Chapter 368

Evelyn still felt a pang of guilt for Nathan.

She traced the lines of his palm with her fingertips, her lashes casting shadows as she murmured, "Nathan, no matter what happens... I won't leave you. Unless—"

Unless what?

She hadn’t figured that part out yet.

The words had slipped out before she could stop them. Maybe it was because Nathan had endured so much for her sake. Or maybe it was the way he looked at her—like she was his entire world. She couldn’t explain it.

There was a time when she believed he was just a temporary fixture in her life, that his kindness was only for the sake of their three children.

But now?

Now she knew better.

Nathan had fought harder than anyone to keep them together.

A slow, knowing smile curved his lips, warmth flooding his gaze as he watched her. "Do you really think I’d let you go after everything I’ve done to keep you?" His voice was low, possessive. "The only way you’re leaving me is if I’m dead."

Evelyn scoffed, shattering the intensity of the moment. "Don’t be dramatic. You’ll outlive us all."

She turned on her heel and strode toward the walk-in closet, leaving him standing there, amused.

Nathan exhaled, satisfaction settling deep in his chest as he watched her rummage through her clothes.

She was his.

In every way that mattered.

And he would never let her forget it.

Later that evening, Evelyn and Nathan arrived at the Vanderbilt estate together. Richard blinked in surprise when he saw his son-in-law at the door.

"Dad," Evelyn began, offering an apologetic smile. "Would it be alright if Nathan comes with us to visit Mom?"

Richard chuckled, shaking his head. "Of course. You’re married—it’s only right."

The cemetery was nestled against the mountains, secluded but breathtaking. Richard had chosen it because Isabella had loved irises—symbols of hope and freedom.

Evelyn knelt before the polished marble, arranging the bouquet carefully. It had been too long since her last visit.

"Mom," she whispered, brushing her fingers over the engraved name. "I brought Dad... and my husband."

Nathan’s gaze flickered at the word husband, but he said nothing.

As Evelyn spoke softly to the grave, Richard and Nathan stepped away, giving her privacy.

Richard exhaled, staring at the horizon. "I never imagined Zoe’s mother was a de Arma."

Nathan tensed. His grandfather had already spoken to Richard, then.

"Don’t take his words to heart," Nathan said evenly.

Richard nodded. "I won’t. Even if your grandfather wants me to separate you two, I won’t interfere." He met Nathan’s eyes. "I know how much you love her."

A pause. Then Richard added, voice thick, "When her mother was alive... Zoe spent every day worrying. I failed her in so many ways. But seeing how you care for her now—it eases my guilt."

Nathan inclined his head. "I’ll always protect her. But tell me—do you know why her blood is special?"

Richard frowned. "What do you mean?"

Nathan studied him. It was clear Richard knew nothing.

He changed the subject.

But his mind lingered on one thought—

Professor Lennox better have answers soon.