《Reborn From Oblivion》


 Chapter 1

    Nellie sat across from Almos, the world''s most famous hypnotist. Her slender face and hollow eyes, coupled with her earnest demeanor, painted the picture of someone desperate for relief. "I need to forget someone," she confessed, her voice quivering and her frail shoulders echoing the tremor in her words.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Almos pulled out his old pocket watch, swinging it gracefully through the air before letting it settle in front of Nellie''s eyes. She watched it intently, waiting for Almos to weave his hypnotic spell. "Do you have any unfinished business?" Almos inquired gently.


    Nellie shook her head, a silent admission that she was ready to let go of everything.


    Almos sensed the depth of her despair. Why else would she choose such a drastic way to disconnect from her past unless her heart was utterly broken?


    "Where should I take you once we''re done here?" Almos asked, shifting his approach.


    As a hypnotist with a global reputation, Almos had guided countless clients through thebyrinth of their minds, helping them recover or erase memories. Those who left his office often felt reborn. But Nellie, she wanted all her memories wiped clean.


    After the session, she might be nothing more than a nk canvas. It was crucial to have a n in ce so that she wouldn''t be left without support.


    Looking troubled, Nellie finally handed Almos a slip of paper with a phone number.


    "This is my husband''s number. Please take me back to him," she said, her eyes welling up, her voice dropping to a whisper. "If he doesn''t want me, could you please leave me at Rainbow Bridge?" Almos nodded, understanding the weight of her request. He wasmitted to fulfilling his clients'' wishes.


    "Alright, let''s get started," he said.


    As the pocket watch swung back and forth, a haunting melody yed softly in Nellie''s ears. Her mind began to rey scenes from her past.


    She remembered the chaos of her parents'' divorce. Her parents fought over custody of her sister, leaving Nellie huddled in the corner, crying and begging them not to leave her behind. She promised to be good, to study hard, to be everything they wanted. In the end, her father won and took her sister away.


    Left with her mother, Nellie endured daily scoldings and abuse, branded as a burden that had ruined her mother''s life. Yet, she persevered, defying the odds to be an outstanding university student. Then, the scene shifted.


    At 19, she met Cameron. He was a beacon of hope in her dark life, financed her education, taught her newnguages, transformed her into a refined young woman, and eventually proposed to her.


    She believed Cameron was the destined one. Grateful and in love, she became his devoted wife.


    But three months ago, everything changed. Cameron demanded she donate a kidney to her critically ill sister. Terrified and unwilling, Nellie found herself trapped when Cameron held her chin and said, "Nel, do you know why I married you? I gave you wealth and status in exchange for your kidney."


    Nellie wasn''t na?ve; her face turned ashen with disbelief. Trembling, she asked, "Cameron, did you ever love me?"


    Cameron replied honestly, "Nel, I once loved your sister deeply. But I promise, if you save her, our marriage willst forever. As long as your sister lives, I won''t have any regrets in this life."

 Chapter 2

    Nellie had never realized that Cameron''s deep affection wasn''t hers to im. She just loved him too much and leaned on him too heavily. After all, he was the first guy to ever show her such kindness. Nellie couldn''t bear the thought of losing Cameron, so she made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their fragile marriage-she gave him one of her kidneys. The surgery was a sess.


    Barely hanging on, Nelliey on her hospital bed, listening to the sounds of Cameron and her father celebrating in her sister''s room. Misery washed over her, tears silently streaming down her cheeks.


    She had just gone through surgery, yet her dad and husband, the two men closest to her, seemed indifferent to her plight. All they seemed to care about was her sister Greta, who was prettier and smarter than her. Why bother with love if this is what it leads to?


    From that moment on, Nellie felt hollow, her future now a nk canvas drained of color. While Cameron was busy helping Greta recover, Nellie secretly reached out to a world-renowned hypnotist, diving headfirst into the most sessful hypnosis session ever. When it was over, Almos was amazed. Nellie''s once dull eyes now sparkled, her sorrowful expression reced with a charming, cute look.


    Almos picked up the phone number Nellie had scribbled down earlier and shot Cameron a text: [Your wife''s been with me for three days. Come get her.]


    Cameron was at Greta''s bedside when he got the message, relieved she had pulled through. His assistant, Matt, walked in with his phone, saying, "Sir, you''ve got a message."N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Annoyed at the interruption, Cameron nced at the screen with a cool indifference. His eyes narrowed, and he let out a scoff.


    Seriously, are scammers this dumb these days? Nellie was supposed to be knocked out in her hospital room, recovering. How could she possibly be off and get involved in some scam?


    However, Cameron felt a strange restlessness. He abruptly stood up and headed to Nellie''s room to check.


    When he pushed open the door, his heart dropped. The room was empty. The bed was neatly made. It almost looked like a farewell scene.


    Could the message have been real?


    A chill settled in Cameron''s gaze, and his fists clenched, anger simmering beneath the surface. "Nel, could you be any more reckless?"


    She was skipping out on recovery to run into a scammer-only Nellie would be that naive.


    Cameron had his assistant track down the scammer''s phone location. Luckily, the scammer wasn''t too bright, and finding the address was a breeze. Armed with cash, Cameron drove to Bright Avenue in Jond Park-a chaotic, grimy part of town he never imagined existed in the Capital.


    After a bit of searching, they found Nellie in front of a shop with a skull sign. But Nellie was acting a bit strange.

 Chapter 3

    She was doing all sorts of quirky shadow dances in the sun, humming off-key tunes as she swayed.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    "Sweet baby-


    Oh, sweet baby


    Run wild like a Mustang and be free


    Shake off the sadness and all your scars, too..."


    Cameron watched Nellie''s antics with a hint of confusion. This wasn''t the Nellie he knew.


    He stepped out of his car and walked straight toward her. The trouble she''d caused him made it hard for him to put on a friendly face.


    "Nel, who let you out here on your own? Your wounds aren''t even healed yet," he scolded.


    Spotting Cameron, Nellie jumped back a meter away. Her frightened look and wary eyes gave Cameron a sinking feeling.


    "Who are you?" Nellie asked, hugging herself, her voice small and unsure.


    "I''m your husband," Cameron replied, clearly irritated.


    Nellie looked unconvinced and turned to dash into the nearby skull sign shop.


    Cameron followed her with long strides.


    Inside, Nellie hid behind the hypnotist named Almos, peeking at Cameron with fear in her eyes.


    Cameron could see that Nellie seemed to have forgotten him. His gaze turned sharp and using as he looked at Almos. "What did you do to my wife?" he demanded, his voice cold and sharp.


    At that moment, Cameron could only think Almos must have used some kind of drug on Nellie or done something to harm her, causing her mental confusion.


    Almos tossed a contract at Cameron. "Your wife contacted me two months ago, insisting on a session. She wanted to be hypnotized."


    It was only then that Cameron noticed Almos''s badge and realized he was the globally acimed, mythical hypnotist.


    But why would Nellie want hypnosis? If she had been feeling off, she could''ve told him. Was there really nothing he could do to help? Cameron opened the detailed contract Nellie had signed, noting the clear breakdown of fees and services-fair and square.


    As he read the services Nellie had requested, a storm brewed inside him.


    The first request: Help Nellie forget her birth, her father, and that she had a sister.


    The second request: Help Nellie forget she was married. Erase all traces of Cameron from her life.


    The third request: Help Nellie forget the pain of her kidney transnt.


    ...


    Thest request: Most importantly, Nellie, learn to love yourself.


    Cameron''s tall, imposing figure trembled, his usuallyposed eyes filled with disbelief.


    He stared at Almos, incredulous. "This has to be fake, right? Nellie wouldn''t do this."


    Almos calmly exined, "Initially, she only wanted to erase her memories of you. But when she saw my affordable rates, she added a few more things. We agreed verbally-I''d help her forget her past life, and she''d pay me with all her wealth." "In other words, Nellie now has no memory and no money. Do you still want her? Nellie said if you don''t want her anymore, I should take her to the Rainbow Bridge."


    The mention of ''Rainbow Bridge'' made Cameron''s tall, steady frame shake, his handsome face showing cracks.


    His rationality slowly returned, and he suddenly remembered how, during these past three months, Nellie was always fast asleep every time he visited her in the hospital. Without thinking much of it, he''d then head over to Greta''s room to chat.

 Chapter 4

    Looking back now, he realized just how oblivious he''d been about her. For two months, she''d been quietly plotting, which meant she hadn''t wanted to see him at all during that time and was just pretending to be asleep just to avoid him. Nellie had moved on a long time ago.-


    Cameron felt a heavy ache in his chest, a difort he couldn''t quite put into words. Nellie had yed him.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    As he stared at Nellie''s seemingly innocent face, a restless energy bubbled inside him. Finally, he let out a sly chuckle. "Nellie, drop the act. No hypnotist has the power to wipe all your memories. It''s just a trick."


    He reached out roughly to grab Nellie, but she dodged him swiftly, refusing to let him get near. She even clung to Almos'' arm, begging him, "Please, I don''t want to go with him. He''s being so mean to me, and if I go, he''ll only hurt me. Please, don''t hand me over to him." Almos shrugged. "Nellie, you''re the one who left me his number."


    "I regret it now," Nellie said, her voice trembling with near tears.


    Determined to do the right thing, Almos gently told Cameron, "Mr. Dawson, I finally get why she wanted to forget her past. You were supposed to be the one she trusted most, but you showed no patience. You probably never realized how much she was hurting." Cameron''s body tensed, the chill in his hawk-like eyes slowly melting away.


    Almos continued, "Your wife''s dealing with severe depression. If I hadn''t stepped in, she might have seen no way out but death."


    Leaning in, he added, "Do you know why she hasn''t ended her life? She told me she heard that those whomit suicide can''t reincarnate. After having felt the sting of loneliness, she didn''t want to be alone again after death. That''s why she took a chance on me." Cameron''s eyes, now fiery with anger, red at the hypnotist. "Have you had enough? You''re just a crazy fraud. Do you think I buy into your hypnosis crap? Did you drug her or mess with her mind? Nellie''s always been steady."


    Almos replied, "Believe it or not, I''ve said what I needed to. Take your wife home and treat her well. If you can''t manage that, then leave her at Rainbow Bridge, thest ce she wanted to see."


    Cameron shot a fierce warning at Almos. "If you''ve done anything shady, I''ll make sure you end up behind bars."


    Almos smiled calmly. "Mr. Dawson, I assure you, I haven''t harmed your wife in the slightest. The hypnosis worked because she was willing to cooperate."


    Cameron''s eyes, filled with pain, turned to Nellie, "Nel, if you don''t want to die,e home with me."


    Nellie shook her head. Taking advantage of Cameron''s momentarypse, she suddenly dashed outside with the speed of a sprinter.


    Cameron was taken aback. He wasn''t a monster; why was she running from him?


    In the end, Cameron found Nellie at Rainbow Bridge, curled up beneath it, just like when he had found her four years ago.


    But while Nellie remained the bright, innocent soul she always was, Cameron was no longer the cold-hearted man he used to be.

 Chapter 5

    Cameron reached out to Nellie. "Come home with me."


    The scene felt eerily simr to their first meeting four years ago. Back then, Nellie had been cast out by her mother. Wounded and vulnerable, she drifted to this very spot. Cameron had arrived like a beacon in the night, offering warmth and safety to the lost Nellie. She''s


    drawn to his gentle, kind face, and followed him without a second thought.


    "Why me?" Nellie had asked. She was young but wise enough to know nothinges without strings attached.


    Cameron, looking burdened, eventually replied in a low voice, "It just has to be you."


    Little did she know, he had gone to great lengths to find her and weaved his way into her life. Naively, she believed he was just a generous soul, like those who helped other struggling kids. She trusted him so easily.


    "Thank you for offering me a home," Nellie said. "I''m a hard worker. I can cook, clean, do theundry... whatever you need."


    Cameron gave her a soft look. "I''m not in need of a housekeeper."


    "Then how can I repay you?"


    "Do you truly want to repay me?"


    "Yes, as they say, a small kindness should be returned in full."


    Cameron smiled knowingly.


    ...


    Cameron watched Nellie curled up like a lost kitten. After four years together, he understood why she had returned to Rainbow Bridge, the very ce they first met.


    Nellie had asked Almos to bring her back here, seeking to return to the moment before their paths crossed.


    Cameron''s smile was tinged with sadness. "Do you regret meeting me?"


    Nellie remained silent.


    Her wounds had reopened after a frantic chase, and her chiffon dress was stained with blood. She fought to suppress the pain.


    Cameron reached out to touch her head, but she turned slightly, avoiding his touch.


    He sighed softly, almost to himself. "Nellie, I promise I''ll make it up to you someday."


    Just then, his phone rang. Patrick''s voice was urgent. "Cameron, get here quick. Greta''s in bad condition after hearing about Nellie disappearing. The doctor says her health is deteriorating. You need to calm her down; she always listens to you." Hanging up, Cameron''s face showed his worry for Greta. "Nellie, your sister just had surgery. She can''t handle this stress. I need to be at the hospital, so please, go home with my assistant."


    He stood and instructed Matt, "Take her home."


    He didn''t notice Nellie''s limp and pale figure a clear sign something was very wrong.


    Cameron drove off in his sleek car. In less than thirty minutes, he arrived at the hospital, heading straight to Greta''s room.


    "Cameron, does Nellie hate me for taking her kidney? Is that why she ran away?" Greta sobbed, clinging to Cameron.


    He gently patted her back, choosing his words carefully. "Greta, don''t me yourself. Nellie wanted to help. You''ve got nothing to feel guilty about."


    "Does she also resent you for marrying her but loving me?"Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    A flicker of irritation passed over Cameron, but he replied, "She''s always been easy to please. Being my wife in name is enough for her; she won''t dwell on what she''s lost."

 Chapter 6

    "It must be because you''ve been hanging out with me so muchtely. You''ve kind of neglected her. She''s just throwing a fit." Greta''s tears were like a quick summer rain, sudden and gone in a blink.


    Patrick watched his daughter, and his heart ached for her. He was not at all pleased with Nellie, the one stirring all this trouble. With a huff, he said, "Nel''s being way too unreasonable. Greta almost died, and she''s making a fuss? How could she let Greta worry like this?" Cameron stared at Patrick, his gaze steady. "Don''t forget, she had surgery too. She''s being a bit difficult only this time. Just let her be."


    Patrick was momentarily caught off guard. A fleeting look of guilt in his eyes was quickly reced by a smile. "She''s strong. She''ll manage." Cameron shot Patrick a sharp look, who was silenced immediately.


    Greta held onto Cameron''s hand, her eyes red. "Cameron, have you ever thought that a love triangle is too messy? You took Nel''s kidney for me. She might not say it, but she''s got to be hurting, or she wouldn''t act out like this. Cameron, why not divorce Nel? You never loved her anyway. You love me. Let''s get married, and we''ll make it up to Nel, okay?"


    Cameron gently eased her away. "Greta, I''ve told you I won''t divorce Nel. Now that she''s not well, I need to take care of her for the rest of her life. I can''t just walk away from our marriage."


    Greta felt like she''d been doused with ice water. She sniffled, "Cameron, you''re the kingpin in the business world. You''ve crossed plenty of people. Why do you have to keep your promise to Nellie?"Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron replied, "In business, it''s all about ying the game. But Nellie has never done me wrong."


    Greta broke down. "Cameron, if I''d known saving my life meant losing you, I wouldn''t have taken Nel''s kidney."


    Cameron said, "Greta, the world has a way of bncing things. You''ve lost love, but you got a second chance at life. Nellie gave up a kidney, but she gained the title of my wife."


    Cameron walked away, feeling weighed down.


    Greta sobbed. "It''s so unfair... How am I supposed to go on without you?"


    Patrick, feeling for Greta, rushed to console her, "Oh, sweetheart, please don''t cry. It breaks my heart to see you like this. Don''t worry. Your sister''s easygoing. I''ll talk to her and see if she''ll give up Cameron."


    Greta finally stopped crying. "You''re right, Dad. Cameron''s a man of his word. If he won''t break his promise to Nellie, then we''ll work on Nellie. We''ll buy her a house and a car. She won''t be able to resist, and she''ll leave Cameron."


    "Yeah. I always find a way to sort things out. I''ll make sure you and Cameron get back together."


    Back at the Dawson family mansion, Cameron came home, missing the cheerful "honey" that used to greet him. He frowned at the silence and asked the maid who opened the door, "Where''s Nellie?"


    The maid took his coat. "Mr. Cameron, she''s been acting really off today. She locked herself in her room as soon as she got back and hasn''te out since. She won''t even answer when we call her." Cameron, surprised, nced upstairs. "I''ll go check on her."

 Chapter 7

    Cameron headed upstairs. His gentle knock on the door was met with silence, a stark contrast to Nellie''s usual cheerful greetings. His expression turned somber as he pushed open the door and approached the bed, looking down at the motionless figure. "Nellie, what were you thinking today? Do you realize your sister''s been worried sick since you took off? Please, be more considerate next time. Don''t give her a reason to fret..."


    Nelliey there, her face as lifeless as a desertndscape, void of any vitality. Cameron''s words seemed to fall into the void, gaining no response.


    "Why aren''t you saying anything?" he asked, a hint of frustration creeping in. Normally, Nellie would be all smiles and sweet talk, but today, she was silent as a stone. Even Cameron, in his usual oblivion, couldn''t ignore the shift.


    He pulled back the covers and was struck by the stark red stains on the white sheets, a shocking contrast to Nellie''s pallid skin.


    "Why didn''t you tell us you were sick, Nellie?" Panic rose in his chest. He suddenly recalled the therapist''s words about Nellie''s depression and found them hard to dismiss now.


    Holding her in his arms, his hands trembled as he whispered, "I''m so sorry, Nellie. I''ve been neglecting you."


    At the hospital, the doctor was thorough in his examination. He had heard of Cameron''s influential status, but the feeling of being responsible overruled any hesitation. "Mr. Dawson, your wife recently had a kidney transnt. The wound''s infected again. Even the strongest person can''t endure this kind of negligence." Cameron''s jaw tightened. "I understand."


    Once Nellie was on IV fluids, her fever began to recede. Her eyes, once dull and listless, slowly found focus. But when theynded on Cameron, she recoiled as if he were some fierce predator.


    "What are you doing here?" she asked, eyes wary, as though facing a threat.


    Cameron, still groggy, blinked at her rejection, his dark eyes growing cold. "I''m your husband. Where else would I be when you''re unwell?"


    Nellie discreetly reached for a syringe on the nightstand, her defensive stance unmistakable.


    Cameron noted her restless hand, and his expression darkened. "You don''t remember me?"


    Nellie nodded earnestly.


    Drawing her face closer to his, Cameron said, "Take a good look at me. Remember your husband''s face because from now on, we''re sharing the same roof. I don''t want you to act like you have amnesia every time you see me." Nellie asked timidly, "You say we''re married? Got any proof?"


    Exasperated, Cameron pulled out his phone, showing her a picture of their marriage certificate. "See for yourself, we''re legally married."


    Nellie edged away, clearly trying to put distance between them. "Certificates can be forged."


    Cameron found himself at a loss. "Then how do you want me to prove it?"Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "If we''re married, there are plenty of ways to prove it... like kids? A wedding ring? Or maybe some photos of us together?" Cameron fell silent. He realized, with a sinking heart, that he hadn''t given Nellie any of these tokens of their marriage.


    "Nellie, I''m sorry. I''ll make sure you have all those things from now on."


    With anger in her voice, Nellie retorted, "I knew you weren''t my husband. My real husband would never ignore me like this..."

 Chapter 8

    At that moment, Greta and Patrick joined the scene.


    Greta was settled in a wheelchair, which Patrick was pushing. As soon as he walked in, Patrickunched into a tirade against Nellie. "Nellie, what''s gotten into you? If you''re sick, you should be resting in the hospital, not sneaking out! Because of that, Cameron had to turn


    the world upside down to look for you. No wonder your wound got infected. How can you be so careless?"


    Nellie stared at Patrick with a nk expression, but his scolding seemed to rub her the wrong way. Her irritation red, and she snapped back, "Who are you to lecture me? Even my own parents never talked to me like this. What gives you the right to boss me around?" Patrick was shocked into silence. Nellie''s words hit him where it hurt. Sure, he was her biological father, but he hadn''t been around to raise her. Did that mean he had no right to tell her off?


    "Cameron, what''s up with her?" Patrick asked, clearly perplexed.


    "She''s lost her memory," Cameron replied, his tone as t as a pancake.


    Patrick was taken aback. "Memory loss? So, she doesn''t recognize me as her dad anymore?" A wave of sadness washed over him.


    Cameron turned to Patrick, speaking slowly, "She had a hypnotist erase us from her memories."


    Patrick stood there, stunned. A shame he''d never felt before began to creep in. He nced at Nellie, his face flushed with embarrassment, andmented, "Nel, why would you choose to forget your own dad?"N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    He was banking on the idea that, like before, if he showed a bit of remorse, Nellie would start feeling guilty. But this was a new Nellie, reborn and stronger. She pointed at the door, making it clear. "I want all of you to leave. I need some time alone." Patrick felt his pride taking a hit, and it made his temper re. He had no patience for Nellie''s attitude and burst out, "Nellie, how dare you talk to me like that? I came here out of concern, and you want me to leave? How can you be so disrespectful?" Nellie shot back, "If you''re my dad, shouldn''t you have taught me manners? If I''m disrespectful, maybe it''s because you didn''t do your job. Now, please, just leave."


    Cameron stood up, giving Patrick a nudge. "Let''s go. She probably needs some space right now."


    Patrick''s face turned a furious shade of red.


    Greta rolled herself closer to the bed, her voice gentle as she tried to reason with Nellie. "Sweetheart, I get it. You didn''t want to donate your kidney to me, especially since Cameron asked you to."


    The mention of the kidney got Nellie all riled up. "What? Donate a kidney? Why should I give mine to you? If I do, won''t I suffer too?"


    Cameron was taken aback by Nellie''s reaction, only now realizing that the whole kidney donation ordeal wasn''t as peaceful as he assumed. Deep down, Nellie was genuinely upset about it, and it made sense why she grew distant afterward. Cameron gently reminded Greta, "Greta, let''s not bring this up around Nel anymore." As if avoiding the topic would magically mend things with Nellie.


    Greta switched gears. "Nellie, I have a favor to ask. Cameron and I truly love each other. Please, let him go. I can''t live without him. Could you consider divorcing him, for your sister''s sake?"


    After Greta finished, Cameron fell silent, his eyes fixed on Nellie, waiting for her answer.

 Chapter 9

    Nellie looked at Greta with a casual shrug and said, "If you want him, he''s yours." It was like he were some item on a shelf, ready for anyone to take home. Greta was thrilled and pulled Cameron into a tight hug, but her happiness vanished quickly when she noticed him stiffen up like he''d turned into a statue. Puzzled, she nced at Cameron, only to see him staring at Nellie with a look that was downright chilling. "Nellie, have you lost your mind? Do you even realize what you''re doing?"


    Nellie had once loved him so much it was suffocating. She had ditched her dream job to care for him and choked down bitter herbal teas every day in hopes of having his child. Her love was so consuming that she had be the butt of jokes in the whole Capital, known as the ''Lady of Unrequited Love.''


    Yet here she was, that same Nellie, talking about passing him off to someone else like he was yesterday''s news.


    "My fever''s gone, and my head''s clear now. I know exactly what I''m doing," Nellie said calmly.


    Cameron eyed her warily. "Aren''t you going to regret it?" he asked. Nellie nced at the matching rings on Cameron and Greta''s fingers and let out a small, knowing smile. "Mr. Dawson, the ring on your left hand is a perfect match with Greta''s. If she''s the one you love, why on earth would you think I''d want you? My standards aren''t sky-high, but loyalty is non-negotiable. I''ll find a good man who truly loves me and settle down. A guy like you, with one foot out the door, is not worth losing sleep over. Once I''m back on my feet, we''re getting divorced."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Cameron looked down at his ring, a flicker of guilt crossing his eyes. "It''s not like that. Your sister and I just identally bought the same style of ring. They''re not couple rings." With that, he slipped the ring off and tucked it into his pocket.


    Greta stared at Cameron, trembling, tears welling up in her eyes. Overwhelmed, she ran out sobbing. Cameron watched her leave, his face hard as stone, fists clenched tight.


    Finally, he said, "Nellie, you need to take care of yourself right now. It''d be heartless to leave you like this. Once you''re better, if you still want a divorce, I''ll go along with it." Then, he dashed after Greta.


    Nellie stared at the IV drip, letting go of any pretense of strength. Her body was too weak for bravado. Once she was out of the hospital, she was determined to end things with this man. She had no room in her life for someone whose heart was split in two. The next morning, as Nellie drifted in and out of sleep, she heard the nurses gossiping. "The girl next door tried to jumpst night. Cameron spent all night on the roof with her, talking her down with every promise under the sun."


    "I don''t get what Cameron sees in her. She''s got health problems and isn''t exactly a catch, but he treats her like she''s priceless. To get her a kidney transnt, he even tracked down her sister. Now that she''s got a new lease on life, she doesn''t appreciate what he''s done for her."


    "If you ask me, Cameron is blind. He brought this on himself. The real victim here is the girl in this bed. Poor girl got used by those two lovebirds, and now that her sister got what she wanted, she''s ditching her and trying to snag her man. She is about to lose everything, and she doesn''t seem to have any fight left in her."

 Chapter 10

    Nellie''s toes curled tightly, digging into the bed frame with everything she had. The red veins in her eyes looked like they were streaked with fresh blood. After the nurse hooked her up to an IV drip, she left Nellie to her thoughts. Nellie drifted in and out of sleep untilte morning, finally waking up because of her hunger. Skipping breakfast had left her stomach growling and feeling like it was glued to her backbone.


    Feeling ravenous, she grabbed her phone and ordered some food: chicken stew with mushrooms, in porridge, and bread rolls. She felt like she could devour a whole cow.


    Just after she ced her order, Cameron showed up unexpectedly. His eyes were a bit red, and there was a mix of something in his gaze that Nellie just couldn''t ce-maybe guilt? "Nellie, how about I send you abroad for a while?" he suggested.


    Nellie was taken aback.


    "Your presence is really affecting your sister''s mood, and she needs to stay positive for her health. So, maybe you could go abroad for a bit. Once she''s stable, I''ll bring you back. How does that sound?"


    Nellie stared at him in disbelief, the nurse''s words still echoing in her mind. Suddenly, in a fit of anger, she hurled the humidifier from the bedside table at Cameron, but he dodged it with ease.


    "Cameron, you''re sickening. You try to have it both ways? If Greta''s the one you love, then just divorce me and be with her."


    Cameron, facing Nellie''s meltdown, didn''t get angry. Instead, he picked up the humidifier and pulled her into a hug.


    "Nel, I know this is hard. Just this once, go along with it. When youe back, I promise I''ll cut ties with her and be with you."


    A wave of nausea hit Nellie, making her feel even sicker. She ended up vomiting all over Cameron, shouting in fury, "You make me sick. Get out. I don''t want to see you."


    Cameron only held her even tighter, letting out a sigh. "Nel, are you jealous? I know you love me, but Greta''s your sister. You wouldn''t want anything to happen to her, right?" Ovee with emotion, Nellie couldn''t string a sentence together. "Just go... please. I don''t want to see you..."


    Cameron eventually let her go, saying, "Nellie, trust me, I won''t abandon you. Think of going abroad as a little getaway. It''ll be three months tops, and then I''ll bring you home."


    "Leave!" Nellie shouted at the top of her lungs, spewing bile and acid on Cameron''s face. He left, looking defeated.


    Nellie copsed back onto the bed, feeling drained, like she''d just been through a grueling battle, nearly faint from exhaustion.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    In the hallway, Cameron spoke with the doctor. "Nellie''s been vomiting a lot. What''s going on?"


    The doctor replied, "She''s got a cold, and the stress these days might have aggravated her stomach. Vomiting ismon in such cases. Mr. Dawson, make sure she eats her meals regrly and in proper portions..." Cameron, reminded by the doctor, realized he''d forgotten to get Nellie breakfast. But wasn''t it almost lunchtime now?


    A pang of guilt hit him. As Nellie''s husband, he really hadn''t been doing his part. He silently promised to make it up to Nellie once Greta''s situation was sorted out.


    Cameron quickened his pace to get Nellie some food, only to bump into a delivery guy on the way. He watched as the delivery guy, carrying a feast, headed straight into Nellie''s room.

 Chapter 11

    Cameron was utterly baffled. The Nellie he used to know was always so dependent on him, waiting for him to decide her every meal. Now, it seemed, she''d learned to fend for herself.


    In her hospital room, despite her hunger, the sight of the delicious food just delivered left Nellie feeling queasy. She gently ced her hand on her stomach, aware that her digestive system had always been in perfect health and was never bothered by nausea or sickness from a cold. She thought back to three months ago, the night Cameron had begged her to donate a kidney to Greta. In a moment of weakness, she had asked to spend a night with him. Now, she suspected she might be carrying a new life inside her. Nellie''s lips formed a weak smile. This was possibly the worst timing.


    When Cameron walked in, Nellie was gazing out the window, looking pale as a sheet. Her voice, however, was strong and unwavering. "Cameron, could you get me some mifepristone pills?"


    Cameron was taken aback. The timid girl who once trod so lightly around him was now giving him instructions.


    Without revealing much, he asked, "What are those for?"Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''m having terrible cramps," Nellie replied, turning to face him. "Please."


    Cameron noticed her hand resting on her belly, and almost automatically, he nodded. "Sure."


    As he left, Nellie''s clear eyes clouded over with a shadow of sorrow.


    Outside, Cameron called his assistant, "Could you bring some mifepristone pills to the hospital?"


    Before long, Nellie received a whole bottle of pills from the assistant.


    That evening, the hospital corridors were eerily quiet. Cameron was in Greta''s room, soothing her fragile emotions. "Greta, your life was hard-won. You need to cherish it and promise me you''ll have no more thoughts of harm."


    Greta clung to his hand, her face still pale, but the love and care surrounding her made her glow with happiness. "Cameron, you know how much you mean to me... Without you, life would be unbearable. So you can''t leave me..." "Alright, I''ll be here with you. You just focus on getting better."


    Meanwhile, Nelliey curled up on her bed, staring at the stark white ceiling, feeling a painful emptiness inside her. Tears welled up in her eyes like the clearest crystals.


    When blood stained the sheets, she closed her eyes, tears streaming down her cheeks. Tears of relief. She and Cameron were finally untangled.


    The next morning, Matt arrived with her luggage, passport, and bank card. "Ma''am, Mr. Dawson booked a ticket for you. The flight''s at 7 a.m. today."


    Nellie was too weak to speak much, but she managed to ask, "Is he noting to see me off?"


    "He was concerned about your sister after she had an emotional night," Matt said, avoiding Nellie''s gaze.


    Nellie wasn''t surprised, as if she had expected this all along. "I see."


    Matt handed her the bank card. "This is for your expenses. Mr. Dawson wille to fetch you in three months. Also, he arranged for a couple to look after you there; you can reach out to them once you arrive..."


    Nellie didn''t take the card. Struggling, she got up and, to Matt''s surprise, dressed in the old clothes she hade with when joining the Dawson family four years ago. Then she handed back the suitcase and the new clothes Cameron had bought her.

 Chapter 12

    She strode away, her back straight and unwavering, ignoring the assistant''s words as if they were nothing more than a breeze.


    Matt was baffled by the suitcase and credit card she thrust at him. He couldn''t help but ask, "Ma''am, what''s all this?"


    Nellie struggled to keep her voice cool and detached, "I don''t need the rest. Toss it all."


    Matt was taken aback. He understood she could buy new clothes abroad, but what about the credit card? How was she supposed to manage without it? "Ma''am, you really should hold onto the credit card," he urged.


    With a reluctant nod, Nellie took the card back, clearly not thrilled about it.


    Matt let out a sigh of relief. Seriously, who says no to money?


    He walked with Nellie to the international airport''s security checkpoint. "Ma''am, this is as far as I can go. Please take care of yourself over there," he said.


