Chapter 377

Nathaniel glanced at Lucas and signaled with a subtle nod to bring the car around. His gaze then returned to the mischievous Evelyn, fingers brushing through her hair as he murmured, "Of course, I know you're the most considerate woman alive."

Evelyn's lips pursed. He's humoring me, but why does it sound so patronizing?

After ensuring she was safely inside, Nathaniel folded the umbrella and slid in beside her. The car pulled away from the mall, tires whispering against wet pavement.

Evelyn checked her phone, replying to messages before turning to Nathaniel with narrowed eyes. "How exactly did you know I'd be at that mall today?"

Nathaniel ignored her, picking up a document from the seat instead.

Evelyn inched closer, her voice dripping with suspicion. "Tell me, Nathaniel—did you plant another tracker on me?"

He finally looked up, meeting her challenging stare. With a resigned sigh, he admitted, "Yes. But only because of the storm."

Evelyn scowled. "Rain doesn't give you the right to stalk me."

Nathaniel flipped a page, his tone measured. "I'll try to refrain."

"Try?" she echoed, unimpressed.

"Some situations require it," he said, voice hardening. "Your safety isn't negotiable."

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Spare me the noble act. This is about control."

Nathaniel set the document aside and yanked her onto his lap, fingers tightening under her chin. "You're right. I do want control over you—among other things. Care to discover what else I crave?"

Heat flooded her cheeks. "Don't you dare—"

His breath ghosted over her lips. "I've waited too long, little troublemaker."

Lucas discreetly raised the privacy partition.

Trapped, Evelyn blurted, "What did Amelia sacrifice to save you?"

Nathaniel froze, his expression darkening.

Evelyn grinned. "Let me guess—her virtue?"

"Enough," he growled.

"Then answer properly," she pressed, undeterred by his discomfort.

"The past stays buried," Nathaniel said tightly.

Evelyn shrugged, wriggling free. "Fine. We all have secrets we'd rather keep."

Nathaniel's jaw clenched. What is she hiding? The thought gnawed at him as she settled back into her seat, victorious.

He exhaled sharply. She'd outmaneuvered him—again.