Chapter 355

The dining table was set beautifully as the four of them took their seats. Leonard raised his glass with a warm smile. "To family," he declared.

Glasses clinked together in harmony. Leonard's gaze lingered on Nathan and Evelyn as he added, "I hope we can share meals like this every day from now on." His words carried an unspoken weight.

Evelyn and Nathan exchanged quick glances, their expressions unreadable.

Their eyes locked for a brief moment, an electric current passing between them. Yet neither dared to voice what they were feeling.

The meal passed pleasantly, with Nathan eating more than usual. After lunch, they all retreated to their rooms for afternoon rest.

Evelyn's room contained only one bed, which she now had to share with Nathan. Without hesitation, she flopped onto the soft mattress. To her surprise, Nathan lay down beside her.

She turned to him with raised eyebrows. "You—"

Nathan met her gaze steadily. "It's not our first time sharing a bed," he reminded her.

Evelyn's cheeks flushed. This infuriating man! She glared at him wordlessly before turning away, determined to get some sleep.

Nathan's rhythmic breathing soon filled the room. Strangely comforted by the sound, Evelyn found herself drifting off.

Nathan watched as Evelyn's breathing evened out in sleep. He couldn't believe she was lying right beside him. Her presence soothed something restless in his heart. Lately, she'd occupied his thoughts more than he cared to admit. Not wanting to examine these feelings too closely, he closed his eyes and surrendered to sleep.

Later that afternoon, Leonard suggested Nathan teach Evelyn how to swim.

"Absolutely not necessary. I have no interest in learning," Evelyn protested immediately.

The truth was, water terrified her.

But Leonard wouldn't hear it.

"Knowledge is power, Evelyn. Swimming is an essential life skill that could save you one day. You must learn," he insisted firmly.

Turning to Nathan, he added, "I'm counting on you to teach her properly."

"Really, Leonard, this isn't—" Evelyn tried again.

Nathan caught the flicker of fear in Evelyn's eyes and felt a mischievous urge. Without hesitation, he agreed, "Consider it done."

Evelyn gaped at him.

She stared at Nathan, torn between shock and disbelief. What game was he playing? Since when did he have time to give swimming lessons?

"Perfect!" Leonard beamed. "You should start right away."

Ever thoughtful, Leonard had already arranged for swimwear to be prepared, which only confirmed Evelyn's suspicion that this was all part of his master plan.