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?"

but she didn't

nobody

but his company had been nothing

rest easy. I'm taken, loyal heart and

exactly who he referred to

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

parting ways with Caspian, Natalia headed straight for her

returned, yet her belongings

cancel the lease but didn't expect

Natalia's frown deepened.

recognized her instantly. "Hello, Ms.

Natalia inquired, "What's going on?

picked them up. He said you two lovebirds had a tiff

throbbed. "When did

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

to find the nanny still there, who

back! How

Hamilton lounging with a

this man playing at? Clearly, he was waiting for

him, she strode to the bedroom, only to find

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

"Like it? Surprise?"

She

from behind. "Natalia, all of this

ached with a mix of

have overjoyed

none of

insisted on presenting

free from Hamilton's

flame. Surely that's more exciting than someone you've been

what do you

met his gaze.

instant, he had pinned

dog? Then

A dog in heat!

her neck, hands roaming, desperate to ignite

just sleep with him, everything would be back to

Natalia gave him nothing

Hamilton's brow furrowed slightly.

"I've lost all

it. They had been together for

had been incredibly in