Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 150

Natalia trudged into her home, the day's weight heavy on her shoulders. Without a word, she made a beeline for the sanctuary of the bathroom.

A shower later, her spirits had lifted ever so slightly.

Scarlett eyed her curiously. "What's got you looking so glum?"

Natalia bit her lip, her voice barely above a whisper. "Got bitten by a rabid dog."

"Hamilton's been hounding you again?" Scarlett asked with a frown.

Natalia shook her head. "Ran into him, and he wouldn't leave me alone."

Scarlett's gaze flickered with concern. "Natalia, do you think... maybe Hamilton's really fallen for you? That's why he can't let go? I mean, what doesn't that guy have? What woman wouldn't fall at his feet? Why's he so obsessed with you?" Natalia laughed dryly after a pause. "Guess he's just a masochist. Takes me for granted when I'm around, but can't stand the thought of losing me."

Scarlett's lips quirked in spite of herself. It did seem that way, after all.

Men are such creatures of contradiction!

For the next few days, Natalia saw no sign of Hamilton. She didn't inquire or show any interest in his whereabouts.

With the new Marketing Manager yet to take the reins, Natalia found herself immersed in her work routine.

Perhaps it was the year-end frenzy, but work was relentless. Ronin tried to catch up over dinner a few times, but Natalia was swamped.

She was clocking out at ten each night.

One evening, just as Natalia was leaving work at a more decent hour, her phone rang. It was Alden.

"Ms. Jenkins, I need to discuss something with you."

Natalia frowned. "What is it, Alden? Just shoot."

Alden hesitated. "Can we talk face to face? Let's grab some dinner. It's been a while since we had a proper chat."

Natalia could sense Alden's intention to mediate between her and Hamilton. His attempts were always half-hearted, yet he was the one who seemed most invested in their affair. Now that she was free from Hamilton, Alden surely hoped to patch things up between them. But some things had to be addressed, so Natalia agreed.

She met Alden at a diner near her office. Arriving after her shift, she found Alden already waiting.

"Ms. Jenkins, over here," Alden called out, waving her over.

Natalia settled across from him, noticing he had ordered all her favorites.

have a sweet tooth," Alden said as he

Natalia stayed silent.

never broached

Natalia initiated. "Alden, you said you had something

of answering, Alden furrowed his brows. "Ms. Jenkins,

cup and smiled sadly. "Yes, it's over. I'm sorry, Alden, but I'm no longer

palpable. "Why are you

his brother who was

gem, yet Hamilton chased after Eveleen. Alden couldn't fathom it. If it were anyone other than Natalia, they would

marry her. He's been ignoring her lately. She's been showing up at the

you don't need to tell me this. Whether your brother sees her or not, it's none

be your

but not at the cost of entangling herself with Hamilton again.

wouldn't you consider reconciling with my brother? I bet that would drive

gently. "No, Alden, there's

beside her. Looking up, Natalia saw Hamilton standing

Alden's eyes lit up. "What brings you

Alden, then down

terrible actor. Even she could see right through the ruse. This dinner was

saw Alden. Thought I'd say hello.

had missed her terribly, and the distance she

send to the top floor were now all handled by Linda.

body still

made her feel uncomfortable all over. Plus, he was way too close to her, and she was almost shrouded

I've matters to attend to. Got to

so much to bring them together, and he gestured

gripped her

me for a

Natalia didn't deny it.

really didn't want

full. Please enjoy your

let out a chuckle, his grip on her wrist not

hurry for a date with

to get

you let go

a mocking

"Are you sure?"