Chapter 324

Isabella felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. She had been particularly harsh toward Nathaniel just days before. The memory of their confrontation at GoldenPhoenix resurfaced clearly. “Actually,” Gloria continued, “I should extend my thanks to Alexander. Without his interference, our collaboration might never have happened. I can see he genuinely cares for you. His remorse is palpable. Perhaps you should give him another chance.”

“Gloria,” Isabella’s voice was icy. “Do I strike you as someone who would ever take back a discarded man?” She ended the call abruptly without waiting for a reply.

Sitting up, Isabella stretched her stiff muscles. Her eyes widened slightly when she noticed the time. Noon. She had slept far longer than intended.

Stepping out of the bedroom, her gaze immediately found Nathaniel. He was seated on the plush sofa, one leg elegantly crossed over the other. A file rested on his lap. The afternoon sun streamed through the window, casting a golden halo around his powerful frame. He looked every bit the untouchable aristocrat—commanding, expensive, and devastatingly handsome.

He glanced up, his dark eyes meeting hers. “You’re finally awake. Lunch is on the table.” His voice was a low, smooth baritone.

“Excellent.” Isabella let out a soft, almost imperceptible sigh. How did he manage to look so perfect constantly?

She moved to the dining table and began to eat. A question suddenly popped into her mind. She looked over at him. “Actually, I meant to ask. Did you find the bed… strange last night? Any nightmares? Or perhaps some unexpected memories surfaced?”

Nathaniel’s brow furrowed slightly. Memories? The only thing that came to mind when he thought of that bed was the night five years ago. He would never have chosen this hotel again if not for the emergency flood. He couldn’t tell her that, of course. His gaze remained steady on her. “No. Why? Did you?”

Isabella gave a slow nod. “It was odd. I had a rather intense nightmare. Things I shouldn’t be dreaming about.”

A shadow passed behind Nathaniel’s eyes. Was she referring to the incident with Vincent Moreau? Did she dream about that man? His expression tightened almost imperceptibly, but his voice was calm. “It was likely the storm. The lightning, the rain. It can affect one’s subconscious. Don’t dwell on it. The past is over.”

Isabella nodded again and resumed eating, though a faint crease remained on her forehead. Was it really just the weather? She had spent the last five years hardening herself, training to be immune to such external influences.

“Isabella.” Nathaniel’s voice cut through her thoughts.

She looked up, meeting his intense gaze. “Hmm?”

His eyes held hers, serious and unwavering. “You shouldn’t let your past define you. I meant what I said before. It doesn’t matter to me.” His tone was deep, resonant, and utterly sincere.

Isabella’s heart gave a peculiar flutter. Was he trying to comfort her? He truly seemed unbothered by her history. The genuineness in his eyes was undeniable. She quickly looked down, focusing on finishing her meal. “We should head back,” she said, changing the subject. “Christopher is waiting for us at the estate.”

Nathaniel watched her. Her evasion was obvious, but he didn’t press further. “Agreed.”

After changing into the fresh clothes Dominic had delivered, Isabella was ready to leave. She opened the suite door and peeked into the hallway. Her eyes narrowed instantly. A hotel staff member was positioned discreetly at the far end. Without hesitation, she stepped back inside and closed the door firmly.

The corridor was far from empty. If she walked out with Nathaniel now, the entire world would know they had spent the night together in the same suite.