Chapter 406

"Thank you."

Evelyn had always been the pragmatic type, so sharing a towel didn't faze her. She accepted the proffered towel without hesitation, first wiping her face before roughly drying her damp hair.

Jonathan watched her with amusement. Despite his usual teasing nature, he knew better than to overstep boundaries now. The man who'd once tormented her with barbed jokes had transformed into the picture of chivalry.

"Evelyn, rest here while I have my assistant bring you fresh clothes."

"Fine. Thanks again, Sir Gallant!"

Evelyn had no intention of letting him linger. As a married woman, being alone with another man—even in a guest room—was crossing lines she wouldn't tolerate. Distance was necessary.

Jonathan's lips twitched at the ridiculous nickname. "If you're truly grateful, use my name instead of mocking titles."

Evelyn arched one brow. "Mocking? I think 'Sir Gallant' perfectly captures your heroic nature today."

"It sounds sarcastic."

"Not at all," Evelyn countered seriously. "I genuinely appreciate your help. Though we both know you're only doing this because of Nathaniel. Otherwise, I'd be stuck in wet clothes."

Jonathan's smile faltered. His forehead creased. "That's not true. I helped because it's you. Nathaniel has nothing to do with this. Aren't we friends regardless?"

Evelyn studied his striking features for a beat before nodding. "Fine. Consider us friends from today. Now—Jonathan—get out. I need to dry off, and friendship doesn't entitle you to see me naked."

She physically propelled him toward the door—a comical sight given their size difference. The towering man nearly tripped over his own feet as the petite woman shoved him out unceremoniously.

The door slammed shut. Jonathan stared at it, torn between irritation and amusement. 'Still the same stubborn woman.'

Her hesitation before calling them friends hadn't escaped him. That reluctant nod spoke volumes. 'She tolerates me at best. Evelyn Whitmore, you're as fascinating as ever. Names change, but your spirit doesn't.'

Turning, he spotted his assistant approaching with a garment bag. "Mr. Blake, the clothes you requested." Her curious gaze flicked to the closed door. "May I ask why you needed women's attire?"

"A friend had an unfortunate encounter with the pond," Jonathan said lightly. "Deliver these to her and bill accounting."

The assistant waved him off. "Consider it a gift. They weren't expensive."

Before she could move, a large hand intercepted the bag. "I'll take those."