    But Nellie paid his words no mind and headed towards the checkpoint with not an ounce of hesitation.


    Watching her leave, he felt a swirl of emotions. He noticed how her steps seemed almost weightless, yet she moved with such purpose. It was like she couldn''t get away fast enough. Just as she was about to vanish from sight, Nellie did something that left him utterly shocked-she tossed Cameron''s credit card right into a trash bin.


    Matt was floored.


    It hit him then-was this her way of drawing a line with Cameron? Had she finally reached her limit, realizing her standing in his life, and decided to walk away for good?


    Matt felt uneasy, uncertain how Cameron would handle such a bold move.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Cameron, having spent a long day at the hospital with Greta, returned home looking worn out.


    Matt had been waiting. As soon as Cameron spotted the suitcase, his smile froze. "What''s going on with Nellie? Didn''t I tell her to leave the country ASAP? Why is her stuff still here?" he snapped.


    Matt shook his head. "Mr. Cameron, don''t worry. She''s left the country."


    Cameron gave him a puzzled look. "Then what''s with the suitcase?"


    Matt, a bit nervous, exined, "Sir, these are things she didn''t want."


    Cameron felt a sharp, fleeting pang in his chest. "I gave her plenty of money. She must be nning to buy new clothes instead," he said, chuckling wryly as he touched his chest. "After four years of pampering, I guess she''s gotten a taste for the finer things." But what Matt said next hit him like a cold shower: "Sir, she threw the credit card you gave her into the trash right after she passed the ticket gate."


    Cameron''s face tightened instantly. His handsome features seemed to crack like a shattered sculpture.


    After a long pause, Cameron let out a scoff, "So, she''s finally got a backbone? Is she upset because I overlooked her? Fine, she can stay out there before she''s cooled down. Does she think she can just challenge me like this?"


    The housekeeper stepped in, unable to hold back. "Mr. Cameron, Ms. Nellie just had surgery and isn''t in the best of health. Aren''t you worried she might hold a grudge against you for sending her away now?"


    She''d been Cameron''s nanny and was fond of Nellie, a girl who never stirred trouble and was always so kind. It was just Cameron who seemed blind to his wife''s good qualities.

 Chapter 13

    Cameron, with a smug look, said, "She can''t make it without me. Just watch. In less than a week, she''ll be reminiscing about all the good times, and she''ll reach out to me."


    The nanny shook her head, letting out a sigh. "You only treat her this way because you know she loves you, Mr. Cameron. Not everyone will stick around waiting for you to get it together." Cameron slumped onto the couch, looking worn out. "This is thest time."


    Meanwhile, far away...


    Nellie stepped off the ne, and instead of heading out of the airport, she immediately bought a ticket to another city. After hopping through a few ces, she ended up in Mn. As she stared at the unfamiliar streets and surrounded by strangers, a wave of loneliness hit her hard.


    Broke and desperate, she found a diner near the airport and took up dishwashing and other odd jobs for a small paycheck. Until she got paid, her bed was a bench at the airport.


    She had just undergone surgery and a miscarriage, so the grueling work often left her body exhausted and her wounds prone to infection, almost causing her to copse in the diner several times. Concerned for her well-being, the diner''s owner gently let her go, citing some excuse.


    Nellie was now jobless, and she had blown through herst bit of money trying to find work.


    When things couldn''t get worse, the spot she''d been crashing at was taken over by some thugs. When she went to grab her belongings, their threatening stares made her leave everything behind and run. Nellie found herself on the curb, sobbing uncontrobly. But after shedding her tears, she managed a smile.


    Four years ago, before Cameron found her, wasn''t she also a homeless beggar?


    To survive, Nellie started scavenging through trash cans for scraps, just like before.


    Maybe luck was on her side this time because she stumbled upon a fancy wallet in the trash. It had been tossed aside by a thief who had stolen the cash from a wealthydy and chucked the wallet, IDs and all. Nellie recognized the wallet''s material as something special and thought it must be important to its owner. So, she decided to return it to the address on the ID.


    The wallet belonged to a wealthy woman. When Nellie handed it over, thedy looked at her with suspicion.


    Nellie shrugged, calm and collected. "I swear, I didn''t steal this wallet. I found it while rummaging for food in the trash."


    After a moment, she added, "I recognize this leather. It''s from designer Jasmine''s first luxury handbag collection. There are only nine in the world. I figured it must mean a lot to you, so I brought it back." Thedy gasped. "I didn''t expect you to know this. Which rich family are you part of?"


    Nellie gave a bittersweet smile. "Sorry to disappoint, but Ie from humble beginnings."


    As Nellie turned to leave, thedy grabbed her hand. "Miss, you''ve returned myte husband''s gift to me. I owe you. What do you need? Just tell me."


    Nellie shook her head. "It''s alright."


    Thedy seemed confused. "But you look like you could use some help?"


    Nellie replied, "I need money, lots of it. And love... but that''s something you can''t give."N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

 Chapter 14

    "But I can offer you a job. How about working as a seamstress?" thedy suggested.


    Nellie''s eyes lit up with a spark of hope. "Sorry, what did you just say?"


    "I can put in a good word for you at a big factory for a seamstress position."


    Nellie couldn''t help herself and stepped forward to hug her. "Thank you so much. I would love that job."


    She once was a dedicated wife, spending her days ironing clothes for everyone in the Dawson family. She refused to let those pricey handmade pieces go to waste, and developed a knack for fixing any ws in them. This honed her skills and sparked a lifelong passion for fashion.


    Her new boss, a kind-hearted elderly woman, didn''t look down on Nellie''s worn-out clothes. Instead, she showed her kindness. She offered Nellie her own room to rest and let her set her own work hours. Nellie was moved to tears by her boss'' generosity and worked twice as hard to show her gratitude.


    The boss grew increasingly fond of this resilient girl and became curious. "Nel, why did youe all the way to Mn? You have no family here. Life must be tough."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Nellied looked up with a gaze that seemed to pierce through time, her voice filled with a mncholy resolve. "I came here waiting for someone, for a chance at redemption, for an encounter that would be my rebirth."


    No matter how hard or exhausting it got, she couldn''t give up. She had to keep pushing through.


    Her boss gently suggested, "Nellie, you seem to have a real talent for fashion design. Have you ever thought about going back to school? If you get a degree, your future could be very bright."


    Nellie reflected on the difference between her and Greta. Even though Greta wasn''t as attractive, her higher education earned her more respect.


    Without a good education, Nellie felt like people saw her as someone insignificant, without a mind of her own. Her sincerity was trampled on, and she received no respect.


    Determined, Nellie asked her boss how she could go back to school. She was resolved to live for herself now that she had broken free from Cameron and Greta.


    This time, she wanted to shine brightly on a big stage and earn everyone''s respect.


    Nellie picked up her books again and dived into fashion design with diligence. She aimed to get into the best fashion school in Mn next yeat.


    Time flew by.


    A monthter, in the Capital, Cameron had been busyying out a career path for Greta, pushing her fashion designs to the top. He hoped that even though Greta''s love life was rocky, her career sess might lift her spirits. Thanks to Cameron''s love and support, Greta''s health and mood improved quickly.


    When Greta''spanyunched, Cameron invited lots of business friends to celebrate. His care for Greta was beyond what a husband might do.


    This stirred jealousy in Nellie''s friend, Mna, who couldn''t help but bring up the person left in the shadows.


    "Greta, on such a big day, why didn''t Nelliee to celebrate with you?"


    The room fell silent.

 Chapter 15

    When Mna unexpectedly brought up Nellie, it was like a wake-up call for Cameron. Had it really been weeks since Nelliest reached out to him? There''s not a single text, not even a voice message.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    He finally realized something was off, especially since she used to be so attached to him. She''d find any excuse to reach out, even if they saw each other every day. Whether it was to share a new dish she loved, remind him to dress warmly for the weather, or coax him home early with the promise of a surprise, she was always chatting away.


    Now, the silence from Nellie was deafening andpletely out of character.


    It seemed that his decision to send her abroad had really upset her. If she wasn''t contacting him, surely she was asking those around him to cover her living expenses.


    Cameron turned to Matt and asked, "How''s she beentely? Has she mentioned needing anything? Make sure to take care of her requests."


    Matt looked uneasy. "Sir, there''s been no sign of her since she went abroad."


    Cameron''s face turned serious. "What''s going on with her? Did she go off the rails abroad and forget she''s married?"


    Matt''s expression was hard to read. Had Cameron forgotten that she left behind everything he bought her, even the credit card, when she went abroad?


    Mna chimed in with a smirk, "Maybe your obedient little wife wants more than just the title of your wife. Maybe she''s after the love that shoulde with this title. You can''t give her that love, and maybe that''s why she left you?"


    Cameron seemed oblivious to Mna''s sarcasm, lost in memories of the countless romantic gestures Nellie had made for him. "She loves me so much. There''s no way she''d actually leave me. She''s just ying hard to get. If I give in, I''ve lost." Mna couldn''t help but retort, "If you''re in love with Greta, why not divorce Nellie and let her go?"


    Greta stepped in to defend Cameron. "Mna, you''re not Nellie. You don''t get her. What you see as poison, she might see as sweet."


    Mna fired back, "Greta, you''re so generous. Cameron practically dates you with his wife''s scent still on him, and you''re not jealous?"


    Greta replied with poise, "If it were anyone else, I wouldn''t stand for it. But Nellie''s my sister. Plus, she saved my life with a kidney donation. Cameron treats her well, and I''m okay with that. Plus-"


    Greta shed a ring on her finger. "Cameron picked this out for me himself. Unlike the gifts Nellie got, which were from his assistant. I have Cameron''s love. I don''t need the title of Mrs. Dawson to feel secured. I''m content."


    After making her point, Greta urged Cameron, "You should bring Nellie back soon. I''m worried about her being alone abroad."


    Cameron nodded. "Sure."


    Frustrated, Mna downed a ss of brandy.


    Meanwhile, in Mn, after a long day, Nellie nearly copsed onto her bed, utterly worn out. Checking her phone, she saw a flood of trending news about Cameron and Greta that Mna had shared.


    Cameron was seen escorting Greta to and from the hospital, attending her favorite fashion shows, dining at fancy restaurants, and supporting her business ventures. The tender care he showed Greta and the way he looked at her made it obvious to anyone-those two were definitely more than just friends.

 Chapter 16

    The paparazzi had a field day, sshing photos of them at various events all over the trending searches. Cluelessizens were cheering them on, urging Cameron and Greta to tie the knot already. Cameron, however, ignored the online chatter about marriage, showing no signs of setting the record straight.


    Nellie was unfazed and cool as a cucumber, promptly telling Mna, [I can''t stand articles like this. Please don''t send them my way anymore.]


    [Nel, are you really over Cameron?] Mna asked, torn between love and exasperation for her friend.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Every time Nellie swore she''d steer clear of Cameron, she''d end up running back to him the moment he sweet-talked her.


    [My love-stricken days are over. I never want to see Cameron and Greta again in my life. Don''t mention them to me anymore.]


    Mna replied: [Nellie, I hope you mean it this time.]


    After getting her paycheck for the month, Nellie set aside a few hundred euros for next month''s essentials and saved the remaining thousand euros.


    She bought books and dove into her studies whenever she could. Burning the midnight oil, she soaked up inspiration from this fashion ma like a sponge. Nellie was making great strides.


    In the end, hard work paid off. Nellie got into the top fashion school in Mn, enrolling as a fashion design student. Howeber, the eye-watering tuition fee on the eptance letter felt like a punch to the gut. Eight thousand euros a year?


    Sure, it might be a bargain for some, but for her-someone struggling to make ends meet-it was a fortune.


    Her ount held just over four thousand euros, and in this foreignnd where she knew no one, borrowing money wasn''t an option.


    Nellie sat on the cold floor of her rented room, her mind racing through the night. At dawn, she slowly got up, walked to her safe, and took out the tinum ring she''d brought from home, adorned with tiny pink diamonds.


    It was Cameron''s engagement gift to her. She''d nned to keep it as a reminder of those painful times, but desperate times called for desperate measures.


    Clutching the ring, Nellie headed to a jewelry pawnshop.


    The shop owner lit up at the sight of her ring. "The diamonds are small, and the band''s thin, but it''s a major brand''s piece. I''ll take it."


    Nellie couldn''t help a bitter smile. The ring was just a promo item, a freebie Cameron got when he bought Greta''s ridiculously expensive birthday present. He''d used it to propose to her on a whim. "How much?" Nellie asked, pushing away the unpleasant memories. She was focused on the here and now.


    "Four thousand euros," the owner offered.


    "Deal," Nellie replied without hesitation.


    With this money added to her savings, she finally had enough for tuition.


    After collecting the four thousand euros, she left the ring behind and walked out without a backward nce.


    By the time she made her way home, night had fallen.


    Nellie hurried down the street towards her rented ce. As she crossed the Mn Grand Bridge, where the streetlights were few and far between, she heard faint gasping sounds in the shadows.


    Her heart skipped a beat, and she froze on the spot, feeling small and fragile. It took her a while to steady her nerves before she dared to trace the sound.


    Behind a bridge pir, she discovered a young man in distress. When she got a good look at his face, Nellie was utterly stunned.

 Chapter 17

    The young, unpolished face before her was a perfect match for a man at the pinnacle of power. Decisive and fierce as a demon, his features were strikingly handsome, as if sculpted by a master''s hand. There he was, sprawled at the edge of the bridge, drenched in blood. His eyes were strikingly beautiful yet rebelliously defiant, like a lone wolf abandoned, searching desperately for a glimmer of hope. Nellie''s eyes misted over as she crouched down beside him. "Will youe with me?" she asked, her voice gentle.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    He nced at her, his clothes in tatters, dirt clinging to every inch, but nothing could hide the innate grace and nobility he carried.


    He turned his head with a hint of pride. "What''s your name?"


    Nellie hesitated for a split second. "Nathalie," she replied, keeping her real name close to her chest.


    His eyes flickered with shadows. Unexpectedly, the man grabbed her hand, a spark of excitement in his voice that seemed beyond his years. "I like it."


    "I''m Nathan. I like how part of my name is in yours too," he dered, introducing himself.


    Nellie chuckled. "What a coincidence."


    "That means we''re meant to be," Nathan remarked with a sly grin.


    "I could be your big sister. How''s that?" Nellie''s warm smile made Nathan hesitate.


    "Big sister?" He scrutinized her, skepticism in his eyes. "You''re so small and skinny. You look younger than me."


    "How old are you?" Nellie inquired.


    "I''ll be 23 this year."


    Nellie couldn''t help butugh at his cheeky fib. "Do you want toe home with me?" she asked.


    Nathan gave a nod.


    Nellie hoisted Nathan onto her back. Despite being underfed, he was quite tall and not exactly light. For frail Nellie, carrying him was like lugging a mountain, and it wasn''t long before she was huffing and puffing. "You should put me down," he suggested.


    But Nellie was stubborn. "No, I''m not leaving you behind."


    Nathan was taken aback. "You''ve saved me. I''ll make sure to be good to you for the rest of my life."


    Nellie paused. He would be admired by thousands one day, and trusting him with her feelings felt uncertain.


    "I helped you out of kindness, not to get anything back. Just take good care of yourself, and that''ll be enough for me," Nellie assured him.


    With considerable effort, Nellie carried Nathan to her small rented ce,ying him gently on the bed. She dashed out to get bandages, iodine, and other essentials, gradually transforming the empty space into a cozy home. The change brought a smile to her face. She returned to Nathan and tended to his wounds with care. As she removed his shirt, the sight of his injuries was so shocking it nearly brought her to tears. "You''re just a kid. How could anyone harm you so badly?"


    Nathan was undeterred by his situation. He replied defiantly, "They wanted me dead. Too bad for them, I survived. They''ll regret not finishing me off when they had the chance."


    He was stunningly good-looking, carrying the aura of a natural-born leader. Those dark, brooding eyes added a chilling edge to his appearance, enough to send a shiver down anyone''s spine.


    Nellie mused silently. He might look innocent, but there was an undeniable darkness within him. After reaching out to save him, she couldn''t tell if she was inviting trouble or fortune. "Surviving something like this means you''re destined for something greater," Nellie said with a hopeful smile.

 Chapter 18

    Nathan looked at her with pleading eyes. "I''m kind of in a bind here. Can I crash at your ce for a bit?"


    Nellie gave him a yful but firm smile. "Sure, but here''s the deal. If you''re staying here, you''ve got to y by my rules. Got it?" Nathan nodded earnestly. "Yeaht."


    Nellie handed him some antiseptic. "I''ve taken care of the wounds on your upper body. The rest is up to you¡ª"


    Nathan''s eyes turned as soft as a puppy''s. "I''m really in no shape to do it myself. Could you help me out?"


    Nellie''s resolve wavered for a moment, but then she grabbed a scarf and gently ced it over Nathan''s face. Carefully, she helped him out of his pants.


    When she saw the gash near his thigh, a look of shock crossed her face. "It''s so close to your..." she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "How could someone do this to you?"


    She began to understand why Nathan, who seemed to have it all, was so emotionally shut off and lonely. How could someone who''d never been shown love learn to love others? "It''s okay. It doesn''t hurt," Nathan reassured her.


    Nellie took a deep breath, pushing back her tears. "Steer clear of them until you''re strong enough."


    "Okay, I promise."


    "And once you''re healed, I''ll figure out a way to get you back to school. You should aim for college, a really good one."


    "Alright."


    After applying the medicine, Nellie didn''t bother dressing him again. She just gently pulled the nket over him and removed the scarf from his face.


    "Get some rest. I''ll whip up some food for you."


    "Thanks."


    Nellie left with the ointment and gauze, and Nathan watched her slender figure fade away, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions.


    Three months flew by.


    In the Capital, Cameron was with Greta at the hospital for her regr check-up. While Greta sat in the waiting area, Cameron ran around, handling all the boyfriend duties, like paying fees and standing in queues. When he helped Greta to the blood test area, his attentive behavior even drew admiration from other women.


    One woman scolded her own boyfriend, "See how that guy treats hisdy like a queen? What about you? I''m carrying your kid, and you can''t even get off your phone..."


    Her boyfriend, eyes still glued to his screen, shot back, "How do you know she''s his wife? What if she''s his side chick? Guys always act like that around their mistresses. Let me be a yboy, and I''d treat you well, too." Cameron''s face flushed with embarrassment.


    The woman nced suspiciously between Cameron and Greta. "You two are married, right?"


    Cameron''s difort only deepened.


    Greta quickly intervened, "No, you''ve got it wrong. I''m really sick, and my brother-inw is just helping me with the hospital stuff."


    To which the woman quipped, "Your sister sure is generous."Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Greta kept quiet.


    After the blood test, they left the hospital feeling awkward.


    In a quiet corridor, Greta turned to Cameron, seeing the frustration on his face. "Cameron, just ignore them. We know the truth, and that''s what matters. Let them think what they want..."

 Chapter 19

    Cameron''s face gradually softened as they stepped into the doctor''s office. He was caught off guard when the doctor, after reviewing Greta''s medical report, didn''t say a word about it but instead stared at him seriously and asked, "Where''s Mrs. Dawson''s medical report?" Cameron''s mood, which had just settled, darkened again. Greta was quick to jump in, "Oh, my sister''s overseas."


    The doctor frowned, "Mrs. Dawson might be a donor, but her health is just as important. Also-" he paused, revealing something troubling. "The day she was discharged, I noticed her sheets were soaked in blood. Given the time since her surgery, it''s unusual for such heavy bleeding to ur." "Mr. Dawson, could there be other health issues she''s facing? You should really have here back for a check-up to rule out any other problems." The doctor sighed, clearly frustrated, "Her condition was so fragile; she shouldn''t have been discharged in the first ce." Cameron went pale, clutching Greta''s hand so tightly that she nearly yelped in pain. He had no idea Nellie was in such bad shape the day she left for abroad. If he''d known, he wouldn''t have let her go.


    Trying to deflect the doctor''s criticism, Greta chimed in, "Doctor, it''s not Cameron''s fault. My sister was adamant about leaving. She wants another lifestyle and insisted on going abroad. Mr. Dawson couldn''t change her mind, so he relented." The doctor gave Greta a look of silent judgment.


    "Mr. Dawson, after donating a kidney, your wife''s health will naturally decline. You need to make sure she gets regr medical attention. Even a strong body can break down when you treat it so recklessly. She might not enjoy life as much as the recipient does." Cameron''s facade cracked as he pressed, "You were her doctor. Shouldn''t you know why she had such severe bleeding?"


    The physician was taken aback but held his temper in check, "Mr. Dawson, based on her previous health records, she shouldn''t have had major issues. Her surgical wound was healing well. This sudden bleeding could mean a re-infection, or perhaps..." Looking Cameron in the eye, the doctor said, "I suspect she had a miscarriage."


    "That''s impossible," Cameron shot back.


    The doctor looked puzzled, "But her symptoms resemble those after taking Mifepristone."


    Cameron suddenly remembered Nellie asking him to buy Mifepristone the day before she left. "What is that used for?" His voice trembled.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "It''s for terminating a pregnancy."


    Cameron''splexion turned ghostly white. The night Nellie agreed to donate her kidney to Greta, he was so overjoyed that he''d let his guard down and slept with Nellie.


    Could she have gotten pregnant that night? And why had she never told him? Instead, she secretly terminated the pregnancy.


    Cameron''s tall frame shivered as he asked, "Why would she do that?"


    The doctor replied, "Mr. Dawson, she is your wife. Didn''t she discuss this with you?"


    A wave of frustration hit Cameron, leaving him speechless. He couldn''t fathom that Nellie, who had always been sopliant and revered him, would go behind his back and end the life of their child.

 Chapter 20

    He stumbled, murmuring, "Why would she do this?"


    Wasn''t that their child? Hadn''t she always dreamed of him giving her a home andpleting their family with a child? At that moment, he vaguely sensed that something precious was slipping away.


    The doctor shook his head with a sigh. "Mrs. Dawson really isn''t in a condition suitable for pregnancy right now."


    As they walked out of the hospital, Greta nced at Cameron''s gloomy face, feeling uneasy. Trying to lighten his mood, she suggested, "Cameron, don''t be upset. I don''t think Nellie had an abortion because she stopped loving you. She had just undergone surgery as a donor, and it wasn''t safe for her to be pregnant. Maybe she kept it from you because she didn''t want you to worry."


    Greta''s wordsforted Cameron somewhat. Yeah, Nellie loved him so much; why would she end her pregnancy for no reason? She must have hidden it from him to keep him from worrying. She always preferred to share the good times and shield him from the bad. Cameron''s expression softened, so Greta added, "She wouldn''t really leave you. She''s just ying hard to get and trying to grab your attention. Girls love using these little tricks to feel cherished."


    Greta linked her arm through his and rested her head on his shoulder, painting a picture of peaceful times. "Cameron, could you please spend some time with me while Nellie''s away?"


    Cameron gently pushed Greta aside. A flicker of worry crossed Greta''s eyes. "Cameron, maybe you should just swallow your pride and bring her back?"


    Cameron smirked, "She went too far by ending our baby''s life. Looks like I''ve spoiled her too much. She shouldn''t expect me to bring her back anytime soon. Only when she realizes her mistake andes to apologize will I consider forgiving her."


    Greta sighed softly. She couldn''t feel happy at all. The more Cameron seemed to resent Nellie, the more uneasy she felt. After all, you only show such strong emotions for someone you can''t let go of.


    Meanwhile, in Mn, Nathan''s condition was unpredictable, and Nellie was nearly out of money. She racked her brain, trying to figure out how to break through her current predicament and find a way to earn some cash.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Finally, she had a lightbulb moment. She decided to leverage her knack for fashion design by buying cheap fabrics, making clothes, and selling them at a fair price to earn a profit.


    No sooner said than done. With thest few euros in her pocket, Nellie bought some inexpensive fabric and, with determination, rented a sewing machine.


    Back home, she eagerly told Nathan, "Nathan, I''m going to be a garment maker."


    Nathan replied with a knowing grin, "You should be a world-ss fashion designer."


    It was like a light went on in Nellie''s mind. "You''re right. I should be a designer."


    She had grown ustomed to being underestimated, always seeing herself as just another face in the crowd. But Nathan never looked down on her. His encouragement and trust warmed her heart. Nathan teased, "You know, I could be your fashion model."


    Nellie nearly spit out her tea inughter.

 Chapter 21

    The young man was like wolf, still yet to fully mature. He gave off the vibe of an irresistibly cute puppy. Given his willingness to step forward, Nellie pondered whether she should take full advantage of the situation.


    But the thought of that enigmatic figure at the top of the socialdder-a breathtakingly beautiful yet untouchable man-gave her pause. Nellie decided it wasn''t worth the risk.


    "I''ll stick to what I know best for now-women''s fashion," she concluded.


    Nathan looked a bit crestfallen. "Well, when you do get into men''s fashion, let me be your model, okay?"


    Nellie gave a casual nod. "Sure, we''ll see."


    Throwing herself into her work, Nellie started with sketches of several designs for women''s clothing. She picked her favorite and carefully cut the fabric, sewing it into aplete outfit. It was a grass-green high-waisted skirt paired with a chic beige cropped zer. The outfit, lined with a soft oatmeal hue, struck the perfect bnce between elegance and a hint of softness.


    Nellie tried pitching her designs to various clothing stores. Unfortunately, shecked influence and often couldn''t even get past the sales staff to meet the managers.


    The long nights of toil eventually took a toll on her already delicate health. One day, while making soup for Nathan, she suddenly felt dizzy and copsed on the kitchen floor.


    When Nathan noticed her absence, he called out a few times, "Nathalie?" With no answer, he limped from room to room until he found her in the kitchen, unconscious on the floor. She was even clutching the pie crust she''s preparing.


    Panic washed over Nathan''s face. He quickly picked her up and rushed downstairs to the hospital.


    After a full check-up, the doctor asked Nathan, puzzled, "The patient is missing a kidney and has surgical scars on her back. Has she recently had a kidney removed?"


    Nathan''s face turned ashen, and his fists clenched, his knuckles white. "Doc, how''s she going to manage now?" Nathan''s voice was heavy with worry.


    Nathan had a mature air and coupled with Nellie''s youthful looks, the doctor misunderstood their rtionship. He advised, "You should cut back on, um, intimate rtions and definitely take precautions. Her body isn''t strong enough for pregnancy." Nathan flushed with embarrassment but simply nodded. "Got it."


    The doctor added, "She''s very weak and malnourished. Cook her some nourishing soups, like chicken soup, and add some ingredients to boost her energy."


    Nathan''s face grew more serious as he recalled how Nellie had pushed herself, despite her illness, to pay for his treatments. She''d work through the night and make sure he got nutritious food, leaving herself with so little...


    How could someone be so selfless and kind-hearted?


    Nathan''s heart ached.


    After Nellie was moved to a regr ward, she gradually woke up feeling groggy. When she realized she was in the hospital, she asked weakly. "What happened to me?"


    Nathan, holding her hand, eyes slightly red, said, "The doctor said you shouldn''t push yourself anymore. No morete nights. I''ll take care of the money-making."Original from N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 22

    Nellie felt a mix of emotions settle in her heart. "Nathan, you found out, didn''t you?" she asked.


    Nathan nodded, his voice thick with emotion. "I can''t believe I never knew you were living with just one kidney..."


    A wave of sorrow washed over Nellie''s face. Those painful memories she had worked so hard to bury began to surface again.


    "I was about your age when it began. I was young and clueless, and when I hit rock bottom, he took me in. He got me into school, made sure I was fed, and even bought me new clothes. I was so grateful that I thought giving my life to him would be worth it. So, when he needed a kidney for his true love, I agreed without a second thought."


    Nellie paused, her features shadowed with a deeper sadness. "Later, I overheard him talking with his beloved. I realized he only took me in for my kidney... His kindness was just a setup for me to willingly give it away yearster. That''s when I decided to back out. I figured by saving her, I had paid my dues. So I left him..."


    Suddenly, grief overwhelmed her, and she began to cry. "Nathan, from now on, don''t trust anyone. Not even me."


    Nathan gently drew Nellie into a hug. She trembled in his arms like a fragile doll, lost and vulnerable. All he could do was pat her back softly, offeringfort. "From now on, I''ll protect you. Anyone who tries to hurt you will have to answer to me."


    Nellie shook her head. "Nathan, I don''t want to be like him, using gratitude to tie you down. Live for yourself. You don''t owe me anything. I''ll deal with my past."


    Nathan stared at her, puzzled. "Why are you so good to me?" His voice, still boyish, had a charming rasp to it.


    Nellie stayed quiet for a while before whispering, "Maybe I owe you from a past life."


    Nathan thought aloud, "So debts really need to be settled. I owe you my life now, and I might not be able to repay it. Looks like I''ll have to find you again in my next life."


    Out of the blue, Nathan leaned in and bit Nellie''s shoulder, leaving a neat set of teeth marks, like a personal seal.


    Nellie winced in pain. "Ouch-"


    "It''s a marker," Nathan said with a serious glint in his eyes, "so I can find you when we''re reborn." It sounded like a joke, but his eyes were solemn as if he was making a lifelong promise.


    Tears filled Nellie''s eyes as she gazed at him. "A fortune teller once said I was destined for a tough life. That''s why my father abandoned me, and my mother couldn''t care less. Even my other family members kept their distance. Yet here you are, insisting on being close to me. Isn''t that a bit foolish?"Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Nathan replied, "If you''re destined for hardship and I''m under a cursed star, maybe we''re just meant to be together. In my opinion, I''m not the foolish one, but your family. You''re smart, kind, and diligent. Being a part of your life is the greatest blessing."


    Nellie smiled, gently ruffling Nathan''s hair. "If that''s the case, then I''ll be your family for life. How does that sound?"


    "Then you have to look after me. I''m fragil, you know," Nathan said with a bright, carefreeugh.


    Nellie nodded warmly. "Absolutely."

 Chapter 23

    When Nellie was mostly back on her feet, it also happened to be the start of a new school term. Maybe it was like finding sunshine after the storm, but Nellie''s streak of bad luck seemed to take a turn for the better. It was as if her career was finally blossoming. Her designs became all the rage among her ssmates, with many of them eager to snap up her stylish yet affordable clothes. Word spread fast, and soon enough, Nellie''s little business was booming, catering to everyone from budget buyers to those with a bit more to spend. Her wallet was getting nice and full. Nellie was thrilled; she finally had the confidence and the means to stand on her own two feet.


    Meanwhile, Nathan was chilling on his bed, gaming away, and chimed in with some words of wisdom, "Everyone''s energy has its limits. Even if you were made of steel, there''s only so much you can do in a day. That means your ie has a ceiling." Nellie also realized that she was swamped with more orders than she could handle. She turned to Nathan for advice. "So, any ideas on how I can break through this?"


    Nathan paused his game. "You''ve got two options: pivot towards the high-end market or start your own brand."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    His advice was straightforward, but Nellie, being familiar with the high-society scene, quickly saw the potential in Nathan''s words. Still, she was a bit hesitant. "High-society folks mostly go for big-name brands. My stuff might not even get a second look." "Every brand started somewhere."


    With just a few words, Nathan expanded Nellie''s vision for her career. "Think I should give it a shot?" she asked, her eyes lighting up with excitement.


    Nathan handed her a client''s order, saying, "Just wow her, and she''ll bring you something unexpected."


    Nellie was puzzled. "But this is just a mid-tier client."


    "Just trust me," Nathan replied confidently.


    When the client showed up at Nellie''s modest apartment to pick up her gown, she looked around skeptically. "I need a sophiscated and ssy gown. How can it be made in a ce like this?" Nellie, ever the diplomat, reassured her, "Madam, my ce might be simple, but it''s spotless. I promise you''ll love your gown."


    With a respectful gesture, Nellie presented the gown, beautifully packaged. The client''s face lit up when she saw the soft color and the fine craftsmanship. "I love this color! What''s it called?" "Oatmeal," Nellie replied. "Would you like to try it on?"


