Chapter 228
“That’s right. If you see anything you like soon, tell me immediately,” Nathaniel’s voice was deep and magnetic.
Isabella’s heart fluttered traitorously. He spent ten billion…just because she admired a gown?
She studied his face. “Why are you so generous to me?”
They owed each other nothing. Their relationship was contractual, temporary. She had been clear—she would leave in two months.
Nathaniel’s gaze held a knowing glint. “Are you certain you wish to know the reason?”
That tone. That suggestive depth.
“Never mind,” Isabella cut in quickly. “I…I should go check on Oliver. Thank you.”
She clutched the elegant box and hurried away.
If she had let him answer, he would have confessed again. Admitted his feelings. Repeated rejections would wound his pride. Better to escape.
Yet, as she carried the precious box containing the item she desired, an unfamiliar warmth spread through her. A quiet joy. Her lips curved into a soft smile without her realizing.
She didn’t notice how much she resembled a smitten young girl.
Only when she passed the full-length mirror in her room did she freeze. The reflection showed a radiant, happy woman. Was that truly her?
Since when had she become this person? And because of Nathaniel Blackwood, of all people. The untouchable, powerful Nathaniel.
Who was he? The undisputed king of Westchester. The formidable head of the Blackwood empire.
Her own wealth paled in comparison. She possessed barely a fraction of his assets.
What if he discovered the truth about her past? The events five years ago? Would his kindness remain? Would he still look at her with that intensity?
She stared at the large box in her hands. After a long moment, she pulled out her phone and texted her private banker.
(Transfer ten billion to Nathaniel Blackwood’s account.)
(Ten billion?) came the shocked reply.
[Yes. Immediately.)
She didn’t know what came over her earlier. But now, clarity returned. Who was she to accept such an extravagant gift? She was leaving soon. It was better to owe him nothing.
Nathaniel was feeling pleased with himself until his phone buzzed with an alert.
(Your account ending XXX received 1,000,000,000…)
He frowned. Ten billion. From Isabella? She seemed fine moments ago. Why would she…?
His expression darkened.
Night fell. Oliver came to her, his small face pale. “Mommy, my head feels dizzy tonight.”
“Dizzy? I’ll take you to the hospital.” She reached for his hand, ready to leave.
“No, it’s okay,” Oliver shook his head. “It happens sometimes. Especially…a few hours before…”
His voice trailed off. Isabella’s stomach clenched. Did that mean a seizure was coming?
Nathaniel approached, his presence calming. “Don’t worry. I’ll stay with you tonight.”
“Yay!” Oliver perked up instantly. He tugged Isabella’s hand toward the bedroom, then looked back at his father. “I’m sleeping with Mommy tonight. You can watch over us from the chair.”
The chair? Watch over? Isabella’s senses went on alert. Something was definitely brewing.