Chapter 257
Harrison never anticipated Nathaniel's return. After overhearing Isabella's demanding tone on the phone, practically commanding him to come immediately, she was certain he would obey.
Isabella was his beloved, the one he always rushed to. Even when drugged, a single call from her could pull him away.
This was the first time he refused.
Harrison couldn't help but wonder how furious Isabella would be tonight.
Nathaniel studied her. "What were you thinking just now?"
He had stood behind her, observing her quiet, lowered head. Her thoughts were unreadable.
Suddenly, he recalled the girl he'd met in the cave years ago. She had been just as silent, just as withdrawn. It stirred something protective in him. Nathaniel didn't know why, but something about Harrison reminded him of that girl.
Harrison avoided answering. "Nothing important."
Nathaniel didn't push. His gaze dropped to his soaked shirt and trousers—her spilled water had drenched him. "I'm drenched."
Harrison snatched a tissue and began dabbing at his clothes. "Sorry. It was an accident."
The white fabric clung to his torso, revealing the contours of his muscles. Her movements trailed lower, past his waist, over the black belt, reaching his damp pants...
"Harrison."
His voice, rough and low, came from above her.
She kept wiping, focused. "Hmm?"
"Was that intentional?"
What?
Harrison froze. When her eyes caught the unmistakable outline beneath his trousers, her face burned crimson.
She stumbled back several steps. "Absolutely not—"
Nathaniel gave her a fleeting glance. "I need a shower. Dominic will bring fresh clothes soon. Take them from him."
With that, he turned and disappeared into the bathroom.
The sound of running water soon filled the space. He was showering.
Harrison's cheeks still burned. She hadn't meant to—why would he even—
A knock interrupted her thoughts. Dominic had arrived.
"Mrs. Falcon, Mr. Falcon's clothes."
"Thanks."
She accepted the bag and pulled out the crisp shirt and trousers. His garments were always meticulously cared for—hand-washed, softened, and pressed to perfection.
Harrison approached the bathroom door and knocked. "Your clothes are here."
The water continued running, but Nathaniel's deep voice cut through. "Bring them in. Leave them on the counter."
She pushed the door open and stepped inside.
He was behind the frosted glass, his silhouette blurred. Harrison kept her gaze averted as she set the clothes down. "Done."
She turned to leave.
His voice stopped her. "Where's the body wash?"
She had placed hers by the sink earlier. Harrison picked it up and walked toward him. "Here."
The shower door slid open. Harrison kept her eyes down, arm extended.
But Nathaniel didn't take it.
Her arm grew tired.
What was he doing?
Finally, she looked up, confused.
Their eyes met. Nathaniel's lips curved into a teasing smirk. "Scared to look at me?"
He was doing this on purpose!
Harrison's face flamed hotter. "Forget it!"
She spun to leave.
But before she could, Nathaniel seized her wrist and yanked her into the shower.