    The client carefully took out the dress and its lining. "What''s this?"


    Nellie exined, "This lining is a special match for the cashmere coat. If you''re okay with it, I''d like to give it to you as a gift. Just a heads up, it''s aplimentary item, so it''s not as high-quality as the coat."


    The client was thrilled, "Oh my! You''re such a generous soul. I''m really impressed with you."


    A few dayster, the client returned with a group of high-society friends. She couldn''t stop raving about Nellie, "Your designs are top-notch and so unique. I was the talk of the ball! My friends kept asking where I got my dress, so I just had to bring them here." Nellie gave a grateful bow. "Thank you so much for spreading the word. To show my appreciation, I''d love to design a ne for you, on the house."

 Chapter 24

    The societydies couldn''t wait to chat with Nellie about their fashion needs, and she effortlessly responded with her expert knowledge. Without a second thought, they handed over hefty deposits and left absolutely thrilled.


    After a few sessful deals, Nellie found herself mingling with the high-societydies, who were now frequent visitors to her humble rental space. Her clientele became more elite, orders skyrocketed, her bank ount swelled, and her professionalmitment grew stronger. In just a few short months, she amassed a hundred thousand euros. Then, she turned her attention to Nathan, who was deeply engrossed in his video games...


    Nathan felt a chill run down his spine, sensing a wave of dread as he met Nellie''s piercing gaze.


    "Nathan, we''re not strapped for cash anymore. You can attend the best school out there," she said.


    "But, every time I hit the books, I get headaches, my feet hurt, and my stomach aches... everything just acts up," Nathanined, clearly resistant.


    "Nathan, you need to study to get a brighter future," Nellie said with a wise air.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''m not the sharpest tool in the shed. The sses might as well be in gibberish for all I understand. Instead of wasting money on me, why not invest it in your business?" Nathan tried to wriggle out.


    Nellie put on a mock stern face. "Nathan, you promised you''d listen to me..."


    With no other option, Nathan gave in, "Alright, alright, I promise I''ll go to school."


    Nellie''s face lit up, and she yfully ruffled his hair. "That''s my good boy."


    After shelling out a lot of cash and calling in some favors, Nellie finally secured Nathan a spot at a top-notch school. Her humble and amodating demeanor as she made those calls softened Nathan''s stance on schooling. As the seasons changed, spring came and went.


    In the Capital, the New Year was just around the corner.


    Dawson International, a big name in the Capital, was gearing up for a spectacr New Year celebration. As the CEO, Cameron had to attend with a date, either for the opening speech or the final dance, to keep the event''s spirit alive.


    Griffin, who held thepany''s image in high regard, called Cameron early on, "Cameron, this year''s event is being jointly hosted by several toppanies, and major media outlets will be broadcasting it live. Your personal image is crucial, so your date has to be your wife, Nellie."


    Cameron''s heart skipped a beat, although he wasn''t sure why. He tried to make an excuse, "Dad, Nellie is overseas..."


    "There''s still time before the celebration. You can bring her back home," Griffin replied in a tone that allowed no argument. "Recently, there''s been a lot of negative buzz about you and Greta, which is affecting thepany. By showing some love to Nellie at the event, those baseless rumors about you cheating will fade away. You''re an adult; you know what to do." Cameron sighed, "I understand."


    After hanging up, Cameron sat quietly for a moment before pulling up his messaging app. He opened his chat with Nellie and realized thest time she had reached out to him was over six months ago. Had Nellie really been away for that long?


    He vaguely remembered promising to bring her back after three months, and he... had broken that promise.

 Chapter 25

    Cameron felt a wave of irritation bubbling up as hezily scrolled through his chat history with Nellie. Back then, she was always the one to greet him with a "good morning" or "good night," sharing every little detail about the ces she visited and the food she tried-


    almost to the point of being too clingy.


    But ever since he sent her abroad, it was like she vanished into thin air. He did not hear a peep from her, and it was only now that he noticed the change. He realized just how much he had been neglecting Nellie.


    He shot her a message on social media: [Hey Nel, what''s up?]


    [Have you been ignoring me because you''re mad at me?]Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After staring at the screen for what felt like forever, he finally hit send, only to be met with a ring red exmation mark.


    Cameron was dumbfounded. Did someone hack Nellie''s ount?


    He quickly dialed her international number. After the standard busy tone, a gentle automated voice informed him, "Sorry, the number you''ve dialed is no longer in service."


    Cameron was left in shock and confusion. Matt chimed in, "Boss, it looks like your wife has blocked you."


    His face shifted from pale to red. It took him ages to wrap his head around it: Nellie had blocked him?


    Matt shot him a nce, noting how worryingly oblivious he was. Nellie had tossed aside the gifts he bought, refused his financial help, and even blocked him just to sever ties. All signs pointed to her genuinely considering leaving him. "Boss, maybe she''s really nning to leave you?"


    Cameron burst outughing, finding the idea absurd. "Leave me? No way." He figured she had given up too much to walk away from being his wife.


    Matt spoke up for Nellie, "Boss, no woman wants to share her husband with someone else. You''ve hurt her feelings over and over for Miss Greta. Maybe she''s just had enough."


    Cameron shrugged it off. "Sure, I might''ve overlooked her, but before me, she was just a poor little outcast. Bing my wife was a miracle she could only dream of. She knows better than to go after things she doesn''t deserve. This is no fairy tales where Cindere bes a princess overnight."


    Matt sighed deeply.


    Using Matt''s phone, Cameron sent another message to Nellie: [Nel, there''s a bigpany eventing up. As my wife, you should be there. Get back here, pronto. Cameron.]


    He didn''t bother mentioning any of his broken promises and how he treated Nellie like a puppet without thoughts or feelings as he waited for her to make the first move. Feeling satisfied, he turned to Matt. "Call up the guys. Let''s grab some dinner."


    Meanwhile, in Mn, Nellie was busy at her sewing machine when her phone buzzed. She asked Nathan, "Nathan, can you check my text?"


    Thinking it might be an order from a client, Nathan picked up her phone. But his face turned frosty when he read the message. Sneaking a look at Nellie, he said, "It''s just a wrong message from a stranger."

 Chapter 26

    Nellie said, "Oh, you can reply for me then."


    Nathan quickly tapped out a message: [Who let the dog out? Maybe you should go back and learn some manners from your English teacher on how to ask for a favor.]


    Cameron got Nellie''s text while he was having dinner with a few of his closest friends. The vibe was lively. One of them teased, "Cameron, I heard your father wants you to bring Nellie back. nning a trip overseas soon?" "I''ve been busy. She''ll manage on her own," Cameron replied, sounding unbothered.


    "Dude, you''ve left her abroad for half a year without a peep. What if she''s ticked off and doesn''te back?"


    Cameron was all confidence. "She''s easy to win over."


    Laughter rippled around the table.


    "True that, Nellie is totally smitten with Cameron. If he asked for her kidney, she''d probably give it without blinking."


    "Ha!"


    When Cameron''s assistant''s phone chimed with a message, his face lit up as he announced, "Mr. Dawson, it''s a text from your wife."


    The buddy who''d been teasing him about losing Nellie looked unimpressed. "Old habits die hard. Nellie can''t help but fawn over Cameron." Cameron lit a cigarette, a smug smile on his face.


    Greta chimed in, "You guys just don''t get girls. They act all dramatic and pick fights just to grab your attention. My sister''s had a tough upbringing, so a bit of kindness from Cameron, and she''s clinging to him like a lifeline. She''s not going anywhere." When Cameron opened Nathan''s message, the bold word "SCRAM" made his expression darken like a storm cloud. He read thest bit of Nellie''s message, and it almost sent him over the edge.


    The room suddenly felt tense and stifling as everyone sensed the brewing trouble.


    "Cameron, who ticked you off?" a friend leaned in to sneak a peek at the screen.


    Reading the message, his friend nearly freaked out, "Wow, is this really from Nellie? I''ve never seen anyone dare to sass you like this. Is she asking for trouble?"


    Everyone exchanged shocked nces.


    "Nellie actually threatened you?"


    "Wow, she''s getting gutsy, huh?"


    "This is gonna be interesting."


    Cameron tossed the phone on the table, his face turning an unhealthy shade of green, "No way she''d dare talk to me like that. Someone must''ve hijacked Nellie''s number and sent this..."Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    The assistant picked up his phone, puzzled by the profile picture, "But this is definitely your wife''s number. Although, the tone does sound like a guy..."


    Greta''s eyes widened. "Could it be that Nel found herself a boyfriend abroad?"


    Cameron refused to believe Nellie would betray him, "She wouldn''t dare..."


    Suddenly, Matt noticed something odd, "Weird, why has she changed her name to Nathalie?"


    A particrly imaginative friend remarked, "Nellie even changed her name. Is she really cutting ties with the past?"


    Cameron remained arrogantly confident, "She won''t leave me. She loves me too much to hurt me."


    His eyes settled on the social media app, deciding, "Her ount must have got hacked."

 Chapter 27

    Cameron''s best buddy gave him a yful nudge and said, "Cameron, you better hustle and get Nellie back. Imagine if she shows up one day with a baby bump and hands you divorce papers. You''d be left with nothing but tears. And let''s be honest. Getting dumped by


    Nellie isn''t exactly good for your image."


    Cameron clenched his jaw, muttering, "She wouldn''t dare..."


    Considering the annual celebration looming, Cameron decided it was time to relent.


    "Matt, book me a flight to Australia and grab some gifts for her while you''re at it."


    Matt hesitated but nodded. "Sure thing."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    The following day, Cameron, armed with a plush cat Matt had picked up, boarded a flight to Australia. He''d made up his mind to bring Nellie back himself. It was his way of making amends for months of neglect.


    He thought, ''Once I sweet-talk her, she''ll be eager toe back with me.''


    Cameron headed to the Smiths'' ce. Six months earlier, he''d asked his assistant to find a trustworthy family to watch over his wife in this foreignnd. But when he knocked on their door, brimming with excitement, and exined why he was there, the Smiths lookedpletely baffled.


    "Nellie!" Cameron called into the house.


    He imagined Nellie rushing out to greet him at the sound of his voice. But instead of the reunion he envisioned, he was met with rejection from the Smiths.


    "Mr. Dawson, please keep it down. You''re disturbing the neighbors."


    "Mr. Smith, I''m Nellie''s husband. I''vee to take her home. Please, tell her toe out..."


    Their next words felt like a cold p in the face. "I''m sorry, Ms. Nellie never came to us."


    Cameron stood there, stunned. "What? Nellie didn''te to you?"


    It dawned on him that her leaving six months ago wasn''t just a heat-of-the-moment decision. She genuinely wanted to break free from him.


    Nellie had slipped away like a kite breaking loose from its string.


    He left the Smiths'' ce, feeling defeated.


    "Mr. Dawson..." Mr. Smith followed him outside, offering a suggestion. "I remember something. Six months back, a student got caught in a street riot and was tragically shot. Her body went unimed and was eventually handled by authorities. You might want to check with them."


    Cameron''s face went pale, his voice softening. "Thanks, I''ll do that."


    He headed to the office in a daze and exined his situation. The staffer there gave him a harsh look. "You''re toote. What were you doing six months ago?"


    "Her body''s been cremated, and the perpetrator''s been executed. We can''t confirm her identity now. But based on the autopsy, we can share some details: the deceased was 22, wearing a red dress, had long hair, and weighed about 120 pounds. That''s all we know; you can go now."


    Cameron had no idea if Nellie owned a red dress or even how she did her hair. In a fit of anger, he pounded his fist on the table. "Is this how you handle things? The deceased might be my wife. Can''t you understand my pain?"


    The employee looked at him like he was clueless. "Sir, if you truly cared about your wife, you wouldn''t have realized she was missing six months after her death. With a husband like you, maybe your wife would prefer not to be found or even dead."

 Chapter 28

    Cameron felt like he''d been thrown into an icy abyss.


    Yeah, he wasn''t exactly husband-of-the-year material. If Nellie didn''t reach out, he wouldn''t bother either. Around her, he had this natural air of superiority.


    He stumbled away from the federal building, catching snippets of people mocking him inside. "What a jerk. How could his wife ever love such a heartless guy?" Cameron''s heart skipped a beat, guilt washing over him for the first time. He had let Nellie down.


    "Nellie, I''m sorry."


    "Where are you?"


    Life''s ups and downs aren''t always shared.


    Meanwhile, over in Mn, Nellie was riding a wave of happiness. That day, her mentor called her into the office with some exciting news.


    "Nathalie, I''ve entered you into the 24th Global Fashion Festival''s New Talent Competition. Get ready. I believe you can achieve great things."


    Nellie felt a rush of excitement. Thispetition wasn''t just any event. It was a chance to catch the eye of fashion moguls. Winning could mean getting mentored by Jasmine, the shining star of the fashion world.


    Jasmine was a trailzer in luxury fashion, having founded a global brand and achieving massive sess. She was one of the top ten influential women globally and a phnthropist to boot.


    Nellie had crossed paths with her once, but that was a memory she''d rather not revisit.


    Back then, as Cameron''s official girlfriend, she tagged along to a grand banquet. Because of Cameron''s cold indifference, she hadn''t prepared a proper gown, making her theughingstock among the high-society crowd. People whispered behind her back, calling her nothing more than Cameron''s loyal pet.


    She might have been born into humble beginnings, but she had her pride. She went to Cameron, asking for a bit more money to buy a decent dress.


    And what did Cameron say?


    He shot her a dismissive look and said, "Nellie, stop being so vain, will you?"


    Nellie was stunned. All she wanted was a respectable dress, and he used her of vanity.


    When he showered Greta with endless jewels, limited edition bags, and designer outfits, why didn''t he call her vain?This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    She didn''t argue and just stumbled out of Cameron''s room. That night, she cried herself to sleep in the lounge.


    In her sadness, she thought that maybe one''s birth really does decide their whole life.


    In her darkest moment, Jasmine appeared, lifting her tear-streaked face. She praised Nellie''s natural grace and supermodel looks. Jasmine even gifted her a piece of jewelry so exquisite it could rival the Queen''s crown called Solitary Moon. It was the most precious thing Nellie had ever received.


    Before leaving, Jasmine gently advised her, "Remember, Nellie, every girl is her own queen. You must learn to love yourself."


    Jasmine was Nellie''s guiding star. It was just a shame it took her so long to see the light.


    ...


    "Nellie?" Her mentor''s voice snapped her back to reality. "What are you daydreaming about? Did you catch what I said?"


    Nellie shook herself from her thoughts. "Yes, sir, I''ll give it my all."


    Her mentor smiled warmly. "If you hit a rough patch, remember, I''m here to help."


    "Thank you, sir."

 Chapter 29

    Cameron came back to the Capital all by himself. When Griffin found out that Nellie hadn''te back with Cameron, he was absolutely livid. He unleashed his fury on Cameron. "I told you not to marry Nellie, but you went ahead anyway just to save your old me. Now that you''re married, you ought to make things work with Nellie and support each other like a proper couple should. Sure, Nellie''s family background isn''t great, but she''s sweet and respectful, and we''ve epted her. But you just had to get tangled up with her sister... You''ve really broken Nellie''s heart. Is that why she wouldn''te back home with you?" Griffin''s anger only intensified. "If Nellie doesn''te back, there''s no point in you going to the Dawson family''s annual banquet. It''ll just spark gossip."


    Griffin''s wife Kristina was shaken. "Honey, Cameron will bring Nellie back. Just give him a little time."


    Cameron was the only heir of the Dawson family, but that was only if he could keep the Dawson family business afloat. If he couldn''t, a slew of illegitimate heirs might pop up to rece him. This was why Kristina was so worried about Griffin potentially barring Cameron from the banquet.


    She tried to persuade Cameron. "Cameron, this year''s event is a big deal. Our family is teaming up with the Rond and McCoy families for a major alliance event. You have to go as the Dawson heir and meet the elders from the other two families. Once you get their approval, your career will take off. Cameron, you must do whatever it takes to get Nellie back."


    Suddenly, Cameron opened the door, looking utterly defeated. "Mom, Nellie is missing."


    Kristina was stunned and ready to scold Cameron, but noticing his downcast expression, she held back.


    Griffin kicked Cameron hard in the stomach, but Cameron didn''t resist. Filled with distress, Griffin said, "How can you be such a lousy husband? Your wife''s been missing, and you just found out? You idiot, do you know what kind of disaster this could mean for you and the Dawson family?"


    "We can''t let the media find out you mistreated Nellie. Remember, whatever caused Nellie to disappear can''t be pinned on you."


    Cameron opened his mouth, wanting to defend Nellie, but thought about his future and stayed silent.


    Kristina chimed in, "You always have too muchpassion. Let me handle this."


    A few dayster.


    The inte exploded with stories about Mrs. Dawson allegedly having an affair and running off overseas with another man. Meanwhile, Mr. Dawson, in an attempt to win her back, humbled himself to chase after her, only for Mrs. Dawson to firmly abandon the heartbroken Mr. Dawson, who returned home in despair.


    The reports painted Nellie as someonepletely irresponsible in love, fickle, and flirtatious. On the other hand, Cameron was depicted as a devoted husband, madly in love with his wife. The media described how Cameron, despite immense family pressure, married the ''Cindere'' Nellie, showered her with care, and even extended his kindness to Nellie''s gravely ill sister.


    The report included a snapshot of Cameron''s ne ticket and photos of him tenderly caring for Greta.


    On social media, Greta was quick to like and share the post, seemingly confirming the report''s authenticity.


    Public sympathy swung heavily in Cameron''s favor, while Nellie faced a torrent of harsh criticism. Unaware of the full story,izens bashed Nellie relentlessly.


    [Oh my gosh, marrying Cameron is like hitting the jackpot! He''s such an amazing husband. She doesn''t even appreciate him. How could she cheat on him? Does she have no shame?]Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    [Even her own sister is stepping up to tear her apart, which just shows how awful her character must be. She deserves whatever happened to her.]

 Chapter 30

    Nathan was casually browsing social media while ying a mobile game when he stumbled upon the trending news back home.


    Nellie was almost drowning in the tidal wave of public opinion. Nathan couldn''t hold back any longer. He set up an ount called Knight in Shining Armor and let his voice be heard from the bustling online forums. [Is it possible that Cameron and his sister-inw were having an affair and broke his wife''s heart? Maybe that''s why she doesn''t want toe home and be his puppet anymore.]


    [Let this post be the proof. Let''s all wait for Mrs. Dawson to return and confront those spreading lies.]


    Nathan even splurged on a bit of money to boost his post.


    Hisment quickly caught people''s attention, and soon enough, some sensible folks started to echo the voice of Knight in Shining Armor. [Grab your popcorn, folks. This drama isn''t ending anytime soon.]


    Kristina was always on top of the buzz. She noticed the Knight in Shining Armor stirring things up and casually instructed her trusted aide, "This Knight in Shining Armor seems to know some juicy details. Dig deep if you must, but find out who it is. Offer some cash to sway him to our side."


    "Yes, ma''am."


    Lately, Nellie had been swamped preparing for a bigpetition and had let Nathan''s antics slide. In a bid to get her attention, it seemed like Nathan was causing more trouble than usual.


    One morning, Nathan was curled up on the living room couch, giving Nellie sad puppy eyes like a stray dog. His backpack was carelessly tossed at his feet.


    Nellie couldn''t stand it. "Nathan, are you trying to skip school again?"


    Nathan clutched his stomach, looking pale and on the verge of tears. "My stomach hurts."


    Nellie was caught off guard. She thought Nathan''sints of feeling sick during school were just excuses, but as the semester went on, he genuinely showed more symptoms - headaches, stomachaches, and leg pains - every time he had to go.


    The doctor mentioned it was a ssic case of school aversion syndrome, a serious psychological issue.


    With those innocent, pleading eyes of his, even the toughest heart would melt.


    Nellie, almost against her will, nodded. "Alright then."


    After all, Nathan was so young. If he ended up with psychological issues or depression, wouldn''t she be failing as his guardian?


    Nathan''s face lit up instantly.


    However, Nellie was worried. Nathan was a near-genius with incredible potential. Was she letting this talent go to waste by indulging him?


    In the end, she could gently ruffle his hair. "I just hope you''re happy."


    Nathan retreated to his room to y video games.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Nellie took a day off to stay home, catering to his every need withoutint. While tidying up, she picked up Nathan''s backpack, noticing it felt way too light.


    When she opened it up, she found no textbooks, just a DVD of questionable content.


    Nellie was instantly livid. "Nathan... get out here right now."

 Chapter 31

    Nathan stumbled out, breathless. "What''s going on?"


    Nellie''s eyes were red, tears threatening to spill over as her shoulders shook with anger. "I can''t believe you faked being sick just to skip school. Don''t you know that nothing beats the value of education? If you don''t want to be pushed around in the future, you need to hit the books hard!" Nathan immediately backed down, his usually confident eyes now downcast. "I''m sorry."


    Nellie''s voice was filled with sorrow as she said, "Nathan, I''m here to shield you from life''s storms. But remember, the world is vast, and not every storm can be avoided by leaning on someone else. Think about what you''ve done."


    She grabbed her backpack, huffing as she mmed the door on her way out.


    Nathan pouted, muttering to himself, "What a temper, huh?"


    When the door creaked open again, Nathan couldn''t help but grin. ''I knew she had a soft spot for me.''


    Then, a pair of shiny ck leather shoes stepped into the room, causing Nathan''s heart to sink. Suddenly, he leaped off the bed, sprinting to the window. Pulling back the sheer curtain, he watched as Nellie''s delicate figure slowly faded into the distance.


    As if sensing his gaze, Nellie turned around. Nathan waved gently, pushing aside the curtain to say goodbye.


    Nellie''s anger dissolved at his innocent smile. She called to him, "Nathan, I''ll make your favorite fried chicken for dinner."


    Nathan was still growing, so she tirelessly cooked up delicious meals for him, which had led to him shooting up 6 inches.


    Nathan gave her a soft and gentle look and said, "I''ll be waiting for you."


    The door burst open, and a stern middle-aged man strode in. Standing behind Nathan, he asked with a sneer, "So, you''re the so-called protector?"


    Nathan quickly drew the curtains, nodding with a serious expression.


    The man tossed a thick envelope at Nathan, who didn''t need to open it to know what it was about.


    "Was this sent by Kristina? Are you trying to buy me off?"


    The man raised an eyebrow. "You''re pretty sharp. You''ve messed with someone you shouldn''t have."


    Nathan tossed the envelope back at him. Its seemingly light weightnded with surprising force, slicing into the man''s hand.


    "All this just to save Cameron''s reputation? She''s really pulling out all the stops and sending you all this way with cash. But what if I say I don''t care about her money?"


    "Mrs. Dawson said if you cooperate and change your story, you can name your price," the man stated, confident Nathan would take the bait. After all, who could resist Mrs. Dawson''s financial clout?


    Nathan just smirked. "Your boss should''ve done her homework before approaching me. I''m not someone you can just buy off."Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    The man eyed Nathan, noting the elegance that belied his simple clothing, which suggested that he wasn''t from just any family.


    "Who are you?"


    "You''re not in a position to know my name."


    "Is that so?" The man pped his hands, and suddenly, the room filled with people. "Kid, mydy wants to see you. Sorry, but you''reing with us."


    Nathan nced around his humble apartment, eyes filled with reluctance. But he knew staying would only reveal his true identity, causing trouble for Nathalie.

 Chapter 32

    He said, "Alright then, I''ll go with you. But you need to wait outside. I''m going to leave a note for my roommate. If they call the cops, it''ll be a whole mess." The men waited outside the door.


    Nathan quickly threw together a few things, grabbing only a change of clothes that Nellie had lovingly sewn for him. He scribbled a note for Nellie: [It''s been a year since I left home. It''s time to head back. See you around.] Without looking back, Nathan walked out of the apartment.


    Later that afternoon, Nellie rushed home after school, only to find the ce empty. She sank onto the sofa, feeling a wave of emptiness wash over her.


    Though she knew she and Nathan were on different paths, living together for six months had created a bond. He''s like a part of the family for her, so how could she not feel something for Nathan? His departure left her heart heavy.


    She also couldn''t help but worry about whaty ahead for Nathan. "Nathan, I just hope your future is bright and you achieve all your dreams," she whispered to herself, believing their story might be over.


    Meanwhile, Nathan was on a long international flight, surrounded by the Dawson family''s goons. They made sure he didn''t slip away. Over a dozen men encircled him, leaving no room for escape. Before takeoff, Nathan sent a quick text, then leaned back, closing his eyes for some much-needed rest. They could hear his steady breathing as he slept like nothing was amiss.


    "Hmph, this kid''s got guts. He''s ticked off Mrs. Dawson and still catching some Z''s. Isn''t he worried about what might happen on this trip?" one of them chuckled.


    Nathan, eyes still closed, replied, "Mrs. Dawson? She''s not even a blip on my radar. Her son doesn''t faze me either."


    "Ooh, someone''s feeling bold," another teased.


    "Yep, that''s me. If they''re so tough, why not send Cameron to take me on?"


    When the nended, the airport was eerily quiet. The terminal, usually buzzing with life, was practically deserted.


    The Dawson family''s bodyguards exchanged confused nces. Sure, Mrs. Dawson was rich and influential, but shutting down an entire airport was beyond her reach.


    Nathan strode toward the exit, and the men were ordered to follow him. But as they closed in, a group of skilled guards appeared out of nowhere, blocking their path. These guys effortlessly held them back. Mrs. Dawson''s bodyguards were clearly outmatched. They could only watch as Nathan climbed into a luxury car and drove away.


    In the capital, at the Rond family estate, Nathan stood in the grand living room, waiting for his grandfather. Even though he was still young, he carried the presence of a man who knew his worth.


    The opulence surrounding him seemed dull inparison. His sharp features told an undeniable truth: battles between people aren''t won by truth but by power and influence. That was why he had humbled himself to be here today.


    As Nathan descended the stairs, Benjamin caught sight of hismanding presence. It was clear who held the upper hand. Benjamin''s eyes filled with a mix of emotions. Nathan hadn''t done anything, yet his quiet strength made Benjamin look almost foolish inparison.


    "Nathan, what are you doing here? You''re not wee in my house," Benjamin dered.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

 Chapter 33

    Nathan''s voice was cool and detached. "This is my home. Ie and go as I please. It''s none of your business.''


    Benjamin''s face twisted with anger, "This is my home. I''ve been here since I was born. And you? You''ve shown up here for the first time in sixteen years."


    Nathan shot back, "You''re like a cuckoo in the nest, and you''ve got the nerve to say that."


    Benjamin was livid. "I''m twelve years older than you my mom knew my dad way before yours did..."


    Nathan replied with a smirk, "Want me to give you a legal lesson? Civilw says only kids born to legally married parents are legitimate. Your mom and my dad were never married, so you were born as the ''other woman''s'' child." Benjamin''s cheeks flushed with fury. "Just wait. I''ll have my dad throw you out."


    Right then, the butler stepped out of the study, nced at the fuming Benjamin, then turned to the calm Nathan. He approached Nathan with a slight smile ying on his lips and said respectfully, "Mr. Nathan, your grandfather would like to see you." Nathan nodded silently and made his way to the study.


    Benjamin, surprised, turned to go find his father.


    In the study, Mason sat in a ck leather swivel chair, staring nkly at Nathan.


    Nathan met his gaze steadily.


    Mason had expected the boy to be flustered and maybe even startining. But Nathan''s unfathomable eyes and mature demeanor made Mason realize he couldn''t control the young man standing before him.


    "I''m really d you coulde back," he said with a meaningful tone.


    Nathan replied, "I''ve been lucky. I turned bad situations into blessings, found good fortune in trouble, and had people to help. I''m sure I''ll live a long and sessful life."


    Mason sighed, "I heard about what happened in Mn. I''ll make sure we find out who''s behind it and get you some justice."


    Nathan responded, "Thank you, Grandpa, but I can handle my own affairs."


    Mason looked taken aback. Nathan''s poise and restraint were far beyond his years.


    "I''m sorry about your mother. Your maternal grandfather and I were too stubborn. We forced her to marry your father. He never loved her; his heart always belonged to udia. She couldn''t win his heart, and she chose to end her life. I hope you can understand her decision and understand your father''s perspective, too."


    Nathan''s fists were clenched tight in his sleeves, but his face was calm. "It''s all in the past."


    Mason felt relieved. "Nathan, those of us still here must look ahead. You''re the rightful heir of the Rond family and the McCoy family''s grandson; no one in the Capital has a more prestigious status than you. The more capable you are, the bigger your stage will be. You''ll stay with the Rond family for a while and learn the business from the family''s tutors. I want you to take over mypany soon."


    Nathan replied, "I''ll follow your instructions, Grandpa."


    Mason said, "You can go now."


    Then he asked the butler, "Is Mr. Nathan''s room ready?"


    The butler replied, "Yes, sir. I''ve arranged a room for Mr. Nathan on the third floor."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

 Chapter 34

    "Nathan''s status is leagues above any of those illegitimate kids out there. His room''s going to be right next to mine. His monthly allowance? We''re talking millions. I''ll personally make sure he learns the ropes," Mason instructed. "Yes, sir," the butler responded.


    At the Dawson family estate, Kristina sat in the garden gazebo, sipping her herbal tea. Her face lit up with the kind of joy only a wealthydy could know.


    "Ma''am, Sid''s back."


    "Send him in." Kristina was thrilled. Sid was always on point, and she was sure he wouldn''t let her down this time either.


    "Ma''am." To her surprise, Sid hesitated the moment he saw Kristina, looking guilty and self-reproachful. "Ma''am, I couldn''t bring back the man you wanted. Please punish me."


    "What happened?" Kristina was shocked; she thought this task was a walk in the park.


    "Ma''am, that man''s status is way moreplicated than we thought. We got him to the Capital, but someone picked him up at the airport entrance."


    Sid whispered a few more words in Kristina''s ear, and she suddenly looked panicked. "What? If he can control airport staff, he must be incredibly powerful." She might have bitten off more than she could chew, and Kristina just wanted to smooth things over quietly. "We can''t let Griffin find out about this. Otherwise, he''ll see me as a liability instead of an asset in the inheritance race. I can''t be a burden to Cameron''s im."


    "Don''t worry, ma''am. My lips are sealed."


    "Go and find out who this man really is. If he''s got ties to that girl Nellie, that could be a real headache." Kristina fretted.


    "On it."


    The annual end-of-year bash hosted by the Wealth Alliance was finally here. The heirs of the conglomerates were going all out to create the perfect image.


    But Cameron got his spotlight snatched by Griffin. "Cameron, since your wife''s not back, you can skip the finale of the celebration. We don''t need anyone digging into why Nellie''s missing. Then you''d be left with no way to exin your wife''s disappearance." Kristina was fuming, her face turning a shade darker than purple. "Honey, if you''re sidelining Cameron, which illegitimate son are you nning to have rece him?"


    Griffin gave her a dismissive look. "Your son dropped the ball. Now, my other son is cleaning up Cameron''s mess, and you still try to criticize him?"


    Kristina was seething but had noeback.


    At the celebration, Cameron''s half-brother Carter made a shy entrance. After he took over hosting duties from Cameron, the heads of several wealthy families caught on to the shift, buttering up Griffin right in front of Cameron. "Mr. Dawson, you''re truly lucky. We''ve all seen Cameron''s talents. But who knew you had another son waiting in the wings? When do you n to have him take over Dawson International?"


    Griffin beamed with pride. "This introduction is just the beginning. I''m paving the way for him to be the CEO of the Al division at Dawson International. I hope you all continue to support him."


    "Absolutely," a few of the elders chimed in.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

 Chapter 35

    In prestigious circles like the Ronds, McCoys, Dawsons, and Sharps, family heads were seasoned veterans with an uncanny knack for reading people. Getting their nod meant you were a strong contender for the family business mantle someday. The Dawsons had once pinned their hopes on Cameron, but now, with Carter in the spotlight, the line of session at Dawson International seemed anything but clear. Watching Carter soak up the limelight and chat animatedly with the bigwigs made Cameron feel the heat of loomingpetition. His face darkened, and it stayed that way.


