Chapter 334

Nathan believed it was wiser for Serena to keep her distance from him to prevent any unnecessary gossip, particularly since his divorce from Evelyn hadn't been finalized yet.

Fortunately, the legal proceedings were nearly over.

Dylan approached the mahogany desk, his expression contrite. "I owe you an apology for what happened last time, Nathan. I'm truly sorry."

A beat of silence passed before he continued, "After reflecting on it, I realize I was out of line. Your decision to discipline me was justified. I swear nothing like that will happen again. Please, let's move past this."

Nathan wasn't someone Dylan could afford to cross.

With the punishment already dealt, Dylan knew the best course was to seek reconciliation.

Nathan's face remained impassive as he replied, "Like I said before—don't let it happen again."

"Of course," Dylan said, shoulders visibly relaxing.

Nathan's response signaled the matter was closed.

Then Dylan's gaze snagged on Nathan's neck.

A faint, reddish mark stood out against his skin, sparking Dylan's curiosity.

Was that… a love bite?

Before he could stop himself, the question tumbled out. "Did Evelyn leave that mark? Have you two…?"

The words came out sharper than intended.

Nathan's expression darkened instantly. "Do my personal affairs concern you?"

Dylan realized his blunder too late.

"I—I just thought Serena might be upset if she saw it," he stammered.

"Evelyn is still my wife. Whatever happens between us is no one's business but ours," Nathan stated coolly.

A pause. Then, with deliberate emphasis, he added, "I don't owe explanations to anyone. Understood?"

The words struck Dylan like a physical blow. His gaze dropped, conflicting emotions flashing in his eyes. Jaw tightening, he gave a stiff nod. "Understood."

Nathan turned away dismissively. "I have work to attend to."

Dylan took the hint immediately. "Right. I'll leave you to it."

Without another word, he strode out of the office.

Nathan watched him go, eyes narrowing thoughtfully. Was Dylan's reaction about Serena… or something else entirely?

The moment the door closed behind him, Dylan's face twisted with barely suppressed fury. The image of that mark on Nathan's neck burned in his mind.

Nathan and Evelyn had been intimate.

The realization sent a surge of jealousy roaring through him, hot and uncontrollable.

What the hell was wrong with him?

At the Sterling family banquet, he'd watched Evelyn dismantle false accusations with razor-sharp precision and retaliate against Giselle with devastating wit. In that moment, she'd been utterly mesmerizing.

And yet, this relentless pull he felt toward her only fueled his frustration.

This internal war, this storm of emotions—it terrified him.