Chapter 203

Evelyn's eyes widened in shock as she stared at Nathaniel. 'He actually believes me?'

Gabrielle's face twisted in confusion. "But Nathaniel, didn't you say you trusted I wouldn't frame Evelyn without cause? Why are you saying this now?"

Nathaniel's expression remained impassive. "Exactly. I believe you wouldn't do it without reason. So tell us - what's your reason for targeting my wife?"

The realization hit Evelyn like a thunderbolt. Nathaniel wasn't taking Gabrielle's side at all. His question implied he knew Gabrielle had staged the whole incident.

Panic flashed across Gabrielle's face as she played the victim card. "Nathaniel! We've been friends for years! How could you doubt me like this?"

Nathaniel remained unmoved. "Time doesn't determine truth. I may have only known Evelyn for a short while, but we trust each other completely. No outside interference can shake that."

Gabrielle looked like she'd been slapped. Her eyes welled up with bitter tears. "Interference? Is that what you think I'm doing? After all our years of friendship?"

Nathaniel's patience visibly wore thin. "Gabrielle, either explain yourself or stop accusing my wife. Otherwise, I'll see you in court."

He turned to Evelyn with unexpected gentleness. "Hungry?"

Evelyn blinked, pulled from her daze. "A little."

"Let's get breakfast then." Without hesitation, Nathaniel took her hand and led her out of the changing room, ignoring the stunned onlookers.

Sophia Bennett hurried after them, grinning. "Uncle Nathaniel! You had me worried there for a second! I thought you didn't believe Evelyn!"

Nathaniel arched an eyebrow. "So I'm not the villain anymore?"

Sophia laughed. "Never! I should've known better. Your bond with Evelyn is unshakable!"

Evelyn nearly choked. 'Unshakable bond? Since when?'

As Nathaniel and Evelyn departed, Dominic Prescott and the others prepared to leave too, having remained neutral observers throughout the confrontation.

But Gabrielle stood frozen, watching the retreating couple with burning rage. Nathaniel had threatened legal action over that country girl Evelyn!

If he'd already made up his mind, she wouldn't let Evelyn walk away unscathed.

Clenching her fists, Gabrielle suddenly called out, "Nathaniel, wait!"

He paused, glancing back coolly. "What now?"

Face dark with anger, Gabrielle declared, "If you leave now, everyone will think I framed her! I won't have my reputation tarnished like this!"

"Then what do you propose?" Nathaniel asked icily.

"If you truly believe her innocence, let Evelyn prove this earring isn't hers!"