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?"

nod, but she didn't

Hamilton once said, nobody

surprised her, but his company had been nothing but

I'm taken,

he referred to with

wanted to change the subject, began discussing the

Caspian, Natalia headed straight for her

she hadn't returned, yet her belongings remained, including some

pack up and cancel the lease but didn't expect to find her landlady, Alba, tidying up

Natalia's frown deepened.

recognized her instantly.

"What's going on? Where

said you two lovebirds had a tiff but made up, so you're moving back in.

throbbed. "When

boyfriend looked quite 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 thanked Alba and left without another word, her heart pounding

the nanny still

you're back! How are

thank you," Natalia replied, spotting Hamilton lounging

at?

strode to the bedroom, only to find it

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

"Like it? Surprise?"

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

gently from

with a

would have overjoyed

none

he insisted on presenting them to

free from Hamilton's

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

what do you take

met his gaze.

he

a dog? Then I'll be

A dog in heat!

kissed her neck, hands roaming, desperate to ignite

sleep with him, everything would be back

gave him nothing in

Hamilton's brow furrowed slightly.

"I've lost all feelings for

had been

been incredibly in sync