The event was being held at the grand estate belonging to Nathan's father, lit from the outside with warm golden lights that made the entire place look almost dreamlike.
Luxury cars lined the driveway, and elegantly dressed guests moved through the entrance under the watch of staff and security.
As the car stopped, Audrey felt her nerves return. Nathan stepped out first, then offered her his hand.
She hesitated for only a second before placing her hand in his.
The simple contact steadied her more than it should have.
When they entered together, heads turned.
Audrey felt the attention immediately.
It moved through the room in waves—curious glances, speculative expressions, the silent assessment of people accustomed to measuring others by clothing, posture, and association.
Nathan did not seem the least bit bothered.
If anything, his expression hardened slightly, as if daring anyone to question the woman on his arm.
"You're tense," he murmured as they moved deeper into the hall.
"I feel like everyone is watching."
"They are," he said.
Audrey glanced at him.
Nathan's mouth curved slightly. "That's their problem."
Despite herself, she smiled.
Nathan guided her toward an older man standing among several guests near the center of the room. Even before Nathan spoke, Audrey knew who he was.
He carried the sort of presence age and authority created—quiet, commanding, impossible to ignore.
"Father," Nathan said.
The man turned.
His gaze moved first to Nathan, then to Audrey. It was not rude, but it was careful, observant, and impossible to fool.
"Happy birthday, sir," Audrey said respectfully, stepping forward and offering the wrapped package with both hands. "I brought you something. I hope you'll like it."
For a moment, Nathan's father simply looked at her, perhaps surprised that she had brought a gift at all.
Then he accepted it.
"Thank you," he said.
He opened it there, slowly, while Nathan remained at Audrey's side.
When he lifted the pen set and read the card, something subtle changed in his expression.
Not dramatic. Not overly emotional.
But warmer.
He ran a thumb briefly over the journal's leather cover. "You chose this yourself?"
"Yes, sir."
"Why this?"
Audrey met his gaze carefully. "Because men who build legacies usually carry many responsibilities. I thought something for your thoughts and reflections would be more meaningful than something ornamental."
A brief silence followed.
Then, to Audrey's quiet surprise, Nathan's father smiled.
A real one.
"It's thoughtful," he said. "And rare."
Relief washed through her so quickly she nearly felt lightheaded.
"I appreciate it."
"You're welcome, sir."
Nathan glanced at her, and though he said nothing, there was unmistakable approval in his eyes.
His father looked between them and seemed to understand more than either of them had spoken aloud.
"You have good taste, Nathan," the older man said calmly.
Audrey felt her cheeks warm.
Nathan did not deny it.