Chapter 174
Harrison dipped her toes into the steaming hot spring water. She moved cautiously toward Nathaniel's side.
"Nathaniel, do I look attractive today?"
Before Nathaniel could respond, Gabrielle pulled Harrison into the pool with a splash.
"Come on, Harrison! The water's perfect!"
Nathaniel's gaze lifted to Harrison. She had changed into a sapphire blue bikini but seemed uncomfortable, clutching a towel around her shoulders.
Isabella smirked. "What's with the towel, Harrison? Ashamed of your body?"
Arabella watched with amusement, clearly enjoying the unfolding drama.
"Don't be shy, Harrison. Show us what you've got!" Gabrielle laughed as she yanked the towel away.
Harrison gasped as the fabric slipped from her grasp.
The sapphire bikini contrasted beautifully with her porcelain skin - not the artificial perfection of Isabella's salon-tanned complexion, but a natural glow like morning dew on rose petals. Her curves were elegant yet pronounced, her waist narrow like a Grecian urn.
Nathaniel's breath caught when he saw her.
"Join us, Harrison!" Gabrielle reached out.
Harrison's foot slipped on the wet tiles. She stumbled forward.
Nathaniel moved instinctively, but Alexander was quicker. His strong arms caught Harrison effortlessly.
"Careful there," Alexander murmured, his eyes drinking in her beauty.
Gabrielle grinned. "So Alexander, what do you think of Harrison in that bikini?"
Alexander didn't hesitate. "Breathtaking."
"Then this trip was worth every penny."
"Absolutely."
A blush crept up Harrison's neck. She shot Gabrielle a warning look.
Alexander's hands lingered. "Need help getting steady?"
Harrison straightened in the water. "I'm fine now, thank you."
They moved to a quieter corner of the pool.
Nathaniel's outstretched hand slowly lowered to his side, his expression darkening.
Isabella stood frozen. Next to Harrison, her own carefully cultivated beauty suddenly seemed artificial. All eyes that had been on her moments ago were now fixed on Harrison.
A handsome stranger approached their group. Arabella whispered excitedly, "Isabella, he's definitely coming for you!"
The man walked right past Isabella and stopped before Harrison. "Excuse me, miss. Could I have your number?"
Arabella's mouth fell open.
Isabella's nails dug into her palms.
Alexander immediately pulled Harrison close. "She's taken."
Harrison played her part perfectly. "Sorry, my boyfriend beat you to it."
The stranger walked away disappointed.
As Harrison and Alexander shared a quiet laugh, she suddenly felt an icy stare. Looking up, she met Nathaniel's glacial gaze - his eyes burning with something dangerous.