Chapter 54
Nellie reached out with ease, expecting just a quick hug. But with Nathan towering over her petite frame, she found herself unexpectedly wrapped around his lean waist. For someone who looks slender, he was surprisingly fit, like he’d spent years in the gym.
Without giving it much thought, Nellie started peppering him with questions. “Are you settling in okay at home? Is your stepmom and brother being cold to you? Is your grandpa good to you?”
Nathan held her tightly, afraid she’d drift away like a butterfly. He remembered the day he went back home. After a few sharp words with his stepmother, she complained to his dad at dinner. Without bothering to hear his side of the story, his dad smashed his plate on the floor and ordered him to kneel as punishment.
He knew they were trying to put him in his place, reminding him he was an outsider in the Rowland family. That night, he swallowed his pride and endured.
I’m doing alright,” he finally let her go, flashing a bright smile. Nellie looked him over from head to toe, making sure he was really okay,
en finally relaxed.
She suddenly recalled why she had come over, and held out her hand. “Didn’t you mention you had a surprise for me?”
Nathan stepped closer, pointing at his face. “The surprise is right here.”
Nellie realized he meant himself as the surprise. She couldn’t help but grin, pretending to be disappointed. “What kind of surprise is this? I can’t eat it or enjoy it…”
Nathan feigned indignation, “Am I not good–looking? I’m the cutest guy at my school.”
Nellie affectionately straightened his tie. “Yes, Nathan, you are the best–looking man. Your stepmother and brother are really lucky. Having to look at you must feel like extra helpings.”
Nathan gave a modest smile. He knew all too well that his stepmom and brother would rather see him gone than appreciate his looks. “Now that you’re learning from Jasmine, do you have any plans?” Nathan inquired, his curiosity piqued once they were seated.
Nellie’s eyes reflected a calm and serene determination. “I’m going to learn everything I can from Jasmine. Once I’ve got it down, I want to launch my own fashion brand and start a clothing and jewelry company.”
Nathan raised an eyebrow. “Is that it?”
Nellie nodded. Achieving those dreams would be more than enough for her.
“And what about you and Cameron?” Nathan asked.
Nellie’s face turned pale, her whole being exuding defiance. “My time with Cameron has left me so hurt. I need to divorce him, but he won’t agree easily because it would cost him too much.”
Nathan paused, then smiled. “You’ve got the chance to work with Jasmine. This is the perfect time to focus on your career. As for the divorce, let’s take it one step at a time.”
Nellie’s eyes sparkled with determination. “Yes, I’m going to pour all my passion into my career.”
Nathan handed her a glass of milkshake and raised a shot. “Let’s toast. I wish you a future full of success. When you come back, you’ll be shining like never before.”
Nellie burst into laughter, but her smile faded when she saw the shot glass in Nathan’s hand. Annoyed, she grabbed it and swapped it for a glass of iced tea. “And my wish for you is to come back with the same youthful spirit after weathering all the storms.”
They exchanged a knowing smile, their emotions swirling in the iced tea and milkshake.
Just then, Cameron burst out of the elevator, heading straight for Lizzy, “Is Nellie in there?” he demanded.
