Chapter 161
"Nathaniel."
Isabella finally broke the tense silence between them.
"You never cared for Harrison, and we both know your marriage was doomed from the start. But now she's found happiness—with Alexander. She managed to capture the heart of a man even the most elite socialites couldn't. Shouldn't we be happy for her, Nathaniel?"
Nathaniel's icy gaze sharpened, his jaw tightening at her words.
Just then, the waitstaff arrived with the birthday cake, its candles flickering softly.
"Time for the birthday boy to make a wish."
Alexander blew out the candles with a grin, then picked up the cake knife. The first slice should have gone to him, but instead, he lifted a piece toward Harrison's lips.
Harrison met his playful gaze before parting her lips. Just as she leaned in, Alexander pulled the fork away with a teasing smirk.
Recognizing the game, Harrison played along perfectly. She narrowed her eyes in mock annoyance, pouting before giving his chest a light shove.
Laughter erupted around them.
Alexander wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close as he chuckled.
"Alexander and his gorgeous girlfriend are too adorable!"
"Who needs cake when we can just watch them?"
Their playful banter kept the mood light.
This time, when Alexander offered her the cake, Harrison took a delicate bite. Without hesitation, he kissed the spot where her lips had been, finishing the rest himself.
The room erupted in cheers and teasing remarks.
Then Harrison felt it—a piercing stare burning into her. She looked up and locked eyes with Nathaniel. His expression was unreadable, but the intensity in his gaze sent a shiver down her spine.
Was he angry? She hadn't done anything wrong. Besides, this whole setup was Isabella's idea.
Harrison flashed him a radiant smile, deliberately snuggling closer to Alexander.
Nathaniel's expression darkened.
Isabella, noticing the tension, smiled sweetly. "Nathaniel, don't they make such a perfect pair?"
Nathaniel didn't respond. Instead, he tipped his head back and drained his wine glass in one swift motion.
As the party wound down, the four of them stepped outside.
Isabella was practically glowing. "Harrison, now that you're Alexander's girlfriend, we should double-date sometime."
Harrison nodded, lips curving. "I'd love that."
Alexander turned to Nathaniel. "I owe you, man. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be with Harrison right now."
Nathaniel's expression remained blank. "Owe me for what?"
"Don't you remember? When I asked if you had feelings for her, you said no—but still gave me tips on how to win her over. The whole 'buy her a designer bag' advice didn't work, but still, thanks."
Nathaniel's eyes locked onto Harrison.
Her clear, almond-shaped gaze met his. She remembered all too well how Nathaniel had coached Alexander on how to pursue her.
Isabella looped her arm through Nathaniel's, beaming. "Harrison did take care of Nathaniel for three years. He just wanted to repay her by helping her find someone worthy."
Harrison linked her arm with Alexander's, her smile dazzling as she faced Nathaniel. "Well then, congratulations, Mr. Falcon. You got exactly what you wanted."
Nathaniel said nothing, his gaze never leaving her.
"I'll take you home, Harrison."
"Alright."
Alexander opened the passenger door of his sleek sports car with a flourish. Harrison slid in, and within seconds, the car vanished into the night.
Watching them drive away, Isabella turned to Nathaniel with a satisfied smile.
"Nathaniel, shall we go?"