Chapter 173

Nathan's expression was grave.

Oliver gave Chloe another sharp pinch and hissed through clenched teeth, "Eat."

Chloe suddenly remembered something and turned to Evelyn with excitement. "Madam, allow me to introduce myself properly. I'm Chloe Lawson, this idiot's younger sister. Mr. Goldmann has always been like an older brother to us—our families are very close. Please don’t misunderstand our relationship!"

Evelyn smiled faintly.

Chloe’s personality was undeniably fiery, and she certainly didn’t hold back her words.

Evelyn glanced at Oliver. "So, you have a sister too?"

Oliver sighed in exasperation. "She’s been stationed with the military all this time. The moment she heard Nathan had brought you home, she sneaked out just to see you."

Chloe scowled. "Excuse me? I had official leave approved by my commanding officer!"

Oliver shot her a look. "Only because of his friendship with our eldest brother."

Daisy giggled. "Aunt Chloe, why are your and Uncle Oliver’s names so unusual?"

Chloe threw an arm around Oliver’s shoulders and grinned. "Blame our parents. Our eldest brother got the dignified name—Harrison. I’m just grateful they didn’t name me 'Sugar' or 'Sweetie' for being so adorable."

Caleb and Daisy stifled their laughter.

Evelyn raised a brow at Oliver. "So, does that mean Oliver is—"

Nathan cut in smoothly, "Because he was an odd child."

A burst of laughter erupted around the table.

Oliver shoved Chloe’s arm away, his face flushed with embarrassment. "Fine, you win. You’re clearly the better conversationalist. At least show some respect in front of Mr. Goldmann Sr., will you?"

Can’t you spare me some dignity? Must you always expose my past like this?

Mr. Goldmann Sr. didn’t mind the playful banter. The lively atmosphere only made the gathering more enjoyable.

After the meal, they returned to the royal capital of Bassburgh.

Evelyn gazed out the car window. They had originally planned to stay only two days, but Nathan’s injury had extended their visit by another day.

Yet, in those three days, she had discovered something unexpected—despite not being blood-related, this family had welcomed her with warmth and laughter. Meanwhile, her own flesh and blood schemed against one another.

"What’s on your mind?" Nathan reached out, his fingers threading through her silken hair. The soft strands slipped through his grasp, sending a faint tingle across his skin.

Evelyn turned to meet his gaze but quickly averted her eyes. "Nothing. It’s just… your family seems very close with Oliver and Chloe."

Nathan’s lips curved slightly. "Their parents worked for my grandfather. After they passed away in an accident, he took them in and raised them."

Evelyn stiffened, startled by the revelation. She hadn’t known Oliver and Chloe carried such a history.

Nathan leaned back, his tone matter-of-fact. "Harrison, the eldest, serves as my grandfather’s personal guard. Oliver is meticulous—annoyingly talkative, but efficient. That’s why I keep him around."

He smirked. "As for Chloe, she’s too restless for desk work. Prefers running wild with the troops."

Evelyn lowered her gaze. "Nathan… I’ve always wondered. What kind of family are the Goldmanns?"

Many assumed the Goldmanns rivaled the Bouchers in status and influence. But unlike the Bouchers—a noble lineage—the Goldmanns had risen from obscurity.

How had they achieved such power through mere business dealings?

Nathan studied her briefly before speaking. "You’ll learn in time. For now, know this—I’ll always ensure your safety and the children’s."

Evelyn fell silent, absorbing his words without further comment.