When She Rose From the Ashes

Chapter 216 Oh Look Who’s Bitter

Ever since she had been with Baron, Natalie hadn’t had the chance to cook.

For one thing, there were servants in the house; for another, Baron never let her step into the kitchen. Every time, he insisted her skin was too delicate for the smoke and grease.

But Natalie knew–her skin had long since recovered.

That was just Baron’s excuse to keep her away from the fumes.

Sometimes, whether a man truly cared for you could be seen in the smallest details.

Unfortunately, she had only realized this after brushing so close to death.

When Baron caught the trace of tenderness flickering in Natalie’s eyes, he knew she’d softened toward him again.

He couldn’t stop grinning, almost giddy.

“Take Chris with you, otherwise I won’t be at ease.”

“Alright.”

Natalie rose, changed into a different outfit, and headed out with Chris.

By the time she arrived at Swanson Café, Loretta was already there.

For the first time, Natalie looked at Loretta not as family, but as an outsider would. Only then did she notice the arrogance and disdain shimmering beneath Loretta’s refined facade.

When a society lady came over to greet her, Loretta tilted her chin, gave a dismissive hum, and said nothing more. The poor woman, embarrassed, slunk away.

Natalie suddenly felt she must have been blind all these years. If even highborn ladies were treated this way, how could I, a girl the Summers family cast out five years ago, ever expect acceptance? Even with Jensen’s kindness in saving me, why would Loretta ever truly welcome me?

No wonder she and Jensen had been together for five years and he had never once mentioned marriage; no wonder Loretta had never interfered.

the very beginning, someone like Natalie would never step through

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216 Oh

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a self–mocking smile from Natalie. Then she lifted her chin and walked into

“Loretta, I’m here.”

form of address

instinctively looked up and

Natalie had always carried a trace of flattery and humility. Beautiful as

was more beautiful than ever, but it was her

room.

pitiful girl had

unyielding, her confidence

Chris and four bodyguards in black at her back, she had the

Loretta’s brow furrowed.

Did you have

Her voice carried uncertainty.

a crack in Loretta’s calm, unruffled

smile, sat down across from her, and said, “Didn’t you know?

“Nonsense!”

Loretta’s face immediately darkened.

I’ve watched you and Jensen for five years. I thought I knew you well; but clearly, you’re just good

Natalie’s

eyes

stilled for a moment.

I was with him for five years; when I said it was over, it was

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