Chapter 675

Harrison's footsteps halted abruptly.

Nathaniel was too perceptive—he knew precisely how to target her vulnerabilities.

His voice turned grave. "I'm certain it was Isabella. But if she calls tonight and I can't reach you, wouldn't that jeopardize Charlotte and my mother's rescue?"

Harrison hesitated, realizing his logic was sound. Saving Charlotte and Victoria was the priority.

Yet she bit her lip. "If we both stay in your lounge tonight, rumors could spread. Your fiancée might misunderstand."

Fiancée?

A dangerous glint flickered in Nathaniel's eyes. If Isabella dared harm Charlotte or Victoria, she'd regret it.

He closed the distance between them, his imposing frame casting a shadow over her. "Are you suggesting we do something inappropriate tonight?"

Harrison shivered at his proximity, eyes widening. "Inappropriate? If you're hallucinating, perhaps consult a psychiatrist."

Amused by her sharp retort, Nathaniel smirked. "Since you're clearly uninterested, nothing will happen. Even if word gets out, what could they possibly say?"

Harrison remained silent.

He continued smoothly, "Relax. You'll take the bed. I'll sleep on the couch. You'll be perfectly safe."

Seeing no alternative, Harrison nodded. "Fine."

Nathaniel guided her into his lounge.

The space was expansive, decorated in his signature cool-toned aesthetic. Harrison scanned the room, noting the absence of feminine touches—only his personal grooming items sat neatly arranged.

She arched a brow. "No women's toiletries here?"

Nathaniel shook his head. "None. I've been celibate for three years. No woman has ever stayed at Rosewood Manor."

Harrison blinked in surprise. At his age and status, resisting temptation for so long seemed improbable.

Nathaniel dialed Dominic. "Deliver a full set of women's toiletries immediately."

Hanging up, he met her gaze. "Go ahead and shower. The supplies will arrive shortly."

Harrison nodded. "Alright."

She still wore Nathaniel's tailored coat. Unbuttoning it, she slipped the garment off, revealing the sleek black dress beneath. As she turned away, the open back exposed her flawless skin—the delicate dip of her spine, the elegant curve of her waist, the subtle swell of her hips. Three years had refined her figure into something devastatingly alluring.

Nathaniel's gaze darkened, lingering longer than intended.

Harrison moved toward the bathroom when suddenly—her heel caught. A gasp escaped as she stumbled backward.

"Watch out!"

Nathaniel's arms shot out, catching her effortlessly.

She collided against his chest. His palm splayed across the small of her back, skin searing where they touched. His throat tightened.

Heart racing, Harrison murmured, "I slipped. Thank you."