25
In April, the wind was warm, the days were long, and the weeping willows swayed gracefully as peach blossoms. blazed in vivid hues
After completing the final step of her project, Stacy finally had the time to honor her appointment.
The breathtaking scenery of the manor before her made her sigh in admiration. Ever since the night, Pat caused a scene at the banquet, Stacy had taken her senior brother away, leaving Nate behind. That incident taught her one important truth this man could hold a grudge.
It took Nate three days before he spoke to her again. To make amends, Stacy offered to have a meal with him. Nate had brought her to this private manor, which was vast and opulent From the French garden to the courtyard and the lavish restaurant, every corner exuded style and unparalleled luxury
The clouds reflected on the lake’s glassy surface, and the sight of the tower nearby left her at a loss for words All she could do was gaze in awe.
But soon, unease crept in “Nate, it’s stunning here, but let me remind you, don’t do anything that harms others without benefiting yourself,” she said, half–joking but wary
Nate smirked and gently tapped her forehead “What nonsense are you thinking? You’re bold enough not to call me ‘brother‘ anymore”
Stacy quickly stepped back, her cheeks tinged with pink. From his angle, Nate could see the blush trailing down her neck and the slight rise of her collarbone. His gaze lingered briefly on her flushed face
Her thoughts betrayed her. She couldn’t stop thinking about the moment from days ago when Nate, instead
of listening to her explanations, kissed her mid–sentence. And as if that wasn’t enough, he held her hand and confessed his feelings How could she still call him “brother” after that?
10:12 AM ₫ &
Her train of thought was interrupted by a woman’s graceful approach Clad in a moon–blue cheongsam trian accentuated her classical beauty, the woman’s eyes shone with kindness and a gente smile
Taking Stacy’s hands warmly, she beamed. “So this is our dear Stacy Such beauty and talent. My silly on truly blessed”
Stacy froze. This elegant, youthful woman was Nate’s mother. And Nate hadn’t even mentioned one be joining them for dinner! Overwhelmed by her enthusiasm, Stacy chot Nate a look pleading silently for an explanation
“Godmother, your earrings are beautiful today. Where did you get them? Nate interjected smoothly
Beaming, his mother touched her ears and launched into a cheerful tale about the earrings origin. She even offered to gift Stacy a pair, to which Stacy politely declined
Watching Nate–a man known for his stoicism–earnestly discuss jewelry with his mother struck Stacy at oddly amusing. She stifled a laugh but couldn’t contain it entirely her giggles spilling out
Nate raised an eyebrow and, without a word, took her hand. Interlacing their fingers, he gave her a playful self–satisfied grin
Inside the restaurant, the table was already set with an array of American dishes. The three of them at down and Stacy’s eyes swept over the impressive feast. A quick glance confirmed what she’d suspected–there were only three seats prepared
Nate’s mother uncorked a bottle of red wine and poured generously, raising a toast. “Stacy, thank you for joining me today to celebrate my birthday. I hope you’ll visit my manor often in the future”
The words stunned Stacy. She immediately stood up to respond, but her thoughts spiraled Her birthday?
Later, as the evening continued, Stacy couldn’t hide her mild frustration Behind her. Nate murmured softly clearly enjoying himself.
Spinning around, she pouted in mock annoyance. “Why didn’t you tell me it was your godmother’s birthday? would’ve brought a gift!”
Her voice was low and lilting, with just a hint of indignation, and her proximity to him made her tone feel almost intimate. It was hard not to be charmed by her
Nate leaned closer, catching the faint scent of wine lingering on her breath. It was intoxicating
Lowering his head, he gently nudged her forehead. “Your presence is the best gift she could ask for
Her face grew even redder, the alcohol amplifying the flush in her cheeks. The atmosphere between them turned warm and charged, with a hint of something unspoken
The breeze from the balcony swept through, tousling her hair. Nate’s eyes softened, but neither of them broke
