Chapter 304

Jonathan's voice cut through the air sharply. "Evelyn, why didn't you tell me Mr. Whitmore was the one who saved you? I nearly missed the chance to thank him properly." He raised his glass. "Mr. Whitmore, this toast is for you."

Nathaniel glanced at the drink in Jonathan's hand, his lips curling into a faint, unamused smile.

"I don't drink."

An uncomfortable silence settled over the room. Jonathan quickly switched to a teacup, offering it instead. "Would tea be more suitable?"

Nathaniel ignored the gesture entirely. His piercing gaze shifted to Evelyn. "Evelyn, shouldn’t you be the one toasting me?"

Evelyn inhaled sharply. What was his problem? She had deliberately mentioned their cousin relationship to avoid exposing their true connection.

Hadn’t he been the one to establish this rule after their marriage? Why was he suddenly acting so unpredictably?

Judith nudged her arm insistently. "Evelyn, what are you waiting for? Offer Mr. Whitmore a toast! After everything he’s done—spending money and effort to rescue you—it’s the least you can do."

A glass of wine was thrust into Evelyn’s hands. She hesitated before murmuring, "Mrs. Reeves, I don’t drink either."

"Just one glass won’t hurt. It’s not strong. If you get tipsy, Jonathan can take you home. Don’t worry, he’s a gentleman—he won’t take advantage."

Evelyn winced. That wasn’t her concern.

Reluctantly, she stepped forward, glass in hand. When her eyes met Nathaniel’s, she caught the mocking glint in his gaze.

Before she could react, Jonathan stood and took the glass from her. "Evelyn, let me drink for you. You’re still recovering."

Nathaniel’s expression darkened as he stared at the glass in Jonathan’s grip.

His voice was icy. "Does her gratitude mean nothing?"

Jonathan stiffened, caught off guard. He had hoped to impress Nathaniel by stepping in, but the man’s refusal left him flustered.

The tension in the room thickened.

Nathaniel remained seated, his sleeves rolled up to reveal toned forearms. The light accentuated his sharp features, making him look every bit the untouchable aristocrat.

His gaze never left Evelyn, and she could see her own reflection in his piercing eyes. Flustered, she looked away and snatched the glass back from Jonathan.

"Nathaniel, thank you for saving me. This is for you."

She downed the drink in one go, only to realize too late it was vodka. The harsh burn made her eyes water instantly.

Coughing, she blinked up at Nathaniel, tears glistening in her lashes. She looked utterly pitiful.

Nathaniel’s jaw tightened. For a moment, he almost regretted pushing her.

Evelyn set the glass down unsteadily, her vision swimming. As she reached for a napkin, two hands suddenly grasped hers.