Chapter 269

Amelia's wide doe eyes locked onto Evelyn as she stepped closer. "So you're Evelyn!"

Evelyn gave a slight nod. "Yes, that's me."

What’s this about? Is she trying to pick a fight?

Without warning, Amelia suddenly seized Evelyn’s hands, her expression soft with apology. "I'm so sorry. I didn’t realize it was you. I thought you were just another guest."

Evelyn wasn’t one for physical contact with strangers. She calmly pulled her hands free and offered a polite smile. "No harm done. We’ve never met before, so it’s understandable."

Amelia, undeterred, beamed at her with startling sincerity. "Nathaniel talks about you all the time when we’re on the phone."

Evelyn arched a brow. "Does he? And what exactly does he say?"

She doubted Nathaniel had anything flattering to share.

Amelia’s admiration was almost blinding. "He never stops praising you. Says you’re brilliant, not the type to chase wealth or status. That you know your place and keep your distance. Honestly, he couldn’t stop listing all your virtues."

That was… a lot. Clearly, they spoke often.

To Evelyn, it didn’t sound like praise. More like Nathaniel was reassuring Amelia that nothing was happening between them.

Hah. Didn’t take him for the self-aware type. Guess he’s got survival instincts after all.

Evelyn forced a smile. "Well, I suppose I should thank him for the compliments."

"Evelyn, I really appreciate you helping Nathaniel with his family lately," Amelia said earnestly.

"It’s nothing," Evelyn replied dryly. In truth, she’d had no choice.

"You’re so kind. I have a feeling we’re going to be great friends." Amelia grabbed her hands again, blinking up at her with playful warmth.

Evelyn barely suppressed a grimace. Amelia was too friendly.

She didn’t dislike her, but she had no intention of getting close to anyone in Nathaniel’s world. Once their contract ended, she’d cut ties with all of them.

"Nathaniel! You’re back!" Amelia suddenly released Evelyn and rushed toward the door.

Evelyn turned to see Nathaniel stepping inside, his expression tense.

Oddly, he was still in yesterday’s suit, his hair disheveled by the wind. The usually immaculate man looked almost… approachable.

His gaze zeroed in on Evelyn the second he entered. His sharp eyes were bloodshot, stubble shadowing his jaw.

He looked rough. Exhausted. Dangerous.

And haggard—something his composed demeanor had never betrayed before.

Had he lost weight overnight?

Evelyn narrowed her eyes. They must’ve had quite the reunion. Probably couldn’t keep their hands off each other.

Especially after that dramatic love confession.