Chapter 335

Vivian straightened her clothes hastily, eager to leave. "Oh, I forgot to mention. I released Miss Whitmore last night, so she should be safe now. Maybe you should check on her?"

"Unnecessary." Nathaniel's usual icy demeanor had melted away. He casually tossed his jacket onto the sofa, revealing his toned physique beneath the crisp white shirt.

Vivian's pulse quickened. She swallowed hard without realizing it.

He removed his platinum watch and set it on the table. Leaning against the edge with one arm, he said casually, "My mother arrived in Newport City last night. She's probably having tea with friends right now."

"Last night?" Vivian frowned. "Then why were you at the Baldwin estate this morning?"

Nathaniel lifted his gaze, lips curling into a knowing smirk. "What do you think?"

"I..." She bit her lip, heart pounding. His intense stare burned through her. Shaking her head violently, she snapped, "I don't care what game you're playing, but this is the last favor I'll do for the Blackwood family. Did you even consider the consequences of dragging me away like that? I'm probably on the Baldwins' blacklist now!"

Though the Baldwin family had strict rules, they'd always treated her kindly. They'd cherished her like precious treasure. Now they must be furious she'd left with their enemy without hesitation!

"This whole mess between the Baldwins and me wouldn't exist if you hadn't interfered. You've really screwed me over this time!"

"Is that so?" His gaze turned frosty, sharp as a blade. The man was fire and ice combined. "Are you blaming me for ruining your cozy relationship with Julian? Destroying your plans to become the next Mrs. Baldwin?"

Vivian stared in disbelief. This jealousy was so unlike him!

Tilting her chin up defiantly, she retorted, "Do you really think so little of me? That I'd be interested in any man who talks to me? You're being ridiculous!"

Like a proud swan, she smoothed her clothes and continued, "I've made myself clear, Nathaniel. Vivian Lockhart is her own person. I'm not some trophy for you and the Baldwins to fight over. Keep me out of your battles. I have things to do - goodbye!"

As she turned to leave, Nathaniel's quiet question stopped her. "If you truly didn't care... why did you shield me from that gun at the Baldwin estate? Isn't that contradictory?"

Vivian froze, speechless.

He was right. No matter how harsh her words, her instincts had betrayed her true feelings.

How could she not care? Watch him die? That wasn't who she was!

Nathaniel closed the distance, expression solemn. "I meant every word about remarrying you. Think about it."