    And sure enough, troublees in threes. A teasing voice broke through, "Hey, has our dear Cameron lost his edge?"


    Cameron turned to see Benjamin, his good buddy, approaching with two sses of Scotch. Handing one over, Benjamin said, "Cameron, don''t say I didn''t give you a heads-up. Tossing aside your steady partner for a fleeting crush was a rookie move. Now look, you''ve practically rolled out the red carpet for your rival. See how he''s winning the big shots over?"


    Cameron shot back, "Look who''s talking. Aren''t you in a simr jam? I heard your brother''s back in town."


    Benjamin scoffed, "He''s just a rookie. He''s not worth fretting over."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "A rookie, huh? But Mason and Theo back him, and as long as he stays out of trouble, your position could be shaky, Benjamin."


    Benjamin''s eyes darkened, and his grip on the ss tightened. "Both Grandpa and father are getting up there in age. You know, once someone steps down, their influence fades."


    Cameron shook his head. "They say older is wiser."


    "No, no. I''ve heard the new generation surpasses the old. Right now, the Ronds are running the show, and my folks are the real deal."


    Their chat was cut short by a sudden stir in the banquet hall.


    "Wow, he''s stunning!"


    "Who is he? I''ve never seen him before."


    "He''s gotta be a celeb brought in to jazz things up, right?"


    "Which celebrity has that kind of presence?"


    Nathan made his entrance in a sleek ck suit, standing a solid six feet tall. His youthful yetposed aura set him apart, with handsome features that exuded a maturity beyond his years.


    Mason and Theo couldn''t hide their delight as they made a beeline for Nathan.


    "Nathan, what took you so long?" Mason yfully scolded him, his affection clear as day.


    With a tender smile, Theo held Nathan''s hand and eximed, "You rascal, I thought you were having a hard time out there! I was worried sick. But look at you. You''ve not only bulked up but also shot up! Ha, it seems like you''ve had a pretty good year." Then, with a touch of pride, Theo added, "Just what I''d expect from my grandson."


    Mason interrupted, "My grandson."


    The two old friends bantered lightheartedly in front of everyone.


    Meanwhile, Nathan''s gaze settled intently on Cameron from across the room.


    Cameron was baffled. Wasn''t Nathan supposed to be at odds with Benjamin? So why was he staring at him?


    Nathan politely excused himself from Mason and Theo, "Grandfather, Grandpa, if you''ll excuse me for a moment."


    He walked over to Cameron, extending a friendly hand, his smile deeply engaging. "Mr. Dawson, I''ve heard a lot about you."

 Chapter 36

    Cameron had just reached out for a handshake when he heard thest thing he wanted. "I heard your wife''s gone missing. If you need help, Mr. Dawson, I''m more than willing to lend a hand." The room fell silent, everyone''s faces morphing into expressions of shock. Then, the whispers started buzzing around.


    "Mrs. Dawson is missing?"


    Someone pieced it together. "Ah, no wonder she''s not here at such an important event."


    "So, Mr. Dawson''s sudden interest in Mr. Carter wasn''t intentional."


    Cameron felt his heart plummet into an icy void as he stared at Nathan, the source of the chaos, who wore an innocent smile. It seemed Nathan had no clue how his seemingly well-meaning words could spell disaster for Cameron. Nathan''s smile felt unusually warm, yet it sent chills down Cameron''s spine. He had no choice but to y along politely. "Where did you hear such unfounded rumors?"


    Nathan replied earnestly, "Isn''t it all over the inte? They say you''ve been too chummy with your sister-inw, and it made your wife jealous enough to leave. You went overseas to bring her home but came back empty-handed..." Cameron regretted ever asking this socially oblivious guy anything. "Mr. Nathan, you''re young and might not realize how deceptive the inte can be. I''d suggest not buying into these baseless rumors. My wife''s doing just fine in Australia." "As for my rtionship with Greta, it''s not as far-fetched as those rumors im. I simply admire Greta''s talent and n to support her as my luxury brand''s chief designer."


    Nathan feigned surprise, "What a coincidence, I''m nning to start a luxury brand too. Looks like you and I are destined to cross paths, Mr. Dawson." Cameron gritted his teeth. If it hadn''t been for Nathan''s innocent act and theirck of history, he would''ve thought Nathan was sent just to rile him up. "Who''s your chief designer?" Cameron asked, knowing full well that understanding yourpetition is half the battle.


    Nathan, without hesitation, said, "Her name is Nathalie."


    Cameron scoffed internally, "Never heard of this designer in the industry."


    Nathan spoke of Nathalie with pride, "She''s been busy with an international fashionpetition. Once she''s free, I''ll make sure to introduce her to you."


    Cameron sneered inwardly, thinking how someone so unheard of could be worth an introduction. He kept hisposure. "What a coincidence. My chief designer, Greta, will also be in thatpetition." And just like that, the rivalry between the two buddingpanies began to heat up.


    Cameron dered confidently, "Mr. Nathan, you might want to give your designer Nathalie a heads-up. Our chief designer is going all out."


    Nathan''s smile was enigmatic. "We shall see."


    After their exchange, Cameron left, his face a stormy shade. He passed Benjamin, gave his shoulder a pat, and muttered, "Your brother''s something else. He''s managed to get under my skin with every word." Benjamin nodded, "I''ve always said not to sweat this rookie. He''s so clueless and knows nothing about getting along with others."


    Little did they know, Nathan''s lips curled into a mocking smile at that moment.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 37

    In the upscale circles of the financial elite, whispers spread quickly about Cameron''s scandal of favoring his mistress over his wife. This stirred a chorus of disapproval from thedies of high society. Griffin had to work tirelessly to put a lid on all the negative gossip swirling around. Cameron''s reputation took quite the hit. Feeling let down by Cameron, Griffin decided to reward Carter by handing him severalpanies instead.


    To w back his former glory, Cameron realized he had to put all his chips into his new luxury brand venture. This was a battle he couldn''t afford to lose. He needed to prove that his personal life hups didn''t overshadow his business genius. And more crucially, he had to show that his closeness with Greta was purely business.


    Meanwhile, in Mn, Nellie was wrapping up preparations for the major fashionpetition. Yet, she hadn''t crafted any designs aimed at the high society crowd. It wasn''t ack of creativity holding her back but rather her budget, which couldn''t stretch to the finest fabrics and essories.


    This left her feeling a bit on edge, worried that Jasmine might cut her loose due to these limitations.


    Then, out of the blue, a hefty sum of money appeared in her bank ount. Nellie blinked at the eight-figure bnce in disbelief. She had never seen so much money in her life. Should she report this to the authorities?


    Just then, her phone rang, disying an unfamiliar number. With shaky hands, she answered.


    "Hey!"


    The familiar, soothing voice immediately put her at ease. "Nathan, where''ve you been?" Nellie exhaled, relieved.


    Nathan''s voice carried a touch of sadness. "I went back home. I didn''t want to leave you, but I can''t go against my family''s ns right now. Can you forgive me for leaving without a word?"


    Nellie''s heart ached a little. "Nathan, I''m not upset. I was just worried about you."


    She was well aware of the Rond family-the biggest financial powerhouse in the Capital. With their vast wealth came rapid power shifts and the grim fates of those who fell out of favor. The thought of Nathan being in such a turbulent environment made her anxious.


    After a pause, Nathan reassured her, "Grandpa''s been good to me, so don''t worry. How are things with you?"


    Nellie preferred to keep things light. "I''ve been swamped, Nathan. Focusing on this fashion contest has kept me busy. Sorry for not keeping in touch."


    Nathan sounded genuinely pleased for her. "It''s okay. Just focus on thepetition. Use the money I sent you, and if you need more, just ask." Perplexed, Nellie asked, "Why did you manage to send me so much money?"


    Nathan replied honestly, "I sent it to help you in the fashion contest. I heard Cameron''s spending big to back Greta at the same event."


    He added, "Jasmine caters to European royalty-queens and princesses. It''ll be all about luxury. Without funds, you might just be there to fill numbers."


    Nellie knew Nathan''s support was a godsend, but she was nervous about using it without guaranteed sess, fearing she''d squander his generosity.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    "Nathan, I can''t use all this money. I''ll keep some aside for you. When you''re ready, it can help with your wedding."


    Nathan chuckled. "Have you seen my face? Do I really need to pay someone to marry me?"


    Nellieughed until her sides hurt. After theughter died down, she added, "Yeah, with your charm, there''ll be no shortage of girls chasing you. But if you meet someone who really adores you, why not treat her a bit special?"

 Chapter 38

    "Don''t worry. If I find the woman I want to marry, I''ll love her forever," Nathan asserted with confidence.


    Nellie chuckled, "I wonder which lucky girl will end up with you. She''s in for a real treat."


    Nathan and Nellie never ran out of things to chat about. As their talk wound down, Nathan gave Nellie a heads-up, "Hey, maybe steer clear of social media for a bit."


    Nellie paused, probably guessing what he was hinting at. She was now someone who just wanted to stay out of trouble and always dodged anything that might cause her pain.


    So, she nodded at Nathan''s advice. "Alright. I won''t go looking for trouble."


    "d to hear it," Nathan replied.


    The fashion designpetition was just three days away.


    Talented designers from all over the globe were descending on Mn, filling up the local hotels in no time. Not wanting his sweetheart to rough it, Cameron booked a room at Mn''s swankiest hotel. Greta was determined to perfect her design, so she coaxed Cameron into taking her to Mn''s wholesale fabric market for inspiration. She hoped a few tweaks would make her piece truly shine. Initially, Cameron resisted, "Greta, you''re not feeling well. You shouldn''t overdo it."


    But Greta, with a pout and a plea, insisted, "Cameron, thispetition is everything to me. Winning the global fashion title has been my dream forever."


    Under Greta''s hopeful gaze on him, Cameron gave in. "Alright then."Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    He became her gant escort, joining her in scouring Mn''srgest material market.


    They soon found themselves in the city''s most luxurious fabric store. Greta was instantly entranced by the vibrant fabrics draped all around. She touched them eagerly, her eyes wide with admiration. By chance, Nellie was also in the store.


    Thanks to Nathan''s generous funds, Nellie had managed to snag several yards of the finest fabric around-crafted from a blend of top-notch cashmere, sea silk, and alpaca wool, sprinkled with gold and diamond dust. She owed her luck to her mentor, who had put in a good word for her with the store owner. Without that, she''d never haveid eyes on such exclusive material.


    Just as the store owner was about to pack up the fabric for Nellie, Greta suddenlyid im to it, "I''d like this fabric, please."


    The store owner looked uneasy. "Sorry, but this youngdy has already bought it."


    Cameron stepped in. "I''m willing to pay extra for it."


    The owner pointed to Nellie, "Sir, this is our priciest piece, and only a thousand meters are sold globally each year. If you really want it, perhaps thisdy might share some." Cameron and Greta both turned their attention to Nellie.


    At that moment, Nellie was wearing a grass-green zer paired with a matching A-line skirt, topped off with a sash that fluttered whimsically at her waist, featuring folk art patterns.


    She wore her hair in a princess style, adding to her lively look.


    Cameron, momentarily lost in thought, didn''t recognize Nellie at first. He just found himself drawn to the slender, average-height girl radiating a friendly, girl-next-door vibe. He couldn''t quite exin the sudden attraction. That was until Greta blurted out, "Nel?"


    Cameron was stunned as if struck by lightning. He looked again and finally noticed the resemnce to Nellie.

 Chapter 39

    Cameron suddenly lost it and reached out to grab Nellie, but to his shock, she pped him and yelled, "Ah, you creep! How dare you harass me!" Before he could react, a bunch of guys in the shop jumped in to hold Cameron back. Nellie took advantage of the chaos and bolted out of there. Cameron''s face went pale. He didn''t get a good look at Nellie''s face, but her voice was unmistakable-she was his wife, Nellie.


    He tried frantically to exin to the guys restraining him. "I''m not some creep. That girl is my wife! Let me go! I need to take her home."


    The guys, trying to y heroes, threw skeptical nces at Cameron. "She''s your wife? Then who''s thisdy with you?"


    Cameron was at a loss for words. The judgmental looks from the men were intense.


    Greta, who always seemed to be glued to Cameron, quickly jumped in to clear things up. "You''ve got it wrong. I''m his wife''s sister. We were out looking for my sister together."


    The guys were still unsure, but finally let him go.


    Cameron stumbled out, calling, "Nellie!" His voice grew hoarse, but there was no response.


    Nellie knew this street like the back of her hand. She hid in the shadows, watching from a distance as Cameron searched for her. Her eyes grew colder. He''s actually searching for his wife while still flirting with his first love. Why hadn''t she dumped this jerk sooner? She wasted a kidney on him for nothing.


    Cameron was bewildered and confused. Why wouldn''t Nellie want to see him? She used to be so fond of him and always relied on him. She should''ve run straight into his arms.


    Greta came out and tried to calm him down. "Cameron, stop looking for her. We made a mistake. I just asked the shop owner, and he said the girl wasn''t Nellie."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Cameron paused, doubt clouding his eyes. "If it wasn''t her, why did she run when she saw me?"


    Greta''s voice was soothing, "Cameron, if it had been Nellie, she would''vee right to you."


    Cameron''s resolve began to falter. Could he have really mistaken someone else for her?


    Greta continued, "Cameron, that girl is probably here for the fashion neerpetition, too. You''ll see her onpetition day. Let''s head out."


    She led Cameron away, though he kept looking back every few steps.


    Nellie slipped out from her hiding spot and dashed in the opposite direction.


    Back at her rented apartment, Nellie copsed onto the couch, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts.


    She had anticipated that thepetition might bring her face-to-face with people from her past, but she had hoped against hope that Cameron, swamped with work, wouldn''t show up with Greta. s, Cameron, her once-beloved, was always by Greta''s side. Cameron''s attentive care for Greta only magnified his neglect and indifference towards her, his wife.


    Suddenly, Nellie felt a strong urge to divorce him, no matter the cost. Maybe she should confront Cameron tomorrow and bring up the divorce? And if he didn''t agree, she''d just file for divorce herself.


    She couldn''t stand having any connection with Cameron for another second.


    Thepetition day arrived as nned. Contestants gathered early to draw lots for their turn on stage.


    Nellie drew thest number, while Greta got the first. There were thirty contestants in total, each showcasing their designs on models strutting down the runway. The judges would score each piece, and the highest scorer would emerge victorious.

 Chapter 40

    As thepetition kicked off, the air turned electric. The stage lights dimmed, and one by one, models strutted out with elegance and grace.


    Greta''s creations, spun from luxurious fabrics and teamed with opulent jewels, epitomized graceful sophistication. She nailed the regal vibe, and the crowd was absolutely captivated. Thunderous apuse echoed through the room, setting the bar sky-high. The judges were all in agreement, giving her scores above 9.5. Word spread quickly. "Greta''s the unexpected star of the night. She''s surely the one to beat."


    When Greta''s segment wrapped up, Cameron finally exhaled, shifting his focus to searching for Nellie. But as the next contestants took the stage, Cameron couldn''t hide his disappointment. None of them had the features he was hoping to see. He was about ready to give up on finding Nellie.


    The scores for those who followed didn''t quite match up to Greta''s, which secretly pleased her. She was almost certain she had the win in the bag.


    Then came thest contestant, whose fashion show lit up the stage, drawing cheers from the audience.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Wow, these outfits are so original. Each one is unique in its own way."


    Feeling the heat, Greta leaned over to a fellow contestant and whispered, "Who''s number 30? These designs don''t look like a newbie''s work. They seem like they''re from a seasoned pro."


    The contestant, a student from the Mn Fashion Institute, eagerly replied, "She probablyes from the same country as you. Her name''s Nathalie."


    Greta mumbled, "Nathalie?"


    The name didn''t ring a bell; it wasn''t familiar in the fashion world.


    Suddenly, a noise drew Greta''s attention to Cameron, who looked flustered.


    Cameron murmured, "Isn''t Nathalie Nathan''s chief designer?"


    Greta''s face went pale in an instant. What were the chances?


    Both Greta and Cameron found themselves staring at the podium. As the runway segment concluded, it was time for the designer to exin her design concepts.


    When Nellie stepped up, exuding confidence, her eyes briefly met Cameron''s and Greta''s. She realized that the reunion she dreaded was unavoidable.


    Cameron''s gaze was locked on Nellie. Though her silhouette was slender, her posture was dignified, radiating a graceful elegance.


    At first nce, she didn''t look like Nellie, but he knew her too well after spending so many years together. Slowly, he recognized her.


    Cameron''s fists clenched tightly, knuckles turning white. He remembered the grueling trip he took to Australia as he searched for her, only to be misled by federal agents into thinking she had met a tragic fate. The guilt had been eating at him. And here she was, alive and flourishing.

 Chapter 41

    Nellie''s designs were met with rapturous apuse from the crowd. Wave after wave, the apuse was relentless. Greta was on edge. "Cameron, Nel''s work is so popr, so she''s definitely the biggest threat to my victory." Cameron kept a calm demeanor. "With me by your side, no one can stop you from winning."


    Cameron''s gaze turned steely as he looked at Nellie, dressed in a modest suit. A smirk yed on his lips. "Jasmine is the mastermind behind a luxury brand that caters to European nobility. Sure, Nellie''s designs are good, but her humble background andck of wealth won''t escape Jasmine''s notice. Jasmine''s all about opulence and grandeur. She''d never take on a designer from such a lowly background. Just wait, Jasmine won''t score her highly, much less take her as an apprentice."


    Greta brightened up. "Cameron, you always have such a keen eye."


    She felt relieved. "Thank goodness Nel can''t afford a fancy outfit."


    Cameron chuckled smugly. "She was too proud to ept my help at first. She''ll learn her lesson soon enough ande back to me."


    To everyone''s surprise, Jasmine suddenly stood up, like she''d just discovered an oasis after wandering a desert. Her face lit up with excitement and wonder.


    "Ms. Nathalie, the fabric on your model is the very same as that used by the Queen. The woolen coat and those crown jewels are stunningly precious. Even though this outfit is nearly worth eight figures, it doesn''t scream aristocratic extravagance. Your design has truly touched my heart." Greta was at a loss for words. "No way. How could Nellie afford such pricey materials?"


    Cameron''s handsome face darkened like a storm cloud. He hadn''t anticipated Nellie, whom he thought he had under his thumb, could seed so brilliantly without him. It tore at his need for control, leaving him feeling raw.


    The judges in the audience rose to their feet, pping and cheering.


    "This is fantastic!"


    Greta fell apart, copsing into Cameron''s arms. "Cameron, Jasmine is really into Nellie''s work. All my hard work has gone down the drain. I can''t be Jasmine''s apprentice now. My career is shot."


    Cameron snapped back to the moment. Watching Greta''s tear-streaked face, he promised without hesitation, "Greta, don''t worry. I''ll figure out a way to make Nellie give up the apprenticeship opportunity to you. If she declines Jasmine''s offer, Jasmine will have to settle for you."


    "But what if Nel says no? Cameron, Nellie has put so much into thispetition, too." Greta, savvy as she was, recognized that Nellie''s dedication matched her own.


    Cameron gave her a reassuring nod. "Rx, I''llpensate her with some cash. She''s going back to being my wife someday; she doesn''t need to start her own business." When thepetition wrapped up, Nellie edged out Greta by a tiny margin to clinch first ce in the neer contest. Jasmine personally handed her the prize. However, since the event rante, the segment in which mentors chose apprentices on the spot was skipped.


    The host stepped up to announce, "Thispetition has officially concluded. If any judge has a student they fancy, they can privately offer to mentor them."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

 Chapter 42

    Nellie watched Jasmine leave the stage, feeling a bit lost.


    "Nellie."


    Caught up in her thoughts, Nellie hardly noticed Cameron as he stood up and made his way over to her, grabbing her wrist with a grip like a vice. Nellie looked at him with a cool detachment as if he were a stranger to her.


    Her gaze hit him hard. "Nellie, what are you doing in Mn? Didn''t I tell you to stay put in Australia?" he demanded, annoyance clear in his voice.


    Nellie smirked, a hint of sarcasm in her expression. Did he really think shipping her off to America meant she had to follow his every whim? To him, she was just a mindless essory.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Cameron blinked, momentarily stunned. "Even if you wanted toe to Mn, you should''ve given me a heads-up."


    That''s when Greta stepped in, adopting a condescending tone. "Nel, do you know how worried Cameron was when you went missing? You shouldn''t be so reckless."


    She expected Nellie to take her rebuke quietly, just like old times. But Nellie simply gave them both a once-over, a yful grin spreading across her face. "He was too busy with his precious sweetheart to spare a thought for me, wasn''t he?" Both Cameron and Greta''s faces flushed with embarrassment.


    Trying to defend himself, Cameron said, "Nel, I did go to Australia to look for you."


    The old Nellie might have been touched by this, but now, she just found itughable.


    "When exactly?" she paused. "Before I left, you swore you''de for me in three months. But you only went to Australiast week..."


    Nellie didn''t hold back, revealing Cameron''s insincerity. "The Dawson family needed me to y the perfect daughter-inw at their annual shindig. That''s why you bothered to make the trip, right?"


    Cameron looked deted. He hadn''t expected this fierce, no-nonsense version of Nellie. Her words stung like a p.


    Greta was totally flustered by Nellie''s biting remarks. She looked ufortable. "Nel, why have you turned so harsh?"


    Nellie turned to her, unfazed. "Think I''m harsh? Then maybe stop doing things that are, well, gross. Like pretending to be innocent when you''re anything but..."


    Greta began to cry, ying the victim. "Nel, how can you think that of me? Cameron and I were childhood friends, sure, but since he married you, he''s been nothing but loyal. He''s never crossed the line with me." Nellie''s eyes fell on their intertwined fingers, a mocking smile tugging at her lips.


    Cameron awkwardly let go of Greta''s hand but shot back defensively, "Nellie, don''t think so little of me. I''ve told you I''mmitted to you for life. There''s no need for you to test us."


    Nellie let out a dryugh. "Cameron, how do you n to be responsible? By leaving me overseas to fend for myself? Is that your idea of responsibility towards your wife?"


    A flicker of guilt shed in Cameron''s eyes. "I gave you money; you just didn''t take it."


    Nellie replied, "Because I don''t want to have any ties with you anymore."

 Chapter 43

    Nellie turned to leave after she spoke, but Cameron suddenly lunged forward, grabbing her wrist with a grip so tight that she gasped in pain. "Nellie, where do you think you''re going? You have toe home with me." Nellie''s gaze turned icy as she looked down at his hand. Cameron never handled her with care, even though he knew how easily her delicate skin bruised and bled.


    Her resentful gtare made Cameron realize he''d gone too far, and he released Greta''s hand. "I''m sorry. I lost my cool," he said, trying to regain his usual air of refinement. Nellie shook out her sore wrist and looked at him with a nk expression. "Cameron, just let me go."


    A flicker of pain crossed Cameron''s eyes. There was a time when Nellie looked at him with such warmth and love, and now she seemed so distant. What happened? With amanding tone, Cameron said, "Nellie, you''re my wife. How could I not care about you?"


    Nellie let out a bitter chuckle. "Oh, you suddenly find it amusing to torment me. Or maybe you''re bored with her?" She nodded towards Greta with tant disdain.


    Greta felt a chill run through her veins at those words. "Cameron..." she uttered weakly, her voice heavy with despair.


    Cameron turned to see Greta, who looked fragile and forlorn like thest pedal about to fall from its stem, her eyes full of sorrow. Panic seized him as if he''d been stung; he quickly let go of Nellie and rushed to Greta''s side. "Greta..." Tears welled up in Greta''s eyes as she looked at Nellie, pleading, "Nel, I''ve already given up Cameron for you. Why are you still being so petty? Why do you deny me the simple wish of just being friends with him?"


    "Nel, you''re my sister. Why are you being so cruel? Do you want me to be alone forever? If you hate me that much, you might as well end my suffering..."


    Nellie watched Greta, speechless. The one who cries the loudest always gets the sympathy.


    Whenever Greta cried, Nellie was scolded by everyone her husband, her dad, and her mom. Even though she was the one suffering, Greta always yed the victim so well that everyone saw Nellie as the viin. And here they were again, the same y unfolding.


    Greta''s agitation made her breathless for a moment, and Cameron, full of concern, gently patted her back, soothing her with an almost tender care.


    Cameron then shot Nellie a sharp re, silently ming her. "Nellie, how can you talk to your sister like that? Apologize to her."


    Nellie, barely containing her disbelief, snapped back, "If you two want to unt your love, maybe you''ve got the wrong audience."


    Here she was, the wife, while this unfaithful man and his shameless mistress acted out their tragic romance. It was nauseating.


    Cameron''s face twisted as if he''d swallowed something bitter. "Nellie, I know my closeness with your sister upset you. Don''t worry. Once she''s better, I''ll keep my distance. We can work things out." Nellie felt a sharp frustration. "Cameron, there''s no way we''re working anything out unless... you clear out all the girls around you."


    They were beyond repair.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    However, if Cameron insisted on clinging to her, she''d make it difficult for him. At least it would give him some sleepless nights. She needed to distance herself from this toxic pair and take care of herself.

 Chapter 44

    Greta''s face went pale in a heartbeat. Her lips quivered as she asked, "Nel, do you really hate me that much?"


    Nellie didn''t even spare her a nce as she turned and walked away with determination.


    Greta still needed Nellie to hand over the mentorship, so she told Cameron, "Cameron, please go bring Nel back." Cameron set off after Nellie.


    Nellie began to run, but her legs were short, and her body was frail. Cameron, with his long strides, quickly closed the gap. Just as he was about to catch her, Nellie suddenly darted across the street.


    Out of nowhere, a sleek sports car zoomed towards them, causing Cameron''s eyes to widen in shock. "Nellie!"


    The car unexpectedly slowed, and the window rolled down to reveal a striking face. "Nathalie, hop in."


    Nellie was momentarily taken aback. She didn''t recognize the girl. Yet, the way she called her name made Nellie think of Nathan.


    Without a second thought, Nellie opened the passenger door and got in.


    Cameron ran over, but the car shot off like a bolt of lightning.


    Nellie was gone.


    Cameron watched the car disappear, suspicion brewing as his fists clenched tight.


    When did Nellie start hanging with such wealthy folks?


    No wonder she had the guts to ditch his credit card when she went abroad. No wonder she could afford to enter the fashion design contest.


    The sports car eventually pulled over by the roadside.


    Nellie nced at the young girl next to her, who seemed about eighteen. Her hair was in a high ponytail. She had big eyes and wore a sleek ck suit. "Thanks for getting me out of there," Nellie said.


    "It was Mr. Rond who sent me to help you," the girl replied, her voice bright and youthful.


    Nellie was surprised.


    The girl added, "Mr. Nathan Rond"


    Nellie froze, feeling the warmth spread through her like a cozy fire on a winter''s day. Nathan really helped her out this time.


    The girl handed Nellie a velvet box from the car. "Mr. Nathan said if you do well, I should give you this congrattory gift."


    Nellie opened it to find a pink diamond ne inside. The diamonds were surrounded by vibrant green stones. It felt like she was witnessing her own rebirth, and her eyes welled up.


    "He really put thought into this," she said, her voice catching.


    The girl smiled, "He said you deserve the best things in this world."


    Nellie wiped away her tears and beamed. Her gratitude towards Nathan was deeply felt.


    "Thank you for bringing me such a precious gift," Nellie said to the girl.


    "I''m Lizzy. Mr. Nathan asked me to stick around and help with your daily life from now on."


    Nellie paused. She came from humble beginnings and always did the dirty work. As a kid, she had to care for her temperamental mother, andter, she served Cameron, her benefactor, with caution. Now, she was being treated so generously by Nathan and found it hard to adjust. "You don''t have to follow me. I can take care of myself," she said firmly.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    But Lizzy''s eyes filled with tears. "But, if you don''t take me in, Mr. Nathan will fire me. Then my dad will probably make me marry the old guy from our town."


    Nellie''s heart ached. Lizzy was another child without a parent''s love, much like her own story. Compassion took over, and she decided to take Lizzy in. "If you don''t want to go back, stay with me."


    Lizzy let out a quiet sigh of relief.


    And just like that, Nellie brought Lizzy home with her.

 Chapter 45

    Meanwhile, Cameron was anything but idle. He was pulling out all the stops to give Greta a leg up in her career, sparing no expense just to arrange a meeting between Greta and Jasmine.


    Despite the web of connections pressuring her, Jasmine begrudgingly agreed to the meet-up. On the day of the meeting, Cameron gently guided Greta into Jasmine''s dressing room, where Jasmine was lounging on a sofa with a rack nearby, showcasing both Nellie''s and Greta''s creations.


    As Gretaid eyes on Nellie''s work, her smile faltered, embarrassment coloring her cheeks.


    Jasmine didn''t mince words, saying, "Miss Greta, both you and Miss Nathalie are incredibly talented. But after a thoroughparison, I regret to say I''ve chosen Nathalie as my apprentice."


    Greta asked, "Jasmine, can you tell me where I came up short?"


    Jasmine, running her fingers over the garment''s stitches, replied, "You''re impulsive, unlike Nathalie, who has the patience and attention to detail needed for greatness."


    Tears began to roll down Greta''s cheeks.


    Cameron abruptly stood. "Jasmine, I have to tell you, Nathalie is my wife. The Dawson family is prominent in the Capital, and I won''t allow my wife to build her own career. She''ll being back home with me soon."


    Jasmine was taken aback, then sighed. "That''s a shame."


    Greta seized the moment. "Please, if you take me on as your apprentice, I promise to work on my impulsiveness."


    Moved by Greta''s determination, Jasmine agreed to take her in.


    Greta wasted no time sharing the news on her blog. [He didn''t let me down. Thanks to him, I''ve got the chance to be an apprentice under the legendary designer.] She included a photo of two hands sped tightly together, and Nellie recognized them as Cameron''s and Jasmine''s hands through the rings on the slender fingers.


    When Nellie heard the news, it felt like the world tilted. Her mind went nk, and she stood like a statue in the room until Lizzy''s voice broke through. "Hey..."


    Nellie slowly came back to reality, stumbling to the sofa to take a gulp of tea. Lizzy, crouched in front of her and tried tofort her, "Are you alright? It''s just a missed shot at being a mentee. You''re a gem, and you''ll shine wherever you are. There''s no need to be so down."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Nellie gazed at the innocent Lizzy. She didn''t grasp the gravity of it. Thispetition was Nellie''s big chance to change her fate, and despite winning, destiny seemed set against her. Jasmine still chose Greta.


    Was it hopeless, no matter how hard she tried, to alter her fate?


    Whether from stress or exhaustion, Nellie fell sick. She was burning with a fever, bedridden, and drained.


    In her haze, she thought she heard Cameron and Lizzy arguing.


    "Where''s Nellie? I need to see her."


    "Mr. Dawson, she''s not well. She can''t see you."


    "She''s always been strong. How could she be sick? She must be pretending to avoid me," he spected without a shred of concern.


    "She is genuinely ill and has a high fever," Lizzy insisted, blocking the door.


    "A fever?" Cameron''s tone softened. "How did she suddenly get sick?"


    Lizzy didn''t know Cameron and Nellie''s tension, so she let her guard down. "She got heartbroken over not getting to learn from Jasmine, and it made her sick."

 Chapter 46

    Cameron paused, feeling a touch guilty. "She''s Mrs. Dawson and will live the high life without needing to start her own business. Why does she worry about not having a mentor?"


    Lizzy shot back, "You have no idea how much effort she put into this contest. She hasn''t had a decent night''s sleep in a month, handling her fashion show all by herself."


    Cameron froze, his feelings suddenly a jumble. Greta only had to draw up the designs for the fashion show, and she would get worn out. Meanwhile, Nellie, without any help, managed everything from design to hands-on work, showcasing her incredible effort. Nellie struggled to her feet, stumbling out. "Cameron..."


    Seeing Nellie, Cameron was genuinely taken aback. Just yesterday, she was full of life. Now, she looked exhausted, her steps shaky, her face pale. "How''d you get so sick? Have you seen a doctor?" he asked.


