Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 259

The question hung in the air, leaving everyone momentarily stunned.

What was Delilah's deal, anyway?

Her almost-boyfriend was right there, yet here she was, making a spectacle by hanging onto Ryan. Ryan just chuckled.

The answer was clear to anyone who knew him well enough, but he chose to remain silent.

Given Natalia and Hamilton had made it this far, Ryan figured he had no business stirring the pot any further.

He lifted his glass and downed three drinks in quick succession.

Those around him were taken aback, unable to process the scene unfolding.

Setting down his glass, Ryan stood up. "Y'all have fun. Got something to take care of, so I'll be heading out," he announced before turning to leave.

Natalia watched Ryan's retreating form, a complex mix of emotions swirling within her.

Hamilton couldn't help but sneer beside her.

"Feeling sorry for him?"

Natalia downed her drink, her frustration evident. It wasn't pity she felt but irritation.

Delilah's antics that evening were blatantly provocative.

Ryan, innocent in all this, was unfairly dragged into the mess by Delilah.

turned to

you could work on your communication skills instead of stirring the pot. It

watching their departure, clenched her

gave her the

slightly better in their

mixed feelings. Some had worked with Delilah before. She wasn't usually

sudden change

Natalia, known for her patience, was visibly upset

abruptly bit Hamilton on the chin, not holding back in

winced in pain, pulling her into

you sure attract a lot of

"Then why don't you help me keep them at bay,

him before

couldn't, not

Island Iced Teas talking, but as she stumbled on a step, she found herself gazing up at Hamilton,

His gaze flickered.

"More than Ryan?"

a long pause, she finally said, "You're the most

about to speak when Natalia continued, her voice tinged with what-ifs and wishes about him being

as she spoke, the harsh realities of their

she tried to walk on, but Hamilton pulled her into his embrace, heading back to

the room, he pressed her against the door, pleading for her eyes only to be on him

losing his way,

his commitment, suggesting they try for another child, a plea filled with

of vulnerability in their tangled emotions. Natalia didn't respond, instead, she bit into his

eyes were rimmed

kisses on