The return to the Lagos penthouse didn't feel like a return to a contract; it felt like coming home. The city lights were spread out below us like diamonds, but for the first time in 365 days, we weren't looking for threats in the shadows.
"The board is quiet, Xavier," Alexandra said, leaning against the mahogany desk in the study. "No one is whispering about the 'contract' anymore. They see the way we work together. They see that the Obinna name isn't just a label—it's a force."
"Let them be quiet," I replied, walking over to her. "We don't need to explain ourselves to them. We know the truth, and my family knows the truth. That's all that matters."
I pulled out the tablet showing the new foundation's progress. "I've already moved the first set of funds from the Swiss account to the medical outreach program in Anambra. By next week, the first clinic will have everything it needs."
Alexandra placed her hand over mine. "You're doing exactly what your grandfather wanted, Xavier. You're using the power he gave you to protect people, not just a company."
"We're doing it," I corrected her. "There is no 'Hidden Husband' anymore, Alexandra. There's just us. And as long as we stay united, no one will ever have a reason to suspect anything other than a perfect partnership."
She smiled, a real, warm smile that the 'Ice Queen' used to hide from the world. "To the next chapter, then?"
"To the next chapter," I agreed.