Chapter 219

Nathaniel studied Evelyn's face. "If that's what you wish."

She gave a single nod.

Without another word, he turned and secured the brown bear with thick vines, hoisting the massive creature onto his shoulders as he followed behind her.

Their journey through the valley seemed endless, the damp air clinging to their clothes. Finally, a small cave appeared at the base of the ravine - their temporary refuge.

The entrance was nearly invisible beneath overgrown vegetation. Nathaniel set the bear down with care, rolling up his sleeves with practiced ease before tearing through the waist-high plants blocking their way.

Evelyn moved to assist, but his hand shot out to stop her. The warning in his steel-gray eyes made her retreat. She watched, fascinated, as the usually immaculate businessman worked with surprising efficiency, his muscles straining against the stubborn roots.

She was so distracted by the sight that she failed to notice the danger until sharp pain lanced through her arm. "Ah!"

Looking down, she saw the culprit - a yellow-green snake with distinctive marble patterning, its fangs still embedded in her flesh. With quick reflexes, she seized the reptile and flung it into the underbrush, leaving behind two puncture wounds that welled with blood.

Nathaniel was at her side instantly. "What happened?"

"Just a snakebite," she said, wiping away the blood. "Probably harmless."

His expression darkened as he examined the wounds. Without hesitation, he pressed his lips to the punctures, drawing out the venom before spitting it onto the ground.

Evelyn watched in stunned silence as he searched the surrounding foliage, plucking a broadleaf plant. He chewed the leaves into a poultice and applied it to her wound, then tore a strip from his shirt to secure the dressing.

"Disgusted?" he asked when he noticed her frown.

She shook her head. "Impressed, actually. Didn't expect a corporate tycoon to know wilderness medicine."

His gaze remained steady. "A girl taught me after I got bitten once."

Evelyn's lips twisted wryly. "Of course. Should've known you'd have women teaching you survival skills."

Nathaniel's mouth quirked. "Does that bother you?"

She turned away abruptly, focusing on the bear carcass. "Why would it? We're not actually together. Your romantic history means nothing to me."

His eyes narrowed. "Are you sure about that?"