Chapter 195

Nathaniel's expression remained impassive as he turned toward the refrigerator to retrieve the bacon.

Inside the kitchen, the two worked in silence, each occupied with their tasks. Nathaniel's gaze lingered on Evelyn as he chopped the bacon, his movements precise.

The mac and cheese, topped with crispy bacon, was ready in minutes. Evelyn wiped her hands and glanced at Nathaniel. "You can take the bowls to the table. I’ll be right back."

Without protest, Nathaniel picked up both bowls and walked out.

Just then, Theodore, the butler, stepped inside, his eyes widening in alarm at the sight of Nathaniel carrying the dishes. He scanned the room, realizing the servants had vanished—likely slacking off in their master’s absence.

"Sir! When did you return? Please, let me handle this! You shouldn’t be doing such tasks!"

Nathaniel ignored Theodore’s outstretched hands, setting the bowls on the table before pulling out a chair. His voice was low, dangerous. "So I shouldn’t, but my wife can?"

Theodore stiffened, guilt flashing across his face. "My deepest apologies, sir. I was tending to your grandfather’s orchids and didn’t realize Madam Evelyn had woken. The staff… they’ve been resentful since the incident with Miss Abigail."

Nathaniel adjusted his cuffs, his tone icy. "If they’re unhappy, I’ll replace them with those who aren’t."

Theodore swallowed hard, recognizing the steel beneath Nathaniel’s calm. There would be no leniency.

Evelyn returned from the bathroom, spotting Theodore. "Would you like some mac and cheese? There’s plenty left."

Theodore shook his head hastily. "Thank you, but I’m not hungry. I—I have duties to attend to. Please, enjoy your meal."

With that, he hurried off, intent on reprimanding the negligent staff.

Evelyn sat down, her eyes landing on a takeout box of barbecue—her favorite from that little roadside stall. She blinked in surprise.

"Did you get this?"

Nathaniel didn’t look up. "Lucas picked it up on his way."

She didn’t question it, reaching for a skewer.

Nathaniel arched a brow. "Did I say you could eat that?"

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "You’re eating my mac and cheese. I’m eating your barbecue. Fair trade."

A faint smirk tugged at Nathaniel’s lips as he took a bite of the mac and cheese. It was surprisingly good.

"Did you go to the hospital today?" he asked abruptly.

Evelyn nodded, chewing. "Yeah, my stepmother got hurt. Lucas must’ve told you."

Nathaniel’s gaze sharpened. "Did you get checked?"

She frowned. "Why? I’m fine."

He swirled his fork in the bowl. "Last night was your first time. You should’ve made sure I didn’t hurt you."

Evelyn choked, her face burning. "Ack—cough—what?!"