CEO's Passion: Love by Mistake

Natalie did not believe Stanley's claims of loving her. She was confident that he was only fooling himself into falling for her because of her similarities to Joyce.

The person he truly loved was Joyce. He was only attracted to Natalie because her personality at that time reminded him of the old Joyce.

Now, she suspected that Stanley had figured out where his affections lay, which spurred him to invite Joyce to stay behind and care for him.

It definitely helped when Shane reminded Stanley of his past feelings for Joyce.

Initially, the truth had been difficult for Stanley to accept. After he calmed himself down and thought things through, it did not seem entirely implausible.

I'm sure of it. Stanley has come to his senses.

Still, a concern niggled at Natalie's mind. How will Stanley treat Joyce from now on, knowing that the person he has always loved is her?

She wondered if he would let go of the past and focus on building his relationship with Joyce or conceal his feelings in his bullheadedness to continue hating the Rivers family.

Natalie's prolonged silence confused Joyce, who called out to her friend over the receiver. “Earth to Nat? Are you still there?”

She snapped out of her thoughts and replied with a forced smile, “I'm still here.”

“What happened to you? Why did you go radio silent?” asked Joyce.

Natalie lowered her gaze and mumbled, “Nothing. I just got carried away while thinking about some things. By the way, you haven't answered my question, Joyce. Did you agree to take care of Stanley?”

Joyce replied, “I did. What else can I do? We're at his mercy. What if he goes back on his words if I refuse his request? He could sue my dad and force me to undergo an abortion. And in any case, he's in this sorry state because of my family. We should take responsibility for his recovery.”

“Yes, but aren't you worried, Joyce?” Natalie could not hide her anxiety.

Her friend blinked in confusion and asked, “What do you mean?”

“Your feelings for Stanley, of course.” Natalie sighed and continued, “I know you've forgotten all your shared memories and feelings for him, but you could fall for him again after being in close quarters for a long time. It might even spur you to recover your memories of him.”

Her concern warmed Joyce's heart.

Joyce knew her friend was worried about her reliving her past.

She smiled and said reassuringly, “Don't worry, Nat. That won't happen. I've set clear boundaries this time. I will never develop feelings for him while I care for him, nor will I recover my lost memories. In fact, I'll make myself scarce only until he needs my help with anything.”

Natalie was not convinced. She massaged her temples and muttered, “I know, but I just can't help being worried. You can leave him alone, but I can't guarantee he'll return the favor.”