Chapter 226

Evelyn knew she needed to act quickly before things spiraled out of control.

At Soul Jewelry Studio...

The office gradually emptied as employees left for the evening.

Nathan leaned against Evelyn's office doorway, arms crossed, watching her search through documents by the bookshelf. His gaze remained fixed on the captivating woman before him.

Completely unaware of his presence, Evelyn continued her search with her head down until she sensed movement behind her.

Strong arms suddenly wrapped around her waist, making her jump. She didn't need to turn around to know who it was.

"Nathan, what are you—"

"Can't I just hug my wife?" His amused voice rumbled above her head.

Why did this woman have such a hold over him?

Evelyn took a deep breath, memories of last night flooding back. Her cheeks burned with embarrassment.

Though she'd never admit how powerless she'd been against his charms.

"We need to pick up Caleb from school." Nathan rested his chin on her shoulder, his warm breath turning her ears pink.

Evelyn pushed him away. "Personal space, please."

Nathan merely chuckled and pulled her closer, his hand firm on her waist.

Evelyn rolled her eyes. Nathan Goldmann might just be the most shameless man she'd ever met.

Even though Nathan had been merciful by not teasing her at work, their son noticed something unusual during pickup at the Royal Academy of Music.

"Daddy, what's that mark on your neck?" Caleb stared curiously.

Evelyn's head snapped up in alarm. The love bite was still visible!

Nathan caught Evelyn's reaction from the corner of his eye. When she avoided his gaze, he smirked. "That's grown-up stuff, son."

"Uncle Oliver, what happened to Daddy's neck?" Caleb turned to the assistant when his father wouldn't explain.

Oliver wouldn't dare answer that. He coughed nervously. "You'll understand when you're older."

Angela had already taken Liam and Daisy back to the Goldmann mansion. The children had been cast in a drama series alongside Adrian Boucher, with Daisy playing his daughter and Liam portraying his younger self.

Evelyn had initially objected to them entering the entertainment industry but relaxed when they proved responsible.

Nathan, however, remained displeased about his daughter playing Adrian's child. It felt like someone had stolen his favorite possession.

Caleb continued puzzling over the mysterious mark on his father's neck.

Nathan hadn't missed any opportunity to tease Evelyn these past few days.

Arriving at Soul Studio, Evelyn immediately headed to the restroom to conceal the mark on her own neck. That man had endless energy! She couldn't face her children like this.

Her office phone rang.

Evelyn stashed her concealer and answered when she saw Richard's name. "Dad?"

"Zoe, your grandmother's been discharged. Your uncle's visiting. Come home for dinner tonight."

At the Vanderbilt manor...

Laura prepared tea for Yvette as the younger sister-in-law. Yvette had always looked down on Laura, the former mistress. But after learning from Madam Victoria that Laura was on their side, her attitude softened somewhat.