Chapter 287

"I didn't want to give the nurses gossip material or get tangled in some messy love triangle with you and Miss Amelia. No woman wants to be labeled as the other woman."

Nathaniel understood her reasoning, which only made him more frustrated. "Evelyn, aren't you even going to ask what really happened? Your assumptions are wrong."

Evelyn remained composed. "I don't need explanations. This isn't like you. People might start thinking you actually have feelings for me—"

Nathaniel's eyes darkened. He suddenly cupped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. "There's no one else here. Who exactly are you referring to?"

Evelyn fell silent.

Nathaniel grabbed tissues and gently wiped soup from her lips. "Go on then. Who are these people you're worried about?"

Evelyn pushed his hand away. "Fine! Maybe I'm the one thinking you like me! Anyone would assume that from how you've been acting!"

Nathaniel tightened his grip, bringing his face dangerously close. "What if that's exactly what I want you to think?"

Evelyn froze. "Mr. Grayson, this isn't funny. At all."

Internally, she recoiled. 'How can he say this after publicly declaring his love for Amelia yesterday? Does he think I'm stupid?'

Nathaniel studied her skeptical expression. "You're right—this isn't me. My past self would never believe some girl could make me act this way."

'Make him act what way?' Evelyn nearly scoffed when Nathaniel pressed a finger to her lips. "Don't speak. Just listen."

She waited, wary.

Nathaniel's expression turned serious. "I once said I could give you everything except my heart. That changed when I met you. I'm telling you this because I'm not afraid of your reaction. You're the only woman I've ever been with. That night wasn't just about the drugs—I already had feelings for you."

Evelyn's breath hitched. "Are you... joking?"

His frustration showed. "I haven't slept in two days. Don't test me further."

Exhausted, he released her and rested his head on the sofa arm, eyes closing instantly.

Despite herself, Evelyn's chest tightened seeing his fatigue. She fetched her blanket and draped it over him.

Studying his handsome features, she thought, 'At least sleeping with him was a win.' As she leaned closer, his eyes snapped open.

"Mr. Grayson! You're awake?"

"Trying to steal a kiss?" he teased.

"As if!" she retorted.

Nathaniel traced her cheek. "Evelyn, don't shut me out again."

"But I let you in," she countered.

"Your heart," he murmured before falling asleep.

Evelyn stared, emotions in turmoil.

Morning came with Evelyn nuzzling what she thought was her pillow—until she realized it was Nathaniel's arm. His amused gaze told her he'd been watching.

"How... did we end up like this?" she stammered.

A knock saved her. Nathaniel answered to find Amelia holding a thermos.

"Mother made too much soup," Amelia said sweetly. "I thought Evelyn might like some."

Nathaniel glanced back. "Want some?"

Evelyn shook her head sharply—she didn't trust Amelia's sudden kindness.

"Doctor's orders," Nathaniel explained. "Allergy restrictions."

Amelia nodded apologetically. "How thoughtless of me."

Suddenly, police officers entered.

"Miss Whitmore, you need to come with us for questioning regarding illegal activities."

Evelyn paled. "What?"