Chapter 400

Evelyn had no affection for Amelia nor any desire to converse with her, yet the woman's persistent gaze suggested unspoken words.

Still, facing Amelia directly seemed preferable to enduring her covert schemes. Evelyn withdrew her arm, smoothing invisible wrinkles from her sleeves. A faint smirk played on her lips as she nodded. "Let's talk then."

Amelia's expression faltered. That deliberate withdrawal spoke volumes - Evelyn rejected even casual contact. Amelia's doe eyes blinked rapidly, projecting wounded innocence as if bewildered by the perceived slight.

They moved to the garden gazebo. Amelia spoke first. "I've noticed Nathaniel's been particularly attentive to you lately."

Evelyn anticipated tedious small talk. She grabbed two meat skewers before joining Amelia, chewing as she replied, "Has he?"

A bitter smile twisted Amelia's lips. "Quite obviously. You must be thrilled with his sudden devotion."

Evelyn swallowed before responding bluntly, "I don't feel anything remarkable about it."

Amelia's smile turned wistful. "I was like that once with Nathaniel. Every day felt magical. Such a pity how fickle men are - new women make them forget past affections."

Evelyn froze mid-bite. She turned sharply, brows furrowing. "When exactly were you two involved?"

Amelia covered her mouth in feigned realization. "Oh! Nathaniel never told you? My apologies, Evelyn. Pretend you didn't hear that."

Evelyn smiled coolly. "Consider it forgotten." She resumed eating without further inquiry.

Amelia gaped. Most women would demand details about their lover's ex. "Aren't you curious about our history?"

"Intensely," Evelyn said between bites, tone casual. "But I'll ask Nathaniel directly. No need to trouble yourself."

Amelia's eyes widened before adopting a pitying look. "How naive. If he hasn't volunteered the truth by now, why would he when asked?"

"Because he will," Evelyn stated with absolute certainty, her expression unshaken.

Amelia momentarily faltered before recovering. "You understand men poorly. They always prioritize current relationships over past ones. Admitting old flames would only upset their new partners."

Evelyn arched a brow. "So Nathaniel's just another faithless scoundrel to you? Why pine after him then?"

The barb landed. Amelia stiffened before countering, "Since we're being honest - I don't just like Nathaniel, I love him! All men are fundamentally the same. Do you truly believe in male fidelity?"

Evelyn's eyes narrowed. "That indictment includes your father and brothers. Are they equally untrustworthy?"

Amelia sighed dramatically. "I'm not condemning, just stating facts. My father had multiple wives. Even my 'virtuous' brother keeps company with various women. Men inevitably lose interest, no matter how remarkable their partner."

"Ah," Evelyn nodded in realization. "This is a warning. Prepare for when Nathaniel tires of me? Or better yet, leave now to avoid heartbreak?"

Amelia smiled beatifically. "I'm relieved you understand, Evelyn."