Beyond His Silence

chapter 4

CHAPTER 4 (Isabela’s POV)

The morning sunlight spilled through the hotel room, and I stirred awake to the soft sound of Nathan humming beside me. My eyes fluttered open, and I found him already sitting up, leaning down to press a gentle kiss on my forehead.

“Good morning,” he murmured, his dark eyes warm and amused.

“Morning,” I replied sleepily, stretching and yawning.

“I’ll get us some breakfast,” he said, planting a light kiss on my lips before heading to the door. “Don’t get too comfortable,” he teased, and I smiled, feeling his presence linger even as he left the room.

After showering and dressing for the day, I found him back at the room, arranging some fresh fruit and pastries on the table. The hotel room still felt unreal—so much space, light, and calm, almost like a tiny palace—but being with Nathan made it feel more like home than anything else.

He handed me a croissant and asked casually, “Do you know where your friend’s house is?”

I shook my head. “No, I’ll call her and ask. I don’t want to show up at the wrong place.”

I dialed her number, and within moments, her bright, excited voice greeted me. “Isabela! Oh my God, you’re in Singapore!”

“I am! I landed safely,” I said. “I wanted to know if it’s okay if I come by today?”

She laughed. “I wish! I’m at my aunty's house today, and we’re running errands. But you can come tomorrow—I’ll be around at the family house and can host you properly.”

I looked at Nathan, shrugging. “She said tomorrow, actually.”

He leaned back, thoughtful. “If that’s the case… we could go to Maxwell’s place today. Introduce you to his fiancée, explore the city a bit, enjoy the sights before your visit tomorrow.”

I nodded. “That sounds perfect.”

Soon, a sleek, black luxury car arrived at the hotel, gleaming in the afternoon sun. The driver opened the rear door with a polite nod, and Nathan helped me inside. The ride was smooth and quiet, the city passing by like a living postcard.

When we reached Maxwell’s mansion, my jaw nearly dropped. The estate stretched wide, with manicured gardens, fountains, and a grand entrance that screamed opulence. I glanced at Nathan, wide-eyed. “Wow… this is your friend’s house?”

He smiled at my awe. “Yes. Maxwell’s family is… well, they’re incredible.”

Maxwell and his fiancée came rushing out to greet Nathan enthusiastically, hugging him tightly and laughing as if no time had passed. Then Maxwell turned to me, extending a hand.

“Isabela! So glad to finally meet you,” he said warmly.

“It’s such a pleasure,” I replied, shaking his hand, a little nervous under the grandeur of the house.

They led us inside, showing me around the lavish mansion. Everything sparkled, from the polished floors to the decorative ceilings. I felt a mix of excitement and slight intimidation everything here was so big, so perfectly curated but Nathan’s presence grounded me.

Later, as the evening set in, we stepped out briefly to enjoy the cool night air. I noticed something peculiar almost immediately—people were staring, some even taking photos as we passed.

I glanced at Nathan, curious. “Why… are people looking at us like that?”

He shrugged lightly, his expression calm. “It’s nothing important. Just people who know my family.”

I raised an eyebrow, but he didn’t elaborate further. “Your family is… known?” I asked carefully.

“Kinda,” he said with a small smile tugging at his lips. “But there’s nothing to worry about, okay?”

I nodded, though my curiosity was piqued. I decided not to press further; tonight was meant to be fun, and Nathan’s presence alone made it perfect.

Back inside, Maxwell’s friends were welcoming and curious about me. They asked about my work as a nurse, laughed about Nathan’s past antics, and teased him for how quickly he’d fallen for me.

Nathan leaned closer, his hand brushing mine. “Don’t mind them, Isa,” he murmured softly. “They’re just teasing.”

I smiled, warmth spreading through me. It felt surreal meeting his friends, seeing how well he was loved, and how easy it was to belong, even for just a little while.

The conversation turned toward Maxwell’s upcoming wedding, and the excitement in the room was palpable. Friends shared stories, teased each other about past romances, and laughed at old memories. Nathan joined in effortlessly, relaxed and natural, and I felt myself laughing along, swept up in the moment.

As the night went on, the energy remained light and joyful. For the first time since landing, I felt completely at ease in this new world.

Later, as we returned to our hotel, Nathan’s hand found mine, warm and grounding. I leaned in, pressing my head against his shoulder, grateful for his quiet presence amidst all the grandeur, cameras, and curious stares.

Then Nathan spoke softly, soonest, you’ll see my family.”

My stomach twisted nervously. “Are you sure they’ll like me?”

He squeezed my hand. “How did being with my friends feel?”

“I enjoyed every bit of it,” I said honestly, smiling back at him.

“Keep that energy, love,” he said, pulling me close. “I’m here with you, okay?”

I nodded, feeling a strange mix of nerves and excitement. With him by my side, maybe I could handle whatever tomorrow brought.