?Chapter 601:


    “It is allowed.” Nate’s voice was smooth as he leaned in, taking the box and cing it directly in her hand.


    As she began unwrapping it, she nced up at him.


    “Did she reallye all the way here just to give you this gift?”


    “No.” Something sharp flickered in Nate’s dark eyes, his gaze steady on hers.


    “It is probably for you.”


    Though Nate was in Lyhaton, the Elder Council of the Independent Continent had been keeping quiet tabs on him. Perhaps word of Corrine had spread, drawing their attention. They had even attempted to ce her under surveince—an effort Nate had swiftly dismantled, eliminating everyst one of their spies. But such a move had only deepened the Elder Council’s suspicions.


    By now, Corrine had lifted the lid of the box. Insidey an exquisite dagger—sleek and deadly. Its hilt was intricately carved with a lion, while swirling cloud-like patterns danced along the de’s surface. But what stood out most was its deep, shadowy ckness, absorbing every trace of light, even beneath the soft glow of themp.


    It was a weapon designed for the dark.


    Corrine arched an eyebrow at Nate.


    “So, it seems your aunt’s quite interested in me, huh?”


    It was bing evident that the people of the Independent Continent had already taken notice of her connection with Nate.


    Setting the box down casually on the table, Corrine shifted the conversation.


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    “By the way, how are you nning to celebrate your birthday? Are you heading back to the Independent Continent for a grand celebration?”


    Considering Nate’s status, she imagined his birthday would be nothing short of extravagant.


    But Nate’s dark eyes flickered with something unreadable.


    “No, I will stay here in Lyhaton and celebrate with my grandmother.”


    Corrine tilted her head slightly.


    “Why is your grandmother staying here alone?”


    She had always been curious, but the question had seemed too personal to bring up. Now that the conversation had naturally led there, she hesitated only briefly before voicing it.


    Nate’s lips curled into a faint smile.


    “They are having a bit of a tiff.”


    Corrine felt an unexpected sense of relief. Just moments ago, she had been mentally scolding herself for prying into something too personal.


    Nate suddenly changed the subject.


    “When are you nning toe with me?”


    They had agreed that once Corrine wrapped up hermitments, she would apany him to the Independent Continent. But with Carl’s health only recently improving and the uing triennial business conference, she had her hands full.


    Nate seemed to sense her hesitation.


    “It’s fine. Just let me know when you’re ready.”


    “Alright.”


    A small pause settled between them before he asked, “Hungry? What do you feel like eating?”


    “You decide.”


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