Chapter 169

Nathaniel's footsteps echoed through the hallway, each step making Cassandra's heart race faster.

He's coming. The man I've dreamed of. The one who's supposed to sweep me into his arms.

But her hope shattered instantly.

Nathaniel strode past her without so much as a glance, his gaze fixed straight ahead as he headed for the door. He didn't even spare her a downward look.

Cassandra froze. Her hand shot out, desperation lacing her voice. "M-Mister Nathaniel? Mister Nathaniel! Why are you leaving? Where are you going? Don't go! My leg—it hurts... Help me!"

He didn't pause. Didn't hesitate. Just walked away.

She scrambled to her feet, ready to chase after him—but then reality crashed down. She was naked. Exposed. Even if she grabbed her clothes now, it wouldn't matter.

What went wrong? This wasn't supposed to happen!

Victoria had assured her the ingredients would work. That it would only take minutes for any man to succumb.

The silverware on the table had been moved—proof Nathaniel had eaten. So why? Why hadn't he reacted to her? To her body?

Nathaniel stormed out of the elevator, his expression dark, his jaw clenched so tight it could crack stone.

Minutes ago, he'd been considering giving Evelyn another chance. Maybe even talking things through.

And then?

She'd lured him here with sweet words—only to set him up with some scheming woman.

How generous of her. She doesn’t even care if I fall into another woman’s arms. That little—

His fist tightened, knuckles white with fury.

His phone buzzed. An unknown number.

He answered coldly.

"Nathaniel Grayson! Aren't you worried about your wife? She's not home yet. Didn't you even notice?"

His voice was ice. "Who is this?"

"You don’t need to know. I have Evelyn."

A humorless smirk twisted his lips. "Keep her, then. Do whatever you want with her."

The kidnapper choked. "What the hell? She's your wife!"

Nathaniel didn't flinch. "Wives can be replaced."

He hung up without another word.

In the abandoned warehouse, the kidnapper spat on the ground, glaring at Evelyn, bound to a chair.

"Damn it! I thought you meant something to him. Turns out you're worthless!"

The call had been on speaker. Every word. Every chilling note of indifference.

Evelyn closed her eyes.

She wasn’t surprised.

But the disappointment still cut deep.

Her lips curled into a bitter smile.

She’d actually believed him when he said he’d give her anything—except his heart.

How foolish.

She was just a tool. Disposable.

And he hadn’t even hesitated to prove it.