Chapter 133

Nathaniel remained seated beside Isabella’s bed.

His gaze was fixed on her. “Anything Julian can do, I can do too,” he said. “Next time something like this happens, you should think of me first.”

His voice was low, but it carried an undeniable authority.

He held her shoulders firmly, their proximity making the air between them feel charged.

All she could breathe in was his distinct, masculine scent.

For reasons she couldn't explain, her heart began to race, thumping erratically in her chest.

She pushed his hands away. “If I ever star in a drama and need someone to play a human leech, I’ll definitely consider you.”

Nathaniel fell silent for a moment.

Then a faint smile touched his lips. “If you’re the female lead, I’ll do it for free. Consider it a friends-and-family discount.”

Isabella had no comeback.

Internally, she thought, ‘When he decides to be bold, he really has no shame.’

“Why are you here?” she asked. “I was about to go to sleep early.”

“I brought you dinner,” Nathaniel replied.

He stood and uncovered the food container, then placed it in front of her.

Inside were delicious-looking dishes arranged in playful cartoon shapes.

‘Did Oliver make this for me?’ she wondered.

Even though she’d already eaten, she accepted the meal. “Please thank Oliver for me.”

“That might be a bit difficult,” Nathaniel said, his brow furrowing.

Isabella continued eating while giving him a puzzled look.

“Oliver said he won’t accept thanks through someone else,” Nathaniel explained. “He wants to hear it from you in person. He’ll be waiting for you at the Blackwood Estate.”

Isabella nearly choked on her food.

‘They’re scheming to get me to the Blackwood Estate? This meal was a trap all along!’

Nathaniel smiled reassuringly. “Don’t worry, there are no wolves or tigers at the estate. Oliver has prepared a gift to celebrate your release. These past couple of days, he’s had no appetite and trouble sleeping. He misses you terribly.”

Hearing that, Isabella found it impossible to refuse.

“Fine,” she relented. “Once I’m out, I’ll make time to visit.”

Outside, Oliver leaped for joy. “Yes! Mommy is coming to our home as a guest! Daddy and Mommy can spend time together!”

Isabella heard a noise from outside. She frowned. “What was that? It sounds like someone’s out there.”

“No, it’s probably just… a mouse,” Nathaniel said quickly, glancing toward the door. He changed the subject. “Isabella, tomorrow is crucial. If you need any help, just ask.”

Tomorrow was the hearing date for her case.

The matter would finally be settled.

Everyone was waiting to see Isabella sentenced to prison.

All eleven models were anticipating the moment she would publicly apologize and pay them the promised compensation.

Reporters and netizens would flock to the courthouse to livestream the proceedings.

The slightest misstep could lead to severe consequences.

Yet Isabella continued eating the meal Oliver had prepared with apparent ease. “Relax,” she said. “My team can handle this small matter.”

‘Small matter…’ Nathaniel thought, bewildered.

Seeing her confidence, he decided not to press further. “Enjoy your food and get some rest tonight,” he said. “I’ll head back to help Momo prepare your gifts.”

His tone was calm and elegant, even though he was fussing over her a little.

Isabella watched him leave, a strange feeling stirring in her heart.

She could see he genuinely cared about her and wanted to see her again.

Over the past few days in detention, he had been the person she saw the most.

If only what happened five years ago hadn’t occurred… If that bastard hadn’t…

Just then, she thought she heard a faint voice from outside her room. “Daddy! You’re amazing!”