Chapter 83

Nathaniel departed, leaving Victoria to loop her arm through Isabella's.

"What do you think Harrison has on Nathaniel, Mother? What kind of hold does she have over him?"

Victoria's lips curved into a satisfied smile, eyes glinting. "Darling, that's not our concern. The only thing you need to know is that Harrison could never compete with you. She'll never be more than a temporary distraction for Nathaniel."

Isabella smirked. In her mind, a country bumpkin like Harrison wasn't fit to breathe the same air as Nathaniel. What right did she have to claim the title of Mrs. Falcon?

"You're absolutely brilliant, Mother."

Victoria's gaze sharpened. "Isabella, your father hasn't come home in days. Why don't you call him? He never refuses you."

Theodore truly doted on his daughter. When Isabella made requests, he always complied.

"Consider it done." Isabella pulled out her phone. "I'll have him home before dinner."

Victoria exhaled in relief. With Harrison out of the picture, her future looked brighter than ever.

At Falcon Enterprises, Nathaniel sat reviewing documents in his sleek office when Alexander dropped by unannounced.

Alexander lounged against the desk, swirling his coffee. "Need your advice on something."

Nathaniel didn't glance up from his files. "Must be serious if you're asking me."

"I need to know how to win Harrison over." Alexander leaned forward. "You lived with her for years. You know what she likes."

Nathaniel's pen froze mid-signature.

"Come on, you must know what would impress her. Flowers? Jewelry? What's her weakness?"

Setting down his pen, Nathaniel met Alexander's gaze. "As your friend, I have to be honest. You and Harrison aren't compatible."

"Why not?"

"She's... unrefined. No education, no career. Just a pretty face with too many flaws."

Alexander stared, dumbfounded.

Nathaniel frowned. "What?"

"That's the first time I've heard you trash-talk a woman in twenty years of friendship."

Nathaniel's jaw tightened.

When Alexander had dated that supermodel last year, Nathaniel had barely glanced her way. But Harrison? Suddenly he had opinions.

Alexander's eyes narrowed. "Wait... are you trying to keep her for yourself? Have you developed feelings for her?"

Nathaniel scoffed. "Don't be ridiculous."

He couldn't possibly have feelings for Harrison. The idea was absurd.

Alexander nodded slowly. "Right. You're practically engaged to Isabella. Of course you'll marry her."

Nathaniel's expression remained impassive. "Naturally."

He would marry Isabella.

Yet the thought of Alexander pursuing Harrison left a bitter taste in his mouth.

"So? What should I do? What does she like?" Alexander pressed.

Nathaniel hesitated. He'd never given Harrison gifts. Truthfully, he had no idea what she liked.