Chapter 409

Nathaniel snapped out of his thoughts and tapped his cigarette against the ashtray. "Jonathan's secretary gave it to me."

Evelyn tilted her head. "Why didn't she just bring it in herself?"

"I ran into her outside," Nathaniel answered with a shrug, keeping his explanation brief.

Evelyn nodded absently, towel-drying her hair as she moved toward the bed to check her phone.

"Come here."

Nathaniel stubbed out his cigarette and crooked a finger at her.

Evelyn's nose wrinkled in distaste. She was still mad at him and had no intention of getting close. But giving him the silent treatment wasn't her style either. After a brief internal debate, she set her phone down and approached.

"What do you want?"

He patted his thigh. "Sit."

Evelyn's eyes widened. 'Is he seriously expecting me to sit on his lap? No way—that's way too intimate.'

She took two steps forward but veered left, aiming to circle around the sofa instead.

Nathaniel anticipated her move. His arm shot out, pulling her down onto his lap before she could escape.

"Let go!" She squirmed, pushing against his chest like an offended cat refusing to be petted.

His arm tightened around her slender waist, trapping her effortlessly. "Stop struggling. I'm not going to bite."

Evelyn scoffed, shooting him a glare. "Like I'd believe that."

The way her cheeks puffed up amused him. He loosened his grip slightly, one hand gently stroking her damp hair. "Behave. Now tell me—why didn't you wait for me to come in with you?"

"Because I was freezing!" she huffed. "I'd have turned into an icicle waiting for you."

Nathaniel's expression softened. He pulled her closer. "Sorry. Are you mad at me?"

Evelyn didn't sugarcoat it. "Furious."

That directness was something he appreciated about her. No guessing games, no hidden meanings—just pure, unfiltered honesty.

"Because I didn't come in with you?"

"No."

"Then what did I do wrong?"

She turned in his arms to face him properly, eyes blazing. "Asking 'what happened' like that! Really, Nathaniel? You actually thought I'd harass your precious savior? Do you really see me as some villain?"

'Ah. So that's it.'

He pinched her cheek playfully. "Don't be ridiculous. You're my wife—why would I think that? I wasn't there. I needed to hear your side before dealing with the idiots accusing you."

Evelyn's frown lessened slightly—for about three seconds before returning full force. Nope, still mad.

"Who else should I have asked?" he murmured, brushing a wet strand from her face. "Why would I believe strangers over you?"

She crossed her arms with a pout. "You're being ridiculous right now, you know that?"