Chapter 326

Harrison hesitated for a brief moment, her delicate fingers tightening around the silverware before responding truthfully. "I was married."

Silence fell over the group.

Lucas Harrington's eyes widened in shock. "Harrison, you're married?"

Nathaniel's piercing gaze burned into her skin. Those dark eyes always made her feel exposed. She forced herself to ignore him, offering a soft smile.

"Yes, so these past few years... I've been focused on being a homemaker. Taking care of my husband became my entire world."

It wasn't a lie. For three years, she'd lived in complete isolation, orbiting Nathaniel's universe.

The reactions were immediate. "Harrison, you gave up your career to be a housewife?"

"We divorced recently," she added quietly.

The revelation caused even greater astonishment.

"The man who convinced Harrison to become a housewife must have been extraordinary."

"Harrison, who was your husband—I mean, ex-husband?"

Curiosity about her former spouse became palpable. Everyone wanted to know what kind of man could capture Harrison's heart.

Her eyes drifted toward the man seated opposite her.

Nathaniel sat motionless, his utensils untouched. She remembered his aversion to spicy food—he always preferred milder flavors.

His intense gaze locked onto her face, mirroring the group's curiosity, waiting for her response.

How should she answer?

Her ex-husband was indeed remarkable, and he was currently sitting among them.

Harrison turned back to the group with a gentle smile. "That chapter is closed. Let's toast to new beginnings instead."

The others, sensing her reluctance, didn't press further. Glasses lifted around the table.

"To fresh starts."

As crystal clinked against crystal, Nathaniel remained at the head of the table. The light caught his platinum watch as he sipped mineral water with effortless grace.

"Harrison, now that you're back, you must be considering work. Why not join us?"

She declined immediately. While she did have employment, it wasn't something she could discuss openly. "Thank you, but I'm based in Willowbrook now. It wouldn't be practical."

"Willowbrook? Nathaniel's headquarters are there too."

"Nathaniel, Harrison was your junior. You should help her—maybe offer her a position at Falcon Enterprises."

Harrison struggled to formulate a polite refusal.

Nathaniel's attention remained fixed on her. She'd removed her cream-colored coat, her raven hair loosely secured with a simple tie. A few strands had escaped, brushing against her porcelain neck. The effect was ethereal—pure and breathtaking.

When their eyes met, she said, "There's no need to trouble Mr. Falcon—"

Nathaniel's lips curved slightly as he interrupted. "Why do you insist on calling me Mr. Falcon? My name is Nathaniel."

Her pulse stuttered.

"Harrison, that's hilarious! You call everyone by their first names except Nathaniel."

"If you're in Willowbrook, you'd better get on his good side. Go ahead—say 'Nathaniel.'"

The group, enjoying the tension, encouraged her to use his first name.