Chapter 21: The Moon Is Beautiful Tonight

Maggie ignored Joseph's simmering anger. She'd be pleased if it made him ill.

A few steps away, her phone rang.

"Nathael."

She answered without hesitation. "Hello, Mr. Harris?"

Nathael's deep voice filled the phone. "You left something at my place."

"My handbag?" Maggie asked, unsurprised.

"Yes."

"Can I pick it up tomorrow?" The jade pendant inside—her identity—was deliberately left behind. She'd been wanting another chance to see him.

"Turn around," Nathael's voice, warmer than before, instructed.

Maggie was stunned. Subconsciously, she turned to see a black Maybach parked a short distance away on the road in front of her apartment building. The streetlight cast a soft glow on its luxurious, understated elegance.

Nathael leaned against the car, a cigarette between his lips. His impeccably tailored dark suit exuded restrained elegance, offset by his loosened tie and unbuttoned shirt—a touch of charming recklessness. A phrase sprang to mind: "When the lights first come on, and people are bustling around, I can always spot you at first glance."

Ignoring everything else, Maggie rushed toward him, her eyes shining with joy. "Why are you here?" She was genuinely happy, inexplicably so; she seemed to feel that way whenever she saw him.

"Delivering something," Nathael said, extinguishing his cigarette. A small, exquisite handbag rested in his palm.

"Thank you," Maggie murmured, speechless after taking her bag. She hadn't expected him to come; she'd assumed she'd have to return. She couldn't recall when he'd arrived or how much he'd seen of her and Joseph, but she remembered a car parked nearby, though she hadn't noticed anyone inside until now.

Lost in thought, she felt Nathael's handsome face lean closer. His features magnified, his tall figure casting a shadow over her. "How will you thank me?" His beautiful, narrow eyes reflected her image. His warm breath and words held an undeniable flirtation.

Maggie stared, breathless, her cheeks flushing. How should I thank him? she thought. Offer myself? The thought made her realize how crazy she sounded, even to herself. Yet, she felt an uncontrollable fondness for him. She liked him.

Regaining her composure, she said, "Mr. Harris, you're too stingy. Even for a delivery, a thank you is required."

Nathael’s lips curled. His dark eyes held hers. "You broke up with Joseph," he stated firmly. He'd arrived just as she exited Joseph's car. He'd initially felt humiliated but couldn't leave. He hadn't heard their conversation clearly, but he'd seen Joseph's face flush with anger.

Maggie responded slowly, "We were never together."

Nathael's eyes narrowed, his gaze more scrutinizing.

Maggie met his gaze. "I only feel gratitude and respect for Joseph. Of course, I might have liked him… a bit."

His softened expression darkened again.

But then Maggie added frankly, "But that was when I was ignorant."

Nathael chuckled, a slight, unconscious smile playing on his lips. Her directness charmed him, though he wondered about her motives. Regardless, he felt his mood lift.

"I'm leaving, Mr. Harris. Good night," Maggie said softly, preferring not to over-explain. Their current dynamic felt satisfactory. The past had wounded him deeply; she wouldn't dare hope for his instant trust. A few more words from him would suffice.

She started to leave, then paused, looking back. Tentatively, she asked, "Mr. Harris, would you like to come upstairs for dinner?"

He was clearly surprised. He stared at her for a few seconds. Then, in a low voice, he asked, "Maggie, do you understand the implications of inviting a man to your home in the evening?"

Maggie curved her lips into a serious smile. "Just for dinner."

She turned and went upstairs, unsure if he would follow.

Nathael watched her go, knowing he shouldn't, knowing he might be disappointed again. Yet, he couldn't resist. He caught up with her in a few long strides.

Maggie smiled, feeling good. Turning to him, she said, "Mr. Harris, the moon is beautiful tonight." Her eyes crinkled at the corners, reflecting her joy. She was as radiant as a white flower in the night.

Nathael didn't look away. His deep eyes held hers, reflecting her—more beautiful than the moonlight.

After Joseph drove away, he received a call from a friend.

"Joseph, bring your sister along for some fun!"

"I'll come alone," he replied, his annoyance making the decision easy.

"What about Maggie? I've praised her so much. A few friends are eager to meet her."

"She can't make it. She's upset with me. Let's wait until she calms down." The friend sounded disappointed.

Hanging up, Joseph felt Maggie was simply seeking attention. She'd be back.

Soon, another call came—Ronald. "Joseph, have you taken Maggie home?"

"Yes. I'm going out with friends."

"Spend less time with them and more with her. It wasn't easy for her to reconnect with Nathael. We can't waste this." Joseph remained silent, annoyed.

"Talk to her. Find out about her relationship with Nathael." Ronald's cautious nature made him suspicious.

Joseph hung up, frowning. After a moment, he turned his car around and headed toward Maggie's house.