Chapter 327

Evelyn opted for a nearby burger joint. She was ravenous and needed food immediately.

Nathaniel despised fast food, considering it unhealthy. But seeing her hunger, he didn't protest. Filling her stomach took priority.

She ordered a combo meal with extra sides while Nathaniel simply paid without ordering. They sat facing each other - her devouring fries, him watching with affectionate amusement.

As Evelyn sipped her milkshake, a thought struck her. "Nathaniel, did you pick me because I can handle kidnappers? So you wouldn't be blackmailed if I could fight back?"

He blinked, surprised she'd guessed. "Partly. I needed someone who wouldn't be collateral damage. The woman I'd arranged got weather-delayed. Then you appeared - brave, clever, capable. Perfect." His voice softened. "But I'll protect you now."

Evelyn just chuckled. She'd asked out of curiosity, not concern.

"You must be parched after that speech." She offered her milkshake straw.

Nathaniel's heart skipped. This rare gesture from Evelyn made him lean forward to sip.

She reclaimed the drink, continuing as if sharing straws was routine between them.

His eyes darkened playfully. "So we're sharing fluids now?"

Evelyn smirked. "We've shared more than that."

"Then give us another chance?" Nathaniel's voice held hopeful amusement.

"Trial basis," she countered, raising an eyebrow.

"Trial?" His smile faltered.

"To test compatibility. If it works, we continue. If not..." She shrugged. "We're from different worlds, Nathaniel. This makes ending things cleaner."

Nathaniel groaned internally. This woman would be the death of him.

He tilted her chin up. "Are kisses allowed during this...trial?"

Evelyn's cheeks pinked. "Depends on my mood."

"And now?"

"Meh."

"Why?"

She scoffed. "Would you be cheerful after being handcuffed to a police station?"

Guilt flashed across Nathaniel's face. He checked her wrists, relieved to find no marks from the cuffs.

His phone rang - Lucas calling. Nathaniel's expression darkened as he listened. "When?" he demanded sharply.

Evelyn watched curiously as he stood. "I need to take this. Stay here, finish eating."

She nodded, wondering if Amelia was ill again.

Outside, Nathaniel paced while Evelyn gazed through the window, boredom setting in.

Nearby, two customers whispered loudly while passing.

"That scammer girl trending online is shameless! Healthy young thing conning people with some old man."

"Karma will get her. Look - isn't that her?"

Gasps spread. "It is her! The internet scammer!"

Before Evelyn could react, a crowd surrounded her, phones raised to capture her image.