Married To My Billionaire Stepbrother

Chapter 127: The Day When Natalie Returned From Xyros

Ivan sat in his office, staring blankly out the window behind his desk. His mind was consumed by today’s encounter with Natalie, her angry words she said in the parking lot, still echoed in his ears.

"You truly don’t know what I’m like. The only reason I restrained myself and behaved the way you liked was because I thought I loved you so much. I was trying to be the person you wanted because I was grateful for your presence in my miserable life. And that’s why I’m still being reasonable with you—just for the sake of those days when you comforted me in my worst moments."

"Why does she always say I comforted her and that she owes her life to me?" Ivan muttered to himself, frowning.

His thoughts drifted back to a day from two years ago when Natalie had come to meet him right after returning from Xyros City.

Two years ago...

Natalie stood outside the gate of the Brown residence, waiting for Ivan, even though his mother had asked her to leave and hadn’t allowed her to enter the property.

Despite the sweltering summer heat, she waited outside the entire day, taking shelter under a tree. He’ll be back by evening for sure. I can’t miss seeing him. I don’t have his contact number.

While waiting, she pulled out her phone to check if there was a response to the message she’d sent to the user "Little Star." She had informed him that she was coming to meet him at his home, but there was still no reply.

Why hasn’t Ivan responded yet? He’s read the message... Is he too busy to reply to me?

Not feeling discouraged, she put her phone away and smiled. Never mind. I’ve waited years to see him again—a little more time is nothing.

Although Amelia knew she was outside, she didn’t invite Natalie in to wait. Not a single offer of water or shelter came her way, despite the stifling heat.

Evening finally came, and a car approached the gate. Leaning against the wall for support, Natalie immediately rushed to the vehicle and knocked on the window before it could enter.

"Ivan, is it you?"

The car window rolled down, and a familiar face came into view.

As if she had found her entire world, Natalie smiled brightly. "It’s really you, Ivan. I’m back, finally. I promised you I’d return safe and sound."

she was talking about. But then, he stepped out of the car, to talk with this familiar girl in simple

"Nat?"

me." The smile on

time Ivan saw her smile with such

he asked. If he had to be honest, he had even forgotten

to see you. I’ve been

He glanced around in

I don’t even have your contact number," she explained. "But didn’t you

"What message?" Ivan asked.

his father stepped out

the secret social media account he had just to talk with her,’

Ivan’s father, she greeted him politely, "Good evening, Mr.

his son. "Ivan, don’t take too long. Your mother is waiting for us." He then got back

to Ivan. "How have you

he replied awkwardly. "And

have been all these years," she commented softly. "You’re the only one who understands. Thank you for being my strength all these years. I don’t know what would have happened to me without

hummed in response. "Good to see you back

talk in chat, Natalie added, "I know your parents don’t like me, so you’re being careful. I won’t take up more of your time now. Just

with some issues, and I’m busy helping my father," he interrupted, the stress visible on his face.

can help with something?"

can’t," he said curtly. "For now, go back, and I’ll see when I

gentle smile. "Don’t stress too much. Just as you’ve been my strength, I’ll be yours.

"Thank you." His words were merely an attempt to

you soon," she said quietly before turning and walking

Natalie left, Ivan headed inside

the entire day waiting for you! I’ve told you to stay away from her. We already have enough issues