Chapter 34

"Who is Xavier? This is my first time hearing that name, Nova. Is he Amelia's new lover?" Ryder's question cut through the air, his expression unreadable.

"No, of course not! Xavier is just a friend," I replied, my gaze shifting to Astrid, curious about her reaction.

"A friend? How did you suddenly make a friend, Nova?" Ryder's tone held a hint of suspicion.

"Come on, Ryder. Didn't you ask about the man I was with at the mall? That was Xavier. We watched a movie and grabbed a bite to eat," I explained, watching Astrid closely.

"Tell me more about him. I want to know everything – his name, background, everything," Ryder ordered firmly.

"His name is Xavier Smith. He's from Mooncrest like us. He's single but engaged to someone else who's pregnant. However, she wants to marry someone else," I provided the details, noting Ryder's growing anger.

"Is he an idiot? Allowing his fiancée to marry someone else while carrying his child?" Ryder's frustrati