Chapter 231

Nathaniel's indifferent expression finally cracked at the mention of Amelia's name.

After a long silence, his eyes narrowed. "I haven't forgotten. I'll keep my promise to her."

Gabrielle scoffed. "Nathaniel, it doesn't matter if you no longer consider me a friend. But remember everything Amelia did for you. You can't betray her trust just because of Evelyn. She was a good woman!"

With that, Gabrielle turned and reached for the door.

That was when she saw Evelyn standing there.

Evelyn froze.

She had heard voices inside—Nathaniel and Gabrielle arguing. She had tried to slip past unnoticed, not wanting to seem like she was eavesdropping.

But fate had terrible timing.

Just as she passed the door, Gabrielle swung it open.

Now, it looked like she had been caught listening. No explanation would make this seem innocent.

Evelyn forced an awkward smile and waved. "Hey. Would you believe me if I said I was just walking by?"

Nathaniel and Gabrielle stared at her in silence.

Nathaniel's brow furrowed, his dark gaze piercing.

Gabrielle recovered first, smirking. She glanced back at Nathaniel. "I trust you'll keep your word. Amelia would believe in you too."

Then she stepped past Evelyn—but paused beside her.

In a whisper meant only for Evelyn's ears, she murmured, "Enjoy this while it lasts. Amelia is coming back soon. Then you'll finally see who truly matters to Nathaniel."

Evelyn's expression didn't waver.

Why would she care who mattered most to Nathaniel? It wasn't her business. And why should she dread Amelia's return? By then, her arrangement with Nathaniel would be over. They'd go their separate ways.

Gabrielle left.

Nathaniel stepped closer, his gaze dropping to Evelyn's damp hair. His frown deepened. "Where do you think you're going with your hair still wet?"

Evelyn sighed. Sophia had been blow-drying it for her earlier—until Benjamin showed up. So it was still slightly damp.

"Your niece and brother-in-law are arguing in our room. I needed fresh air. Thought I'd check on the poor bear while I was at it."

Brother-in-law?

If she was calling Benjamin that, she must have figured something out. Yet she brushed past it like it was nothing.

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed. "Evelyn. Is there something you want to ask me?"