Chapter 292

Female friendships thrive on genuine connection.

It appeared Rosalind and Isabella were destined to remain adversaries forever.

Nathaniel rose from bed and headed to the bathroom. He soaked a towel in warm water, then carefully pressed it against Harrison's injured area. The heat would soothe the ache.

Returning to bed, his phone screen illuminated with a message from Isabella.

She'd sent a photo of scandalous lingerie from a Victoria's Secret runway collection.

[Your thoughts?]

Her question was obvious.

Since their reconciliation, Isabella had transformed - more attentive, less demanding. Nathaniel recognized her efforts to deepen their relationship.

As adults, certain intentions required no explanation.

Just as Nathaniel began typing a reply, a warm body curled against him.

He stiffened.

Harrison had somehow migrated into his arms during sleep.

Rosalind, sleeping nearest the wall, had stolen the blankets in her restlessness. Seeking warmth, Harrison instinctively gravitated toward Nathaniel's body heat.

"Harrison?" Nathaniel whispered hoarsely.

Still asleep, Harrison frowned and mumbled, "Quiet... sleeping..."

Her chilled fingers began exploring beneath his shirt, tracing his abdominal muscles. "So warm..." she murmured, pressing her icy hand against his skin.

Nathaniel caught her wandering wrist.

Her touch ignited long-buried sensations. During their separation, he'd maintained control - even Isabella's flirtations hadn't stirred him.

Yet Harrison's innocent contact awakened dangerous memories. Their passionate history flooded his mind with vivid clarity.

They were divorced now. His commitment belonged to Isabella.

Nathaniel clenched his jaw, battling the rising desire. He wouldn't succumb to Harrison's unconscious seduction again.

Fortunately, Harrison settled against him, sighing contentedly.

Every attempt to disentangle himself only made her cling tighter. Eventually, Nathaniel surrendered, allowing sleep to claim him.

Dawn arrived with Rosalind as the first to wake. Rubbing her eyes, she sat up - then froze.

Her disbelieving gaze took in the scene: Nathaniel and Harrison entwined in peaceful slumber, his arm draped protectively around her shoulders.

"Unacceptable!" Rosalind yanked the blankets away and delivered a sharp kick to Nathaniel's side, sending him tumbling from the bed.