Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 163

Eveleen's entanglement with the kidnapping case was a serious criminal matter, one that typically would be out of Caspian's jurisdiction.

But the thought of this young girl, clueless and deceived, it just didn't sit right with him.

As expected, Natalia's face contorted into a visage of utter shock the moment he broke the news.

"Mr. Spiegel, what are you saying?"

For a moment, Natalia thought she had misheard, or perhaps misunderstood his words.

Caspian watched her, lips pursed, before he repeated himself.

"Eveleen was part of the crew that orchestrated your kidnapping. She was in cahoots with Orpheus."

Natalia's brow furrowed, and she struggled to find her words.

"How did you come to know this?"

Caspian pulled out his smartphone and showed her a video clip.

The footage was of Orpheus, post-arrest, a shadow of his former self, battered and bruised, but confessing the entire plot.

He laid it all out - from why he had snatched her, to Eveleen's involvement, down to the bitter decision to leave her for dead at the bottom of a ravine. It was all there, painfully clear. Natalia's grip on the phone tightened.

So that was it. It had all been a setup from the start.

A bitter laugh escaped her as she looked up, her eyes tinged with the redness of anger.

"Mr. Spiegel, thank you for telling me. Is there a way to ensure Eveleen won't be granted bail or a reduced sentence?"

With Orpheus's testimony, Eveleen's involvement was undeniable.

But Natalia knew neither the Schafers nor Eveleen would go down without a fight.

And Hamilton might just lend a hand to help.

With a wry smile and the sour taste of betrayal on her tongue, she posed the question. Caspian raised an eyebrow; the girl was tougher and sharper than he'd anticipated. "Since I've shared this with you, rest assured, I have a plan. Leave it with me."

A small, grateful smile crossed Natalia's lips. "Thank you," she said after a pause.

She laughed lightly, adding, "I'm just not sure how to repay your kindness."

Caspian's assistance was invaluable, and she felt indebted.

Caspian chuckled. "What? You think I have an ulterior motive?"

she didn't

nobody would help another

initial approach had surprised her, but his company

Jenkins, rest easy. I'm taken, loyal heart and soul,

he referred to with

sidestepped the implication, and Caspian, realizing she wanted to change the subject, began discussing the case

Natalia

split with Hamilton, she hadn't returned, yet her belongings remained,

but didn't expect to find

Natalia's frown deepened.

recognized her instantly. "Hello, Ms.

furrowed brow, Natalia inquired, "What's going on? Where are

said you two lovebirds had a tiff but made up, so

"When did he

upset, so I didn't dare question him. Ms. Jenkins, every couple has their squabbles. Just kiss and make up, no need for dramatic exits." Natalia

to find the nanny still there, who brightened

back!

Natalia replied, spotting Hamilton lounging with a newspaper on the

playing at? Clearly, he was waiting

the bedroom, only to find it

with fresh rose petals, still dewy, filling the room with their scent. A massive cake sat on the side

"Like it? Surprise?"

voice came from behind her. She hadn't noticed him

around her gently from behind. "Natalia, all of

ached with a

would have overjoyed

none

he insisted on presenting

wrenched free

you might spend your time better seeking out a new flame. Surely that's more exciting than someone you've been with for

what do you take

his gaze.

twitched, and in an instant, he had pinned her

dog? Then I'll

A dog in heat!

her neck, hands roaming, desperate to ignite her

him, everything would be

gave him nothing in

Hamilton's brow furrowed slightly.

him, "I've lost all

didn't buy it. They had been together

they had been incredibly in sync