Chapter 68

From childhood, Isabella had devoted herself to ballet, investing heavily in monthly spa treatments to maintain her porcelain skin. The strapless mini dress clung to her toned figure, accentuating every curve of her dancer's body.

Nathaniel lounged on the sofa, his gaze tracking her movements. She toyed with her hair, fully aware of his attention. His eyes kept drifting to her silhouette, admiring the graceful lines of her body.

In all of Willowbrook, Isabella was considered one of the most stunning women. She knew exactly what made Nathaniel look twice.

Noticing his stare, she smirked and sauntered closer. Her stilettos clicked against the marble floor as she boldly climbed onto his lap, straddling him.

Her manicured fingers traced the contours of his chest through his shirt. "Nathaniel, you're so tense."

She tilted her head, voice dripping with playful challenge. "With you this worked up, how could I resist giving you this surprise? Are you pleased?"

She was positioning herself as the gift.

Nathaniel remained silent, watching her with detached amusement as she continued her performance.

With a calculated smile, Isabella looped her arms around his neck. "Nathaniel," she whispered, lips brushing his ear, "if you want me, you'll need to sign this first."

She produced a document from her clutch.

Nathaniel glanced at it. Divorce papers.

"Sign this and end things with Harrison tonight. Otherwise..." She trailed off, confident in her leverage. What man could refuse her?

Nathaniel's voice turned glacial. "I'm still married to Harrison. Is your family that impatient?"

Isabella stiffened. "What do you mean?"

"Your family must be devastated their little plan failed. No public scandal with Harrison and Roland at the gala?"

Her pupils dilated as she met his icy stare. His expression remained unreadable.

Nathaniel removed her hands from his neck. "Harrison remains my wife. Don't try this again."

He pushed her off and stood, heading for the door.

Isabella stood frozen, the rejection hitting like a physical blow. She'd arrived so certain of her victory, planning to use her body as bargaining chip. She'd imagined their first night together would be tonight.

But reality was cruel. Nathaniel's concern wasn't for her. It was for Harrison. His words were clear - Harrison was still his wife. This was unacceptable.

Was that a threat? For Harrison?

Heart pounding, Isabella rushed forward, wrapping herself around Nathaniel from behind.

He stopped.

Her hands roamed his chest, feeling the heat beneath his shirt. "Nathaniel, stay with me tonight."

Surely he couldn't resist now?

The aphrodisiac should have been taking full effect by now. And she was giving him every opportunity.

But Nathaniel simply removed her hands. "Not interested tonight. I'm leaving."

Isabella froze, the words like a slap.

Nathaniel didn't turn back. "My driver will take you home. Get some rest."

Without another glance, he walked out.

Isabella stood trembling in her designer dress. "Nathaniel!"

He'd actually walked away?

As a woman, she could sense the change. Why was he different now?

Nathaniel entered the master suite, calling out, "Harrison..."