Chapter 358

Nathaniel's piercing gaze lingered on Amelia before shifting back to Evelyn with silent inquiry.

His unspoken question hung heavy in the air.

Evelyn's brows knitted together. 'Why does he keep looking at me like that? Is he seriously expecting me to be the villain because he can't reject his precious "savior"? This man's cunning knows no bounds. Fine, I'll play along just this once - he has been decent to me lately.'

Propping her chin on one hand, Evelyn turned lazily toward Amelia. "Miss Rivers, you seem aware your brother's assistant can't be late for work, yet conveniently forget this applies to your Nathaniel too."

The possessive phrasing made the man beside her scowl.

Amelia's eyes welled with manufactured hurt, her delicate features twisting into perfect wounded innocence. "That's not what I meant, Evelyn! Nathaniel owns the company - he sets his own hours. But Edmund is just an employee who must clock in punctually. Samuel runs a tight ship with strict penalties for tardiness."

A sardonic smile played on Evelyn's lips. "How remarkably considerate of you. No wonder people fall over themselves to help you. But you're overlooking one crucial detail - your brother sent Edmund here, which means he's technically working. Surely Samuel wouldn't punish his right-hand man after years of loyal service?"

Evelyn punctuated her point with an exaggerated yawn. "Though if Nathaniel wants to give you a ride, by all means. Your place is on his way to the office after all."

She turned impish eyes toward Nathaniel, eyebrows dancing. "Isn't that right, Mr. Grayson?"

Nathaniel ignored her question. His voice turned glacial. "Lucas, escort Miss Rivers home."

"Right away, sir."

Amelia's composure cracked. "Nathaniel, aren't you going to work today? Must you inconvenience Lucas?" Her transparent attempt at false consideration fooled no one.

Nathaniel remained unmoved, gesturing toward Evelyn. "The brat's getting jealous. Best not provoke her."

Evelyn nearly choked. 'Excuse me? Jealous? This is emotional blackmail at its finest!'

Amelia froze, genuine hurt flashing across her features. Before she could protest, Lucas smoothly intervened. "This way, Miss Rivers. Your carriage awaits."

Forced into retreat, Amelia conjured a brittle smile. "Of course. My apologies for troubling you, Nathaniel." The unspoken resentment in her eyes betrayed her gracious words.

Nathaniel offered only a curt nod, already dismissing her presence.

Amelia's jaw clenched before pasting on another smile for Evelyn. "Until next time, Evelyn."

"Don't let the door hit you on the way out," Evelyn chirped.

Amelia stormed off, her furious footsteps echoing through the hall, with Oliver trailing helplessly behind.