Married To My Billionaire Stepbrother

Chapter 353: Talk With Albert

Meanwhile, at the Browns

"Ivan," Irene barged into his study.

Due to his injured jaw, Ivan was working from home.

"Did you see the news?"

Of course, he had seen it. It was all over the news as if the reporters had uncovered the greatest secret in the world. He was already in shock that Natalie was married to such a big shot. The man they had seen with her again and again as her husband was none other than the CEO of NextEra—yet no one had ever known.

He had always suspected that man wasn’t ordinary, with the way he carried himself. And now, his doubts had proven true. But still, he hadn’t expected him to be someone of such status.

That day in Natalie’s office, he hadn’t seemed bothered by how close Natalie was to those other two men. What kind of man lets his wife act like that, as if she belongs to others too? Ivan wondered. Was he even the right man for her?

Seeing her dazed brother, Irene continued, "Mother and I even thought of going to Natalie and talking her into coming back to you... but... with a husband like him, she wouldn’t..."

"Who asked you to think this way?" Ivan snapped, glaring at her, his frustration clear. "Don’t do unnecessary things and bring more trouble to me. I’ve already had enough because of you two."

"Ivan, how could you—"

"Get out of my study and don’t disturb my work," he growled, returning to his desk.

Irene quietly left the study, not daring to say another word.

Leaning back in his chair, he closed his eyes. All that was left for him now was the regret.

----

the office. After returning home, she just wanted to relax. Mia and Cathy had left for work after meeting her, with the promise that they would soon celebrate her

was only noon when Natalie slumped onto her bed after having a

not for me. I’m happy in my small nest with

cellphone rang. She glanced at

Grandpa.

Albert had not contacted her. During the meeting, she had seen how much

Ivan befriend her, and later, her fiancé—she couldn’t help but

a blessing when all other kids had hated her. But still, her grandpa could have stopped at that. There was no need to bribe Ivan into

her stay in Xyron City, and had thought she was in love with him. But when she returned, she had only one intention toward Ivan—to repay him for his

of marriage came up, both had agreed, and Natalie had been happy about it. He was the only person who seemed to care for her, so she didn’t mind being in

then, she had realized—Albert had always known she wasn’t his blood, yet he had always stood by her side

for a long moment, Natalie finally sat up and answered the call before

managed to

old man’s weak voice came through,

are you not well?"

the sadness in his voice evident. "Don’t worry, I’m fine. I called to congratulate you. I’m especially happy that you

that Justin was really her husband—they had only been acting for his sake.

we were

man hummed. "Back when I was hospitalized, after learning you and Justin were pretending to be married—and when I refused to go through

"Yes, Grandpa."

day, besides telling me his identity as Justin Harper, he also told me how much he loved you. He promised me that, no matter what the circumstances, he would always protect you—as your husband. I could see his resolve. But he needed to be close to you to win your heart, so we both acted as if I didn’t

it?" she asked,

win you over. After all, you’re not an easy woman," the old man chuckled. "Later on, we stayed in contact, and he used to update me

he’s