"If not that, then what?" Elena's mind still echoed with the harsh words from earlier, the taunts of those thugs lingering. "Oh, I almost forgot—congratulations on your engagement. I hope you and Gwendolyn live a happy life together."
The moment those words left her mouth, a sharp pang shot through her heart, twisting in a way she hadn't anticipated.
Nathaniel's reaction was no better. He didn't know why, but hearing Elena congratulate him felt far worse than any insult she could throw. It was like she had driven a knife deeper than ever before.
Before he could stop himself, he snapped, "I'm not marrying her!"
Elena froze, blinking in surprise at his outburst, while Nathaniel himself seemed caught off guard by his own words.
'I... what did I just say?'
His thoughts scrambled as he tr