    Nellie red at him. "Cameron, we were once married. I have just one question for you and want an honest answer."


    Cameron hesitated. "Go ahead." He thought it was a good sign that Nellie was starting the conversation. But as soon as she spoke, his heart sank.


    "Did you mess with my chances by pushing Greta as an apprentice to Jasmine?"


    Nellie locked eyes with him.


    Cameron''s eyes widened with guilt, his hands fidgeting. This was a clear sign of his panic and guilt.


    Nellie caught on immediately and broke down, crying out, "Cameron, what gives you the right? Why would you do this to me?"


    Feeling a bit guilty, Cameron tried to calm her, "Don''t be upset. I can make up for your loss in the contest."


    Nellie looked at him coldly, "Twenty million in costs, a month of sleepless nights. How do you n to make it up to me?"


    Cameron was stunned. "Twenty million? Where did you get that kind of money?" He never imagined Nellie would invest twenty million into the contest. Suddenly, he demanded, "Where''d you get all that money? Tell me!"


    Nellie didn''t want to drag Nathan into their issues. She dodged the question, "That''s my business. It''s got nothing to do with you."Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron was fuming. "Did you take out a high-interest loan?" He assumed, given Nellie''s difficult nature, that no one would lend her so much money.


    Nellie gave him a look. Perhaps, in his eyes, she was supposed to stay at the bottom, a puppet he could control.


    When she kept silent, Cameron''s expression soured even more. "Nellie, I won''t help you pay off a high-interest loan. You borrowed the money. You can figure it out."


    "I never expected you to help," Nellie shot back icily. She never banked on his generosity. After all, the allowance he gave her never topped five figures, while the gifts he bought for Greta were always six figures. Even the nanny''s sry was higher than what he gave her. How could she ever expect him to be generous to her?


    Cameronughed in frustration. "You think learning a skill will make you rich? Nellie, face reality. Without my help, you''ll head back home and have to start from scratch. You''ll work a lifetime with a small monthly sry and still not repay your loans." Nellie said, "If you''re so worried about being dragged down, then let''s just get a divorce."

 Chapter 47

    Cameron was absolutely floored.


    For a split second, he almost believed Nellie was truly eager to get rid of him. But he quickly snapped back to reality. "Nellie, this whole ying hard-to-get act could really blow up in your face," he said, gritting his teeth.


    Nellie felt that saying anything more was just a waste of time. "Cameron, just leave. I can''t stand to see you anymore." Her face was a mix of hurt and sadness.


    Cameron tried to soften his tone. "Nel, your sister never really aimed high in life. This was her only wish, and I had to make it happen for her."


    "And what about me? This is my only wish too!" Nellie''s heart felt as if it was being torn apart. The pain was unbearable.


    Cameron awkwardly looked away from Nellie''s stubborn face. "You have me, and that should be enough for you."


    Nellie let out a frustratedugh. "How about I pass you over to Greta, and you get Jasmine to have me as a mentee? How does that sound?" Cameron''s smile vanished. "Nellie, don''t say things you don''t mean." He couldn''t believe that, in her heart, he was less important than some outsider. Nellie replied weakly, "Being your wife, Cameron, is quite the curse." Already feeling unwell, her cheeks were flushed, and her anger only made it worse.


    Cameron didn''t expect his preference for Greta to upset Nellie so much. He had no choice but to try and calm her down. "Nellie, what''s so great about being a fashion designer? It''s tough and exhausting, and you''re always bending over backward for clients. Wouldn''t you rather just be my wife?"


    Nellie stared at him quietly, her eyes full of tant sarcasm. "Cameron, do you honestly believe what you''re saying? If being a fashion designer is so bad, then why did you go to such lengths to help out your first love?"


    Cameron felt embarrassed; he realized Nellie wouldn''t be so easily won over this time.


    Without a hint of emotion, Nellie told Lizzy, "Show him out."


    Cameron waspletely taken aback. Nellie''s disdain for him was crystal clear.


    "Nellie, stop this. Come home with me."


    Nellie didn''t even nce his way, turning to head for the other room.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Lizzy giggled. "Alright, girl." Then she nudged Cameron out the door and shut it firmly behind him.


    Cameron pounded on the door desperately, but Nellie didn''t respond. She''s worried that Cameron might disturb the neighbors, and called the cops, who escorted Cameron away for causing a disturbance.


    Cameron was left in shock; he never dreamed Nellie would handle his persistence like this.


    The next day, Nellie, dragging her sick self alongside Lizzy, made her way to the hotel where Jasmine was staying.


    The meeting didn''t go smoothly; she waited in the chilly wind for hours before Jasmine and her assistant finally appeared.


    Nellie rushed over, "Ms. Jasmine, please hold on a sec. I''m Nathalie. Ipeted in the fashion design contest..."


    Before she could finish, the assistant cut her off with a smile. "Ms. Nathalie, Ms. Jasmine absolutely loves your work. She thinks you are a designer with both talent and skill. She''d like to buy your designs at a generous price. Would you be open to that?" Nellie was caught off guard.


    Full of gratefullness, she said, "Jasmine, you''ve created so many hits, so when you give such high praise and encouragement to a newbie like me, I am truly grateful for your kindness." She bowed respectfully to Jasmine.


    Jasmine smiled warmly, "Nathalie, you''re not my student, so there''s no need for such formalities."


    With eyes sparkling like stars, Nellie replied firmly, "Even if I never get the chance to be your student, you will always be my mentor in my heart."

 Chapter 48

    "I''ll never forget the encouragement you gave me all those years ago," Nellie said, pulling out the gift Jasmine had given her back then. Jasmine gasped, "Was that really you?"


    She looked at Nellie in disbelief. "It''s been years, and you''ve really blossomed."


    Nellie blushed. "It''s all thanks to the inspirational quote you gave me back then; it helped me find my way back."


    Jasmine was taken aback, her eyes welling up with tears. "Nathalie, I''ve always admired you. If you hadn''t stepped away from this path, I believe we would have been the perfect team." Nellie''s face turned pale. "What do you mean? I''ve never given up on fashion design."


    Jasmine stood up, shocked. "Really? But your husband said..."


    Nellie quickly realized the situation. Cameron must have been spreading lies to boost Greta''s position. "Jasmine, he doesn''t speak for me. I''m not giving up on my career." Jasmine was thrilled. "That''s fantastic news."Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    She wrapped Nellie in a tight hug. They talked about everything, from fashion design to personal interests. As a mentor, Jasmine was genuinely concerned about Nellie''s life outside of work, understanding how closely personal and professional lives are connected. Nellie casually mentioned her struggling marriage and her ambitions in business. Jasmine, deeply moved, said, "I thought Greta was tenacious despite her challenges. I wasn''t fond of her shy style, but her determination won me over. I had no idea it was your hard work behind her sess."


    Nellie felt anxious, unsure if Jasmine would judge her for her personal struggles.


    To her surprise, the next day, Jasmine''s assistant delivered a letter. In it, Jasmine invited Nellie to be her sole prot¨¦g¨¦e, suggesting she drop out of school and join her after the holidays.


    Nellie was over the moon.


    The assistant shared in her joy. "After Jasmine returned yesterday, she looked into your background. Once she confirmed your story, she decided to take you under her wing. Ms. Nathalie, your hard work is finally paying off." Nellie, eyes brimming with tears, bowed to the assistant. "Thank you for bringing me this amazing news."


    The assistant smiled warmly. "Ms. Nathalie, just a heads-up, Jasmine is quite strict. You might want to take advantage of the break to do all the things you''ve been meaning to do. Once you''re with her, it''ll be nonstop work." "Thanks, I''ll keep that in mind," Nellie replied.


    After the assistant left, Nellie sat on her bed, stunned and ted.


    Lizzy, too, was thrilled for her. "While you''ve got some downtime, you gotta think about any dreams or wishes you''d like to fulfill. Let''s make them happen now, so you have no regrets."


    Nellie gazed into Lizzy''s bright, innocent eyes, which were so different from her own solitary moments by the window at night.


    Nellie said, "Lizzy, go pick out a piece of fabric for me. Don''t worry about the price just choose one you love."


    Lizzy was confused but agreed. "Alright, I''ll go now."


    Not long after Lizzy left, Nellie received a text from Cameron. She frowned, wondering if he was so persistant that he''d dig up her contact info.


    After a moment, she opened the message.


    [Nel, Cameron''s hosting a celebration dinner for me tonight. I hope you can make it. I''ve missed you.]

 Chapter 49

    Nellie was at a loss for words. Greta had texted her using Cameron''s phone-what was she trying to pull off here? Was she trying to show off how much Cameron doted on her? Seriously? Was she actually ying the fragile damsel while plotting every move? What a joke. Cameron might fall for her act, and her parents might too, but Nellie sure wouldn''t. [Why''re you using my husband''s phone to text me? Are you trying to show off your ''innocent charm,'' Greta? Besides Cameron enjoying your drama, no one else can stand that toxicity.] After firing off the message, Nellie felt fed up and tossed her phone aside. She wrapped herself up in her nkets and drifted off to sleep.


    Greta was taken aback by Nellie''s bold and unapologetic sarcasm. She never thought the usually quiet Nellie would p back so fiercely, using such cutting words.


    All Greta wanted was for Nellie to realize that Cameron truly loved her and to back off. She figured Nellie would just swallow her pride like always, but she didn''t expect this kind of pushback.


    Greta immediately yed the victim with Cameron, crying, "Cameron, how could my sister humiliate me like this? I was just trying to invite her to my celebration party."


    Cameron''s face darkened as he read the message. "She''s upset about notnding a mentor and is taking it out on you. I''m really disappointed in Nellie. If she wants to me someone, it should be me."


    Greta, looking distressed, said, "What should we do? Is my sister really mad at me? Cameron, she''s my only sister, and she once saved my life. I don''t want any bad blood between us. Maybe you could take me to apologize to her?"


    Cameron replied, "You''re not feeling well. You don''t have to go through the trouble? If she wants to be angry, let her."


    Greta put on her best understanding face. "Cameron..."


    Just a little bit of tricks from her, and Cameron was ready to give in. "Alright."


    Cameron drove Greta to the base of Nellie''s apartment building. He initially nned to keep his distance and let Greta see Nellie on her own. But noticing Greta''s shaky steps as she got out of the car, Cameron couldn''t leave her side and ended up supporting her to Nellie''s apartment door.


    After the doorbell rang, Lizzy opened the door.


    Spotting Cameron, Lizzy said with a cold tone, "What are you doing here again?"


    Cameron was troubled by Lizzy''s attitude, as it mirrored Nellie''s feelings toward him. He couldn''t wrap his head around why Nellie seemed so different.


    With a bit of awkwardness, Cameron introduced Greta to Lizzy, "This is Greta, Nellie''s sister. She''s here to see Nellie. Can you call her out?"


    Lizzy eyed Greta suspiciously. "She looks old and unpleasant, hardly like family."


    Greta nearly dug her nails into her palms. She was once the belle of the ball, not just pretty but also top of her ss. Yet, neglecting her skincare routine after her illness left herplexion dull. She was surrounded by people who always praised her falsely, so she was blind to her real appearance.


    Lizzy''s blunt words hit Greta hard, making her slump, and Cameron had to catch her. He snapped at Lizzy, "Just stop."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Lizzy flinched.


    Then Nellie''s calm voice came from inside. "Lizzy, let them in."


    Lizzy stepped aside, and Cameron helped Greta into the living room, with her leaning heavily on him.


    Nellie was seated at her sewing machine, deftly working with fabric and thread. She looked up briefly at Greta and Cameron, who were close together, and a teasing smile yed on her lips.

 Chapter 50

    They were always showing off their love, weren''t they?


    It''s a good thing she''d stopped caring about that jerk ages ago, or her heart would''ve been in pieces. Cameron realized he might''ve gone a bit too far under Nellie''s amused gaze, and let go of Greta.


    "Nel, who are you sewing for?" Cameron asked, eyeing the gray fabric draped over the sewing machine. It was clearly men''s fabric, and the chill in his eyes began to thaw. He was convinced Nellie was making clothes for him. But Nellie stayed silent.


    Greta chimed in, "Oh, Cameron, it''s obviously for you. I mean, my sister''s head over heels for you. She''s stitching you up some new holiday threads."


    Cameron ran his fingers over the fabric, dismissing Nellie''s handiwork. "Nellie, I can buy my own clothes. You do not need to make them."


    Greta teased, "Cameron, you''re missing the point. This is Domi fabric, the kind only the royal bigwigs get. It''s not cheap. Nel always gives you the best. It shows how much she cares."


    Nellie tugged the fabric back, casually saying, "Who said these are for you? Don''t get ahead of yourself."


    Cameron''s face turned a shade of embarrassment and anger. He snatched the fabric in frustration. "If not for me, then who?"


    Worried he''d ruin the fabric, Lizzy quickly added, "It''s for my employer, not you!"


    Nellie gave a small smile. "Lizzy, you and he both get a piece."


    The fact that Nellie was making clothes for someone else got under Cameron''s skin.


    Nellie twisted the knife. "I know the holidays are just around the corner. Everyone else has new clothes, so should you."


    Lizzy''s eyes shone with gratitude. "Thank you. It''s my first time having new clothes for the holidays."


    Nellie gazed at Lizzy with warmth, her voice soothing. "From now on, I''ll make you new clothes every year."


    Even though Nellie and Lizzy weren''t real sisters, their bond ran deep. One gave wholeheartedly, and the other appreciated it deeply-a perfect bnce.


    Greta and Cameron felt awkward in the face of such sisterly love. Trying to lighten the mood, Greta joked, "Nel, who''s this girl? You''re treating her better than me, your own sister?" Nellie paused, her eyes piercing as she looked at Greta. "I''m just giving her a dress. Didn''t I give you a kidney?"


    Gretaughed awkwardly. "We''re family. It''s different..."Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Nellie''s words were gentle but cutting, "I''m giving her a dress to thank her for looking after me when I was sick. I gave my you, my sister, a kidney, and what did you give me in return?" She was implying Greta''s ungratefulness without saying it outright.


    Greta, who cared a lot about appearances, especially in front of Cameron, felt humiliated, her face turning a deep shade of red.


    "Nel, it''s not that I don''t want to repay you, but I''m not in the best shape... you''ve got to understand."


    "Yet somehow, despite your ''frail'' condition, you managed to enter and win that new talent contest, taking the prize that should''ve been mine."


    Greta''s frustration boiled over, and she started to cry.


    Cameron felt sorry for Greta, and shot Nellie a resentful look. "Nellie, do you always have to get thest word?"

 Chapter 51

    Nellie''s voice was cold as ice. "Better to stand your ground than to stir up drama for no reason."


    Greta sniffled, "We came today to invite you to my celebration party. I''d love for you toe but won''t force you if you''re not up for it. I just really wanted to share my happiness with you." Then, Greta handed her an invitation and stumbled away. Cameron stood there, torn between Greta and Nellie, before finally sighing and going after Greta. He always chose Greta.


    Nellie tossed the invitation into the firece without a second thought. The room was instantly filled with the acrid smell of burning stic. Greta and Cameron were not yet out the door. They turned back, eyes wide with shock at the sight of the invitation being devoured by mes.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Nellie used to be eager to attend every party just to catch a glimpse of Cameron.


    Cameron''s expression darkened, his voice filled with restraint. "Nellie, if you don''t go to your sister''s party, she''ll be upset."


    Nellie rolled her eyes. "Cameron, if you want to cater to all her needs, that''s your business. Just leave me out of it."


    Cameron''s face went pale. He stammered, "Your sister''s not well. I''m just looking after her. Why do you have to be so harsh?"


    Nellie scoffed, "Funny, I don''t see you caring for me, your actual wife..."


    Cameron was visibly ufortable.


    With tears in her eyes, Greta said, "Nel, Cameron and I are truly in love. He married you out of necessity. If you have any decency, you''d let hime back to me."


    Cameron snapped at Greta, "Greta, what nonsense are you spouting?"


    Nellie suddenly felt nauseous.


    Lizzy, concerned, asked, "Are you okay?"


    Greta and Cameron both looked at Nellie, puzzled. Greta, particrly uneasy, nced at Cameron as if she figured something out.


    Cameron''s gaze drilled into Nellie, questioning.


    Nellie shrugged at Lizzy. "Oh, nothing, just a bit queasy from seeing something gross."


    Cameron''s expression turned stormy. "Nellie, you''ve been out here too long and are getting reckless. You''reing back home with me in a few days. Time to straighten up."


    Nellie rolled her eyes again. "So, I have to drop everything and go home because you say so, ande back when you decide?"


    "Why should I? Cameron, I''m not your puppet. You don''t get to pull my strings."


    Cameron was dumbfounded. Nellie''s defiance was a revtion to him.


    He said firmly, "Nellie, you don''t have a choice."


    In his eyes, Nellie saw the bold decisiveness of a businessman. She felt a sudden, inexplicable panic.


    That evening, Nellie got a text from Nathan.


    [I heard from Lizzy that you''ve managed to get Jasmine as your mentor. I''m thrilled for you. To celebrate, I''ve got a surprise waiting for you at Mn Clubhouse. Make sure you swing by and pick it up yourself.] Nellie''s lips curled into a smile.


    "The Mn Clubhouse?"


    Greta''s party was being held at Mn Clubhouse in town. Local bigwigs, respecting Cameron''s status, showed up to support Greta. Cameron and Greta''s close pals had also traveled from afar, giving Greta plenty of attention.

 Chapter 52

    Cameron had reserved a swanky VIP suite in the hotel''s club and even brought in a bunch of famous singers and dancers to liven up the main hall with upbeat songs and sizzling moves.


    Greta nced around at the jubnt scene, tears of joy welling up in her eyes. Clutching Cameron''s hand, she said, "Cameron, thank you so much for throwing this party for me. I''m truly over the moon."


    Cameron gazed at Greta tenderly. Despite the makeup, she couldn''t quite hide how fragile she looked. His mind drifted back to the doctor''s cautionary words: Although the kidney transnt was a sess, Greta''s health has been frail for quite some time. A single kidney might not hold up for long. Do whatever it takes to keep her spirits high.


    "Greta, as long as you''re happy, it''s all worth it," Cameron assured her softly.


    Greta gently rested her head on his shoulder. "Meeting you, Cameron, is the greatest blessing of my life."


    "Too bad it were my biggest misfortune," came a voice.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Nellie had just strolled into the club''s hall when she caught a whiff of Greta and Cameron''s sugary exchange. She couldn''t resist throwing in a snarkyment.


    Greta and Cameron, as if they''d been stung by a bee, sprang apart.


    "Nel, I''m so d you could make it to my celebration!" Greta eximed, bubbling with excitement.


    "You''ve got it wrong. I didn''te for your party," Nellie replied coolly.


    Greta, puzzled, asked, "Then why are you here?"


    Cameron suddenly stepped in front of Greta, his tall frame casting a protective shadow as he faced Nellie, his expression guarded. "Nellie, it''s rare for your sister to be this happy. Don''t mess it up."


    Nellie stared at him; Cameron was undeniably handsome, loaded, and smart - it was no wonder she had once been head over heels for him.


    But Cameron''s heart had always belonged to Greta; all his warmth and affection were reserved for her, leaving Nellie with nothing but coldness and indifference. So, Nellie decided to stop loving him.


    "Cameron, I''m the one who snagged the championship, and I''m your wife. Isn''t it a bit off to throw a bash for someone else and not for me?" Nellie''s voice was calm, but it stirred something in Cameron. For once, he looked guilty. "Nel, you''ve got a long life ahead. Whatever you want, I''ll make it up to youter. But for now, don''tpete with your sister."


    Nellie chuckled. "In your heart, I''ll always y second fiddle. But Cameron, what am I supposed to do? I want my husband to put me first, too."


    Cameron looked troubled. "Nellie, let''s not cause a scene on a night like this."


    Nellie scoffed, "If you can''t do it, maybe it''s time to let me go."


    "What do you mean?" Cameron asked, genuinely puzzled.


    Nellie met his gaze, her words firm: "Cameron, let''s get a divorce."


    Cameron stared at her in shock. "Divorce? No way."


    He''d never imagined a girl would leave him.


    Nellie dropped the bomb, "I''m ending this marriage." Then, she turned and headed upstairs.


    Cameron asked, "Where are you going?"


    Nellie turned back, her words crisp: "My celebration party is in the penthouse suite upstairs." Cameron''s face darkened. "Who''s throwing it for you?"

 Chapter 53

    business has been struggling these past few years. It has not been bringing in much. He can''t bail you out."


    Greta slipped into her usual lecture mode, "Nel, you spent a ton on that talent contest, and I''m guessing it was all on credit, right? You haven''t cleared those debts, and now you''re livingrge at Mn''s priciest club. You''re digging yourself into a deep hole. You know Dad''s Nellie gave Greta a cold look, "He can''t help me with my debts, but he found the cash for your kidney transnt, right?"


    Tears welled up in Greta''s eyes. "Nel, I didn''t want to use Dad''s money either..."


    "Then maybe you should just die. If you were gone, you wouldn''t drag the Brown family down with you anymore." Nellie snapped, tired of Greta''s fake sincerity.


    p!


    Cameron''s hand struck Nellie''s face hard, his eyes fiery and wild, like an enraged beast. "Nellie, how dare you curse your sister? Are you trying to get yourself into trouble?"


    Nellie clutched her stinging cheek and shot Cameron a fierce re. "Mr. Dawson, we haven''t signed those divorce papers yet, have we? You''d hit your own wife to protect another woman? Don''t you think being your wife is a curse?"


    Cameron saw his own fury reflected in Nellie''s seething eyes. He took a deep breath, calming down, and reached out to touch Nellie''s face, but she instinctively jerked away.


    Lizzy, who hadn''t expected the so-called gentleman Cameron tosh out, stepped between them furiously. "Mr. Dawson,y a finger on her again, and I won''t hold back," she warned, her voice edged with anger.


    Cameron''s hand froze mid-air, and sensing the loathing in Nellie''s eyes, he awkwardly dropped it. "Nel, being caught between you and your sister is exhausting. Can you stop this drama?" he asked, sounding a bit defeated. Nellie scoffed, "Cameron, then just divorce me. Be with the one you really love. You don''t have to live this messed-up life."


    A flicker of hope danced in Greta''s eyes. But Cameron shook his head, unwavering, "Nel, I know I haven''t been the best, but I''ll change. When youe back to me, we''ll make it work."


    Nellie looked at him like he was out of his mind. "Cameron, wait all you want." With that, she turned on her heel and walked away.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Lizzy threw Cameron a fierce re. "She is a Virgo. She''d never ept a guy who''s strayed emotionally. So, do yourself a favor and set her free." Then, sticking her tongue out at him, Lizzy followed Nellie. Cameron''s expression darkened.


    Greta mumbled, "What happened to Nel? She''s so blunt and materialistic now. I worry she''s going to get into trouble."


    Cameron watched Nellie head into the presidential suite, eyes filled with frustration. He followed after her.


    "Cameron, wait up," Greta trailed behind.


    Nellie opened the door of the Presidential Suite to find a tall, poised figure by the floor-to-ceiling window, bathed in the soft winter sunlight, looking almost golden. "Nathan." Nellie''s face lit up.


    She hurried over, not noticing Lizzy hadn''te in but had thoughtfully closed the door, standing guard outside like a sentinel.


    Nathan turned, arms open for a hug. "Hey, long time no see. Give me a hug."


    Nellie hesitated, her face yful and teasing. "A hug? Nathan, you''re a grown-up now" She intended to say it wasn''t quite proper... But then she remembered how little affection he''d had growing up. Now, he was reaching out to her as family, so why not give him that?

 Chapter 54

    Nellie reached out with ease, expecting just a quick hug. But with Nathan towering over her petite frame, she found herself unexpectedly wrapped around his lean waist. For someone who looks slender, he was surprisingly fit, like he''d spent years in the gym. Without giving it much thought, Nellie started peppering him with questions. "Are you settling in okay at home? Is your stepmom and brother being cold to you? Is your grandpa good to you?"


    Nathan held her tightly, afraid she''d drift away like a butterfly. He remembered the day he went back home. After a few sharp words with his stepmother, sheined to his dad at dinner. Without bothering to hear his side of the story, his dad smashed his te on the floor and ordered him to kneel as punishment.


    He knew they were trying to put him in his ce, reminding him he was an outsider in the Rond family. That night, he swallowed his pride and endured.


    "I''m doing alright," he finally let her go, shing a bright smile. Nellie looked him over from head to toe, making sure he was really okay, then finally rxed. She suddenly recalled why she hade over, and held out her hand. "Didn''t you mention you had a surprise for me?"


    Nathan stepped closer, pointing at his face. "The surprise is right here."


    Nellie realized he meant himself as the surprise. She couldn''t help but grin, pretending to be disappointed. "What kind of surprise is this? I can''t eat it or enjoy it..."


    Nathan feigned indignation, "Am I not good-looking? I''m the cutest guy at my school."


    Nellie affectionately straightened his tie. "Yes, Nathan, you are the best-looking man. Your stepmother and brother are really lucky. Having to look at you must feel like extra helpings."


    Nathan gave a modest smile. He knew all too well that his stepmom and brother would rather see him gone than appreciate his looks.


    "Now that you''re learning from Jasmine, do you have any ns?" Nathan inquired, his curiosity piqued once they were seated.


    Nellie''s eyes reflected a calm and


    serene determination. "I''m going toOriginal from N?velDrama.Org.


    learn everything I can from Jasmine


    Once I''ve got it down, I want to.unch my own fashion brand, and


    start a clothing and jewelrypany."


    Nathan raised an eyebrow. "Is that it?"


    Nellie nodded. Achieving those dreams would be more than enough for her.


    "And what about you and Cameron?" Nathan asked.


    Nellie''s face turned pale, her whole being exuding defiance. "My time with Cameron has left me so hurt. I need to divorce him, but he won''t agree easily because it would cost him too much."


    Nathan paused, then smiled. "You''ve got the chance to work with Jasmine. This is the perfect time to focus on your career. As for the divorce, let''s take it one step at a time." Nellie''s eyes sparkled with determination. "Yes, I''m going to pour all my passion into my career."


    Nathan handed her a ss of milkshake and raised a shot. "Let''s toast. I wish you a future full of sess. When youe back, you''ll be shining like never before."


    Nellie burst intoughter, but her


    smile faded when she saw the shot ss in Nathan''s hand. Annoyed, she grabbed it and swapped it fora ss of iced tea. "And my wish for you is toe back with the same youthful spirit after weathering all the storms."


    They exchanged a knowing smile, their emotions swirling in the iced tea and milkshake.


    Just then, Cameron burst out of the elevator, heading straight for Lizzy. "Is Nellie in there?" he demanded.

 Chapter 55

    Lizzy gave him a teasing look. "Oh, you finally remember you have a wife, huh?" Cameron''s eyes were bloodshot with rage as he barked, "Who''s in there with her?"


    Lizzy nced over at Greta, who was catching her breath beside them. "I think, you should probably focus on taking care of Greta. She doesn''t need your concern. She''s got someone looking out for her."


    "I''m her husband," he shot back, his voice rising. "I have every right to care for her."


    Lizzy''s voice was filled with emotion as she countered, "You''ve hurt her, and you don''t deserve to be called her husband."


    Greta stepped forward, trying to mediate. "Youngdy, the story between my sister and my brother-inw isn''t something you can sum up in a few words. He saved her life once. Their rtionship isplicated, and outsiders like us can''t fully understand it. My sister might say she doesn''t love him, but that''s just the frustration of unrequited love."


    Lizzy was still young and somewhat innocent. She looked puzzled for a moment before she called into the room, "Your husband''s here!"


    Before the words had fully left her lips, the door opened, and a tall, lean man stepped out. He was wearing a cap, sunsses, and a scarf Nellie had knitted for him, exuding an intense, almost suffocating presence.


    When he spoke, his voice was deep and rich, carrying an undeniable authority. "Who did you just call her husband? Call him that again, and I''ll see if you like swimming with the sharks."


    Lizzy shrank back, whispering, "Sir, but he is really her husband?"


    "A husband should be close, both in body and spirit. But who''s he really close to? This woman who hurt Nathalie. He''s got no right to be called her husband.


    Lizzy, you''ve got to think more carefully sometimes."


    Lizzy hung her head, admitting, "You are right, Sir."


    Greta''s face turned pale. She''d always been the one everyone adored, praised for her beauty and kindness, and now she was being called out in public. Her perfect image had shattered. Cameron''s intense gaze bore into the stranger before him, feeling a pressure he''d never experienced in the Capital. "Who are you?" Cameron asked, barely containing his anger. "You''re not worthy of knowing," came the icy reply as if from the depths of hell itself.


    Cameron red at Nellie. "You need to be careful about who you hang around with, or you''ll end up in great danger."


    Nellie couldn''t help but chuckle. "Isn''t that the truth? Didn''t you sell me out once?"


    Cameron knew she was alluding to the time he took her kidney. He realized he hadn''t been fair with her and, indeed, owed her an apology.


    "Nel, what can I do to make it right?"


    Nellie''s fists clenched tightly...


    Make it right? How could she ever let it go?


    Once upon a time, he''d tricked her when she was young and gullible, promising her a bright future. Foolishly she''d believed him. He''d given her a cramped guest room and a bowl of hot soup, and she''d been over the moon.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    She''d clung to his arm and vowed, "Mr. Dawson, thank you for giving me such a warm home. I''ll repay you. I''m willing to do anything for you."


    And she had. For those years with the Dawson family, she''d devoted herself to looking after him. When his stomach bothered him, she


    learned to cook all sorts of S


    soups and would reheat meals endlessly so that he coulde home to food at the perfect temperature.


    If only Cameron had been upfront from the start if he''d told her Greta was his love, that he couldn''t bear to see her die, and that he needed her kidney she would''ve willingly helped. After all, she''d been ready to give up everything for Cameron.

 Chapter 56

    Who could have imagined the truth would be so heartless?


    He faked love, faked a marriage, all for her kidney. He even swallowed his disgust to consummate their rtionship, just to keep her happy and unsuspecting enough to sign the surgery consent form. But then, she got pregnant. What happened next?


    Nellie''s mind wandered back through the years. For her child, she pleaded with him to call off the surgery or at least dy it. But his face was colder than ever. He took a drag from his cigarette, let out a ring of smoke, and said without a hint of emotion, "Nellie, Greta''s waited long enough for this. I won''t make her wait any longer. Every day she waits, she suffers more."


    "But I''m carrying your child. If something happens to me now, the baby could be in danger."


    "We can end this pregnancy and have another childter."


    "Honey, please... This is our child. I don''t want to lose them."


    "If you want to keep it, then keep it."


    She thought he had finally softened, sparing their child. But then what?


    Later, she was dragged into the operating room against her will. He did let her have the child, but because of all the drugs she had to take, the baby was born with health issues He never even nced at the child, but she couldn''t bear to abandon her. She nurtured her carefully until she was three.


    Then, Cameron had her daughter donate blood to Greta, who was sick again, just because their blood types matched. Nellie desperately tried to stop it, but Cameron kept reassuring her it was just a blood donation, nothing harmful. Nellie was helpless, but she still held onto a thread of trust in Cameron. She believed her daughter would be okay.


    However, the day her daughter came home from donating blood, she spiked a fever. Nellie frantically called Cameron that night, begging him to use his connections to get


    emergency help for her cont


    daughter. It would have been.


    word from him with his cons. Yet, Cameron stayed by Greta''s side all night, ignoring Nellie''s calls. Thest time he picked up, he barked, "Nellie, if she''s sick, take her to a doctor. Don''t disturb your sister''s rest," and hung up.


    Nellie didn''t waste time. While pleading with Cameron, she was also doing everything she could to save her child. She called 911 and rushed her to the hospital. But without Cameron''s help, she was just a moment toote.


    That day, snowkes twirled in the wind as she left the hospital holding her child''s cold body. Her child''s death stripped away herst bit of attachment to this world. She didn''t go home. Instead, she walked down a path of no return. It was freezing that day. The cold seeped into her bones.


