Chapter 229: I Need to Ask You Something

The sight of Cecilia's disarray startled Nathaniel, sparking inexplicable panic. He immediately took her arm and guided her home, his mind consumed with worry.

Once inside, he draped a garment over her shoulders. "What do you want to ask?" he inquired, his voice a blend of worry and irritation.

Clutching a photograph, Cecilia hesitated. "Do you have a twin brother?" she asked, her calm voice belying underlying tension.

At the word "brother," Nathaniel's expression froze. He recoiled slightly. "Yes," he replied curtly.

"Why haven't I heard of him? Where is he?" Cecilia pressed, her eyes searching his.

Nathaniel's lips tightened, his eyes blazing with barely controlled anger. "You sought me out at the party just to ask this?" he retorted, his voice sharp.

Cecilia met his gaze unflinchingly, despite the cutting words.

"This is a family matter," Nathaniel snapped. "You don't need to know."

Cecilia understood she would learn nothing more. She discreetly pocketed the photo, relieved she hadn't shown it to him. "I understand," she said quietly. "I won't ask again."

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed. "Why did you bring him up?" he asked suspiciously. In the Rainsworth family, Nicholas Rainsworth's name was taboo. Housekeepers aware of his existence knew Nathaniel brooked no gossip about his younger brother.

"Did someone mention him?" Nathaniel pressed, his gaze intense.

Cecilia lied, knowing the truth would only raise more questions. "I overheard your conversation with Elena, and someone mentioned it on my walk," she explained, hoping to satisfy him.

But her lie was unconvincing; Nathaniel remained skeptical. He'd seen her frantic distress at the party, sensing something far more significant had occurred.

"I'm sorry," Cecilia said, her voice softening. "I was hasty, and I made you uncomfortable."

Nathaniel seemed to relent slightly, though his demeanor remained guarded. "Don't talk to me about him again," he warned.

The banquet continued, but Nathaniel left, his mood soured by the encounter.

Alone, Cecilia retrieved the crumpled photo. Gazing at the gentle, warm young man, a sharp pain seized her throat, and her eyes burned. Her fingertips traced his smiling face. "I couldn't have mistaken him, could I… Nathaniel?" she whispered, the only answer the rustling leaves.

The photograph triggered vivid childhood memories. Cecilia sat on the couch, recalling the young man's pivotal role in her life. He'd taught her, played with her, protected her, even retrieving her at night. She remembered his words during a difficult time: "Ceci, we each face life's greatest trials. Overcoming them is like being reborn." Those words had given her strength.

How could I possibly have mistaken such a good person?

Cecilia tucked the photo away, clutching a pillow, lost in thought.

Nathaniel returned to find her asleep on the couch, still dressed. He moved to wake her, but she sleepily grasped his hand.

"Nathaniel, I miss you so much…"