Chapter 140

Evelyn's cheeks flushed at the murmurs surrounding them. The way Nathaniel gripped her hand made them appear like lovers to onlookers.

But their dynamic told a different story. Nathaniel strode ahead while she trailed reluctantly behind.

This wasn't romantic. If anything, it resembled a stern father dragging his rebellious daughter.

The misunderstanding unsettled Evelyn. Their relationship was purely transactional - a temporary charade. She attempted to free her hand to dispel any illusions.

Before she could pull away, they reached the car.

Nathaniel released her and opened the passenger door. "Get in," his deep voice rumbled.

Evelyn ducked inside without hesitation. Nathaniel's hand appeared above her head, shielding her from the car's frame. The unexpectedly chivalrous gesture surprised her.

'Cold yet courteous,' she mused.

As the car pulled away, Evelyn relaxed into the seat. "Thank you, Nathaniel."

He glanced up from his phone, brow arched. "For?"

"Dinner," she clarified sincerely. She'd intended to pay, but Nathaniel had maintained his grip, instructing Lucas to settle the bill instead.

Nathaniel returned to his screen without comment, dismissing the trivial matter.

Evelyn produced a tube of burn cream. "Give me your hand."

His gaze snapped back to her. "Why?"

"I noticed this at the pharmacy earlier," she explained, waving the tube. "That tea spill was my fault. I take responsibility."

"Unnecessary," Nathaniel dismissed coldly. The minor redness had already faded from memory.

Ignoring his refusal, Evelyn seized his hand. The lingering pink mark made her frown. She squeezed cream onto her fingertip, applying it with featherlight touches. "I truly didn't mean to scald you. I'm sorry."

Nathaniel stilled, observing her concentrated expression. An unfamiliar warmth spread through his chest at her unexpected concern.

His lips quirked. "Voluntary apologies? That's new."

"When I'm wrong, I admit it," Evelyn said matter-of-factly. "Burns hurt terribly. This cream helps."

Nathaniel's expression darkened. "How would you know? Have you been burned before?"