Chapter 307

Margaret Whitmore gave Nathaniel Blackwood an encouraging pat on the shoulder. "If you're willing to fight for it, what you've lost will return to you stronger than before."

Without another word, she left Blackwood Group.

Standing alone in his expansive office, Nathaniel stared at the lemon chicken feet in the takeout box. He could almost picture Isabella Lockhart bustling around the kitchen, and the thought warmed his chest.

At Blackwood Villa.

Isabella and Evelyn Whitmore had prepared a feast for Julian Blackthorn, who had dropped by unexpectedly.

"Julian, we owe you so much for saving Evelyn. I've been meaning to invite you over as thanks, but things kept getting in the way." Isabella raised a glass of juice. "Consider this a toast!"

Evelyn stood as well, filling her own glass with wine. "Mr. Blackthorn, thank you for everything. Cheers!"

Julian chuckled, his gaze lingering on Isabella. "You're welcome, Evelyn. But Miss Lockhart... I recall you promised me more than just a meal."

Isabella rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly. "That was just heat-of-the-moment talk. Doesn't count."

"So you do remember our little agreement." His smile widened. "Relax—it's just a favor for a friend. Meeting parents doesn't mean marriage."

Isabella nodded. "True. These days, even marriage doesn’t guarantee forever."

If playing pretend for Julian solved his problem, why not? She hated owing people. Once this was done, she could face him without that weight.

"Wait—meet whose parents?" Evelyn looked between them, alarmed. "Don’t be reckless. That’s serious business!"

She turned to Isabella. "And you’re supposed to be reconciling with Mr. Blackwood. What if he finds out?"

Isabella scoffed. "Who said I’m reconciling? That arrogant man still thinks I’m a murderer. He’d probably throw a party if I ruined someone else’s life instead."

Anger flared. She shot Julian a determined look. "When are we doing this? I’m free anytime. Let’s show him how popular I am."

Julian’s eyebrows lifted. "No time like the present. We’ll go after lunch."

"Deal."

They left shortly after.

"This is madness!" Evelyn called after them, but it was no use.

Just as panic set in, Nathaniel arrived.

Evelyn rushed to him like he was salvation itself. "Mr. Blackwood! Miss Lockhart just ran off with another man! They can’t be far—hurry!"