Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 47

Natalia paused for a moment, then let out a dry chuckle. “Yeah, it’s quite…refreshing.”

Hamilton watched her silently for a few beats before speaking up, “Let’s put Eveleen’s chapter to rest, shall we? No need to dredge it up at every turn.”

The reproach in his voice was unmistakable.

Natalia felt the bitter taste of defeat. “Mr. Fowler, you saw everything, didn’t you? Did I bring up the issue? Didn’t I tell you that what happened had nothing to do with Eveleen?”

Hamilton’s face contorted with displeasure. “You said as much, but is that what you really think?”

“So I’m not even allowed to think now?”

Hamilton glanced at her and said nothing more.

Natalia’s discomfort was palpable, her whole demeanor off–kilter. Walking was a struggle for her; her legs were shaky, yet she was too proud to ask Hamilton for help.

Hamilton frowned at her stumbling, but eventually, he bent down and scooped her into his

arms.

“I can walk on my own. You might want to check on Ms. Schafer; she’s hurt too, and because of me. That’s a weight I can’t bear.”

Hamilton looked at her, his gaze icy. “I’m not keen on being treated like a jerk again.”

A dull ache settled in Natalia’s chest. So that was it. He was only doing this to avoid being labeled a jerk.

“There’s no one left for me but Scarlett. Don’t worry, I’ve made things clear to her. I’m well aware of what I mean to you, so no one will call you a jerk.”

Hamilton snorted softly. “I don’t need anyone to judge whether I’m a jerk or not. As for you, I’m just fulfilling my obligations. Don’t think there’s anything special about it.”

Natalia’s lips were taut. After a moment, she laughed bitterly, “Of course, I’ve always known. there’s nothing special about me to you.”

Hamilton remained silent. With a stoic face, he carried her to the car. They had switched cars; his usual ride must have been sent for cleaning.

The drive home was silent.

Once there, Hamilton carried Natalia upstairs. It seemed he was just as he said, fulfilling his obligation. Not out of compassion, nor guilt, simply because he felt it was his duty. The duty of a man who had gotten her pregnant, nothing more.

At the door, before Hamilton could unlock it, it swung open from the inside.

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figure approached. “Mr.

then looked down

take care of your meals

was silent for a moment, but did not refuse. She did need someone to care

wouldn’t let Scarlett help, and he certainly wouldn’t do it himself. So,

for

no trouble at all.”

Natalia into the bedroom

at the woman lying in bed, his brow furrowed slightly. Aside from one moment of tears when she awoke, she’d shown no signs of distress

heaviness in his chest, but seeing her still–pale face, he couldn’t help

anything you’d fancy

not hungry,” Natalia mumbled from under the covers, not

the nanny make some chicken soup.

really don’t have an appetite.”

now. If you don’t care for it, nobody else

“Serve her a bowl of the

The nanny nodded.

brought to her,

want

nanny looked conflicted. “Ms. Jenkins, please try

the nanny, but she truly couldn’t stomach it. “I’d prefer something

make you

took away the soup, and Hamilton’s frown deepened.

asked for something light.”

a moment, then said, “Prepare lighter meals for her, and ask

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Chapter 47

the nanny hurried to the kitchen.

bedroom door before

Despite her lack of appetite, Natalia ate. She had to admit, Hamilton was right. She was taking care of her own body. If she didn’t

was always so rational and clear–headed.

bitter while the nanny watched her with a

really good to

the nanny, responding with a wry