Chapter 435

Evelyn nodded. "Thank you."

As always, she took her time climbing the stairs, but halfway up, she paused and turned back.

"By the way, Theodore. Have my things arrived?"

She had arranged for the engagement gifts she retrieved from the Blackwoods to be delivered to Nathaniel’s estate.

"Yes, ma’am. The maids have already stored them away. Would you like to inspect them?"

Evelyn waved a dismissive hand. "No need. Just inform Nathaniel when he returns."

"Of course, ma’am."

She continued up the stairs. The only reason she had reclaimed those extravagant gifts was to ensure she owed the Graysons nothing.

Theodore watched her ascend, a frown creasing his brow. Something about her seemed... off. But he couldn’t pinpoint what. Probably nothing, he decided, shaking off the thought before heading to the kitchen to oversee the preparation of her meal.

Before leaving, Nathaniel had given strict instructions regarding Evelyn’s dietary restrictions. Allergies made her meals a delicate affair, so Theodore personally tasted every dish before it reached her.

After a warm shower, Evelyn slipped into comfortable loungewear. She ate the lunch brought by the maid and then settled in for a nap. Lately, exhaustion clung to her like a second skin—now she knew why.

Pregnancy.

The moment her head touched the pillow, a wave of drowsiness pulled her under. I’ll miss this bed, she thought absently, already accustomed to its plush embrace.

Sleep claimed her as her mind wandered through half-formed plans for the future.

Night had fallen by the time she stirred. The wind howled outside, rattling the windows with its icy breath.

Theodore, jolted awake by the storm, immediately ordered the staff to secure every window. The last thing they needed was a draft disturbing Evelyn’s rest.

Then, headlights sliced through the darkness, their glow spilling across the estate’s manicured lawn. The growl of an engine grew louder.

Theodore squinted. Nathaniel’s car. Why is he returning at this hour?

Minutes later, Nathaniel strode inside, his coat dusted with the night’s chill.

"Welcome back, sir," Theodore greeted, taking the coat from him.

"Thank you. Where is she?"

Theodore didn’t need to ask who he meant. "Asleep, most likely."

Nathaniel gave a curt nod and brushed past him, taking the stairs two at a time.

Her call this morning had lingered in his mind all day. That rare admission—I missed you—had hooked into him, tugging him home despite the late hour.

He slowed as he reached her door, careful not to wake her. The knob turned easily in his hand. She didn’t lock it again.

A mix of exasperation and fondness twisted in his chest. He stepped inside, the room swallowed by shadows. No moonlight pierced the storm outside, leaving everything in eerie stillness.

"Hey, trouble," he murmured, sinking onto the edge of the bed. His gaze settled on the spot where she usually slept.

Silence.

Out cold, he thought, lips quirking.