    Even now, in this new life, she remembers that bone-chilling cold so vividly. So, this time around, she decided to give up on her child''s life early. If her daughter was born into this family, she''d find no happiness.


    Nellie pulled her clothes tighter, hoping to find some warmth. Nathan noticed and, without a word, took off his coat and draped it over her shoulders.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Cameron frowned, "The heating''s cranked up in here. You''re not cold. Why are you wearing his coat? Take it off."


    Nathan suddenly tightened his fist and swung it,nding a punch on Cameron''s face. Cameron staggered back, refusing to back down, and lunged at Nathan with his fists ready.

 Chapter 57

    Nellie went as pale as a ghost, quickly pulling Nathan behind her for protection. Cameron''s raised fist never came down; instead, he just stared at Nellie, dumbfounded. As he watched her stand up for another guy with such determination, something inside him began to crumble. The once timid Nellie had only ever shown courage for him. But now, her courage was no longer his alone. He finally realized he had lost the girl who once loved him sopletely.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Seizing the moment of Cameron''s distraction, Nellie grabbed Nathan''s hand, and they dashed off. They stopped on a deserted street, where Nellie tried to catch her breath, her chest rising and falling. Then, she gave Nathan a yful punch on the chest, her anger more bark than bite. "He''s like the most important person of the Capital. Even your big brother''s careful around him. Are you trying to make life hard for yourself in the Capital?"


    Nathan put on a mock hurt face. "He had iting."


    The thought of Cameron with a ck eye made Nellie secretly pleased, but she was also worried about Nathan''s safety. She kept reminding him, "When we''re back in the Capital, keep your head down until you''re more powerful."


    Nathan''s smile was like the sun breaking through clouds. "Of course, I''ll do as you say."


    Nellie felt a huge relief wash over her.


    "Nathan, while I''m off doing my internship, I won''t be around to look out for you. You need to stay sharp and not get caught up in anything sketchy."


    Nathan''s eyes sparkled like stars, his smile pure and innocent. "You''re starting to sound like a worrywart. You''re only 22."


    Nellie paused.


    Yeah, she was just 22. But she felt like she''d lived through a lot more.


    Despite her youthful age, her heart had been through too many goodbyes and tough times.


    This wasn''t how her fresh start was supposed to be.


    She forced a bright smile for him. Nathan beamed back. "You look amazing when you smile. Keep doing that, okay?"


    "Will do."


    Out of the blue, Nathan presented a velvet box to Nellie. "Here, a little gift for you."


    Nellie gasped, covering her mouth. Nathaning all this way to see her was already the best gift. She hadn''t expected anything else.


    His sincerity meant so much more than her so-called husband or her fake family.


    "Thank you, Nathan."


    "Go on, open it."


    Inside the box was a stunning greendies'' diamond watch.


    Nathan added, "You''re now Jasmine''s student and will be leaving soon for some intensive internship. It''ll be ages before see you. Promise me you''lle backeback


    for my birthday?"  en


    "Of course, I promise."


    The tension in Nathan''s eyes melted away.


    He cheerfully said goodbye, "There''s a countdown to my birthday on the watch.4t''ll remind you when te back So, it''s a deal. I''ll be waiting for in the Capital."


    Nellie smiled warmly. "Take care, Nathan."


    Turning around, she headed towards her apartment building.


    Outside her building, Cameron was standing like a statue, staring in the direction Nellie wasing from. The cigarette butts scattered on the ground told the story of his troubled mind.


    Nellie intended to walk right past him, but Cameron grabbed her arm. "Nellie, can we talk?"


    Nellie looked at him with azy gaze.


    "Talk about what?"


    Her indifferent expression made Cameron feel a sharp pang in his heart.


    So, love really could fade away.


    "Nel, do you hate me for taking your kidney?"

 Chapter 58

    Nellie tried to muster a smile, but it barely reached her lips. There were just too many reasons she resented him, and she didn''t even know where to start. Yet, she realized she wouldn''t really have held the kidney donation against him if there hadn''t been any deceit involved.


    "You saved my life, and you paid for my education. Think of this kidney as my way of repaying you. We''re even now." With that, she got ready to leave.


    Cameron wasn''t about to let her go that easily. "Nel, if you don''t hate me, thene back home with me."


    Nellie stared at him, her expression nk. She didn''t resent him for taking her kidney, but there were so many other reasons she did.


    "I''m not going with you."


    Cameron couldn''t find even a flicker of warmth in her cold stare. He felt a bit lost. "But we''re married..."


    Nellie shot back, "In name only. Why should we stay tied to each other and be miserable?"Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Her calm demeanor betrayed the despair and disappointment she felt about their marriage and Cameron himself.


    Cameron felt a wave of frustration. He''d always been proud, even arrogant, thinking he was above others and never the one to be looked down on. Especially not by someone like Nellie, who came from such a simple background.


    "Nellie, I''ll give you some time to think it over. I hope after some real consideration, you''ll rethink where we stand."


    Cameron frowned. "I just don''t want you regrettingter and getting all clingy."


    He hurried off, feeling a pang of unease he couldn''t quite ce.


    Behind him, Nellie called out, "Cameron."


    He paused.


    Nellie warned him coolly, "I expect you to deal with those rumors about me online promptly. Otherwise, I''ll have no problem setting the record straight myself." Cameron looked at her, feeling a bit guilty. "You saw them?"


    Nellie replied, "I''m not someone you can just push around. Cameron, don''t push me too far and expect me to just forget the past. What you and Greta did might seem above board to you, but I doubt the public would


    see it the same way."


    With that, she turned and left, leaving Cameron to stumble back to his hotel, feeling defeated. Greta approached him, offering a massage. "Cameron, what''s going on? You look so troubled." Cameron sighed, "Greta, I think Nellie really doesn''t love me anymore."


    Greta was taken aback. "It''s odd.


    She used to be head over heels for you, and now it''s like she''s apletely different person. Could it be that hypnosis really made her forget everything between you two?"


    swneve


    A shadow of defeat crossed Cameron''s face. "I thought that hypnotist was just a chatan. But now it seems he might actually know what he''s doing. Looks like I need to meet with him to undo


    In


    Nellie''s hypnosis."


    Greta''s eyes shed with concern. "Cameron, didn''t you always find Nellie''s clinginess annoying? Isn''t it better if she''s forgotten everything now?" Cameron hesitated, "Even if I didn''t like it, she''s still my wife. Her defiance isn''t good for the Dawson family''s image."


    Greta let out a sigh of relief.


    That same night, like a whisper on the wind, Nellie quietly packed her bags, checked out of the hotel, and flew out of Mn.


    By the time Cameron went looking for her the next day, Nellie was already long gone.

 Chapter 59

    Cameron stood at the door for what felt like forever, his face set in a permanent scowl. Eventually, he had no choice but to head back home to the Capital with Greta in tow.


    After shaking off the travel fatigue, Cameron returned home. But instead of going to the Dawson family''s sprawling mansion, he opted for the smallest of his properties-the modest apartment that had once been his and Nellie''s home.


    This ce was just 960 square feet, which was a decent spot for anyone else in that area. But as the heir to the Dawson family, with billions in assets and countless luxurious estates, choosing this as their home was a clear sign of how little he thought of Nellie. Back then, Cameron figured that for a girl who''d grown up without love and was used to surviving by scrounging around, the life he offered was a gift.


    She used to seem so content.


    But when did she start wanting to break free from the illusion he''d crafted for her?


    Cameron sat by the window, a cigarette in hand, lost in memories that washed over him like waves.


    "Honey, it''s our anniversary today. Can youe home early, please?" Nellie would always cautiously watch for his reaction.


    "I''m tied up today."


    "Is it something at work?" she asked, her voice trembling as she tried to mask her disappointment.


    "No, I need to spend time with your sister."


    "Honey, just for today, could you be with me, please?" She clung to his wrist, desperation in her grip.


    He shrugged her off. "You can celebrate on your own."


    He returned home in the dead of night, barely flinching at the leftovers in the trash. From that day on, she never cooked for him again. Whenever he came home hungry, the maid was the one to prepare his meals.


    Then there was that time right after she got her driver''s license. He had her deliver some documents to a client, and she ended up rear-ending someone on the highway, with the car breaking down halfway. She called him, crying, "Honey, I got into an ident." His first thought was about the documents not reaching the client on time, and he snapped at her, "Nellie, can''t you get anything right?"


    Nellie''s voice cracked with tears. "You didn''t even ask if I was hurt."


    "You''re better off dead," he retorted.


    Nellie pleaded, "Can you help me..."


    Before she could finish, Greta''s voice chimed in, "Cameron, I''m thirsty."


    "I''ming right up, Greta." Cameron''s voice turned gentle.


    Then, he rudely ended the call. "Handle your own mess."


    Looking back, Cameron felt a pang of guilt, like a feather brushing against his heart. Back then, Nellie was barely out of her teens, inexperienced and probably overwhelmed by these incidents. As her husband, he hadn''t been her rock


    Is that why she''d be so independent now, and why she found the courage to leave him?


    Cameron shook his head. This wasn''t how it was supposed to be.


    Nellie had always looked up to him.


    as her


    respector and treated him


    She was grateful


    hime


    everything he''d given het


    We


    Her shift happened after she went through hypnotherapy...


    It was the therapist who changed Nellie.


    Cameron picked up his phone and made a call. Matt''s voice soon came through. "Yes, sir?"


    "Find someone for me. He was


    Nellie''s therapist. Spare no exp


    to bringThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    him here," Cameron''s voice chilling.


    "Understood, sir."


    And so, the search began.

 Chapter 60

    The assistant led Almos into the room for a meeting. "So, I hear Mr. Cameron wants a word with me?" Hequipped with a cheeky grin.


    Cameron''s eyes were dark with suspicion. "Almos, I must admit, I didn''t anticipate this from you.


    Remember my wife, Nellie?"


    Almos nodded, "Crystal clear."


    Cameron ground his teeth. "Good then.


    Almos, I need answers. What exactly did you do to my wife? Ever since she left your ce, she''s like a different person." His words,ced with the anger of someone used to getting their way, skyrocketed the room''s tension. Almos, still smiling, replied, "You''ve seen the contract your wife and I agreed upon. I just did my job and helped her forget her past with you.


    So, if I''m right, she probably doesn''t love you anymore."


    Cameron''s voice turned sharp. "I want you to bring back her memories."


    Almos shrugged, "If I restore her memories, it''s as good as tearing up our contract. That means I''d have to pay a massive penalty." "I''ll cover it," Cameron said.


    "With odds like one in ten thousand, the penalty''s a cool billion. Are you sure you''re ready for that?"


    Cameron gulped. "You..."


    Switching tactics, he said, "I promise Nellie won''t hold you ountable for breaking the contract. What do you say?"


    Almos shook his head. "You''re not the one in charge here. I need to hear from my client herself that she''s willing to break the contract."


    "Almos..." Cameron''s voice rose, trembling with anger, "Do you know what happens when you defy me?"


    Eventually, Almos showed a hint of fear. "It''s not that I don''t want to help. I run a business, and integrity is everything."


    Cameron''s voice turned icy. "Almos, I think you''re not nning to leave this room today." The threat hung heavy in the air.


    Matt, catching this, moved to block Almos''s exit.


    Almos, genuinely worried, asked, "Are you nning to hold me hostage?"


    Cameron''s expression hardened.


    Almos sighed, a flicker of doubt in his eyes. "Well, when I hypnotized your wife, I stumbled upon a huge secret... something I think you''d want to know." "What secret?"


    Almos paused, carefully picking his words, "Let''s just say, Nellie is both herself and not herself."


    Cameron frowned. "What are you getting at?"Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Almos continued, "Do you believe in reincarnation?"


    Cameron''s eyes narrowed. "You mean like past lives?"


    "If you''re open to hypnosis, I think you''ll understand why she''s


    changed. But be warned, hypno


    can lead to big changes. You need to be ready for that."


    Cameron scoffed, "Nonsense and hocus-pocus."


    Almos shook his head, resigned. "If you don''t trust me, there''s nothing more I can do."


    In the end, Cameron, unwilling to try Almos''s hypnosis, had no choice but to end the confrontation. Fast forward two years.


    Greta''s career was thriving. With Jasmine as her mentor, Greta had plenty to brag about, even though they only met in person a few times a year and mostly worked together remotely.


    She''d carved out a niche in the Capital''s fashion world,unching her ownpany with backing from the Dawson and Brown families, and


    had firmly nted her root belongs to

 Chapter 61

    Her health was solid and steady, thanks to a healthy kidney Nellie had gifted her.


    Maybe it was her blossoming career, but Greta was absolutely glowing. She turned heads and sparked conversations among the social elite. Her long-standing romance with Cameron was well-known and epted in high society circles.


    People often praised Cameron as a gentleman of remarkable character who was head over heels for Greta. He managed to secure a kidney from Nellie for her and, as a result, promised his hand in marriage to Nellie. Such a caring and morally upright man was a rare find.


    Rich, charming, and full of integrity, Cameron became the dreamboat for many young women, and his career was on a rapid ascent, too.


    Yet, beneath this morous exterior, a storm was brewing in their marriage, threatening to shatter their perfect world and leave ruin in its wake.


    A ne cut across the ocean skies, heading straight for the Capital. Onboard, a woman with an air of distant elegance leaned back in her seat, eyes closed in thought. Her hair flowed, and her features were so finely sculpted that they seemed crafted by a master artist. Her beauty was simply mesmerizing, and her features were so finely sculpted, but a cool aloofness kept others at a distance.


    Next to her, a young girl with delicate features unfolded a pillow into a small nket, gently draping it over the woman.


    "How much longer until we get there?" Nellie asked softly, not bothering to open her eyes. Her voice indicated she was lightly dozing but with a mind full of concerns.


    "Just half an hour more till we hit the Capital," Lizzy chirped, excitement bubbling in her voice.


    "Where are we staying once we arrive?"


    Nellie thought for a moment before responding, "Let''s just find a hotel for now."


    Puzzled, Lizzy asked, "Aren''t we here to celebrate Mr. Nathan''s birthday? Why not stop by the Rond family home?"


    Nellie smiled slightly. "It''s meant to be a surprise."


    Lizzy chuckled. "Makes sense."


    "But why aren''t we heading back to the Dawson family estate? Aren''t you supposed to be divorcing Mr. Dawson?"


    "I''m letting thewyers handle that." She wanted to steer clear of Cameron to keep her spirits high.


    Once theynded at the Capital airport, Nellie and Lizzy each wheeled out a suitcase. A light drizzle weed them, and the biting chill of deep winter was in the air. Lizzy quickly pulled a jacket from her suitcase and threw it over her shoulders.


    "Make sure you stay warm."


    Wrapped in the long down jacket, Nellie felt warmth seep into her bones and her heart.


    Over the past couple of years, she and Lizzy had leaned on each other, their sisterly bond growing stronger. They became more like family.


    Nellie''s career had taken off, a mix


    of past groundwork and present guidance from Jasmine, who had provided mentorship, manpower supply channels, and even technical support. This boost allowed Nellie to build her own fashion empire in just two short years. This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Her brand, Vintage Charm, had already opened numerous stores nationwide, catering to all price ranges and holding strong in apetitive market, with business booming. Now, she was a respected figure in the fashion scene.


    But Nellie''s return home was for another mission: to finalize her divorce from Cameron.


    The elders of the Dawson family, always shrewd, would surely reassess the marriage''s value to them if they knew how far she''de. After weighing their options, they might not be so quick to let her and Cameron split.


    Nellie decided it was time to keep her identity under wraps and focus on getting a divorce first.

 Chapter 62

    Following Nellie''s wish for a budget-friendly hotel that was quiet and close to the civil office, Lizzy booked her into a charming old ce that had been around for over a hundred years. Little did Nellie know, this quaint hotel was actually owned by the Rond family.


    The moment she checked in, the hotel staff couldn''t help but gush over her. "Look at her, she''s so stunning and with such a noble air. She doesn''t seem like your average girl-she has to be a celebrity," they whispered amongst themselves. Nellie couldn''t help but chuckle at their remarks.


    They didn''t realize that with the right makeover, anyone could look extraordinary in her capable hands.


    As she and Lizzy entered the VIP section of the hotel with their room keys, they unexpectedly ran into the hotel''s owner, Benjamin.


    Perhaps it was her striking beauty, but Benjamin couldn''t take his eyes off her.


    His colleague, oblivious to Benjamin''s distraction, continued his report, "Mr. Benjamin, this weekend is Mr. Nathan''s birthday bash. Your grandfather is going all out, inviting all our business partners to his birthday celebration."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Benjamin sneered, "He thinks just because Grandpa dotes on him, he can be the center of attention? Let''s give him an off-brand suit and a fake Rolex. All the big shots will see straight through his cheap get-up and realize he''s a nobody in the Rond family. This party will be the end of his future."


    His sidekick burst outughing. "Mr. Benjamin, that''s genius. Mr. Nathan is so clueless, and he probably has no idea that wearing the wrong clothes could spell disaster for him."


    "Exactly. Even though he''s part of the family, my dad never liked him. He never bothered to teach him about luxury brands. He''s grown up now and still hasn''t figured out the world of fashion and jewelry. His everyday bargain-bin wardrobe shows just how out of his depth he is."


    One of them warned, "Mr. Benjamin,


    we should tread carefully. The kid might be young, but he''s sharpe Remember how he''s caught as off guard before."


    Benjamin shrugged it off. "Rx, I''ve nned it all out. I''ve already talked to several high-end brands, and they won''t tend him anything. Even if he spots our trick, he''ll be stuck


    en


    As Nellie brushed past Benjamin, she overheard their scheming against Nathan. Her grip on the room key tightened until her knuckles turned white.


    Nathan was young when he came back to the Rond family.


    Yet Benjamin showed zero brotherly


    els


    love and plotted against Nathan so ruthlessly. Her heart ached for Nathan, motherless and without family love, so isted.


    Her gaze shot daggers at Benjamin, cold and piercing, b


    But Benjamin, entranced by her looks, began to approach her.


    Closer and closer.


    Suddenly, Nellie remembered Benjamin and her awful husband Cameron were as thick as thieves. Worried about being recognized, she quickly made her exit. Watching her slip into her room, Benjamin felt reluctant to let her go. He instructed his minion, "Find out everything about that girl."


    "On it."

 Chapter 63

    Nellie stepped into the hotel room, barely containing her excitement as she turned to Lizzy, "Lizzy, grab the most expensive fabric from the suitcase. I need to whip up a suit for Nathan. There''s no way I''m letting him be the talk of the Capital for the wrong reasons." Lizzy jumped to it, wasting no time as she gathered the fabric, needles, scissors, sketch paper, and paintbrushes.


    Nellie quickly sketched out a few designs. "Lizzy, which one do you think stands out?"


    Lizzy thought each one was unique in its own way and couldn''t pick a favorite. "Everything you design is stunning."


    Nellie recalled a memory from herst life, when she met Nathan at a party. He had been in a sleek ck suit, exuding a cool, untouchable allure that set him apart.


    Amongst the heirs of wealthy families, Nathan was a standout, making the others seem dull byparison.


    Now, although still young, he was growing into the man he was meant to be. He''d even told her recently that he''d hit 6''1".Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Nellie knew exactly what she wanted: a look thatbined distinction and grace with a hint of maturity and stability.


    She chose a simple yet elegant design. After pulling two all-nighters, she handcrafted a luxurious, understated suit.


    With a tie andpel pin from her cherished collection, the suit''s worth soared.


    Lizzy ran her fingers over it, captivated. "Woah, this fabric is fit for royalty, like the princes of Ennd. Plus, it''s your own creation - straight from Jasmine''s top prot¨¦g¨¦''s collection. What do you think this suit would go for?"


    Nellie replied, "Setting a price is easy, but something this exclusive? It''s priceless."


    Lizzy beamed. "Mr. Nathan will look like a star at his birthday ceremony in this."


    Nellie nodded, "Lizzy, find the right moment to give Nathan the suit. Tell him it''s my gift for his big day."


    "Got it."


    The night was calm and stretched on.


    Nellie found herself restless,


    standing by the expansive French windows, gazing out at the Capital''s shimmering lights. Her heart was weighed down with locked O memories.  en


    The ghosts of a painful past clung to her, making it hard to breathe.


    "Mr. Dawson, this is the little beggar you were searching for."


    "Beggar?" Cameron''s brows knitted in disdain as he looked at her.


    Back then, she was too naive to see his contempt.


    She wanted to exin she wasn''t a beggar; her mom was sick, and she was just scavenging to pay for medicine.


    But her ragged clothes betrayed her, and the words were stuck in her throat.


    Sensing her unease, Cameron crouched down. "Your name''s Nellie, right?"


    She nodded shyly.


    "Would you like toe with me? I''ll take care of your education and give you money for your mom''s treatment."


    Nellie couldn''t see the ulterior


    motives behind his offer. Feeling lucky, she bowed, overwhelmed with gratitude. "You''re my lifesaver.


    Thank you for helping me... lol.ne


    sw nove


    always dreamed of going to school."


    And then, she followed him without a second nce.


    He kept his word, enrolling her in a modest school. Shepleted high school and got into a third-rate university to study fashion. He even located her biological father and sister, reuniting her with the Brown family.

 Chapter 64

    Should she really be grateful to him?


    Nellie often found herself pondering: if Cameron hadn''te into her life, where would she be now? Would she still be stuck at the bottom rung of society, or would her stubborn determination have carved out a sessful path for herself? For the longest time, she saw Cameron as her savior, and she almost worshipped him like a god. But now, after having experienced life''s ups and downs and having helped countless orphans and widows, she started to question everything. She even began to resent his so-called rescue. His ulterior motives didn''t deserve her respect. He wasn''t a phnthropist; he was a con artist. This was the unspoken pain that gnawed at Nellie''s heart. Divorce was looming on the horizon.


    The next morning, Nellie showed up at the Dawson family vi, dressed simply and without makeup, looking a bit worn from a sleepless night.


    There was already a luxury car worth millions parked out front. Greta, carrying a bunch of gift bags, had arrived ahead of her.


    Greta rang the doorbell, and the housekeeper Marian answered, surprised but pleased to see her. "Greta, Mrs. Dawson was just saying how long it''s been since you visited. Speak of the devil!" Greta handed her a gift bag with a smile. "Marian, this is for you."


    Marian beamed. "Greta, you never forget to bring gifts for everyone, even the staff. You''re too kind."


    She weed Greta inside warmly. Meanwhile, Nellie and Lizzy watched from a taxi parked nearby. Lizzy couldn''t help but mutter, "She''s. getting all chummy with her brother-inw''s family. Her intentions are crystal clear


    Nellie chuckled. "You''re too young to worry about romance and all that drama."


    Lizzy grabbed a document bag from the seat. "Let me take care of this delivery. You don''t need to deal with those unpleasant folks."


    "Alright," Nellie agreed.


    Inside the Dawson''s living room, Kristina and Cameron were on the


    couch. Cameron quickly got up to help Greta with the heavy bags,


    gently scolding her, "You really det


    have to bring anything. You shouldn''t be lifting heavy stuff,


    Greta."


    Greta gazed at him fondly. "Cameron, I found some lovely fabric and made clothes for you and your parents. With the New Year and all those partiesing up, I want you all to look your best."


    Kristina put down her mug with a


    sigh. "Greta, you''re always so thoughtful. It''s a shame Cameron wasn''t lucky enough to marry you.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Truly a missed opportunity." She


    shot a disappointed nce at Cameron. "I still don''t understand how a CEO like you could marry such an unsuitable woman out of gratitude. Look at what she''s done-running off without a word. It''s maddening."


    Cameron''s face darkened at the mention of Nellie.


    Kristina continued, "It''d be best to just divorce her and be done with it."


    Cameron replied, "Mom, Nellie has been good to both Greta and me. Divorcing her would make me look ungrateful and could hurt thepany. Let''s not talk about this anymore."

 Chapter 65

    Kristina went quiet for a moment.


    Greta tried to soothe her, saying, "Kristina, don''t let it get to you. Honestly, things are pretty great as they are. I might not be Cameron''s wife on paper, but in my heart, he''s my forever partner. I''ll love him and take care of him for a lifetime. That marriage certificate? It''s just a piece of paper to us."


    Cameron shot a nce at Greta, his eyes shadowed with mixed emotions.


    Kristina felt a bit more at ease. "You''re right. You and Cameron have each other''s backs, just like a real married couple. As for Nellie, let her do her thing. Who needs her anyway? Like we''d beg her toe back. It''d be better if she just stayed away." But things didn''t go as nned.


    Just as Greta and the Dawson family were having a nice time, the open doorway was suddenly filled by a lively figure casting a shadow on the floor. A sharp voice rang out, "Well, look who showed up! The one who should be here isn''t, and the one who shouldn''t be here is." Cameron was startled by the familiar voice. He looked up to see Lizzy walking toward them with a confident stride.


    Greta nearly ground her teeth in frustration. "Lizzy, when did you be as rude as Nellie?"


    Lizzyughed instead of getting angry. "And you think you have manners? Sneaking around with your brother-inw is your idea of ss?"


    For two years, Lizzy and Nellie had leaned on each other. Lizzy understood Nellie''s loneliness and had witnessed the pain of family betrayal. Nellie''s road to sess had been a thousand times harder than most.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    So, as Lizzy matured, her disdain for Cameron and Greta only grew stronger.


    Cameron was provoked by Lizzy''s boldness. He stood up abruptly, raising his hand as if to hit her. "Lizzy..."


    But it was all bluster. His hand fell uselessly as he met Lizzy''s mocking gaze.


    He let it drop, almost without realizing it.


    "Where''s Nellie? Did shee back with you?" Cameron looked past Lizzy, finding nothing, and the light in his eyes dimmed.


    Kristina sneered, "Oh, she finally decided toe back? I thought she was gone for good."


    Lizzy''s face turned pale, her grip on the documents tightening.


    She couldn''t imagine how Nathalie had put up with Kristina''s relentless insults. No wonder shewould react so strongly whenever the past was brought up. Lizzy thought of how Nathalie''s fingers would shake uncontrobly.


    "I''m just here to drop off some papers."


    Lizzy handed Cameron the divorce papers and turned to leave.


    Cameron wanted to follow her, but Kristina cut him off. "Cameron, where are you going? Don''t tell me you''re thinking of bringing that disgrace back. If she''s throwing a fit, you can''t give in. Indulge her once, and she''ll only push further. Let''s see what tricks she has left without us begging her to return."


    Lizzy, hearing Kristina''s words, shook her head sadly. She couldn''t hold back . She had to defend Natahlie. "Cameron, when have you ever catered to her?


    And you, don''t kid yourself into


    thinking Cameron''s some big catch. My sister couldn''t care less about ying games with him. She genuinely wants to be free of Cameron."  en

 Chapter 66

    With a huff, she added, "It''s all she has ever wanted." And with that, she strode out, leaving the room in silence.


    Kristina, fuming, hurled her coffee cup to the floor, and shattered it. Cameron just stood there, shell-shocked, watching Lizzy make her exit.


    It wasn''t until Greta nudged him with a reminder. "Cameron, what did Nell deliver to you?" that he snapped back to the present. He eagerly ripped open the envelope and pulled out the papers inside. His face darkened the moment he read the bold words: "Divorce Agreement." It felt like a p, and from someone he considered beneath him, no less. It sent his blood boiling.


    Kristina and Greta exchanged worried nces, noting his shift in mood.


    "Cameron, what''s in that envelope?" they asked, concern tinged with curiosity.


    "A divorce agreement," Cameron managed, almost grinding his teeth into dust.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Divorce... agreement?" Kristina echoed, stunned. She never imagined her docile daughter-inw would have the guts to leave Cameron.


    After a moment of stunned silence, Kristina, her pride wounded at the rejection of her beloved son, mmed her hand on the coffee table.


    "Who does she think she is, asking for a divorce? If anyone''s going to do that, it should be the Dawson family!" she fumed.


    Greta soothed her, "Kristina, don''t be upset. Nellie isn''t looking down on Cameron; she probably just wants to step aside for me and Cameron. She''s always known her ce. She knows she''s not a match for him."


    Kristina''s anger cooled a bit. "You''re right, Greta. Nellie has no reason to look down on Cameron. He''s the best she could ever dream of. She just wants to step aside for you and Cameron. That is just like her, always the martyr."


    Despite her words of praise for Greta, Kristina was hesitant about her son marrying someone so frail.


    "Kristina, so you''re okay with them divorcing?" Greta asked, barely containing her excitement.


    §Ö


    Kristina replied evasively, "Cameron divorcing now would impact the newpany''sunch. Cameron, tell Nellie we''ll revisit the divorce issue


    Cameron nodded, still in a funk.


    By noon, Nellie returned to the hotel, worn out from working all night on the dress. She copsed into bed and immediately fell asleep.


    Meanwhile, Lizzy, clutching the suit Nellie had made for Nathan, hurried to the Rond estate.


    The Rond family was the top financial power in the Capital, and had tight security. Lizzy exined to the guard, "I''m here to deliver a


    package to Mr. Nathan on behalf of someone. Could you let him know?"


    DUMS


    The guard called the butler, who scrutinized Lizzy, "Miss, who is your friend, and what''s in the package?"


    Lizzy held the package firmly, "Just tell Mr. Nathan that Miss Nathalie has a gift for him. He''ll understand."


    The butler frowned, "Nathalie?"


    "Who''s Nathalie?" his gaze turned suspicious.


    Sensing the butler''s wariness, Lizzy''s expression hardened. "You''re just


    eRond family''s butler. A


    the


    you overstepping by


    Nathan''s private matters?


    Nathan''s private matters?"

 Chapter 67

    The butler looked a bit on edge, probably not expecting this youngdy to pick up on his wary vibe towards Nathan.


    He quickly put on a sly grin and said, "Miss, you''ve got the wrong idea. Mr. Nathan is young, so his father asked us to keep a close eye on him. I just ask a few extra questions to his visitors. I''m sorry if I came off the wrong way." Lizzy wasn''t buying it. "Mr. Nathan is having his birthday this Sunday, yet you still treat him like a kid. Aren''t you worried he''ll get ticked off and cause you trouble?"


    Her words carried a not-so-subtle warning.


    Once Nathan''s birthday was over, he''d be taking the reins of the Rond family business. Even if his shares wouldn''t top Mr. Benjamin''s, he''d still hold significant power.


    If the staff kept up their obvious suspicious behavior, Nathan might not be too pleased. While dealing with those above him might be tricky, managing the servants would be a breeze for Nathan.


    The butler started to sweat, realizing this youngdy wasn''t as easy to handle as he thought.


    "Please wait here, Miss. I''ll go let Mr. Nathan know right away."


    As the butler entered Nathan''s study, Nathan was at hisputer, hacking into the privateworks of various high-society families. The second the butler walked in, Nathan swiftly switched the screen to show a video game. Hearing the game sounds, the butler smirked, thinking to himself, ''What was I worried about? This kid seems utterly hopeless.''


    "What do you want?" Nathan shot him an annoyed look.


    "Mr. Nathan, there''s a youngdy outside with a package for you. She said it''s from Miss Nathalie."


    Nathan kept a straight face as if nothing could faze him and said, "Got it. You can go now."


    The butler bowed and left.


    "Nathalie!"


    Nathan''s cold demeanor melted away like snow in summer, revealing a warmth underneath. He hopped up from his chair and briskly headed for


    the door.


    At the entrance of the Rond estate, Nathan approached Lizzy with long strides.


    "Mr. Nathan." Lizzy eagerly handed Nathan a rectangr box.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Mr. Nathan, this is your gift Nathalie asked me to bring you."


    The light in Nathan''s eyes dimmed a little, and his voice was tinged with disappointment. "Is she noting?"


    Lizzy tapped the box yfully. "You


    needed to get this gift a bit early for your ceremony. Don''t worry. She''s already in the Capital and hasn''t forgotten about your big day


    en


    Nathan''s mood lifted instantly.


