Chapter 15

Chapter 15

Every word Jeff spoke was like a sharp blade stabbing into Nathan’s heart. At some point, Nathan’s expression turned visibly grim, and it continued to become increasingly glum.

Nathan interrupted before Jeff could finish singing praises for the match made in heaven by saying, “I have some urgent business at noon, so let’s reschedule this lunch.”

“Alright. I’ll see you around, Mr. Meyer,” Jeff said. Then, he reminded, “Don’t forget to send me your requirements for the photos when you’re free. I’ll forward them to Ms. Floss.”

Jeff thought this was the first time they had ever met each other. It was unclear whether Nathan didn’t hear Jeff or intentionally ignored him, but he didn’t look back and walked away briskly.

Earlier, Jeff and Nathan had been getting along well. But he seemed to have suddenly changed into another person. This abrupt change left Jeff feeling puzzled. He couldn’t figure out who could have upset Nathan.

Meanwhile, David, who was driving, had a similar question. However, his question was directed at Kathleen. “What’s wrong? You look a bit upset.”

Kathleen didn’t give him a direct answer. She relaxed a little and said, “Maybe it’s the sudden change in the weather. It’s gotten a bit cold.”

David didn’t think much of it. He went on to suggest, “How about we have something warm for lunch today? Mr. Atwood mentioned he felt like having fondue. We can bring the ingredients to his place and enjoy a steaming fondue together. You might feel better afterward.

It was a season–appropriate suggestion.

Not wanting to dampen his spirits, Kathleen went along with him to the supermarket to buy some food ingredients. By the time they arrived at Clive’s home with their groceries, it was right around lunchtime.

Clive was delighted to see his two students arriving with food ingredients.

“You two came at just the right time.” He took the bags into the kitchen. Smiling at Kathleen, he added, “Coincidentally, Nathan is here too. It’s rare to have everyone together. We should all enjoy lunch together.”

David instinctively glanced at Kathleen.

“Sure,” Kathleen replied, her expression unchanged. She even smiled back at Clive and went into the kitchen to help with the preparations. Once everything was ready, she joined them in the dining room.

By then, David and Nathan had been ignoring each other as they sat at the dining table. They both pretended that the other didn’t exist.

The fondue on the table started bubbling with steam, but the people around it were silent. No one started a conversation. The sound of David taking food and dipping it into the fondue was even louder than the bubbling broth itself.

Kathleen sat between David and Clive, hoping to steer clear of Nathan. But when she looked up, she realized they were seated across from each other.

Nathan watched her for a while before politely striking up a conversation with Clive. “Mr. Atwood, I was wondering how Kathy’s been during her time abroad. Has her work and life been going well?”

He could have asked Kathleen directly, but he chose to ask Clive instead.

Clive didn’t think much of it. While picking up a meatball, he recalled, “Kathy’s been doing great Everyone she’s worked with speaks highly of her. All my friends say I’m lucky to have taught such an accomplished student.”

“She hasn’t given you any trouble, has she?” Nathan responded.

Clive shook his head and replied, “Of course not! In fact, thanks to Kathy and David visiting me now and then, my days have been far less dull.”

As he spoke, he glanced at Kathleen and David.

His smile widened as he said, “Mr. Meyer, this is David Clarke. He’s also my student. Kathy must have already introduced you to him. Of all the students I’ve taught, these two are the most outstanding. My point is, perhaps-”

His intention to play matchmaker between them was clear.

But Nathan didn’t let him finish. In a polite but firm tone, he cut Clive off. “Mr. Atwood, I understand what you mean, but they’re not suited for each other.”

Clive’s expression stiffened slightly.

Nathan cast a glance at David and said indifferently, “Actually, I came because I have something to discuss with Kathy. I’ve already chosen a suitor for her.”

“Oh? That’s news to me. She never mentioned it, Clive responded in surprise.

Out of concern, he couldn’t help but ask, “Who is he? Do I know him?”

“Yes, I believe you do,” Nathan replied.

“And what’s his situation like?” Clive asked for further details.

Nathan paused briefly before saying, “He has his own company. So, he’s financially well–off

and can support Kathy in doing anything she wishes. He has a good reputation, and he’s also. very fond of her-”

Kathleen could no longer hold back and interrupted, “Enough!”

Her outburst drew everyone’s attention..

Clive looked at Kathleen quizzically. Something must be wrong for someone as gentle and soft -spoken as her to suddenly snap. His gaze shifted between her and Nathan, and he suspected that they might be having a tiff.

Kathleen realized that she’d lost her composure momentarily. She took a deep breath to calm herself and said, “Sorry, but I have no interest in marrying for money. I’m happy with my current work, and my salary is enough for me to do what I want. I don’t need your concern.” Nathan replied calmly, “If I don’t look out for you, who will?”

“I’m an adult, and I can make my own life decisions. I don’t need anyone to take responsibility for me or, for that matter, to look out for me!” Kathleen shot back.