Chapter 762

Charlotte was too young to comprehend the intricate dynamics between adults. Victoria hesitated to discuss such matters in front of the child.

"Charlotte, your father needs proper rest now. Come, let me take you home," she said gently.

The little girl pressed a featherlight kiss to Nathaniel's cheek. "Papa, I'm leaving now. Promise you'll sleep early?"

Nathaniel pulled Charlotte into another embrace. "I'll miss you terribly."

With that, Victoria led the child away, leaving only Nathaniel and Isabella in the hospital suite.

Isabella settled gracefully into the chair beside his bed. "I'm so grateful you allowed me to stay."

This felt like a significant turning point.

Nathaniel studied her face. "Strangely enough, I feel more at ease when you're near."

A triumphant smile curved Isabella's lips. "Because you've always loved me. I still hold a place in your heart—you were merely deceived by Harrison's charms."

One dark eyebrow arched. "Is that so?"

"Undeniably," she affirmed with conviction.

"Then remain here with me," Nathaniel said.

Isabella's pulse quickened. After all this time, she'd finally regained her position by his side.

The moment was interrupted as Dominic burst through the door. "Mr. Falcon! Are you alright?"

Nathaniel flicked a glance toward Isabella. "Fetch me some water, would you?"

Her eyes brightened. "Of course. It's rather chilly in here—I'll bring warm water."

Once she'd exited, Dominic frowned. "Sir, why permit Ms. Isabella to stay? If Mrs. Falcon discovers this—"

Nathaniel knew Harrison was already furious, but his current condition prevented reconciliation. He couldn't risk dragging her into danger until he solved this mystery.

"From this moment, have her followed constantly. Document every person she meets," Nathaniel ordered.

Dominic's eyes widened. "You suspect something?"

A weighted pause. "I believe she's connected to my condition."

"What? She'd dare? Shouldn't we confront her immediately?"

"Whenever I'm near Harrison, it feels like my skull is splitting open," Nathaniel explained grimly. "Yet with Isabella present, the pain eases. Knowing her limitations, someone more capable must be pulling strings. I intend to uncover who."

Understanding dawned. "I'll arrange surveillance immediately."

"Even the most cunning fox grows careless. We'll wait for her mistake."

"Understood."

"And Harrison's current whereabouts?"

"With Ms. Fairchild. She's perfectly safe."

The tension in Nathaniel's shoulders eased slightly. Once this situation was resolved, he'd make proper amends.

Isabella reappeared, holding a steaming glass. "Here's your water."

As she poured, a melodic chime sounded. Glancing at her phone, she saw Eleanor's name flashing.

"Excuse me, I must take this," she murmured.

Nathaniel waved a dismissive hand. "By all means."

Stepping into the corridor, Isabella answered. "Ms. Lancaster?"

Eleanor's voice crackled through. "Any developments with Nathaniel?"

A smug laugh escaped Isabella. "I provoked Harrison into storming off! Their marriage wasn't registered. And Nathaniel just asked me to stay with him."

The game was finally turning in her favor.