Chapter 337

Isabella's words finally made Nathaniel understand her intention. She had been waiting here for him all along.

Did she think she had leverage? Something to hold over him? Nathaniel's gaze turned icy as he studied her, his voice dripping with cold detachment. "Isabella, do you really believe I would agree to your demands?"

Isabella faltered. She wasn’t sure anymore.

She couldn’t meet his eyes, forcing herself to remain composed as she whispered, "Nathaniel, you wouldn’t want Evelyn to suffer, would you? If you just agree, it’s the best outcome. You promised to marry me first—you broke that promise."

"Broke my promise?" A humorless laugh escaped him. "And what about the contract you signed?"

She hesitated before murmuring, "I admit I signed it. I accept that. But now, if you want Beatrice to have the surgery as soon as possible, you have to agree to my terms."

A scoff. "Do you honestly think I’ll bend to your will?" His stare was sharp, laced with quiet fury.

Isabella didn’t dare answer, her breath shallow.

Nathaniel’s voice dropped lower, dangerous. "Isabella Davis, don’t test me like this. The power has always been mine. I warned you—if you want to burn the last shred of affection between us, just say so. You don’t need these pathetic attempts to force my hand. Once it’s gone, you mean nothing to me. So tell me—are you sure?"

Her eyes widened. She couldn’t speak.

Nathaniel tilted his head, his expression unreadable. "Do you think I need your permission for a heart? Even if the surgery has already started, I can still take it away. Would you like to see me try?"

"Nathaniel, I—I was wrong." Her voice trembled. "It was stupid of me to test you like this. Please, forgive me. I won’t do it again."

She crumbled instantly.

She had no courage left. No defiance.

Nathaniel didn’t spare her another glance. He turned and walked away without another word.

Watching his retreating figure, Isabella’s hands clenched into fists. His cruelty cut deep. She loved him—why couldn’t he even look at her?

It was all Evelyn’s fault.

If not for Evelyn, they would be married by now. Maybe even have a child.

They could have been happy.

Evelyn ruined everything.

She hated her.

Outside the hospital, Nathaniel slid into the car. Samuel already knew the test results. "Mr. Martin, is this heart for Beatrice?"

"Evelyn would never accept it." Even if it was taken for Beatrice, knowing it came from Isabella’s mother would torment her.

Besides, Isabella and her mother weren’t even blood-related. If she was willing to use her own mother’s life as leverage, she had no conscience. And Nathaniel refused to stoop to that level.

Leaning back, he closed his eyes. "Any updates on finding a match?"

"We’re searching everywhere—domestically, internationally. But hearts aren’t easy to come by."

Nathaniel glanced out the window, his expression softening. "Hurry. I don’t want her carrying guilt over this."

"Understood." Samuel knew exactly who he meant.

When they reached the apartment, Evelyn had already showered and was revising her blueprints.