Chapter 664

Nathaniel's hand settled gently on Harrison's shoulder. "I understand..."

Harrison jerked away, her voice cutting like glass. "You don't! You're not even trying to help me!"

A deep crease formed between Nathaniel's brows. "Why would you doubt me? Just because Charlotte isn't my blood? You think so little of me. I wouldn't abandon her—I care about her too."

Harrison's chest tightened with panic. Charlotte was missing, and as her mother, fear clawed at her insides.

Nathaniel was right. How could she question him? Victoria had been taken too.

Every second of waiting was agony.

"I'm sorry," Harrison whispered. "I'm just... terrified."

Nathaniel exhaled. "It's fine."

Then, his gaze sharpened—Oliver had arrived.

"This is Metropolia," Nathaniel said firmly. "I'm the only one who can help you here. I swear I'll bring Charlotte and my mother back. But right now, you're coming with me."

"Where?" Harrison tensed.

"To Rosewood Manor."

Her spine stiffened. "No."

Nathaniel smirked. "Why? Afraid I'll devour you?"

Harrison scoffed. "Please. With your status, your legion of admirers, and your wealthy fiancée, someone like me wouldn't even register."

She refused to step foot in his home. They were adults—boundaries mattered.

Nathaniel saw right through her. "Fine. My office, then."

His office?

This time, he didn't let her argue. "Nothing inappropriate happens there. Stop wasting time. Charlotte and Victoria come first."

Harrison relented. "Fine."

Nathaniel guided her away, casting a glance at Oliver still searching—but he'd find nothing. Harrison was already gone.

The CEO's office was sleek, all cool tones and sharp lines—unmistakably Nathaniel.

Then Harrison saw it.

A crystal pendant rested on his desk.

The very one he'd given her years ago in that cave. Now it sat there, proof that for three years, he'd kept it close.

Her fingers hovered over it, trembling.

"Thirsty?" Nathaniel's voice came from behind, smooth and calm.

She snatched her hand back, spinning—

And collided with his chest.

She hadn't realized he was so close.

Stumbling forward, she crashed into him. His warmth enveloped her.

"Sorry," she breathed.

Harrison jerked back—only for her heel to catch. She yelped, falling backward.

Nathaniel's arm snapped out, locking around her waist. He hauled her against him, steady.

Her gaze lifted. His eyes burned into hers.