Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 251

The moment Natalia Jenkins laid eyes on Delilah Powell, everything seemed to fall into place, albeit in a twisted kind of way.

Natalia had thought that when Delilah left the prestigious Fowler family, it was her waving the white flag of surrender. But now, it was clear that she was too naive in her assumptions.

After all, how could someone like Hamilton, who went out of his way to study nutritional science in depth, just give up so easily?

"Your competitor tonight is Delilah," Collin whispered urgently to Natalia as she entered the room.

"She has a bit of a knack for languages, and this task involves ancient artifacts. Old Mr. Powell, Magnus Powell, happens to be an expert in that field. So, Delilah might have a slight edge over you in this regard." Collin, ever the protective mentor, couldn't bear the thought of his protégé being at a disadvantage.

Natalia nodded, "I've been preparing rigorously and did extensive research, Mr. Collin. You don't have to worry."

Collin believed in Natalia's capabilities, but he couldn't help casting a worried glance towards the judges' panel.

This competition was unlikely to be a fair and square one.

Before he could voice his concerns, Delilah approached them.

"Ms. Jenkins, we meet again," she greeted with a thin smile.

Natalia responded with a natural, pleasant demeanor, "Delilah, what a pleasure."

Collin, slightly taken aback, asked, "You two know each other?"

Natalia was about to respond when Delilah quickly answered, "We've crossed paths a few times."

Collin's look of concern deepened, but he did not press further, instead offering a worried glance towards Natalia.

still smiling, reassured him, "Don't worry about

prepare, Delilah turned

Jenkins, I suppose Hamilton won't be protecting

who only relies on a man's protection will always remain nothing

both background and ability, not someone clinging onto him like a

her words and replied with a restrained smile, "Is writing anonymous letters the kind of ability you're referring

Delilah's smile didn't waver.

slandering isn't a commendable habit. Do you have proof it was me? Besides, sometimes where there's smoke, there's fire. Perhaps, Ms. Jenkins, you should introspect rather than accuse others without evidence." After a brief

Natalia returned the smile.

a skill contest then. Fine by

not, Natalia was

up," Collin called out

made her way to the

straightforward - live interpretation of a

soundproof booths, Natalia and Delilah began their

watched Natalia with a furrowed brow but soon, his expression softened into one of pride

league of her own. Her professional expertise, adaptability, and the authoritative presence required in international negotiations far exceeded

embodying the resilience and confidence befitting a representative of

thinking Natalia's talents

despite the outcome, that everyone present would recognize Natalia's

uneasy glances, their expectations

the clear disparity in performance. This decision left a bitter taste,

the judges felt that she seemed less like an interpreter and more like she was personally entering the negotiation ring. "An interpreter should look the part," they argued, "and that's why Delilah is more

room erupted in murmurs and gasps at the

stood at the entrance of the soundproof booth, her expression slightly darkened. It was the first time she realized that being too

by another booth, raised an eyebrow at Natalia. "Ms. Jenkins, are you satisfied with today's