Chapter 156

"Whatever you prefer." Nathaniel's icy tone made it clear he had no interest in lunch, though he didn't outright decline.

Cassandra didn't mind his cold demeanor. She was too thrilled at the prospect of dining with someone of Nathaniel's stature.

"How about The Celestial Bloom? Their cuisine is exceptional!"

The Celestial Bloom was one of the most exclusive restaurants in the city, with prices to match. Cassandra would never consider dining there unless she was entertaining a VIP like Nathaniel.

Nathaniel gave a curt nod and turned toward the lobby entrance without another word.

As she followed him, Cassandra spun around and snapped at Evelyn, "Hurry up! Do you really expect Mister Grayson to wait for you?"

Evelyn suppressed a sigh and quickened her pace. Since Sebastian had driven them here and she hadn't brought her own car, it made sense for them to ride together.

Cassandra was practically giddy at the thought of sitting in Nathaniel's luxury car. When his assistant, Lucas, opened the rear door of the sleek Mercedes, Nathaniel didn't enter immediately. Instead, he stepped aside as if waiting for someone else to go first.

Cassandra's heart skipped a beat. She couldn't help but read into the gesture. Gliding forward with practiced grace, she murmured, "Aren't you getting in?"

Nathaniel glanced at her, his expression unreadable. "After you."

Her pulse raced, and a wave of exhilaration washed over her. She hadn't misread his intentions—he was waiting for her. A man like Nathaniel didn't extend such courtesies to just anyone. The fact that he did so for her could only mean one thing: he was interested.

"Thank you, Mister Grayson." She flashed him a demure smile and slid into the car, already imagining him sitting beside her.

But Nathaniel didn't join her. Instead, his gaze shifted to Evelyn, who stood off to the side. When she didn't move, his voice dropped to a warning tone. "Get in."

It sounded more like an order than an invitation.

Evelyn pressed her lips together. "Fine."

Once she was inside, Nathaniel finally entered the car. Cassandra's excitement deflated instantly. Her hopes of sitting next to him evaporated, replaced by simmering irritation. She shot Evelyn a glare, resentment coiling tight in her chest.