Chapter 531: Female Companion

If Nathaniel wanted to rebuild his business empire, he couldn't avoid interacting with other businessmen. These business parties weren't merely social gatherings.

"Got it. I'll send more people to accompany you," Mason said.

The older generation of the Murdock family had attempted to harm Nathaniel, mistaking Nicholas for him. Nicholas was severely injured and, due to his already frail health, required treatment abroad. Nathaniel subsequently expanded Rainsworth Group, systematically eliminating the remaining incompetent members of the Murdock family. Ethan had once knelt before Nathaniel to save his life. Nathaniel hadn't completely eradicated them; not out of mercy, but to avoid alarming other wealthy families in Tudela and provoking a united front. After all, even a cornered rabbit will bite.

"Mm," Nathaniel agreed.

Mason, after a moment's thought, asked, "Everyone's bringing a female companion. Do you want to bring Mrs. Rainsworth?" He recalled Cecilia's previous upset over not being included in public events and saw this as a chance to make amends.

Nathaniel fell silent. After a moment, he shook his head. "No need."

Mason was perplexed. "Why not? This could strengthen your relationship with Mrs. Rainsworth."

Nathaniel countered, "If I attend a party in my current condition, how will high society perceive me?"

Mason, suddenly remembering Nathaniel's blindness, was stunned. "They would certainly gossip," he admitted.

"And if I take Ceci, she'll endure those judgments as well," Nathaniel added.

Mason had previously been impressed by his boss's composure following his sight loss, assuming Nathaniel didn't care. He now realized Nathaniel did care; he simply recovered his composure more quickly, understanding that life continued regardless.

"You're right. I hadn't considered that."

No man wished his loved one to suffer alongside him or face public criticism.

As Mason looked up, he saw Cecilia descending the stairs. She had overheard their conversation. She stood motionless, her throat tight, then quietly returned upstairs, preserving Nathaniel's dignity.

That evening, Nathaniel prepared for the party. Elliot, bored with staying home, learned of this and wanted to go.

"Mommy, can we go too?"

"No, Mr. Rainsworth is going for business. We shouldn't bother him, okay?"

Despite his best efforts, Elliot's pleas were unsuccessful. Mason, observing the exchange, gave Cecilia a grateful look.

Before leaving, he whispered, "Mrs. Rainsworth, I sense you still care for Mr. Rainsworth, don't you?"

"I simply dislike attending parties," Cecilia replied coolly.

Mason recognized their shared stubbornness. "If you and Elliot pick up Mr. Rainsworth around nine tonight, I'm sure he'd be pleased. The party ends at ten."

Cecilia remained silent as Mason left. Seeing Elliot's disappointment, and remembering Nathaniel's words, she asked, "Eli, shall we go pick up Mr. Rainsworth around nine tonight?"

Elliot's face brightened. He longed to go out. "Okay."