Chapter 353

He claimed it was a business meeting with a client.

Evelyn suppressed a scoff.

Nathaniel caught her displeasure and tightened his grip on her hand subtly. His expression silently promised an explanation later.

Cassandra smiled. "Nathaniel, I never took you for the henpecked type. I'll think twice before inviting you out again."

Nathaniel offered a faint smile but remained silent.

Cassandra continued, "Ms. Mitchell, don’t misunderstand. Nathaniel and I are strictly business partners. The recent architectural competition marked our first collaboration since I took over Montgomery Group, so frequent discussions were necessary. If you’re concerned, we can exchange numbers. I’ll video call you during our meetings to avoid any misunderstandings."

Her tone was diplomatic, devoid of sarcasm, almost painfully sincere.

Yet every word grated on Evelyn’s nerves.

She kept her composure, glancing at Nathaniel before settling her gaze on Cassandra.

"Ms. Montgomery, while I appreciate the offer, I’m not that controlling. It’s Nathaniel who insists on sharing his schedule. I’ve told him it’s unnecessary, but he won’t listen." She tilted her head. "Since you know him well, maybe you could talk some sense into him?"

Cassandra blinked, caught off guard. She looked at Nathaniel, expecting irritation—only to find him amused, his thumb tracing circles on Evelyn’s palm beneath the table. A silent retaliation for Cassandra’s meddling.

Victoria chuckled. "Cassandra, you’d be shocked. This man turns into a lovesick puppy around Evelyn. Shows up at her office unannounced, texts constantly—even I, his own mother, find it hard to believe."

Cassandra’s smile faltered. Nathaniel’s lack of denial made her reassess everything.

The silence stretched. Evelyn had no desire to linger. Cassandra was Montgomery Group’s CEO and Nathaniel’s college friend—burning bridges wasn’t an option.

"We should go," Evelyn said smoothly. "Ms. Montgomery, you’re welcome to join us for dinner at our place while you’re in Marseille."

Cassandra recovered quickly. "That’s very kind of you, Ms. Mitchell."

"Just being hospitable. You’re Nathaniel’s friend and a valued partner."

With that, Evelyn and Victoria left.

At the door, Victoria told the waiter, "Charge it to Nathaniel’s account."

In the car, Victoria studied Evelyn’s profile. "You’re upset."

Evelyn exhaled. "Not about them meeting. They’re colleagues. Friends. It’s fine."

What stung was Nathaniel’s secrecy.

A simple "Having coffee with Cassandra from college" would’ve sufficed. Transparency mattered more than the meeting itself.

Victoria dropped her off at work. Before Evelyn stepped out, Victoria hesitated. "Are you sure you’re okay?"

Evelyn forced a smile. "Tell Edward I’ll visit for dinner soon."