Chapter 143

Emotion flickered across Nathan’s face; he almost lost it. “Thank you for believing me,” he whispered. “If you’re ready, I’ll tell you a little at a time. Not everything tonight—your head’s still healing.”

Elena nodded. “Start with something easy.”

Nathan gave a small smile. “The first time we met was at a party Damian and his wife—Isabella—threw to introduce their baby boy, the future Lancaster heir.”

Elena blinked, as if trying to grab a floating image. “Really? I don’t remember at all.” She studied him more intently. “Then what?”

“Then we literally ran into each other. You dumped a drink all over my suit.” His mouth tipped wryly. “After that, in true you fashion, you insisted on paying me back—said you’d make me a new suit, your design.” Nathan went on, telling her the whole story in detail.

For a beat she was quiet. Then, suddenly: “Olivia.”

Nathan went rigid.

“I want to video call her. Katty said she’s studying overseas. In France.” Ele