Chapter 2081

Nathaniel took in the way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop, choosing mercy over further inquiry.

“I trust nothing like this will ever happen again,” Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the boutique’s high-ceilinged hush.

“Y-Yes, absolutely,” Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun at the back of her head trembled.

Only once Nathaniel turned away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving her almost dizzy.

A moment ago, her fate had dangled on someone else’s whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan and then to Ivy.

If Ivy hadn’t stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos or worse.

Ivy turned to Jonathan, her posture unexpectedly shy. “Thank you,” she murmured, sincerity softening every line of her face.