    He fished out two gold cards from


    §Ö


    his pocket and gave them to liz "I''ve already got these ess cards ready for her. Just use them to get


    into the event."


    Lizzy''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "Wow, these are gold cards?"


    She quickly bit into one of the cards, then, overjoyed, eximed, "They really are gold cards! These must be worth a fortune, right?" Nathan chuckled.


    With everything sorted, Lizzy waved goodbye to Nathan. "See youter, Mr. Nathan."


    But Nathan lingered, looking like he had something more to say, making Lizzy too anxious to leave.


    "Is there anything else?"


    Nathan, looking a bit sad, said, "It''s been two years since Ist saw her. How is she doing?"

 Chapter 68

    designer."


    Lizzy chuckled, "She''s been hustling to build her business empire over thest couple of years. It''s been tough, but she''s definitely made a name for herself. Now, she''s a big deal in the fashion world, and all sorts of luxury brands are lining up to have her as their chief Nathan mumbled, "She must''ve had a rough time, huh?"


    The thought of Nellie getting by with just one kidney tugged at his heartstrings.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Lizzy added, "You know she''s got her own demons. Her marriage to Cameron is a hurdle she just can''t seem to get past."


    Nathan, with a dark resolve, said, "Let her know that their marriage is done."


    Then, he left dramatically.


    Lizzy was left speechless. Could Nathan possibly take on someone as powerful as Cameron?


    On his way back, Nathan ran into Benjamin.


    Benjamin tossed him a gift box. "Nathan, here''s a present from Mom and Dad."


    Nathan took the box, his sharp gaze catching the mischievous grin on Benjamin''s face.


    He opened the gift right there and found a suit inside. The fabric was wrinkled, and the seams were shoddily stitched-a clear piece of junk.


    Benjamin, still asking for trouble, said, "Nathan, Dad wanted you to know he picked this suit just for you. You should wear it to your birthday ceremony to make him happy." Benjamin''s sleazyugh made Nathan''s stomach churn.


    Without a second thought, he tossed the suit into a trash bin. "This suit might fit his taste, but it sure doesn''t fit mine."


    Benjamin snapped. "Nathan, don''t be ungrateful. If you toss this suit, you won''t have anything better to wear for the ceremony."


    Nathan kept his temper in check. He replied coolly, "Benjamin, what I wear to my birthday party is none of your business." Benjamin''s face turned awkward as his n seemed to have been seen through.


    Nathan left with purpose, carrying Nellie''s package.


    Back in his room, Nathan carefully opened the gift box. The suit and essories inside left him stunned.


    There was a note detailing the origin of the fabric, the story behind the essories, and their price.


    Nathan chuckled.


    His father''s gift looked incredibly cheap next to Nellie''s meticulously crafted suit.


    The so-called fatherly love seemedughable.


    Nathan gently touched the soft fabric, but the smile in his eyes slowly faded.


    "Silly girl, you work all night to make me a suit. What about your health?"


    Nathan''s birthday celebration rolled around as nned.


    The venue was set at the Rond family''s clubhouse. Mason was under the weather, so he handed over the whole celebration to


    Nathan''s biological father, who


    having moved on with a new love, left the nning to Nathan''s stepmother Paige without a care.


    The wicked stepmother had no intention of going out of her way for the thorn in her side. She blew through a massive budget, leaving only scraps for the staff to work with.


    en


    She aimed to shrink Nathan''s grand birthday banquet into a small,ckluster one.


    Her goal was to make Nathan''s birthday ceremony aughingstock in their social circle and ensure


    everyone knew Nathan held littl


    power in the Rond family. This way, Nathan''s future wouldck influential allies.


    But she had it all wrong.

 Chapter 69

    That day, the Rond family''s clubhouse was buzzing like never before.


    When Paige and Benjamin finally showed up, they were floored by the rows of luxury cars lined up outside.


    Paige clenched her fists, gritting her teeth. "It''s just a little birthday bash for a Rond family nobody. How''d it reel in so many big shots?"


    Benjamin tried to keep his cool, and reassured his mom. "Don''t get worked up, Mom. These VIPs aren''t here for Nathan; they''re here for the Rond family''s name. Once they see Nathan in his shabby get-up, they''ll know his status in our family isn''t worth a dime." A venomous grin spread across Paige''s face. She squared her shoulders and marched into the clubhouse with Benjamin right on her heels.


    They expected to be hit with a wave of glitz and mour befitting the Rond family''s top-dog status. But instead of the opulence they imagined, they found walls adorned with ssical art and poetry, each piece offering blessings to Nathan and the Rond family. Paige, from a modest background, didn''t get the whole poetry and art thing. She thought the paintings and ancient poems were far from luxurious and seemed pretty old-fashioned. With a smirk, she whispered to Benjamin, "Son, did you pick these up from a flea market? You must''ve pocketed a nice little bonus, huh?"


    Benjamin had indeed skimmed a decent chunk off the party budget, but he wasn''t feeling too great about it.


    His mom didn''t get art, but he''d had an elite education. He knew these paintings and calligraphies were priceless. They gave the room a schrly vibe, though he couldn''t quite put a price tag on them, which made him uneasy.


    "Mom, these artworks might not be worth much, but they do lend a touch of ss to the ce, making that brat look smart and cultured," Benjamin muttered, annoyed by the servants'' choices.


    Paige shrugged, "Even better. It doesn''t tarnish the Rond family''s schrly image and still shows how little we think of Nathan."


    Just then, Nathan arrived.


    He strolled in wearing a down jacket that cost maybe a couple hundred bucks, a bargainpared to the fancy threads of the other guests. Benjamin''s unease vanished.


    With a smirk, he approached


    Nathan. His words were


    sugar-coated with sarcasm. "Hey,Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    little brother, see all this? I went all out for your birthday party. Happy?"


    Nathan''s gaze scanned the walls with their priceless art, feeling lucky. He hadn''t let his granddad frame e these treasures in something shy, which is why these two art-blind family members didn''t see their true value right away.


    "I''m very pleased. Thanks, Benjamin."


    His eyes sparkled with irony, but the smile didn''t quite reach them. His voice was soft, almost too gentle, sending a shiver down Benjamin''s spine.


    "Well, I''m happy you like it." Benjamin''s eyes fell on the down jacket, his lips twisting into a mocking smile.


    "Nice jacket. Fits you well," he said, reaching out to touch it.


    Nathan suddenly shrugged off the jacket and tossed it into the trash.

 Chapter 70

    Benjamin lookedpletely taken aback. "Nathan, what on earth are you doing? My mom went through all that trouble to pick out that outfit for you, and you just tossed it aside?" Benjamin''s outburst turned every head in the club.


    Nathan, as cool andposed as if he were standing in a breeze, was wrapped in a dark gray suit that entuated his growing maturity and authority. His calm demeanor only served to highlight Benjamin''s youthful immaturity. Nathan replied with a calm, steady voice, "It got dirty. I''m a bit of a neat freak."


    Benjamin was momentarily stunned. When he realized that Nathan was put off because he had touched his clothes, his anger red up irrationally.


    He sneered at Nathan''s attire. "That outfit my mom got you cost at least a few grand. And you''d rather ditch that expensive piece for this cheap knockoff? You sure know how to pick ''em."


    Nathan nced down at his unbranded suit, oblivious to its mary value. But it was handmade by Nellie, who had stayed upte stitching it with love and care. To him, it was priceless.


    A gentle sigh suddenly rippled through the crowd. "Benjamin, your family''s luxury brand, the Rond, is famous worldwide. As an heir to the Rond family, how can''t you recognize the fabric Mr. Nathan is donning?" The voice was soft, without a trace of malice, but it struck a chord in Benjamin, leaving him flustered.


    Benjamin hurriedly defended himself, "Of course, I recognize what Nathan''s wearing. I picked that out for him."


    The lights cast a striking silhouette of Nathan, showing off his elegant and poised presence, though his affectionate gaze towards the girl went unnoticed.


    The crowd buzzed, "So Mr. Nathan''s birthday bash was organized by Mr. Benjamin? Seems like the Rond family really holds him in high regard."


    As he listened to the ttery around him, Benjamin''s face lit up with pride.


    Just then, a stylish woman, sporting


    a handbag worth millions and adorned with jewelry worth even more, stepped forward. Her trendy sses perched on her fair face as she made her way to Natham


    She gave him a once-over, her eyes full of appraisal. "Mr. Nathan, may I feel the fabric of your suit?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Nathan locked eyes with her, almost not recognizing her after two years. Her former timidity had vanished, reced by a cool confidence and pride. Her transformation delighted him.


    "Go right ahead," he said, dropping his usual aloofness for a gentler, warmer tone.


    The woman lightly touched the


    fabric and said, "Mr. Nathan, I hope I wasn''t too forward. Thank you for letting me see this legendary top-tier fabric up close. It''s a rare privilege. They say this fabric is exclusively for Jasmine''s team. For someone as young as Mr. Nathan to get their nod speaks volumes about your talent. We all know Jasmine values skill above all."


    Her words stirred a buzz in the crowd.


    "How could Mr. Benjamin be so clueless? This is such a fine fabric and he didn''t recognize it? If it weren''t for the top fashion blogger calling him out, we might''ve bought into his story."


    "Can the Rond family really trust him with the reins?"

 Chapter 71

    Nellie''s words sure stirred up a storm.


    Benjamin felt utterly embarrassed and fuming. He jabbed a finger at Nellie. "And who the heck are you? I don''t even know you! You''re obviously not some fashion world hotshot. Got any proof that Nathan''s outfit is made from Jasmine''s fabrics?" Paige jumped in quickly, "Exactly-where''d you pop up from? We definitely didn''t invite someone as unknown as you."


    Nathan stepped up, his tall figure shielding Nellie protectively. "She''s my guest. Got a problem with that?"


    Paige''s expression soured. After all, it was Nathan''s big day, and it was totally normal for him to have a few friends over.


    "Nathan, you''re young, and you don''t know some stuff. Be careful who you hang out with. How could this young girl possibly tell if something was made from international, exclusive luxury fabric? Don''t mistake some shady faker for a fashion world heavyweight." Paige''s crew started whispering among themselves, "Is this girl someone Mr. Nathan brought in for support? Were those words all nned?"


    Watching Paige and her son desperately trying to save face, Nellie decided to make them eat their words. She pulled out her business card from her purse and handed it to Benjamin. "I''m Jasmine''s top disciple, and my code''s Hyacinthus."


    Benjamin was visibly taken aback, but he wasn''t about to back down just yet. He just refused to admit he couldn''t recognize the high-end fabric Nathan was sporting.


    He eyed Nellie suspiciously. "You im you''re Jasmine''s student, but how do we know it''s true? We''ve got Jasmine''s students here too. I''ll get one over to verify. Let''s see if you''re legit."


    His gaze swept the room, finally


    corner. He went over to Greta and asked, "Miss Greta, everyone knows you''re Jasmine''s student. Do you recognize Hyacinthus up there? Is she really your senior?"


    Cameron and Benjamin were childhood pals, their business ties as tight as ever.


    Greta was eager to back up Benjamin. She strutted over to Nellie, circling her. "Mind taking off your sunsses?"


    Nellie hesitated, torn. She didn''t


    want to reveal her high-profile identity before the divorce with


    Cameron was finalized. She wa


    worried the Dawson family wouldn''t let her go easily if they knew she was their golden goose.


    Just then, Nathan stepped in. "Greta, by rank, Hyacinthus is your senior. What gives you the right to tell her to take off her sunsses?" Despite his young age, Nathan exuded the authority of a grown man, making Greta blush.


    Cameron rushed over to smooth things over for Greta, dismissing Nathan with a cold tone. "Nathan, is this how you treat your guests?"


    Nathan smirked, not giving Cameron an inch. "If I''m not wrong, I don''t recall sending you an invite. We''re not close, so what brings you here uninvited?" Cameron was too shocked to figure out aeback.


    Benjamin huffed, "I asked Cameron toe. Nathan, how can you be so disrespectful to a guest?"


    Nathan shot a cold re at


    Benjamin. "This is my birthday party, not yours. Everyone here is a guest personally invited, and they all have my invitation. Please stop trying to steal the spotlight with your entourage." This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

 Chapter 72

    Benjamin let out a heartyugh. "Nathan, do you really think all these guests would be here without my backing? How many VIPs do you think would bother to show up at this shabby gathering otherwise?"


    Nathan frowned, "What''s so shabby about it?"


    Benjamin waved his hand around, "Look at these old paintings and decorations. They''re practically worthless. If it weren''t for the guests I brought to liven up your birthday party, it would be no different from a backyard barbecue." Nathan couldn''t help but chuckle. "Ignorance is bliss, isn''t it?"


    He gave Benjamin a look of disdain. "Do you have any clue how much this painting in front of you is worth?"


    When Benjamin lookedpletely lost,


    Nathan continued, "This is Wassergen II''s Gustav Klimt. It sold for billions at an auction a few years back. And it''s the cheapest piece in the room.


    Go on, take a wild guess-who owns this masterpiece?"


    Benjamin was left speechless.


    "That''s impossible. How could you possibly get your hands on such an expensive painting?"


    Nathan nced over at Cameron and Greta, his voice icy, "So, do me a favor and show your troublemaking friends the door. They''re not wee here."


    Cameron and Greta''s faces turned an unttering shade of red.


    Benjamin quickly tried to calm Cameron. "They''re important guests I invited..."


    Nathan didn''t even acknowledge him. Instead, he walked over to Nellie, his icy demeanor melting away instantly, "Thank you for traveling all this way to celebrate my birthday." Nellie cleared her throat, her voice a bit raspy. "Now I can finally rx."


    Nathan was no longer the helpless young man running for his life two years ago. He had grown stronger, and the Rond family''s little devil probably couldn''t overshadow him anymore. However, Nellie couldn''t shake a sense of loss.


    In the future, Nathan would be a force to be reckoned with.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Rumor had it he was ruthless, indifferent to family ties, and a tyrant in the business world.


    She feared their paths were diverging.


    They might soon find themselves on different journeys.


    Perhaps their bond was meant to end here.


    Cameron eyed Hyacinthus with suspicion. Her voice struck a chord, reminding him of his wife, Nellie. "Hyacinthus, could we have a word?"


    Cameron tried to make small talk to probe Nellie, but Hyacinthus was too aloof, not even sparing him a nce. She brushed him off, speaking only with Nathan.


    "Nathan, I heard you started a luxury brand and opened some boutiques. How''s business going?"


    Nathan sighed dramatically,


    "Cameron''s stores are right across from mine, and he''s got his devoted sweetheart backing him up.


    Meanwhile, I''m flying solo. Plusner


    I''m


    a rookie in this business. If I don''t


    get some strong talent on my team soon, I might have to close up shop."


    Cameron was taken aback.


    Even though Nathan''spany was a rival, he had never managed to outdo Nathan. Why was he ying the victim now?


    Nellie felt a pang of sympathy for


    Nathan, She leaned in closer andet


    whispered, "Nathan, how about take on the role of your chiefo designer?"


    Nathan''s excitement was palpable. "Well, how do you want your office styled? I''ll get someone to start the renovations tomorrow."

 Chapter 73

    Nellie couldn''t help but chuckle. "Once I''ve sorted everything out, I''ll be there." Nathan was thrilled. "I''ll be waiting."


    The banquet went off without a hitch. In the past, the Rond family''s gatherings mostly involved business folks. But this time, it was a whole different vibe, with political and cultural icons making an appearance. These were the big shots you didn''t usually see mingling with the business crowd, yet they held the purse strings to the industry''s economy. It was like a perfect blend of highbrow and lowbrow, cleansing the usual hustle and bustle with a touch of ss.


    The business tycoons were bending over backward to get on good terms with them. Meanwhile, the friends Benjamin had invited seemed to switch sides, cozying up to Nathan one by one. Benjamin and Paige were left out in the cold, fuming.


    In one corner, Mason and Nathan''s father Andrew stood amidst the crowd. Andrew looked none too pleased.


    Mason grinned, "Benjamin went all out to give Nathan a hard time but didn''t count on him having such strong allies. His ns have backfired. Maybe he''ll think twice next time."


    Andrew scoffed, "Nathan''s not just a Rond kid; he''s also from the McCoy family. He''s got way more resources than Benjamin. But if you''re talking talent, he might give Nathan a run for his money. Let''s see how the talent show goes; he might just pull off aeback." "Let''s see," Mason replied.


    During the talent show, Benjamin gave a stunning piano performance and nailed it, but Nathan didn''t even bother to step on stage.


    Feeling let down and annoyed, Benjamin cornered Nathan, asking, "Why didn''t you perform?"


    Nathan, with an air of superiority, retorted, "Why should I? To be a circus monkey for everyone''s entertainment, like you? You might enjoy ying the monkey, but that''s not my style."


    It was like Nathan stomped all over Benjamin''s pride, leaving him utterly humiliated. At the end of the day, whether it was strategy or poise, Nathan outshone Benjamin in every possible way.


    As the birthday bash wrapped up, the three generations of the Rond family men stood at the door, seeing the guests off.


    oveOriginal from N?velDrama.Org.


    Everyone had nothing but praise for Nathan. "Mr. Rond, your grandson is calm andposed, not cocky or reckless. He''s got a bright future ahead."


    "Even at his young age, Mr. Nathan managed to bring in such bigwigs from the cultural sphere. He''s definitely one to watch."


    "Mr. Rond, with Nathan in the family, you can finally kick back and rx," Mason''s friends said enviously.


    Masonughed, "I''ll start handing over my work to Nathan now. He''s going to step into the business world, and I hope you all can give him your support."


    It was obvious Mason wasying the groundwork for Nathan, which left Andrew feeling a bit sour and Benjamin looking even more disgruntled.


    Meanwhile, Nellie had handed Cameron the divorce papers days ago. But Cameron hadn''t reacted at all, which made Nellie uneasy. She had a hunch he wouldn''t just agree to the divorce. Lizzy, puzzled, said, "Maybe he won''t divorce you because he still has some feelings for you?"


    Nellie replied, "It''s not about feelings; he just doesn''t respect me. To him, I''m nothing more than a charity case. He thinks giving me a roof over my head and a chance to study was already a huge favor, and should be grateful beyond measure. He believes everything I do is expected, and I don''t have the right to leave him."


    Lizzy scoffed, "Typical businessman. Even his kindnesses with strings attached. If we knew he was like this, you wouldn''t even care for the crumbs he''s offering."

 Chapter 74

    After mulling it over, Nellie finally said, "If he won''t agree to a divorce, I guess I''ll have to take it to court."


    Lizzy chimed in, "But dragging a divorce through the courts is a long slog. You hate him, but you''d have to see him constantly. Wouldn''t that be pure agony?" Suppressing a wave of physical and emotional difort, Nellie replied, "Maybe I should just sit him down and have a real talk."


    She decided to call Cameron after 9 p.m., knowing he''d likely be free around then. The phone barely rang twice before it was picked up.


    "Hello? Who''s calling?" came a sweet voice that could only belong to Greta.


    Nellie hesitated for a moment, then said, "Put Cameron on, please."


    Greta seemed flustered, recognizing her sister''s voice. It took her a while to respond. Finally, she managed, "Nel, what do you need with Cameron?"


    Nellie replied with a hint of sarcasm, "Do I need to check in with my sister every time I want to talk to my husband? Aren''t you sticking your nose in a bit too far?"


    Greta struggled to remain calm, "Nel, I was just asking. No need to get so worked up. Sorry, Cameron''s in the shower. He''ll call you back soon."


    Nellie warned, "Greta, if Cameron doesn''t call me back, I''ll post a recording of you two''s little affair online tomorrow."


    It seemed Nellie''s threat hit home because it took less than half an hour for Cameron to call back.


    As soon as Nellie answered, she was met with Cameron''s angry voice, "Nellie, have you lost it? How dare you make your sister cry?"


    Nellie calmly held the phone away from her ear, waiting for his yelling to subside before speaking again.


    "Cameron, I''ve sent you the divorce papers. When can we go to the registry office to finalize this?" Nellie''s voice was steady, unaffected by his tirade, showing neither anger nor the sorrow of a copsing marriage. Cameron was taken aback.


    He had always thought Nellie''s talk of divorce was just a bluff, a ploy to grab his attention.


    "You''re serious?"


    Nellie frowned, "Cameron, I''m busy. I don''t have time for your back-and-forth games."


    Silence hung in the air for what felt like ages.


    Finally, Cameron spoke, his frustration evident, "Nellie, I thought leaving you to fend for yourself for two years would make you appreciate what we had. But now you want out even more?


    Think carefully. Who else would want you after a divorce?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Cameron, anyone who truly loves me won''t care about my past. Besides, I have nothing to be ashamed of in this marriage. You''re the one who messed up. If there''s any justice in the world, you should face the consequences. Why do you think I can''t find happiness?" Cameron was left speechless.


    "Nellie, if we divorce, you''ll end up with nothing. I won''t give you a dime," he threatened through gritted teeth.


    Nellie let out augh, "Cameron, I used to think I couldn''t survive without you. But it turns out that even without your meager support, I''ve been doing just fine. These past two years have been the best of my life. I don''t have to tiptoe around you or cater to your family. It''s been the most freeing experience ever."

 Chapter 75

    Cameron''s face was as frosty as an ice sculpture. The feeling of humiliation was overwhelming. How could someone with nothing to her name, a beggar essentially, choose to leave him? She preferred to walk away empty-handed rather than stay with him. The thought made Cameron feel hot with rage. "Nellie, I''m not agreeing to a divorce," Cameron shouted, mming the phone down in anger.


    Feeling defeated, Nellie slumped into the corner of the sofa, utterly dejected. She reached for her phone and posted on various forums, seeking advice on how to divorce a cheating husband who refused to let her go. The thread quickly filled with responses. Amidst the sea of opinions, a couple ofments stood out with sharp rity. One read, [If he loves his mistress, your job''s easier. Pretend to be lovey-dovey with him, and I bet the mistress will lose her cool and start a fight. Let her push him towards divorcing you. Wouldn''t that be sweet revenge?]


    Another suggested, [If he still won''t budge, go all Sherlock Holmes on him. Get close enough to gather dirt on his cheating ways, then use it against him. He would be worried about all his family wealth. You think he wouldn''t prefer a quiet divorce then?] Nellie felt a light bulb go off in her head. That night, she packed her bags and headed over to the Dawson house.


    When Cameron saw her, he was first shocked, then angry. "Nellie, why are you back?"


    Nellie replied calmly, "Since you won''t agree to a divorce, we''re still husband and wife. Shouldn''t we live together?"


    Cameron was at a loss for words. After staring at her for a while, he couldn''t help but smirk, "Nellie, are you ying games now? I respected you for bringing up the divorce. Didn''t realize refusing was just a trick to get my attention." Nellie, unimpressed, simply said, "The divorce offer''s still open."


    Then, she walked past Cameron into the house. Her disdain for him ran deep, but in his arrogance, Cameron mistook her indifference for some sort of mind game.


    Nellie dragged her suitcase to a small, dimly lit room on the third floor meant for a maid or guest. Cameron liked his peace, so the floor was mostly empty. Cameron followed her into the guest room, bewildered. "What''s this? Are you nning on living separately?"


    Casually unpacking her suitcase, Nellie replied, "Did you really want me in the same room with you?"


    A conflicted look crossed Cameron''s face. He didn''t understand his own feelings.Nellie''s closeness annoyed him, yet her distance made him uneasy.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    "You could stay in the room next to mine. It''s bigger and brighter," he suggested.


    Nellie paused, recalling the secondary bedroom she''d passed, decorated like a pink fairy-tale castle. It was clearly set up for Greta. Smiling, she said, "That room''s a bit too shy for me. Can I redecorate it?" "No way," Cameron said firmly.


    "Then this will do," Nellie shrugged.


    "Suit yourself," Cameron replied, turning to leave.


    Nellie hadn''t nned to stay long, so she''d packed light. After settling in quickly, she sat on the bed, lost in thought. She needed to gather evidence of Cameron''s infidelity to use as leverage in their divorce negotiations. His scandalous love for Greta was an open secret. However, Nellie had never caught them in anypromising situation.

 Chapter 76

    It seemed like Nellie had to pull off something to really nail down those cheating usations against him. So, she grabbed her phone, dashed to the guest room, plopped down on the bed, and snapped a bunch of photos. Then, she arranged them neatly in a grid and posted them where only Greta could see. Caption: Big thanks to my hubby for the room makeover. So romantic. I''m loving it.


    With that done, she headed back to her room, waiting for Greta to make her move.


    Greta was a piece of work, acting all saintly on the outside but sly as a fox on the inside. Greta thought Cameron was head over heels for her, so she never bothered topete openly. But when it came to her own interests, Greta was as tight-fisted as they came. Now that Nellie was back, she was ready to stir things up.


    Sure enough, it didn''t take long before Greta was texting her frantically: [Nel, did you really go back to the Dawson family home?]


    Nellie could practically see Greta fuming through the screen. She decided to poke the bear a bit more. [Yep, Cameron wants us to enjoy our life together.]


    The chat went silent for a while.


    Nellie smirked. ''Can''t handle it, huh? Just giving you a bit of her own medicine.''


    Then Greta''s texts came pouring in like a tidal wave: [Nel, Cameron doesn''t love you. A loveless marriage won''tst. You should bow out gracefully and find someone else.]


    Nellie replied nonchntly: [Love is the most overrated thing. As long as I''m Mrs. Dawson, I''ve got all the perks-care, cash, fame, status. I''m not about to throw all that away.]


    Greta was getting heated: [Why are you so stubborn? Nellie, without a strong background, the Dawson family won''t ept you.]


    Nellie''s grip on her phone tightened slightly: [We''re cut from the same cloth, Greta. We both have a mom who''s unwell and a dad who ditched us. If the Dawsons won''t ept me, do you really think they''ll ept you?]


    Greta shot back: [I''ll prove that the Dawson family will wee me.]


    Nellie replied coolly: [I''ll be waiting then.]


    Now that she had sessfully stoked Greta''s jealousy, Nellie tossed her phone aside, leaving Greta stew in her own storm.


    That night, Nellie slept like a baby.


    The next morning, she slept in, took her time freshening up, and strolled downstairs.


    In the living room, Cameron was on the couch, eyes soft as he looked at his phone, but his smile vanished the second he spotted Nellie.


    Nellie didn''t bat an eye and headed straight to the dining room, only to find her breakfast missing. She turned to Cameron.


    "Where''s my breakfast?"


    "Nellie, as my wife, you shouldn''t be sleeping in," Cameron said curtly. "Mom tossed your breakfast. You can skip a meal and learn a lesson." Nellie let out a small huff, "I''ll take care of my own stomach."


    She grabbed some eggs from the fridge, set up the juicer, picked the ripest fruits, and made a mini feast for herself, relishing every bite. Cameron watched her with an intense gaze.


    "Two years abroad, and the only thing you picked up was how to live it up," he said, his voiceced with disdain.Original from N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 77

    Nellie nibbled on her food, her gazezily drifting over to Cameron. "You, with your silver spoon life, dine on lobster and steak every day. You must be living the high life, huh?"


    Cameron just rolled his eyes.


    "Think you''re better than me?" Cameron grumbled under his breath.


    Even though he mumbled, his words dripped with that high-and-mighty vibe, making Nellie frown.


    She gave him a sharp look. "Am I missing a heart or an eyepared to you? Seriously, Cameron, we''re both human. Let''s keep it real-we''re equals. You''re not any better than me."


    Cameron was momentarily stunned before his expression darkened. "You''ve got quite the mouth. If you''re so independent, stop living off me."


    "I''m your wife, Cameron. I''m legally entitled to half of what you make. If you can''t handle me using your money, you''re wee to divorce me," Nellie shot back.


    Cameron was fuming. He never thought the once meek Nellie would stand up for herself like this.


    He could sense that Nellie was no longer someone he could easily control.


    After finishing her breakfast, Nellie elegantly rose and left the dining room.


    Cameron nced at the mess left behind and snapped, "Nellie, clean up the table."


    Without looking back, Nellie replied, "I''m your wife, not the family maid. That''s what we have housekeepers for."


    "Don''t think I''ll put up with you forever just because of what you did for Greta," Cameron warned, kicking the sofa leg in frustration. "If you can''t see where you stand, don''t expect me to hold onto the past. I might just divorce you. And then, don''te crying to me." Nellie''s voice came back, unconcerned. "Cameron, who said I need your patience? If you''re fed up with me, then go ahead and divorce me."


    Cameron was seething.


    On azy weekend, the Rond family''s hotel was buzzing with the arrival of not one but two prestigious heirs.


    Benjamin and Nathan bumped into each other at the entrance. Benjamin shot Nathan a wary look. "Nathan, Dad already handed this hotel over to me. What are you doing here?"


    Nathan smirked, his face barely hiding his sarcasm. "Why are you so tense, Benjamin?"


    "I get it. You''re worried about losing something that was never really yours."


    Benjamin''s temper red. "That''s bullshit! Dad gave it to me. I''m the rightful heir."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Out of nowhere, Nathan threw a punch. "Watch your mouth, Benjamin."


    He couldn''t stand these people living off his mother''s hard work without the slightest respect.


    "If it weren''t for my mom, your dad would be just a penniless guy. He built his fortune on her wealth and then turned his back on her."


    Fueled by anger, Nathan kept swinging until Benjamin was down.


    Bodyguards rushed in to stop the fight. "Mr. Nathan, please calm down."


    Benjamin cried out, "How dare you hit me? Isn''t your dad my dad, too? I''ll tell him how his son talks behind his back."


    Nathan, still enraged, kicked him again. "Tattletale."


    The Rond family''s bodyguards pulled Nathan away as Benjamin struggled to stand, ring at Nathan with hatred. "Just you wait. I''m gonna kick you out of the Rond family. Nathan, one day, you''lle begging to me."

 Chapter 78

    Nathan chuckled, "Keep dreaming, Benjamin. Honestly, it''s hard to say who''s got the upper hand here."


    With a casual flick of his jacket, Nathan sauntered off.


    Benjamin''s eyes were locked on Nathan like a hawk, intense and unyielding until Nathan reached Nellie''s guest room. At that point, Benjamin couldn''t hold back any longer. "Who''s staying in that room?" he asked, suspicion etched into his voice.


    "Mr. Benjamin," the assistant murmured close to Benjamin''s ear, "the very girl you had us look into is staying there."


    A stylish image popped into Benjamin''s mind, jealousy simmering beneath the surface. "How does he know her?"


    The assistant shrugged. "Who knows."


    Nathan knocked on the guest room door, and Lizzy answered.


    "Lizzy, where''s Nathalie?"


    Lizzy sighed, looking downcast. "She''s gone back to the Dawsons."


    Nathan''s face tightened, and when he spoke, his voice carried a trace of restrained frustration. "She still can''t let go of him? Is he really worth all this trouble?" Lizzy shook her head. "It''s not that. She''s going back to gather evidence."


    "Evidence?"


    "Yeah. Without proof of that jerk cheating during their marriage, her divorce case is going to be tough."


    Nathan''s expression softened, though worry still lingered. "That bastard is clever. Nathalie''s too kind-hearted-how can shepete with him?"


    He scoffed, "If she needs evidence of Cameron''s infidelity, I''ll get it for her. Why should she stress over it?"


    Lizzy was taken aback.


    She thought to herself, ''Cameron is always so sly. How could he possibly let evidence of his cheating slip into Mr. Nathan''s hands?''


    Before leaving, Nathan told Lizzy, "Make sure she takes care of herself."Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Over at the Dawson mansion,


    Cameron, enjoying a rare day off, was chilling in front of the TV, watching a legal show. His quiet day got a ssh of excitement with Greta''s unexpected visit.


    "Cameron, where''s my sister? I heard she''s back, so I came to check on her." Greta''s eyes kept flicking upstairs as she entered.


    Still miffed by Nellie, Cameron grumbled, "Don''t even start with her. She spend two years abroad, and instead ofing back polished, she returns with nothing but dor signs in her eyes." Greta wasn''t really there for Nellie; it was just a pretext to cozy up to the Dawsons.


