hapter 31
Nathan stumbled out, breathless. “What’s going on?”
Nellie’s eyes were red, tears threatening to spill over as her shoulders shook with anger. “I can’t believe you faked being sick just to skip school. Don’t you know that nothing beats the value of education? If you don’t want to be pushed around in the future, you need to hit the books hard!”
Nathan immediately backed down, his usually confident eyes now downcast. “I’m sorry.”
Nellie’s voice was filled with sorrow as she said, “Nathan, I’m here to shield you from life’s storms. But remember, the world is vast, and not every storm can be avoided by leaning on someone else. Think about what you’ve done.”
She grabbed her backpack, huffing as she slammed the door on her way out.
Nathan pouted, muttering to himself, “What a temper, huh?”
When the door creaked open again, Nathan couldn’t help but grin. ‘I knew she had a soft spot for me.‘
Then, a pair of shiny black leather shoes stepped into the room, causing Nathan’s heart to sink. Suddenly, he leaped off the bed, sprinting to the window. Pulling back the sheer curtain, he watched as Nellie’s delicate figure slowly faded into the distance.
As if sensing his gaze, Nellie turned around. Nathan waved gently, pushing aside the curtain to say goodbye.
Nellie’s anger dissolved at his innocent smile. She called to him, “Nathan, I’ll make your favorite fried chicken for dinner.”
Nathan was still growing, so she tirelessly cooked up delicious meals for him, which had led to him shooting up 6 inches.
Nathan gave her a soft and gentle look and said, “I’ll be waiting for you.”
The door burst open, and a stern middle–aged man strode in. Standing behind Nathan, he asked with a sneer, “So, you’re the so–called protector?”
Nathan quickly drew the curtains, nodding with a serious expression.
The man tossed a thick envelope at Nathan, who didn’t need to open it to know what it was about.
“Was this sent by Kristina? Are you trying to buy me off?”
The man raised an eyebrow. “You’re pretty sharp. You’ve messed with someone you shouldn’t have.”
Nathan tossed the envelope back at him. Its seemingly light weight landed with surprising force, slicing into the man’s hand.
“All this just to save Cameron’s reputation? She’s really pulling out all the stops and sending you all this way with cash. But what if I say I don’t care about her money?”
‘Mrs. Dawson said if you cooperate and change your story, you can name your price,” the man stated, confident Nathan would take the bait. After all, who could resist Mrs. Dawson’s financial clout?
Nathan just smirked. “Your boss should’ve done her homework before approaching me. I’m not someone you can just buy off.” The man eyed Nathan, noting the elegance that belied his simple clothing, which suggested that he wasn’t from just any family. “Who are you?”
“You’re not in a position to know my name.”
“Is that so?” The man clapped his hands, and suddenly, the room filled with people. “Kid, my lady wants to see you. Sorry, but you’re coming with us.”
Nathan glanced around his humble apartment, eyes filled with reluctance. But he knew staying would only reveal his true identity, causing trouble for Nathalie.
