Chapter 88

The evening air was thick with unspoken tension as Theodore Whitmore studied Nathan Black’s profile. "Evelyn has changed quite a bit these past three years," Theodore remarked, exhaling slowly. After a deliberate pause, he added, "Dylan mentioned that Leonard suggested you and Evelyn wait a month before finalizing the divorce?"

Nathan’s jaw tightened imperceptibly before he responded, "Yes."

Theodore offered a knowing half-smile. "And how do you feel about that?"

Nathan pressed his lips into a thin line, his voice dropping to a low, measured tone. "I made a deal with my father. I’ll play along with his plans for Evelyn and me this month. If I still want the divorce afterward, he’ll back off."

Theodore’s eyebrows lifted slightly, but he remained silent, his gaze steady on Nathan.

A smirk tugged at Nathan’s lips, edged with defiance. "I won’t lose this time."

Catching the certainty in Nathan’s voice, Theodore tilted his head, his next question laced with quiet implication. "So, if you do go through with the divorce from Evelyn, do you intend to marry Serena next?"

Nathan’s smirk faltered. His lips pressed together briefly before he answered, the hesitation speaking volumes.

Theodore leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "I thought as much."

Nathan turned to him, a faint crease forming between his brows.

Theodore didn’t mince words. "There’s something off between you and Serena, isn’t there?"

Nathan exhaled sharply, his voice barely above a murmur. "I don’t even remember when it started, but… the feeling is gone."

Theodore nodded slowly. "I’ve noticed for a while now." He studied Nathan carefully before asking, "What’s your plan, then?"

Nathan’s reply was devoid of emotion. "I’ll marry Serena."

Theodore frowned slightly, but Nathan continued, his tone resolute. "I owe her that much. It’s a promise—my way of making amends." His eyes darkened as he added, "She’s suffered enough because of me these past three years."

Theodore considered his words before responding. "But what Serena truly wants might not be a marriage built on obligation. She loves you. She’ll want your heart, not just a gesture."

Nathan’s gaze flickered briefly before hardening. "This is all I can give her right now. Once the divorce is finalized, I’ll tell her the truth. If she can’t accept it, I’ll find another way to make things right."

Theodore sighed, recognizing the futility of arguing further.

Just then, the door opened, and Dylan Reeves strode in, followed closely by Serena Cole.

"Nathan," Serena greeted softly, settling beside him with practiced ease. She turned to Theodore with a warm smile. "Theodore, it’s good to see you back!"

Theodore returned the smile politely.

Dylan collapsed onto the sofa with a dramatic groan. "Theodore, your timing is impeccable. I’m drowning in misery and in desperate need of a drink."

Theodore arched a brow. "Is this about the Caldwell family?"