Chapter 772

Harrison's fingers pressed firmly against Nathaniel's wrist, checking his pulse with practiced precision.

Nathaniel attempted to withdraw his hand, but she held tight. "Stay still."

Almost instantly, Harrison's brow furrowed, a shadow of concern flickering in her eyes.

Rosalind noticed immediately. "Why that look? What's wrong with Nathaniel?"

No patient ever wanted to see their doctor worried.

Harrison met Nathaniel's gaze. "Tell me what's happening to you."

Nathaniel exhaled. "I don't even know myself. But I'm certain it's because of you."

"Because of Harrison? Explain," Rosalind demanded, confusion knitting her brows.

Nathaniel lowered his voice. "When I'm away from you, I feel fine. But the moment I get close, my head feels like it's being split open. Remember the day we were supposed to marry? I didn't abandon you intentionally. A sudden, excruciating headache hit me—I blacked out. By the time I woke and rushed to find you, you were already gone."

Rosalind's eyes widened. "What? That's what happened? Harrison, what's wrong with him?"

Harrison's expression darkened. "I believe he's been cursed. The Frostholm Heartchain Curse."

"The Heartchain Curse?"

"Exactly. A dark enchantment from Frostholm. That's why Nathaniel can't be near me."

"Frostholm witchcraft? How could Nathaniel have fallen victim to that? Who would do this to him?"

Harrison locked eyes with Nathaniel. "You already suspect someone, don't you?"

Nathaniel gave a slight nod. "You figured it out?"

A knowing smile curved Harrison's lips. "You deliberately asked Isabella to dinner, stood her up, and made sure she saw us together. You gave her hope only to crush it. She's your suspect, isn't she?"

Nathaniel arched a brow. Sharp as ever—Harrison had pieced it all together.

Between them, few words were needed. She understood him perfectly.

Without hesitation, Harrison retrieved a silver needle. "I'll ease the pain first."

Gently, she inserted the needle into his temple. "Better?"

Her soft hand lingered against his head. Nathaniel found himself drawn into her embrace, his face buried in the silk of her hair.

"With you here, the pain disappears."

Harrison hesitated. She knew the agony of the Heartchain Curse all too well. Her arms tightened around him. "You're such a fool."

"I know you waited at the courthouse all day for me. I'm sorry—truly," Nathaniel murmured.

Harrison smiled faintly. "You could have told me."

"The pain was sudden, unbearable. I was afraid you'd be dragged into danger. I couldn't risk it."

"I'm stronger than you think. No matter what happens, tell me immediately. Whatever comes, we face it together."

Nathaniel nodded. "Understood."

"Save the romance for later," Rosalind cut in impatiently. "Isabella's behind this, no question. But how would she have access to Frostholm witchcraft?"

Harrison and Nathaniel separated.

Nathaniel's lips pressed into a thin line. "She must have an accomplice."

"Who?"

They exchanged a glance.

"We'll find out soon enough."