Chapter 105

Nathaniel wasn't angry. A faint smirk played on his lips as he followed Evelyn inside. Moments later, Lucas called back. "Sir, I've located the tickets! You should purchase-"

"Already handled," Nathaniel interrupted before hanging up abruptly.

On the other end, Lucas blinked in confusion, phone still pressed to his ear.

Evelyn walked slowly toward the waiting area, barely suppressing her laughter at Nathaniel's brusque dismissal of his assistant.

The sharp-eyed man caught her amusement instantly. "Something funny?" His voice carried its usual chill.

Evelyn grinned. "Just wondering what would happen if someone like you lost everything. Would you even remember how to function?"

Nathaniel's brow furrowed. "You enjoy mocking me?"

She shrugged shamelessly. "Absolutely! I even snapped a photo of you struggling with the ticket machine. Can't wait to show Margaret when we get back."

A vein pulsed visibly at Nathaniel's temple. "Evelyn!"

She pulled out her phone, flashing the incriminating picture in his face. "Look at this priceless moment! Never thought I'd see the great Nathaniel Grayson so helpless! Priceless!"

Just then, a skateboarder came barreling toward them.

"Watch out!" Before Evelyn could react, strong arms yanked her against a solid chest. The skateboarder wobbled but sped away without apology.

Nathaniel looked down at the suddenly speechless woman in his arms. "Too busy laughing at me to watch where you're going?" His tone dripped with amusement.

Evelyn huffed. Fine, she'd been careless.

"Stop playing with your phone while walking," Nathaniel ordered. "Switch sides."

"Fine." She pocketed her device and obediently moved to his other side. "Thanks for the save. But I'm keeping the photo."

Nathaniel merely snorted, his icy demeanor belied by the warmth in his gaze. A ghost of a smile touched his lips.

The night train was nearly empty. They selected pristine seats, Nathaniel's designer suit and commanding presence drawing every eye in the carriage. Women stole glances; men did double-takes. He sat like royalty, utterly indifferent to the attention.

After several stops, the train grew quieter. Evelyn's dead phone left her stranded in awkward silence. She turned to find Nathaniel studying her intently, his expression unreadable.

The scrutiny made her fidget. "Let's make a deal, mister."

Nathaniel arched one perfect eyebrow. "I'm listening."