Chapter 270

Evelyn tugged at the hem of Nathaniel's shirt and whispered, "Nathaniel, I've introduced myself to Amelia."

She smiled brightly. "You were right about her! She's lovely, and I really like her!"

Nathaniel finally tore his gaze away from Evelyn and looked down at Amelia. "Go change your clothes. I'll have Lucas take you home. Your family's been worried."

Amelia pouted but nodded obediently. "Alright. I'll head back now."

Nathaniel gave a curt nod before glancing up again—only to find Evelyn gone.

While Nathaniel had been speaking to Amelia, Evelyn had slipped upstairs. She wasn't about to stand around awkwardly as the third wheel.

The moment she stepped into the bedroom, she froze.

Something was off.

This was Nathaniel's room, and she'd been staying here ever since moving in, playing the dutiful wife for appearances.

Nathaniel rarely slept here. Even when he did, he'd shower and crash on the couch, never disturbing anything. The maids knew better than to rearrange anything without permission.

Yet now, the items on the shelves and nightstand had shifted. Even the lamp, which she always kept on the left side for convenience, had been moved to the right.

The bed was meticulously made, the sheets crisp and wrinkle-free—as if freshly changed this morning.

A cold realization settled in her stomach.

Had Nathaniel and Amelia slept here last night?

Of course they had. Where else would he take the woman he loved?

Disgust twisted inside her. The room suddenly felt tainted. She'd rather sleep in the guest room.

She turned to leave—only to collide with a solid wall of muscle.

Nathaniel stood in the doorway, his towering frame casting a shadow over her. His presence was suffocating.

She instinctively stepped back, meeting his gaze.

Up close, the exhaustion in his eyes was undeniable. Dark veins spiderwebbed across the whites, evidence of a sleepless night.

Just how passionate had they been? Nathaniel was always so controlled, so disciplined. For him to lose himself like this—he must truly love Amelia.

Evelyn's expression darkened. "You look exhausted. Take the room. I'll sleep elsewhere."

She tried to sidestep him, but he blocked her path. His voice was low, dangerous. "Where were you last night?"

"At a friend's place," she answered flatly.

His jaw tightened. "Who gave you permission to stay out all night?"

Evelyn's brows shot up. Permission?

She was an adult, not a child. What did it matter where she slept? Besides, coming back would've been worse.

What if she'd walked in on something she wasn't meant to see?

Now that would've been awkward.