Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 125

Natalia stepped out of her apartment, snowflakes gently tumbling from the sky like delicate white feathers. But her mind was clouded with the memory of Hamilton’s darkening expression when she had let those words slip from her lips.

She knew they would upset him. Yet, she had spoken them all the same.

If their relationship was destined to fizzle out, she didn’t want to cling to a shred of false hope.

Taking a deep breath to fight back the bitterness rising in her throat, Natalia cast a final glance at the glowing windows of the apartment, mustered a wry smile, and walked away.

Inside the apartment, Hamilton remained perched on the sofa, his face as cold as if frosted

over.

Time dragged on before he let out a scornful laugh.

Being with him was just a matter of convenience for her, wasn’t it? She must’ve been counting down the days until their agreement ended.

Normally, he might have admired Natalia’s pragmatism and clarity. But now, her sensibility irked him to no end.

Was being with him such a miserable ordeal?

Yet, he didn’t hold her back.

Just as Natalia had said, he wasn’t exactly pining for her. Women were hardly scarce in his life. The concessions he had made for Natalia had already pushed his boundaries too far.

He admitted his possessiveness might be a tad excessive, but he had remained indifferent when Eveleen had stirred up a breakup, so why cling to Natalia?

Hamilton chuckled dryly, carelessly lighting up a cigarette. He truly disliked this feeling of losing control.

After all, she was just a lover–no need to get worked up. She could do as she pleased.

As long as she stayed clean, body and soul, and didn’t mess around with other men, he couldn’t care less.

Once the cigarette was finished, he changed clothes and left the apartment.

The place felt empty without her, and the desire to linger vanished.

The next day at the office, Natalia ran into Alden Fowler, who seemed to have been waiting for her.

“Ms. Jenkins, did you hear my brother nearly killed Gideon last night?” Alden approached her urgently.

Natalia’s brow furrowed in confusion. “What are you talking about?”

Alden’s face was grim. “Last night, my brother almost took Gideon’s life. He went straight for Gideon’s crotch. You didn’t know?”

Natalia’s mouth opened slightly, speechless.

Had Hamilton come back bloodied last night because of Gideon?

Her heart, which had been calm, suddenly churned with turmoil.

Alden frowned at her. “Ms. Jenkins, did my brother go after Gideon because of you?”

gaze, and after a moment,

it also because of you last

“My brother confronted Gideon once

together.

no idea

to ask, “Will there be trouble

reputable guy, but the Browns wielded considerable clout in Silkwood

at her. “Ms. Jenkins, are you

bitterness. “I just don’t want to cause any trouble.”

going on between you and my

have nothing to do

then reassured her, “Don’t worry. The Browns aren’t going to

nodded in gratitude. “Thank

to press her about her relationship with his brother, but Natalia had already turned and

Hamilton a message that read, [Thank you, Mr. Fowler, for handling the

Hamilton never replied. They had parted on bad terms the night before, and Natalia knew he was likely

final page, and the end–of–year summary

2/5

12:06

Chapter 125

there, but they didn’t exchange a single glance.

contracts needing Hamilton’s signature. “Ms. Jenkins, Mr. Fowler has signed

a moment

took a deep breath and left the

airport. Natalia hesitated but decided to inform Hamilton, [Going

until departure. She had planned to wait for Scarlett and grab a bite together, but then

I have to cover a shift during my vacation. I’m sorry, Natalia. When you get

was approaching. But her birthdays were never much of a celebration. Typically, Scarlett would send a message or, if not too

there

own,” Natalia resolved with a note

State held a unique place in Natalia’s heart, a place she yearned to revisit. She wanted

once

time her plane touched down, it was past eleven

suitcase through

remembered. The damp, icy air caught her off guard, making

she was dressed, the cold seemed to pierce through her layers.

her scarf tighter and hailed

a

enjoy the sights of

“I lived here for a

her with surprise,

to the passing scenery, and she remained

3/5

12:06

festive atmosphere of New Year’s in River State was palpable, but she never cared much for the holidays, be it New Year’s or Christmas, It seemed like every cheerful, lit–up house had nothing to

the car accident that took