Chapter 163

Isabella approached the vehicle, her steps slowing as she took in the scene. Nathaniel sat motionless in the driver's seat, eyes closed, while Oliver slept soundly in the back. Dappled sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting shifting patterns across Nathaniel's sharp features. The crisp white shirt he wore seemed to glow under the golden light, enhancing his aristocratic bearing.

An unexpected warmth bloomed in her chest. How long had they been waiting? Her meeting had lasted nearly four hours. "Nathaniel?" she called softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

His eyes opened instantly, dark and alert. Recognizing her, he straightened in his seat. "Finished?"

She nodded, studying him closely. "You waited here the whole time? Without eating?"

"Oliver insisted on staying. My schedule was clear today anyway." His tone was casual, dismissive. He moved to exit the car, but as his feet touched the pavement, his legs buckled. He stumbled forward, catching himself against her.

Isabella reacted instinctively, her hands flying to his waist to steady him. For a moment they stood frozen, her cheek pressed against the solid wall of his chest, his body leaning into hers. The scent of his cologne filled her senses—clean and masculine.

Two heartbeats passed before she regained her composure, pushing him upright. "What's wrong?"

"Pins and needles." His voice was tight, his expression carefully neutral. "From sitting too long."

She opened the rear door without hesitation. "Get in the back with Oliver. I'll drive."

Nathaniel stared at her, surprised by the command. When he didn't move, she added firmly, "I'm not letting someone with numb legs drive. It's a safety issue—for all of us."

Reluctantly, he slid into the backseat, settling Oliver's sleeping form across his lap. This was a first—being chauffeured by a woman. But Isabella handled the vehicle with confident precision, her movements smooth and controlled. She drove with unusual care, clearly mindful of her sleeping passenger.

Nathaniel found himself watching her—the way her hands rested lightly on the wheel, the focused set of her shoulders. An unfamiliar sense of peace settled over him.

Instead of heading directly to the Montgomery estate, she pulled into an upscale restaurant parking lot. Isabella emerged from the driver's seat and opened their door. "Let's eat."

Nathaniel hadn't expected such consideration. He gathered Oliver in his arms just as the boy stirred awake. Bleary eyes focused on Isabella, and immediately brightened. "Mommy! Mommy!" Oliver reached for her, his small arms waving excitedly.

Isabella took him, gently pinching his cheek. "You're awake now? Why did you wait for me outside? Next time, wait at home, promise?"

Oliver blinked, then glanced at Nathaniel. "Well...I wanted to go home, but Daddy said—"

A sharp cough from Nathaniel cut him off. "Are you hungry, Oliver?"

The boy's eyes lit up with understanding. "Oh! Right! I begged Daddy to wait! I was scared you'd forget about me." He beamed at Nathaniel before turning back to Isabella. "Yes, I'm starving! Let's eat, Mommy!"

Isabella's lips curved into a faint smile. She'd play along with their little charade—for now. Cradling Oliver in her arms, she led the way into the restaurant.