The room fell into a stunned silence.
Regan was caught off guard, realizing the opportunity he'd just seized had slipped away before it even had a chance to start cooking.
Ashley was baffled. Why on earth would Morris leave her to rush to Nathalie, especially when it was obvious Morris didn't even have a thing for Nathalie?
Lincoln's expression was a mix of surprise and humor. He'd been so dismissive of Morris, yet here he was, graciously setting aside their differences to lend a hand. He chuckled warmly, genuinely appreciating Morris's unexpected gesture.
Lincoln weaved through the crowd of servants, eagerly approaching Morris, "Come on, Nathan, let me help you get back."
Morris's face was serious, his eyes brimming with worry. "Alright," he replied.
He was itching to get back to Nathalie, to see her smile again.
As Lincoln wheeled Morris out of the grand room and down the corridor, he couldn't help but tease, "Admit it, young man. You've got a soft spot for my daughter Vivian."
Morris shot back stubbornly, "Which of your eyes noticed that?"
Lincoln grinned, "Both of them, actually."
He continued with playful banter, "I've always known my daughter is a catch—beautiful and kind-hearted. No man can resist her charms. Your little strategy of playing hard to get was clever, but my sharp eyes saw right through it."
"I'll warn you," he said, emphasizing his words, "I'm letting you stay because my daughter cares about you. You can date her, but..."
He paused dramatically, "It has to be strictly platonic. No kissing, and definitely no sleepovers."
Morris's eyes sparkled.
Just being with Nathalie was all he needed. As for kissing or anything beyond, he wasn't planning on crossing that line. After all, Nathalie deserved to find someone else, to marry, have kids, and lead a happy life.
Nathalie's tears turned into a smile, "So that's all it was. I thought maybe my dad said something harsh and scared you off."
Morris smiled gently, "Don't worry. I don't take his words to heart. No matter how harsh, he's just looking out for you."
"One day, I'll explain our relationship to him," Nathalie said. "Then he'll understand how important you are to me, and he won't bother you anymore."
Morris replied, "I'll find a time to talk to him myself. You don't need to worry about it. It's easier for us guys to communicate."
Nathalie nodded thoughtfully, "Alright then."
Having said her piece, Nathalie quietly studied Morris.
Morris's lips moved as if he had a million things to say, but in the end, he kept them all to himself.
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