Chapter 286

The sterile hospital hallway echoed with Evelyn's hurried footsteps as she rushed past the nursing station. Nathaniel followed close behind, his long strides easily keeping pace.

The nurses' excited whispers trailed after them.

"That's him! The man from Room 302!"

"Goodness, he's even more handsome up close!"

"But why is he chasing after another woman instead of staying with Miss Amelia?"

"Don't tell me this is some messy love triangle situation..."

Evelyn's jaw tightened at their gossip. Annoyance flared through her as she quickened her pace.

She reached her private ward and moved to slam the door shut, but Nathaniel's hand shot out to block it. "What's gotten into you?" His voice came through the narrow gap.

"You shouldn't be here," Evelyn snapped, pushing against the door with all her strength.

"Give me one good reason why not," Nathaniel demanded, his expression darkening.

Evelyn paused. "Fine. Move your hand and I'll tell you."

Trusting fool that he was, Nathaniel withdrew his hand—only for the door to slam shut in his face. The distinct click of the lock followed.

For a moment, Nathaniel stood frozen in disbelief.

"Open this door right now!" His knuckles rapped sharply against the wood, patience wearing thin.

Silence.

"Evelyn Whitmore, I'm not asking again!" Nathaniel growled.

Still nothing.

Nathaniel exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. He swallowed his pride.

"Sweetheart, please open the door?" His voice took on an uncharacteristically sweet tone. "At least tell me what's wrong? I know I messed up by being late. Punish me however you want, darling—"

The sudden clearing of a throat made Nathaniel whirl around. Lucas stood there holding a takeout bag, looking awkward.

"Sir, there was traffic... The food got cold so I went back for a fresh order. It's still hot—"

Nathaniel glared. The timing couldn't have been worse.

Lucas wisely set the food on a hallway chair. "I'll just leave this here. Call if you need anything else, sir." He practically fled.

Nathaniel sank onto the chair with a sigh, pulling out his phone.

[Amelia saved my life ten years ago. She's been sickly ever since. I owe her everything.]

Evelyn read the message in her room. After a beat, she replied: [Then go be with her. Leave me alone.]

[Let me in. I'll explain properly.]

[I'm sleeping. Go to your precious savior.]

[Open the door.]

Silence.

Nathaniel waited a full minute before sending one last message: [Lucas brought barbecue.]

Three seconds later, the lock clicked open.

Nathaniel's expression darkened as he picked up the takeout. "Unbelievable," he muttered. "Only food can lure her out."

Evelyn ripped open the container—then scowled. "Where's my barbecue?"

Nathaniel leaned against the windowsill, unrepentant. "Doctor's orders. Light food only after an allergic reaction."

"You liar!" But hunger won out, and Evelyn began eating the chicken soup.

Nathaniel watched silently until she set down her spoon. "Finished? We need to talk—"

"I don't want to hear it."

His jaw tightened. "Then why did you lock me out?"