friends are here tonight, including Noelle!" She continued, holding onto his arm. "Let me introduce you to them!" Xavier's expression tightened slightly, and his pupils contracted when he heard Noelle's name. He nodded. "Alright."

Winter and Xavier proceeded to greet several groups of guests. As Winter kept track of the time, she realized it was almost time for the next part of the evening's plan. She texted Annie: [How's it going with Suzy?]

Annie quickly replied: [It should be done, but Suzy hasn't responded yet. I'm not sure what's going on.]

Annie then looked around, feeling uneasy. She tried contacting Suzy again, but there was no reply, and her calls went unanswered. A sense of foreboding crept over Annie, though she could not quite pinpoint what was wrong.

put away her phone. She then noticed that Xavier seemed

earlier," Winter said, biting her

rest earlier. She had a bit too much to drink, but it's been over half

"Winter, is it time to cut the cake

along with Annie. "Everyone's here now,

She's your sister, after all. It's

barely contain

he had Winter by his side, and be did not want to upset her by

up at his offer. "Sure, let's go together! You two still have some misunderstandings between you. If we both go

hand. "You're

this. She then took Xavier's arm as they informed the rest that they were going to

Annie narrowed her eyes. "Winter is going to fetch her sister, Noelle. I'm sure many of