Chapter 244: Piled High With Gifts

Not only was Vivian's residence under investigation, but Hillscester was also under intense scrutiny. Fortunately, Jonathan was with Zachary, as the servants at Vivian's villa were being questioned individually.

Nathaniel's gaze was fixed on Cecilia. "How many more days?"

Cecilia paused, then replied, "Ten days." More precisely, excluding today, she would leave in three.

"I've arranged tickets to Tidgate. We're leaving tonight," Nathaniel declared.

Surprise widened Cecilia's eyes. "Now? When do we return?" She'd assumed Nathaniel had abandoned the idea of a real marriage.

"The day after tomorrow." Nathaniel had unearthed Cecilia's old travel plans, which included an exotic night view in Tidgate, followed by a visit to locations featured in her favorite comic artist's work.

"All right," she said. Returning the day after tomorrow was perfect. "I'll go pack."

"No need. They have everything there."

"Okay." Cecilia had planned to tell Calvin, but that would have to wait until they reached Tidgate.

Half an hour later, they boarded a private jet. Cecilia sat beside Nathaniel, gazing at the flickering lights below. The over three-hour flight found her drifting to sleep, succumbing to fatigue. Nathaniel, having consumed excessive alcohol the previous night, was also weary.

He watched Cecilia sleep, his gaze lingering on her peaceful face. When Mason delivered a blanket, he witnessed the scene. Nathaniel quickly diverted his gaze, covered Cecilia, and then retreated to another cabin with Mason.

"Is everything ready at the hotel?" Nathaniel asked, his voice heavy.

"Everything is set," Mason replied, then added, "Mr. Rainsworth, ten days from now, if Ms. Smith still wants to leave, will you really agree?"

Nathaniel raised an eyebrow. "Of course. It's not like I can't live without her."

"So, what's going on with you...?"

"Just like her, I'm unwilling to accept it," Nathaniel paused. "And I want to see what she's really after, how long she can maintain this act."

Mason noted that even now, his boss wouldn't admit his feelings for Cecilia. Anyone could see them. If he didn't care, why suggest a real marriage? Wasn't it a ploy to win her over? Mason chose not to press the issue, simply saying, "Mr. Rainsworth, Ms. Smith isn't worthy of you. You don't need to waste your energy."

"You talk too much," Nathaniel said coldly.

"I'm sorry," Mason quickly apologized.

Three hours later, the plane landed. Cecilia awoke feeling dazed; lately, sleep offered little respite. She disembarked with Nathaniel, who dismissed their entourage, leaving them to stroll through Tidgate alone. Cecilia was nonchalant, no longer the girl yearning for romance. She craved only peace.

The hotel was one she had booked previously. Upon entering, she found the room filled with fresh flowers and piled high with gift boxes. Nathaniel had already taken an allergy medication.

"What is this?" Cecilia asked, seeking an explanation.

"Gifts," Nathaniel replied tersely.

Cecilia opened a box to reveal a custom necklace from a brand she'd loved. She realized belatedly, "Did you look at my old diary?"

"I thought it was just a note," Nathaniel evaded her gaze.

Cecilia was increasingly confused. She replaced the items. "I don't need these. Return them." If the gifts represented those on her "sticky notes," their value could rival several villas.