The Jilted Heiress' Return To The High Life

The Betrayed Heiress' Return to Elegance 169

Chapter 169 Nate Had Ties To The Ford Family

Nate approached Carl with measured steps, offering a slight nod. "Mr. Ford, I should have paid my respects immediately upon returning to Lyhaton. Various matters. detained me-I trust you'll understand."

Carl managed a distant smile, his response carefully measured. "Mr. Hopkins, such formalities aren't necessary between us."

His gaze dropped as he spoke, shielding the emotion in his eyes while his fingers absently traced the jewel adorning his cane.

The butler materialized at precisely the right moment, gracefully handing Nate a cup of

coffee.

Quentin seized the momentary silence to inquire, "I wonder, Mr. Hopkins, have you encountered Moses recently?"

Nate lifted his gaze deliberately. "Has Moses neglected to inform you of his business

travels?"

Quentin faltered momentarily, stealing a reflexive glance at Carl. "He must have been pressed for time."

A subtle furrow creased Carl's brow at these words.

seemed far too convenient. His instincts

orchestration.

intently, his weathered eyes betraying deep

position in the seat of honor, Nate commanded attention even in repose, his crossed

innate leadership

never

we should take our leave," Carl announced,

protested. "The dinner

down with deliberate grace, his cool voice cutting through the air. "Am I

silence descended over the

flickered across Quentin's features. "Mr. Hopkins, you

This reaction was unexpected.

might not have known Quentin inside

And yet, the way he carried himself before Nate

her gaze shifting toward Quentin as if piecing

mean, Mr. Hopkins. I only worry that our presence is

of his cup, his movements languid yet calculated. "The Ford family and I share a bit of history,

detached."