Chapter 697

Nathaniel studied Harrison with keen interest. "What's sparked this sudden fascination with her?"

Harrison's thoughts instantly transported her back to that moment in Henry's study when she first glimpsed Isabella's portrait. An inexplicable connection had formed, an urgent need to meet this woman face to face.

A mysterious smile played on Harrison's lips. "She's practically a living legend. I must meet her."

Victoria gave a knowing nod. "Very well, we'll visit The Grand View tonight."

Just then, Charlotte's sweet voice interrupted. "Mommy, let's do finger painting!"

"Of course, darling," Harrison responded with maternal warmth. "We'll make beautiful art together."

As Harrison led Charlotte away to their art supplies, Nathaniel moved closer to his mother, his voice dropping to a confidential tone.

"Mother, I can't possibly marry Isabella. After what she did - kidnapping you and Charlotte, causing all this chaos... Surely you wouldn't force this marriage?"

Victoria's expression darkened with bitter disappointment as she remembered Isabella's actions.

"Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine she could be capable of such cruelty. My heart breaks for my old friend. But this engagement was arranged between Isabella and myself years ago. If we're to dissolve it, we must consult Isabella first."

She still couldn't reconcile how her dearest friend could have raised such a morally bankrupt daughter.

Given Isabella's long absence and their deep history, both families would need to have a proper discussion about ending the engagement.

Nathaniel's gaze drifted to where Harrison and Charlotte were happily painting. "There's only one woman I'll ever marry - Harrison. She gave you back the use of your legs, Mother. That's a debt we can never repay. I need you to stop opposing our relationship."

"Don't be absurd!" Victoria chuckled. "When have I ever truly opposed her? As one accomplished woman to another, I admire her talents and strength. Our differences lie in perspective, not principle. My actions had purpose."

Nathaniel nodded; he'd always respected his mother's wisdom. Everyone operated from their own worldview, which shaped their decisions.

"Now that Isabella has returned, the final decision rests with her. But I'll admit - I've grown quite fond of Harrison. Her healing my paralysis has earned my eternal gratitude," Victoria confessed.

Nathaniel's eyes lit up with hope. It appeared Harrison had already won his mother's heart.

"Three years apart was torture. I won't lose her again. Even if she's currently with Oliver, that's merely a temporary situation."

Victoria hesitated, recalling Charlotte's earlier innocent remark. "Actually... Harrison and Oliver aren't legally married."

"What?" Nathaniel froze, stunned. "That's impossible! Harrison told me they were wed!"

"She lied. Charlotte revealed the truth - no marriage exists. At three years old, children don't fabricate such things."

Nathaniel stood speechless. He'd always assumed Harrison and Oliver were married - why wouldn't they be, with a child together? Surely they'd want to give Charlotte a stable family.

"This changes everything. I'll launch an investigation immediately," he declared.

Victoria nodded approvingly. "Yes, I've always sensed Harrison was keeping secrets. Discover the truth."

Meanwhile, Henry Lancaster arrived at The Grand View with Isabella in tow. Isabella had transformed herself into a vision of elegance - her designer gown flowing like liquid silver, her hair artfully arranged in cascading curls. Every detail was calculated to impress Isabella.

The restaurant manager personally greeted them. "Mr. Lancaster, Ms. Lancaster, welcome to The Grand View."

Henry, imposing in his tailored black overcoat, commanded respect. "Escort us to our private dining room."