The Billionaire Ex-Wife and the Beggar He Became novel Chapter 402

She was ready to pour all her love into that family.

In return, she received six years of indifference and cold silence from her husband.

Even her daughter despised her.

So, perhaps it was her fate to never rely on anyone, but to only serve as a pillar for those weaker than herself.

"What are you thinking about?" Yves Prescott asked, placing a plate of expertly chosen delicacies in front of her.

She had been staring out at the Greenwood City skyline for some time, lost in thought. Yves had been watching her, noticing the flicker of confusion, worry, and vulnerability in her eyes, though they were mostly filled with a cool, steely resolve.

"Nothing much. Just wondering why Mr. Shaw, Louis, and Wesley aren't here yet," Winona replied with a small smile.

"You know, you don't have to worry so much. You don't have to be afraid," Yves said gently.

"What?"

"No matter what happens, you'll always have me," he repeated.

Winona was speechless.

"Even if you decided right now to give up on your career, even if you told me you just wanted to be a woman who hides from the storms of life in a man's arms, I would shelter you for a lifetime. I'll not only shield you, but I'll take care of your three little tagalongs and make sure they live without a single worry," Yves promised.

"Yves…" Winona was deeply moved, a wave of relief washing over her.

She truly, desperately wanted a safe harbor—a place where she didn't have to worry about anyone, guard against anyone, or wonder if there would be food on the table tomorrow.

All she wanted was to sleep peacefully in that calm haven.

To sleep as sweetly as an innocent little girl.

"You can," Yves's voice was gentle and smooth, sending a pleasant shiver through her.

"Don't tell me you forgot you were the one who invited us all to this buffet, Nona?" Zachary teased, tilting his head with a grin.

This shy, blushing Nona looked like a young girl. In fact, after the new year, she was only twenty-seven. Many women her age weren't even married yet, but Nona's heart was already covered in scars.

Zachary was happy to see her looking so sweet and bashful for a change.

He was happy for her.

"I… I need to use the restroom," Winona mumbled, quickly getting up and hurrying away, her head still down.

She rushed toward the restrooms without looking up. As she turned the corner toward the ladies' room, she slammed right into a solid chest.

"Winona, be careful! You almost hit your head on the wall!" a low, masculine voice scolded gently.

"Let go of her!" A commanding, possessive voice boomed from behind. Yves pushed the man aside and wrapped Winona securely in his own arms.