When She Rose From the Ashes

Chapter 445 Don’t Ruin the Moment

“I’ll handle it later. For now, the kids shouldn’t go back to preschool.”

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Payne hadn’t wanted to interrupt Natalie’s reunion with her family, but when he heard that topic come up, he couldn’t stay silent.

“Ms. Stone, I’m Payne–Aubree and Rio’s father, Mason’s grandfather. This incident was my responsibility: I failed to maintain proper security in Ocean City, and I’m truly sorry you were put through that.”

Natalie didn’t really know who Payne was or what his position entailed, but when he mentioned Aubree and Mason, the names rang a faint bell.

“Nice to meet you, Mr. Payne,” she said softly, wiping the tears from her cheeks, feeling a little embarrassed.

Was I too emotional just now? Waylon, however, wasn’t pleased that Payne had chosen this moment to step in.

“Brian, if you’ve got nothing else, you can go now. Natalie just got back–she’s been through enough. I’m taking her home.”

Payne could clearly sense Waylon’s irritation.

He gave a helpless smile. “All right, all right. I’m just glad Ms. Stone made it back safely. As for what you said about preschool, I’ll handle that. I’ll have your two kids attend the same one as my grandson, Mason; Ms. Stone, don’t worry–security will be airtight.”

Natalie hesitated, glancing instinctively at Waylon.

She really didn’t know how to respond.

Waylon waved a hand dismissively.

“Go on, go on–we’ll talk about it later. Don’t ruin our family reunion.”

“Fine, fine, I’ll leave you be,” Payne said with a laugh before heading off. Still, he left several men behind to escort and protect the family on their way home.

question it; she only looked around and asked,

for you

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445 Don’t Ruin the

mentioned his wife, though

for

loved her–how much she depended on her. Given Ruby’s nature, it she’d known Natalie was safe and returning home, she would’ve rushed

hadn’t come; and Waylon’s expression when he mentioned her wasn’t quite right, making Natalie’s heart

“Dad… mom, is she…”

in her eyes

of his was truly

emotionally overwhelmed; her condition isn’t great right now. I didn’t tell her you were coming home–thought it’d be better to surprise her. When

say more, and Natalie

all climbed into

Baron wouldn’t be returning with Natalie just yet, so he didn’t ask about

worried about Natalie, but he held back from

careful her father and brother were being with her, Natalie felt a deep warmth

the initiative to tell Waylon and Flynn everything

she finished, both men

scumbag does that? So brazen,

fury boiled over; he slammed his fist down on

reached out,

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