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.

was one of Hamilton’s pals. She and Victor used to get along just fine, but ever since her

hunch about what he was thinking – if she was a

her. But if she was the sort who’d sleep with anyone for money, then he couldn’t

trait among his crowd of trust fund kids – treating her like a plaything, despising her lowliness, all while enjoying

Chapter 33

there’s anything left for us to talk about.”

narrowed slightly. “Don’t you want to know what

herself not to think about it. But the thoughts came anyway, she just couldn’t

want to know, and you don’t need to tell

intensified. “Does running away help. Ms. Jenkins? Last time I mentioned the phrase ‘usurping the nest‘, you denied

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

daggers, each one painfully true. Natalia’s heart felt like it was being shredded, the pain almost numbing. She forced a strained smile.

“So what?”

why keep hanging around

Victor. “You know it, Mr. Henkel. I’m just his lover. What else

I’m not insane.”

eyebrow. “Well, 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

tighter. “Really? Even if I did name

about that, Ms. Jenkins. Mr. Fowler said if I can get you to meet with me, then you’re mine for the taking.

face turning ghostly pale. She suppressed the turmoil in her heart, forcing

it would undoubtedly upset him. In his anger, it wouldn’t be surprising if he said something like that. Just like that night at

interested

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

paper was sharp, and it sliced into Natalia’s hand. A bright red cut appeared instantly. Droplets of blood started to form,

Chapter 33

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

by her blatant rejection and disdain. He suddenly leaned in close to Natalia.

set a price. Once Hamilton kicks you to the curb, you’ll just be a plaything for anyone’s amusement, worthless.”

back, smirking at

find a new

Victor stood

the menu, now with a deep