Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 33

Natalia was stunned by Scarlett’s words. She let out a sarcastic chuckle. “How is that even possible?”

Anyone who had seen Hamilton with Eveleen wouldn’t dream of saying such a thing. If there was anything in the world Hamilton couldn’t part with, it was Eveleen. His tenderness was reserved for Eveleen alone.

“Why not?” Scarlett persisted.

Natalia didn’t want to dwell on it and quickly changed the subject. “It’s been ages since we grabbed a bite together. What are you in the mood for? My treat.”

Sure enough, the mention of food successfully distracted Scarlett.

“Let me think…”

Scarlett eventually picked a trendy bistro.

They chatted and laughed as they entered the restaurant, only to run into Victor, who had a girl by his side.

Victor’s gaze flickered when he saw Natalia walk in.

Natalia ignored him and continued inside with Scarlett, heading to a table far from where Victor was sitting. Once they were seated, Scarlett excused herself to the restroom. That was when Victor came over and took Scarlett’s seat.

“Ms. Jenkins, what a coincidence.”

Natalia stared at the menu, not bothering to look up.

“Not really, Mr. Henkel. You could’ve pretended not to see me.”

Victor chuckled. “Why the cold shoulder?”

Natalia finally looked up. “We don’t get along. You do know that, don’t you, Mr. Henkel?”

“How is that? We always used to have such good conversations.”

Natalia felt a headache coming on.

and Victor used to get along just fine, but ever since her relationship with Hamilton was made public,

had a hunch about what he was thinking – if she was a good girl,

But if she was the sort who’d sleep with anyone for money, then he

was probably a common trait among his crowd of trust fund kids – treating her

Chapter 33

think there’s anything

narrowed slightly. “Don’t you want to know what happened between Hamilton and

telling herself not to think about it. But the thoughts came anyway, she

you don’t need to tell me.”

help. Ms. Jenkins? Last time I mentioned the phrase ‘usurping the nest‘, you denied it. But deep down,

will show up at events proudly with Eveleen on his arm. Would he do the same with you? Even though they haven’t made up yet, everyone knows they were an item. It’s all above. board. And you? How many people has Hamilton let in on your little secret? Natalia, you’ll always be the one who has to hide in the shadows.”

heart felt like it was being shredded,

“So what?”

keep

Mr. Henkel. I’m just his

I’m not insane.”

if it’s just about the money, why stick to just him? I’ve told you before, I can match his price. Natalia, give me a shot. Or name your price. How about it?”

the menu tighter. “Really? Even if I did name a price, would you dare take Mr.

Fowler said if I can get you to meet

ghostly pale. She suppressed the turmoil in her heart, forcing a smile. “When

if it might have been during a recent spat with Hamilton. Hamilton, though cold and detached, had a fierce possessive streak. If she threatened to leave, it would undoubtedly upset him. In his anger, it wouldn’t

still interested in

then Victor shattered her last hope. “Just the other day. I mentioned I was still you, and he told me

Natalia’s hand. A bright red cut appeared instantly. Droplets of blood started to form,

Chapter 33

final shred of dignity, and gave Victor a weary smile. “Did you forget.

undeterred by her blatant rejection and disdain. He suddenly leaned in

the privilege to set a price. Once Hamilton kicks you

smirking

advise you to find a new benefactor

Victor stood and left.

to the menu, now with a deep shade of crimson with