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

orchestration.

intently,

honor, Nate commanded attention even in repose, his crossed legs and perfect

observed this innate leadership quality with

never submit

should take our

"The dinner hasn't even

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

unsettling silence descended

features. "Mr. Hopkins, you misunderstand-your presence

This reaction was unexpected.

not have known Quentin inside and

Lyhaton, there were few who could command Quentin's respect. And yet, the way he carried himself before Nate was more than

toward

not sure what you mean, Mr. Hopkins. I

calculated. "The Ford family and I share a

detached."