Chapter 209

Nathaniel noticed Evelyn from a distance. She'd have some explaining to do if she didn't approach him.

With a resigned sigh, Evelyn walked toward him anyway. "Nathaniel, I'm back."

He took a slow sip of his coffee, watching her over the rim. "What did you two discuss?"

Evelyn waved a dismissive hand. "Nothing important. Just small talk."

His brows furrowed. She'd promised to tell him everything when she returned. Now she was brushing him off.

Dominic grinned and patted the empty chair beside him. "Evelyn! Come join us!"

She shot him a wary glance. Sitting with Dominic meant enduring his teasing. No thanks.

Just then, Sophia bounded over excitedly. "Evelyn! Let's go pick horses! We can race later when it's cooler. The afternoon sun's brutal!"

Evelyn glanced at Nathaniel for approval. "May I?"

Though rebellious by nature, she remembered their public facade. The dutiful wife act required his permission.

Nathaniel's irritation softened slightly at her deference. His gaze warmed as he nodded. "Go ahead."

"Thanks!" She flashed him a quick smile before following Sophia toward the stables.

Nathaniel watched her go, coffee forgotten in his hand. Long after she disappeared, his eyes remained fixed in that direction.

"You've gone soft, Nathaniel," Dominic teased. "What spell has your wife cast on you?"

A cold glare was his only response. "Got a problem with that?"

Dominic shrugged. "Just curious what makes her so special."

Nathaniel's expression turned dangerous. "Curiosity about another man's wife is... unwise."

Harrison snorted. "What he needs is a woman who can put him in his place!"

"Don't project your own failures onto me," Dominic shot back. "Just because you got knocked down once—"

Harrison's face darkened. "You asking for a beating?"

Jonathan stood, attempting to diffuse the tension. "Enough sitting around. Let's ride! Maybe add some stakes to make it interesting?"

Dominic stretched lazily. "You go ahead. Too hot for me."

Jonathan shook his head. "You organized this and won't even participate? Since when are you afraid of a little sun?"

Harrison smirked. "Since always. The man's delicate."

Dominic scowled. "Watch your mouth!"

The stables housed over a hundred magnificent horses.

Evelyn's eyes immediately locked onto a stunning white mare with a distinctive black mark on its forehead. As she reached for the bridle—

"That one's too much for you. Pick another."

Gabrielle's voice cut through the air like a whip.