Chapter 390

Gregory tilted his head up to meet Nathaniel's towering frame. The older man decided to mirror the younger's composed demeanor, playing the part of the sagely elder. He gave an approving nod. "What a fine son-in-law you make! I have no doubt we'll get along splendidly."

Victoria beamed, stepping forward. "Nathaniel, you must be exhausted from work. As your mother, I'd be delighted to prepare my famous lamb stew for you."

Beside them, Theodore's brow furrowed in displeasure. Had he heard correctly? 'Did Mrs. Blackwood just refer to herself as Master Nathaniel's mother? Even if she were, such familiarity is highly improper. These people lack all sense of boundaries and decorum.'

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed to slits, his expression unreadable. He turned to Theodore with a curt command. "Ensure Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood are comfortable while I check on Evelyn upstairs."

"At once, sir," Theodore replied.

"Nathaniel, wait!" Cassandra rushed forward, deliberately brushing against his muscular frame. She wanted to prove to the butler that she could go wherever Nathaniel went. 'Let's see if that pompous old fool dares stop me now!' More urgently, she feared what might happen if Evelyn had Nathaniel alone in her bedroom.

Nathaniel halted abruptly, his gaze turning glacial. "That won't be possible." His voice carried winter's bite. "Wait in the parlor. I'll bring Evelyn down shortly."

Cassandra gaped. 'What? Why—' The rejection stung. 'Didn't he just smile at me earlier?'

Theodore barely concealed his satisfaction. 'The woman's delusions know no bounds. Does she truly believe the master holds any affection for her? He tolerates her presence solely because she's Madam's sister. Delusional doesn't begin to cover it.'

Undeterred, Cassandra leaned in, her voice dripping honey. "Oh come now, Nathaniel. I only want to check on my dear sister. Surely that's not too much to ask?" Her hand reached for his arm.

Nathaniel sidestepped her touch with military precision. "What do you think you're doing?" The dangerous edge in his voice made her recoil.

Cassandra floundered. "I—I just—"

'This makes no sense! Men always fall for my charms. Why is he so immune?'

Just then, Evelyn's melodic voice floated down the staircase. "Nathaniel! You're home!"

All eyes turned upward as Nathaniel's frosty demeanor thawed instantly. His entire focus shifted toward the sound of her voice, leaving Cassandra forgotten on the stairs.