Chapter 338
The young and stunning Isabelle Montgomery flushed crimson at Nathan Blackwood's words, her cheeks burning with embarrassment.
Julian Montgomery's brows furrowed. "Nathan, are you seriously upset that Isabelle tried to serve you with her own fork? She hasn't even used it yet, and she offered you the first bite." Protective as always, Julian stepped forward to shield his younger sister.
Isabelle quickly apologized. "I'm sorry, Nathan. I didn't think it through."
She hastily switched to a clean fork and attempted to place a piece of fish onto Nathan's plate, but he stopped her again.
"I can serve myself."
Isabelle pouted. "I haven't been back in years. Nathan, are you trying to push me away? We used to share ice cream when we were kids!"
"That was when we were children. You're not a child anymore," Nathan replied coolly, his gaze lingering on the food. He picked up a small piece of crab meat and chewed slowly.
Isabelle's heart clenched. Her expression darkened as she shoved the fish into her mouth, chewing with unnecessary force.
Meanwhile, Nathan surveyed the lavish spread before him, memories surfacing of the meals Evelyn Carter used to prepare for him. He knew exactly how much effort these dishes required—how she would spend entire afternoons in the kitchen, enduring the heat and smoke that left her face glistening, suppressing coughs. Yet, he had never once praised her.
Even if her cooking rivaled that of a five-star chef, Nathan had stubbornly refused to acknowledge it. And yet, every time he ate her food, he found himself craving more.
A sharp pang struck his chest as he recalled the hopeful glimmer in Evelyn's eyes, the way she'd watch him expectantly, only for her smile to falter when he remained silent.
But without fail, she'd always bounce back, flashing him that bright, determined grin.
"Next time, I'll do even better!"
Next time.
Would there even be a next time?
The thought made Nathan's appetite vanish. Even swallowing became difficult.
"Nathan," Isabelle spoke up after a brief silence, sensing that business might pique his interest. She propped her chin on her hand, blinking her large, doe-like eyes. "I heard Isabella Wang is arriving in Crestview soon. Are you planning a welcome banquet? It would be a great opportunity to promote the hotel—she is an international superstar, after all."
Nathan's striking eyes chilled slightly, though his expression remained composed. He despised discussing business during family meals, especially when outsiders pried into his company's affairs.
"Hmm."
"Can I help with anything?" Isabelle pressed eagerly.
Nathan dismissed her offer. "That won't be necessary."
Undeterred, Isabelle continued, desperate to impress him. "I could perform piano pieces for Isabella Wang and the guests! It's my specialty!"
Again, Nathan shut her down. "There's no need."
His frown deepened as he firmly refused. "You're the Montgomery heiress. It's beneath you to entertain guests like that. Professionals will handle the performances."
Isabelle's face fell. "So... you don't think I'm good enough?"
By now, Nathan had completely lost his patience.
He had only attended this dinner out of courtesy, not wanting to offend Mrs. Montgomery and Julian, but the evening was growing increasingly unbearable.
"Nathan, Isabelle is the protégé of a world-renowned pianist. She's more than qualified to perform at your banquet. Just let her do it," Julian interjected between bites.
"Yes, Nathan. She sees you as family—let her help you this once," Mrs. Montgomery added, ever the doting mother.
Isabelle clasped her hands together, her eyes pleading. "Nathan, I promise I'll play perfectly. I won't disappoint you!"
Nathan exhaled sharply and gave a reluctant nod.
After dinner, Nathan bid the Montgomerys farewell and left. Outside their estate, Oliver Sinclair intercepted him with urgent news.
"Mr. Blackwood, there's a problem. Your hotel has scheduled the same event date as Monarch Grand Hotels!"
Nathan's expression darkened. "Did Evelyn arrange a welcome banquet for Isabella Wang on the same day?"