Chapter 258

Evelyn's breath caught in her throat at Nathaniel's unexpected reply.

Rather than the soothing reassurance she'd hoped for, his blunt advice to endure the pain left her stunned.

Yet even as disappointment flickered through her, Evelyn knew he spoke the harsh truth - in this situation, bearing the discomfort was her only choice.

The contrast between Nathaniel's stern words and his surprisingly tender touch didn't escape her notice.

A sudden commotion erupted nearby, shrill screams piercing the air.

Evelyn turned instinctively, but broad-shouldered men in tactical gear blocked her view.

From the terrified shouts, it sounded like her kidnappers were receiving their just desserts.

Her attention shifted downward to the neatly wrapped bandage around her ankle. Then upward again, drawn irresistibly to Nathaniel's chiseled profile - all aristocratic angles and effortless grace.

When their eyes met, Evelyn found herself drowning in those impossibly blue depths.

Nathaniel looked away first, his voice rougher than usual. "Any other injuries I should know about?"

"Just my pride," Evelyn managed, clearing her throat. She inched backward slightly, stealing another glance at the ongoing drama. "Thank you... for coming after me."

Nathaniel set down the medical supplies with deliberate care. "Next time, perhaps select a protector who won't land you in such situations."

Evelyn's lips thinned. "How's Jonathan?"

"Alive," Nathaniel clipped out, disdain dripping from the single word.

Relief flooded through Evelyn at the news Jonathan wasn't seriously hurt. He'd thrown himself into harm's way for her, after all.

Who could have predicted such brazen daylight kidnapping?

Nathaniel's gaze swept over the subdued captives. "What should we do with this filth?"

Evelyn blinked. "You're asking me?"

His eyebrow arched in that infuriating way. "Unless you see another victim here?"

A chill ran down Evelyn's spine. "Call the authorities?"

"Predictable." Nathaniel's smirk didn't reach his eyes.

Evelyn's hands clenched. "Murder tends to complicate things legally. I'd prefer we both avoid prison."

At her use of "we," Nathaniel's lips twitched. "Relax, darling. Did you actually think I was serious?"

Evelyn gritted her teeth, that momentary warmth toward him evaporating. How could she forget what an insufferable man he was?

Nathaniel turned to his team. "Report."

"Full confession, sir. Ms. Carter's so-called adoptive parents accepted ten thousand to provide her photo and address. They specifically instructed these men to abduct her."

Evelyn's face drained of color. "I'll make them regret this."

"You've handled your adoptive family's schemes before," Nathaniel observed, studying her closely. "Why did this one catch you off guard?"

His intense scrutiny made Evelyn shift uncomfortably. If not for Nathaniel's timely intervention, she might have disappeared into those remote mountains forever.

The terrifying realization settled in her bones.

"I never imagined they'd dare something so bold in the city," she admitted quietly.

Nathaniel's expression darkened. "Underestimate people at your peril. Start using that sharp mind of yours outside the courtroom."

A sudden thought struck Evelyn. She met his gaze directly. "How did you know I was in trouble?"