The Unwavering Heart That Broke (Nathalie and Lance) novel Chapter 288

Inside the private lounge, a strikingly handsome man lounged on the sofa, watching him with a cool, almost indifferent look. “Nathalie and I aren’t divorced yet.”

Nicol just shrugged. “The court date’s coming up. Divorce is only a matter of time.”

He sauntered over and dropped down across from Lance. “So, you and Neely go way back, huh? Never figured he’d pick someone like you. Makes me question his taste.”

Lance didn’t even blink at the jab. His dark eyes, sharp and unreadable, stayed calm as he asked, “You’re Nathalie’s protector now?”

“That’s right. Why? You got a problem with that?” Nicol shot back, half wondering what Lance actually wanted.

Lance replied in that smooth, almost detached tone of his. Everything about him, from the way he spoke to the way he sat, seemed effortlessly refined, quietly commanding. Even without raising his voice, the pressure in the room felt heavier, like the air had thickened.

“I don’t care who sent you. Since you’re looking out for Nathalie, protect her with your life. And keep me updated on anything that happens around her.”

Nicol felt that tension but held his ground. “And why would I take orders from you?”

“Neely handed over the debt you owed him. Now you answer to me.” Lance’s voice got a little colder. “I won’t hurt her, and I won’t let anyone else get the chance either.”

Nicol couldn’t help but snort. “You sure talk a good game. If you’re so devoted, why’s Ms. Blair dumping you? Maybe your big love story isn’t as real as you think.”

“That’s between me and my wife.” This time, Lance’s tone was icy, clearly losing patience.

Nicol kept pushing, though. He just couldn’t resist. But then again, if Neely vouched for this guy, he probably wasn’t all bad.

Pulling out his phone, Nicol called Neely. “Hey, Neely.”

Nicol chuckled, finally relaxing. “Neely always sees things clearly. You know, Lance, you can’t run your little empire with me. Still, for Neely’s sake, maybe I’ll keep you in the loop about Nathalie, when I think it matters.”

Lance’s face darkened, his words suddenly biting cold. “If you’re not on my side, why should I let you stay near her? I don’t need extra headaches.”

The grin faded from Nicol’s face. “You think you can just swap me out?”

Lance reached for his cigarettes, lit one, and watched the smoke curl lazily toward the ceiling.

His eyes were even more unreadable than before. “Depends on whether you learn to cooperate.”

The last hint of a smile vanished from Nicol’s face. “If you were really that powerful, you wouldn’t have gone begging Neely for help. Face it, Lance, you can’t get rid of me.”