Chapter 388

Nathaniel paused at the doorway. The blaring television immediately alerted him that something was off. His sharp gaze landed on three unfamiliar figures lounging in his living room, causing his storm-gray eyes to darken instantly.

The household staff greeted him as always. One maid reached for his tailored suit jacket while another knelt with his velvet slippers. Nathaniel shrugged off the jacket but ignored the offered footwear.

"Who are they?" His baritone voice cut through the air like winter frost.

The maids exchanged nervous glances. "Sir, they're Madam Evelyn's relatives, but—" The words died in her throat, uncertain how to explain the 'new Mrs. Grayson' situation without causing an explosion.

Nathaniel's jaw tightened. "But what?"

Before the trembling maid could respond, Theodore materialized like a guardian angel. "Sir, these are Madam's parents and sister. They arrived this morning for a visit."

'Evelyn's family?' Nathaniel's posture relaxed slightly as he strode toward the living room. The ice in his expression thawed—if this marriage was becoming permanent, he'd need to make nice with her relatives.

"Where is she?" The usual steel in his voice softened noticeably at the mention of his wife.

Theodore's face twisted with discomfort. "Madam is... packing her belongings upstairs. She mentioned needing to vacate the space for her sister."

'Packing?' Nathaniel's brows knitted together. 'What fresh hell is this? Things were perfect between us yesterday.' He opened his mouth to demand answers when movement caught his eye.

Cassandra sprang from the sofa, dessert forgotten. Her eyes sparkled as they landed on Nathaniel's imposing frame. "Nathaniel! You're home!" she trilled, rushing forward with outstretched hands.

Theodore had only begun unraveling today's drama, leaving Nathaniel unaware of the landmine he was stepping on. For now, he offered Cassandra a curt nod. "Welcome." The single word carried all the warmth of a December morning.