    She settled next to Cameron, exuding warmth and charm. "Cameron, what''s the matter? Did my sister upset you?"


    Cameron scowled.


    Nellie sure had a knack for getting under his skin.


    Still, he didn''t want to dwell on it. "It''s nothing. Just some petty stuff."


    Greta''s eyes narrowed. "You''re always so understanding with her. That just encourages her."


    Cameron mused, "I owe her, don''t I?"


    Greta, visibly upset, insisted, "Cameron, it''s me who owes her, not you. You don''t owe her a thing. If she bothers you again, don''t worry about my feelings. Do what you have to, and I won''t hold it against you." A flicker of doubt crossed Cameron''s eyes. Did he really not owe Nellie anything?


    Just then, a thunderous noise erupted from upstairs, startling both Cameron and Greta.


    It turned out that Nellie, after a hearty meal, cranked up her music so loud that it felt like the whole house was shaking.


    "Nellie, what on earth are you doing?"

 Chapter 79

    Cameron was absolutely fuming as he stormed up the stairs with Greta hot on his heels.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    When they reached the top floor, they found Nellie had set up a camera and speaker at the corridor junction. It was ring a hip-hop dance tutorial,plete with loud rock music. Nellie, dressed in dance gear, was awkwardly attempting to follow along, her moves totally out of sync with the beat.


    Cameron''s face darkened with anger. He marched over and switched off the speaker.


    Nellie was ready to explode, but when she spotted Greta standing behind Cameron, her fury quickly turned into a cheerful grin. "Hey, babe, I''m just getting into shape. Once I''m fit, let''s think about having a baby," she chirped, shing a bright smile and slipping her arm through Cameron''s naturally.


    Greta''s expression soured. Her mouth opened and closed like she wanted to say something, but she mmed up, caught in the awkwardness of her position.


    Cameron studied Nellie, confused by how the person who had been so haughty just moments before now looked at him with the same admiration and love as she did years ago. How did she pull off this Jekyll and Hyde act? Greta let out a soft chuckle. "Nellie, are you seriously considering having a baby with Cameron?"


    Nellie, pushing down a wave of nausea, shot back, "What are you suggesting, Greta? Cameron and I are married; of course, we''d want kids. I mean, I''d rather not end up childless like you."


    Greta went pale.


    Cameron reprimanded Nellie, "Nellie, when did you be so cruel? You know your sister has health issues and can''t have kids. Why would you hit her where it hurts?" "Nellie, remember this: you won''t get what your sister doesn''t have. All you get is the Mrs. Dawson title, nothing more," he said, his words sharp and deliberate. Nellie''s face turned ghostly pale at his words.


    Cameron''s clear favoritism towards Greta dredged up a lot of bitter memories for her. It felt like she was always the one everyone, including her family and husband, chose to abandon.


    "But Cameron, just because she can''t have children doesn''t mean you don''t want them, right?" Nellie shouted, her voice rising.


    Greta''s eyes were icy with mockery. "Nellie, if you really wanted to bear a child for the Dawson family, why did you impulsively abort Cameron''s child two years ago?"


    The mention of the miscarriage brought the room to a standstill.


    Nellie bit her lip, her face paling further, her hands trembling uncontrobly within her sleeves.


    "Mommy..."


    "Mommy, it hurts."


    A haunting image always lurked in her minn


    little girl nestled in


    face as she cried softly. Chet


    arms, tears streaming down


    belongs to en. wontent


    "Mommy, I want to see Daddy."


    "It''s been so long since I''ve seen Daddy."


    "Mommy, am I going to die?"


    "If I''m dying, Daddy wille to us, right?"


    "Mommy, I can''t hang on much longer. Why hasn''t Daddye?"


    "Mommy, Daddy doesn''t love me. I don''t want a daddy anymore."


    "Mommy, you shouldn''t want Daddy either. He always makes you cry."


    Nellie closed her eyes against the pain, and when she opened them again, she shoved those emotions deep down.


    Cameron''s voice, full of anger, cut through the silence, "Nellie, why did you abort my child?"


    Nellie stared at him coldly, so eager to tell him he didn''t deserve to be a father or the happiness of a family. But she couldn''t afford to face the fallout of crossing him.


    So she put on a false front, feeding kidney My health was terrible. How could I carry a pregnancy?"


    him lies. "I''d just donated Teeding


    Cameron didn''t push her further. Truth be told, he didn''t really have any expectations for Nellie or their child.

 Chapter 80

    "It was probably for the best. You would be an irresponsible mom, and you don''t deserve to have my child," Cameron said.


    Nellie''s hands, tucked away in her sleeves, balled into fists so tight her nails nearly broke the skin. When she caught a glimpse of Greta''s smug face, she suddenly deted. She forced a fake smile. "Babe, if I don''t have kids, who''s going to carry on your legacy?"


    Cameron looked visibly annoyed.


    Greta, however, brushed it off. "Nel,e on, what sessful guy these days doesn''t have a few flings? Who doesn''t have a couple of kids out there?"


    Nellie, with a gentle smile, reminded her, "Oh, I think kids you have with other women are just called bastards."


    Greta said, "Nel, you''re Cameron''s wife. Maybe you should be more understanding."Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Nellie red at Greta, her voice frosty. "I''m not one to share my man. If he''s been with someone else, I don''t want him."


    Cameron frowned. "Nellie, are you threatening me?"


    Nellie looked him square in the eyes. "Yes. I''m saying if you don''t want a divorce, you''d better stay faithful. Don''t mess around with other women."


    Greta felt a twinge of panic. "Nel, are you saying you don''t like me being close to Cameron?"


    Nellie fired back, "Well, would you want your husband cozying up to me?"


    Greta swallowed, her face flushing.


    Cameron was taken aback by Nellie''s boldness and confidence "Nellie. he struggled to keep his cool. "My private life is my business. Stay out of it, or I don''t know what I might do."


    Nellie stood firm. "What are you saying? Do you want us to live separate lives?"


    Cameron paused as if considering an escape from the marriage. "I won''t interfere in your life, and you stay out of mine. Maybe that''s for the best."


    Nellie''s expression was hard to read, but she put on a show of vulnerability, bursting into tears. "You promised to take care of me for life when you needed my kidney Now that you''ve got it, you want to ditch me and live separately Cameron, I must''ve been blind to fall for someone as vain and selfish as you."


    Cameron was left speechless, unable to deny Nellie''s usations because they were actually true.


    "Okay, I was just joking. If you can''t deal with us having separate lives, then I''ll still look after you," Cameron said, sounding defeated.


    But Nellie was done talking. She stormed into the room with her speaker, leaving Cameron and Greta outside her world.


    Cameron and Greta exchanged a look, their eyes filled with a mix of sympathy and reassurance.


    Greta''s expression darkened. "Nel''s gotten so cold. Maybe I should have my mom talk some sense into her."


    Cameron rubbed his forehead, feeling overwhelmed. "Your mom''s never been kind to Nellie. Just seeing her would bring back bad memories..." "Cameron, my mom raised my sister. Maybe Nellie will listen to her."


    Cameron felt uneasy, but he was used to following Greta''s lead and didn''t argue further.


    Nellie never expected her mother to show up one day. She looked so much older, and she was dressed in cheap, throwaway clothes. Her face was lined with deep wrinkles, and without knowing her real age, you''d think she was in herte seventies.

 Chapter 81

    She studied Nellie with a curious gaze. "Heard from your sister that you''ve hit the jackpot and married into money?"


    Nellie''s heart clenched instinctively. Every nerve felt painfully taut, and for a moment, it was like her blood froze, her vitality on pause.


    "What are you doing here?" Her voice was barely steady.


    "How long''s it been since youst came to see me?" Miranda began her relentless spiel, "Nel, I''ve been diagnosed with a terminal illness. I haven''t got much time left. I wanted to see you before I go. I called you countless times, but you never picked up. I texted, and you didn''t respond. Have you really be so high and mighty that you don''t recognize your own mother anymore..." Her voice cracked, dissolving into sobs.


    Nellie stared icily at the woman who had been the source of her misery: How dare she show her face? Nellie had been just a child when her mother took out all her anger at Patrick on her. Miranda had abused her, insulted her, and used her as a punching bag. Miranda had stopped her from going to school and forced her to beg on the streets, taking every cent she earned...


    Just thinking about her mother gave Nellie nightmares.


    She didn''t mind that her mother was ipetent and weak. But who would want to acknowledge a mother as cruel as a "human trafficker?"


    "I''m not a doctor. I can''t help you," Nellie''s voice was ice-cold.


    "Nel, I''m really dying." Miranda, caught up in her emotions, suddenly reached out and grabbed Nellie''s hand. "I have some personal things I want to talk about."


    Nellie''s frosty stare softened slightly, thinking that, after all, blood runs thicker than water. If her mother was on her deathbed and speaking kindly, maybe she should be the bigger person and forgive her.


    "Follow me," Nellie led her mother to a pub just around the corner from her home. "Let''s just talk here."Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Miranda hadn''t even settled into her seat before tears started flowing again. "Nel, you were just a kid back then, and there were so many things you didn''t understand. Your father had a affair and forced me into a divorce. As a housewife, I had no power. Poverty weighed me down, because I


    and I took it out on you


    was frustrated."


    Nellie ran a hand through her hair, her fingers brushing over the scar on her forehead. Any fleeting warmth in her eyes was reced by cold detachment. "Just a bad temper, huh?"


    Nellie had been beaten so badly that


    her ribs broke. It was like her mother was trying to break her spirit


    times Nellie thought she wouldn''t make it, but somehow, she


    managed to hold on.


    Miranda''s face turned awkward, her words faltering. "Nel, you''re doing well now, and that makes me feel better."


    Miranda''s emotional maniption wasying it on too thick, and it grated on Nellie. She grew impatient. "If you have nothing urgent to discuss, please leave." She got up, making a show of heading out.


    Miranda, panicking, stopped her. "Nel, your sister reached out to me. You know, when I divorced your dad, I couldn''t keep her with me, and it''s my biggest regret. Nel, I''ve failed as a mom all these years, and


    swne truly


    sorry."


    en


    A chill ran through Nellie. Back when her parents divorced, everyone fought over Greta, leaving Nellie behind like she was worthless. That feeling of being rejected by her own parents was burned into her very bones. That''s whyter, when Nellie met Cameron and he showed her even a tiny bit of kindness, she clung to him like he was her savior, bending over backward to please him.


    The rejection from her family was like a brand burned into her soul, leaving her with a lifetime of sacrifices she never asked for.

 Chapter 82

    "You owe her an apology, not me. Why are you dragging me into this mess?"


    "Nellie, your sister''s not strong, and she''s got a thing for Cameron. Please, just let her have him," Miranda finally revealed her true intent.


    Nellie let out a chuckle, but it wasced with sadness and bitterness.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    "Haven''t I given up enough? As a kid, I wanted to live with our rich dad, too, but she got to him first, so I kept quiet. Then, when her kidneys started failing, I gave her one of mine. And now, she wants my husband..." Her eyes were cold as she stared at Miranda. "Tell me, why do I always have to be the one who gives everything? This is your debt to her, not mine."


    Miranda''s eyes flickered with a hint of guilt. "She''s been spoiled since she was little. Without Cameron, she can''t make it. But you, you''ve been through tough times. You can handle it. Please, just let her have Cameron."


    Nellie stared at her mother. Her voice was shaking, and her face turned pale as a sheet. "Am I not your daughter, too? Why do you think only Greta deserves happiness while I should remain stuck in misery?" "You''re not just Greta''s mom; you''re mine too. How can you treat me like this?"


    Nellie forced back the tears threatening to spill. "You don''t deserve to be called my mother."


    Miranda stumbled back. "Why are you so petty? It''s normal for me to worry more about your sister with her health issues."


    Nellie felt like she was being choked


    and was unable to voice her pain Her eyes were burning with rage. She closed her eyes in despair, feeling her old wounds reopening.


    en


    Her family''s neglect had not only left her psychologically scarred but had also manifested in severe physical symptoms.


    In that moment, she hated her mother and, even more so, Cameron.


    Cameron knew exactly what she went through with her mother, but still stood by and watched as Greta manipted her. How did she ever think he was husband material? She was so blind.


    Just then, a gentle handnded on her shoulder, easing her tension. A warm, soothing voice whispered, "Hey, rx." It was like rain in a desert, relieving Nellie''s suffocation and despair.


    Miranda, oblivious to her daughter''s turmoil, eyed Nathan with curiosity. She noted his polished appearance. "Nel, who''s this?" Noticing her mother''s greedy gaze, Nellie quickly exined, "He''s just a friend."


    But Miranda''s eyes had already drifted to Nathan''s fancy outfit and pricey watch, her mind clearly plotting. Nel, when did you start,


    hanging out with such a well-off


    guy? He seems to be doing pretty well Think you could ask him to lend us some money? I need a big chunk for medical bills."


    Nellie''s face turned crimson with anger.


    Miranda had never acted like a real mother but was always ready to milk her for everything she had. This shamelessness was beyond ridiculous to Nellie.

 Chapter 83

    "Who''s going to pay back the medical loan?" Nellie asked, raising an eyebrow with a hint of challenge in her voice.


    Miranda shrugged as if it were obvious. "Well, you''re my daughter, so naturally, it''s your job to pay back the money I borrowed, right?"


    Nellie couldn''t hold back her frustration. "It''s not like I''m your only daughter, you know!"


    Miranda shot back, her anger ring. "Why are you so petty? I haven''t supported your sister at all, so how could I ask her for money? Besides, your sister''s health isn''t great-she needs way more financial help than most. What''s wrong with you helping her out a bit?" Nellie''s hands shook with anger. "You..."


    Nathan gently ced his long, graceful fingers on Nellie''s shoulder, calming her with silent reassurance. Nellie turned to him, her smile grateful but tinged with bitterness.


    "Nellie, you''re too worked up right now. Let me handle this for you," Nathan suggested softly.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Nellie realized that she was too emotional to deal with Miranda. She stepped back, giving Nathan the space to step forward and shield her.


    His expression was as cold and unyielding as ice as he fixed his gaze on Miranda. "I can lend you the money, but you''ll have to sign an agreement to cut ties with her," he stated inly.


    The weight of his words hit Miranda hard, leaving her momentarily speechless. After a pause, she scoffed. "I raised her, and now you want her to cut me off? Who''s supposed to take care of me when I''m old? I was counting on her to look after me."


    "Nellie''s always been the caring one. Her sister doesn''t have her knack for looking after people." Miranda''s face softened as she remembered Nellie''s tender care during her childhood.


    Nathan''s eyes shed with a sharp, icy warning. "You should consult awyer about how much support Nel, with no ie, could legally provide."


    "At best, a few hundred dors a


    month, and even that only if she wants to. If she''s not keen on it, she could just drag her feet... She could take care of you, but you know how you''ve treated her. Aren''t you worried she might want some payback?"


    "I''ll give you a million dors upfront. It''s your one shot at real wealth."


    Miranda pondered deeply.


    After Nellie left home, Miranda had thought about suing her for support. However, awyer dashed her


    hopes, saying there was no chance given Nellie''sck of ie and Miranda''s age, which did not meet retirement standards.


    But now...


    When Miranda saw Nellie dressed so elegantly, with the poise of a wealthy heiress, her greed red up. "Nellie''s Mrs. Dawson now. She''s worth a fortune," Miranda tried to negotiate. "A million bucks is peanuts." Nellie replied coolly, "Cameron and I signed a prenup. The Dawson family money isn''t mine."


    Miranda scratched her head, frustrated and muttering, "How could you be so dumb to sign something like that?"


    Nathan grabbed Miranda''s hand and


    pushed her back, making her stumble. His voice, cold and cutting like a winter wind, hovered over her "She''s been begging since she was six. Every penny she earned went to you. If you think about it, you only took care of her for six years, but she''s been supporting you for over a decade. You''ve profited plenty."

 Chapter 84

    "I suggest you learn to be content, or I''ll hit you with a child abuse charge."


    Miranda''s eyes widened in disbelief, ready to shoot back. But Nathan pressed on, relentless, "From here on out, I don''t want you anywhere near her. Upset her again, and I promise you''ll spend your days behind bars." Miranda was clearly rattled. "Who are you, anyway? Can you even do that?" Her voice trembled more than challenged.


    Nathan''s tone was icy. "You don''t deserve to know my name. In a few days, my folks will drop off a check for you."


    Then, Nathan took Nellie by the hand and walked away.


    Miranda watched Nathan''s back as he left, a cocktail of panic and resentment swirling in her eyes. Without missing a beat, she headed straight to Dawson International.


    When Matt led Miranda into Cameron''s office, his surprise was palpable. A flicker of disdain crossed his handsome face. "What brings you here?"


    Miranda fidgeted nervously. "Cameron, I have something important to share with you."


    Cameron nodded to the assistant. "Leave us."


    After Matt quietly closed the door, he lingered just outside, not straying far.


    Inside, Cameron dropped the act, letting his impatience show. "Spit it out."


    Miranda hesitated a bit. "Greta came to see me." She knew that name-drop was her ticket to Cameron''s attention.


    Cameron looked up, silently urging her to go on.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Miranda continued, "She mentioned things between you and Nellie have been rockytely?"


    Cameron frowned. He never really took Nellie seriously, so he couldn''t fathom why a little spat with would cause such a stir with Greta


    and Miranda.


    "She''s just throwing a little fit," he shrugged it off.


    Miranda smiled, and for some reason, Cameron sensed a hint of mocking pity in her expression.


    "I know my daughter inside and out. She''s easygoing and gentle by nature. If she''s acting up, it means she''s reached her limit with you." Cameron paused, then straightened up. "You might be her mother, but you don''t love her. You don''t get her."


    No girl is without a temper. To him, Nellie was just like other girls, ying hard to get to win his attention. Too bad he wasn''t falling for it. Then Miranda dropped a bombshell. "She''s having an affair. Did you know?"


    Cameron was shell-shocked, like a thunderbolt had struck him. "What did you say? Nellie''s having an affair?"


    Cameron couldn''t believe it. Miranda always had a talent for making


    mountains out of molehills. " ne


    must be mistaken. Any woman might cheat, but not Nellie."


    He knew how high Nellie''s moralpass was.


    Miranda grew more anxious. "Cameron, you have to trust me. Nellie is really seeing someone else. I saw her today with a man by her side. He treated her with so much care and even stood up for her against me."

 Chapter 85

    Cameron''s pen slipped from his fingers,nding with a soft thud on the desk. His chest rose and fell unevenly, emotions simmering beneath the surface. "Who is this guy?" he demanded. Whether or not Nellie had actually been unfaithful didn''t matter to Cameron. Just the sight of her getting too cozy with another man was enough to bruise his ego.


    Miranda chimed in, "I don''t know his name, but I can tell you he''s tall, slim, and is always wearing sunsses. He had on a Givenchy suit and a diamond watch that screamed money. He was super protective of Nellie. I just messed with her hair a little, and he went nuts and shoved me away. It''s obvious he really cares about her."


    Cameron''s expression turned stormy. He might not have cherished Nellie, but the idea of another man stepping in and doing what he, as her husband, should have been doing, stirred a burning jealousy inside him.


    Miranda watched Cameron closely. "You know, Cameron, this guy looks like he''s got money and status, and he''s pretty easy on the eyes. He''s got a demeanor as powerful as yours."


    Herst words lit a fuse in him. "And get this, he''s even willing to look after me for Nellie... It sure seems like Nellie feels something for him too."


    That was thest straw. Cameron erupted, sending a ss flying off his desk. He might not have loved Nellie, but his pride couldn''t handle the thought of her betraying him emotionally. "Nellie, if you ever cheat on me. I won''t forgive you," he growled, seething with anger.


    Funny, though, how he ignored the fact that he was the one who first betrayed their rtionship.


    Under a clear, starry night sky, Nellie and Nathan sat quietly on a bench by the riverbank.


    After a long silence, Nellie turned to Nathan. "Nathan, don''t bother with my mom. No matter how much money you give her, it''ll never be enough."


    She looked toward a distant hill. Her eyes reflected a deep sadness as if peering through time at something long decayed.


    "Even if I gave her my life, she wouldn''t value me."


    Nathan reached out, taking her trembling hand in his. He


    understood her despair all too well as he was left by his own father for no fault of his own, just because he was the child of a woman his father didn''t love. This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "You are amazing."


    Those simple words filled Nellie with a newfound strength.


    Once, she had felt worthless under her father''s coldness and her mother''s blows. But after traveling far and wide, she''de to see her own worth. Her parents''ck of love wasn''t her fault.


    en


    "I''m the most important person to you," he said, resting his head on her shoulder and yfully whining, "please start taking notice of me more."


    Nellie found his mix of lightheartedness and darkness, right and wrong, maturity and innocence irresistible.


    "Yes, you are the most important person in my life," she said, ruffling his glossy hair like he was a cherished pet.


    Nathan suddenly cradled her face,


    making her stare at him. "Not just now, but always. In the future and forever, I''ll be the most important person in your life. And you to me."


    Nellie was taken aback by his intensity. She had seen that look before-in Cameron''s eyes when he was with Greta. It was the look of a man deeply caring for a woman he loved.


    She gently pushed away his hands. "Nathan, we need to keep things appropriate," she advised, her voice soft but firm, like a caring elder.


    Nathan hesitated, his grip loosening slightly. But then, he tightened his hold, his hand firm around her face.


    "Why should we keep an appropriate distance? When you saved me, you saw it all. We''ve been open with each other ever since. You''re the closest family I have."

 Chapter 86

    Nathan''s straightforward demeanor left Nellie feeling a bit guilty. She had been seeing him as that irresistibly charming man from her past life, forgetting that right now, he was still just a kid. His reliance on her was purely familial. Suddenly, Nellie shed a bright smile and yfully pinched Nathan''s cheek. "Yes, we''ll always be as close as family can be."


    She was determined to live in the present. The ruthless decisiveness Nathan had in his past life was something she hadpletely wiped away. He would always be the boy she wanted to protect.


    "So, I hear you''ve gone back to the Dawson family estate?" Nathan suddenly asked, his handsome face clouded with a touch of cold darkness.


    "Yes," Nellie replied to herself. "I''m Mrs. Dawson. There''s no reason for me not to return there."


    Nathan mumbled, "While you were away for those two years, Cameron and Greta were inseparable, and the Dawson family never publicly acknowledged you as Mrs. Dawson. I worry that they''ve never truly epted you. Now that you decided to go back on your own, I''m afraid you''ll face all sorts of humiliation..."


    Nellie''s gaze was calm and deep, like the sea. The Dawson family not epting her as a daughter-inw was just the tip of the iceberg. Kristina never let her join them for meals. She was often the target of subtle jabs, waspared to a country girl trying to act like royalty, and was criticized for not being refined enough to maintain the Dawson family''s image. She was even strictly forbidden from revealing her Mrs. Dawson status in public.


    As for Cameron, her husband? When Kristina mocked and gave Nellie a hard time for no reason, he''d just frown slightly. If sheined, he''d impatiently tell her to learn some tolerance. His insistence on sleeping in separate rooms was, of course, a way to mask whatever little kindness he had left for her. He always found some noble excuse.


    He''d say, "Nellie, I stay upte, so I won''t sleep with you to avoid disturbing your rest."


    In the Dawson family, everyone treated her like she was an emotionless, unfeeling object. She had to deal with all her pain alone.


    Nathan frowned in concern at


    Nellie''s long silence. "If going back to the Dawson family makes you so unhappy, then don''t go back," he said, gripping her frail shoulders, his voice full of emotion.


    Nellie''s eyes welled up. "Nathan, I have to go back..."


    A deep sense of helplessness filled Nathan''s eyes. "Do you have even a tiny bit of feelings left for Cameron?"


    A strong wave of resistance and hatred welled up in Nellie''s eyes, and she shook her head fiercely. "I could never love him."


    In her past life, he was the reason for her and her daughter''s tragic- end. She longed for revenge against this jerk. How could she still have feelings for him?


    A relieved smile appeared on Nathan''s face. "That makes me feel better."


    "As long as hurting Cameron won''t make you sad, I''ll take care of that jerk." He promised, "I''ll help you get rid of him as soon as possible." Nellie looked at Nathan, stunned. She had a faint feeling that, in this life, with Nathan as her ally, her fate might really be different from before. "Nathan, I know him too well. He acts all benevolent on the outside, but behind the scenes, he''s calcting and fake. Be careful dealing with him." Nathan nodded. "Just wait. I''ll have some good news soon."


    Later that night, Nellie returned to


    the Dawson family estate. Cameron sat on the sofa, shrouded in the darkness of the night. When Nellie flicked on the light, she saw


    Cameron''s cold, statue-like face, andCopyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    it sent a genuine chill down her spine.

 Chapter 87

    But she quickly pulled herself together and casually swapped her shoes before heading upstairs, treating Cameron as if he were invisible.


    Cameron, unable to hold back his anger, shouted, "Nellie, stop right there."


    Nellie paused on the staircase, looking down at him. "Yes?"


    "Where have you been sote? Don''t you think you owe me an exnation?" Cameron demanded.


    Nellie frowned, "If I remember right, you said earlier today that we should live our separate lives without bothering each other. So, where I''ve been isn''t exactly your concern, is it?"


    Cameron was caught off guard. He hadn''t expected to be shut down so quickly. He had been convinced that Nellie, a woman without a prestigious background, couldn''t find anyone better than him. He was even more certain that a traditional woman like Nellie wouldn''t dare to do something so bold as cheating. That was why he had boldly suggested an open marriage.


    Now, he was starting to regret it.


    He approached Nellie with a stern face. "Even if we''re in an open marriage, you''re still my wife. Your actions shouldn''t embarrass the Dawson family."


    "Cameron, you really have a knack for double standards," Nellie shot back, crossing her arms.


    Her dismissive attitude infuriated Cameron, and in a swift move, he grabbed her throat, lifting her chin. Nellie winced in pain.


    At that moment, her mind drifted back to when Nathan had gently lifted her chin earlier that day. It was the same gesture, yet Cameron''s was filled with contempt, while Nathan''s was gentle and caring.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Sheughed at herself, realizing how blind she''d been. Cameron had never truly loved her. Why had she wasted so much time not seeing it? And Nathan, the boy she had lovingly taken care of, truly cared for and respected her.


    Cameron noticed the warmth in Nellie''s eyes. He inexplicably felt a surge of disgust, and he let go.


    Nellie touched her reddened neck, recalling how Nathan''s touch left no trace. His respect for her showed in every little detail.


    Her bleak life, brightened by Nathan''s kindness, suddenly didn''t seem so hopeless. She smiled, feeling genuinely happy.


    Cameron was puzzled by her smile despite his roughness. Did his touch stirr up some unintended feelings in her.


    He spoke again, his tone tinged with disdain. "Who was the man with you today?" Nellie''s gaze turned icy as she looked at Cameron. "None of your business."


    Finally catching on that her warmth wasn''t for him, Cameron felt a rush of anger. "Who is he? Nellie, you''re a married woman. How can you be so close to another man?"


    Nellie retorted sharply, "What about you and my sister?"


    Cameron, fuming, insisted, "My rtionship with your sister is harmless."


    Nellie replied, "Cameron, you two


    hide


    hind the pretense of familyet


    it''s just flirting. It''s


    disgusting, you know?" Convery


    W1


    She swallowed, "Cheating isn''t just about the physical, Cameron. Emotional cheating counts, too."


    Cameron stood frozen, Nellie''s


    words hitting him with a wave of shame. For the first time, he realized that Nellie despised his closeness with Greta.


    After speaking her mind, Nellie turned and left with a sense of freedom.


    To keep Cameron from bothering Nathan, she added, "He''s just a friend." Cameron felt a weight lifted from his shoulders.

 Chapter 88

    "If you''re just friends, keep an eye on your boundaries and timing. We don''t need any unnecessary drama."


    When a thought crossed her mind, Nellie suddenly stopped, and slowly turned around. Her eyes were steady and calm, almost eerily so. "Cameron, who''s been dragging my name through the mud?" A flicker of guilt shed in Cameron''s eyes. He knew Nellie and Miranda were like oil and water, but he hadn''t stopped Miranda from stirring the pot today, letting her gossip hurt Nellie. "Cameron, I''m grateful you once pulled me out of a tough spot. But now, you''ve tossed me back into the mes. Your favor with me has taken another hit." Nellie''s voice was emotionless. Cameron felt a wave of panic wash over him. He''d dipped into his bank of goodwill with Nellie more than once. What would their rtionship look like when he''d used it all up?


    "This was just a mix-up..." He wanted to exin, but the words just wouldn''te.


    Nellie gave him a long look. "My trust in you is hanging by a thread. Cherish what''s left."Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Cameron''s face turned ashen.


    The next morning, Nellie was still dreaming when a maid from the Dawson family gently shook her awake. "Ma''am."


    Nellie opened her eyes, not hiding her annoyance. "What''s up?"


    The maid replied, "Mr. Dawson wants you to know there''s a big event tonight. He''d like you to attend with him. So, ma''am, you might want to get up early and find the perfect dress." Nellie was taken aback. Then it hit her. This was Cameron''s way of saying sorry.


    He always yed this game, giving her a p with one hand and a sugar cube with the other.


    She used to fall for it, but now, she no longer loved him, and she wasn''t interested in ying Cameron''s games.


    Nellie sighed, "Can I skip it?"


    The maid was taken aback. How could she pass up such a golden opportunity?


    The maid looked a bit worried. "Ma''am, Mr. Dawson said this banquet is a high-society gathering. The Dawson family''s image had to be perfect in front of the big shots. You might want to take it seriously. Any slip-ups could be hard to handle."


    Fully awake now, thanks to the maid''s chatter, Nellie grudgingly got up,zily got ready, finished her breakfast, and was practically dragged out the door by the maid.


    en


    At the mall, the maid led Nellie to the biggest dress store in the Capital, and wouldn''t you know it, Nellie bumped into Greta.


    "Lea, I''m here to pick up my custom dress." Greta clearly frequented the luxury store, chattingfortably with the staff.


    "Ms. Greta, we knew you had a major event tonight, so your dress is all set." The clerk brought out a box, handling it with care as she passed it to Greta.


    "Mr. Dawson specifically asked for the dress to be cleaned before you tried it on. Greta, may I help you with the dress?"


    Greta nodded with a smile.


    As the box opened, a dress encrusted with diamonds, exuding luxury and elegance, came into Nellie''s view.


    Nellie stared at the extravagant dress, puzzled. Clearly, Cameron nned for Greta to be his date for the night. So why did he prepare the charade with her?


    Greta, now in the dress, stepped out


    of the changing room, looking like something out of a fairy tale. The diamonds glistened, casting a cool glow on her wless skin, making her seem almost otherworldly.

 Chapter 89

    Nellie was more confused than ever.


    Cameron put a lot of thought into preparing this dress. It fits perfectly and looks great, plus he even considered any potential risks from the chemicals in the fabric. Naturally, the price was sky-high.


    Why did Cameron have a sudden change of heart and decide to let her take Greta''s ce at tonight''s event?


    The Dawson family maid felt a bit awkward and offered Nellie a sympathetic suggestion, "Mrs. Dawson, maybe we should try another store?"


    But Nellie waved her off and stepped into the upscale boutique where Greta was shopping.


    When Greta saw her, she was momentarily taken aback but quickly started unting her dress. "Nel, doesn''t this dress look stunning on me?"


    Nellie replied with a hint of irony, "Greta, diamonds symbolize eternal love. If you wearing this dress, I worry those high society gents might think you''re already spoken for. Wouldn''t that be a shame? So many potential suitors would be lost." Greta''s face nched, and she quickly shifted gears. "Nel, are you here to pick out a dress? Choose any one you like, and I''ll cover it."


    Immediately, envious nces were cast in Nellie''s direction. The store assistant, Lea, remarked, "Miss, you''re so lucky. Your sister''s really generous."


    Nellie was lost in thought, gazing at Greta, who was all smiles.


    Greta always loved ying the role of the doting sister, but who would guess that this so-called loving sister had taken her sibling''s kidney, her husband, and, ultimately... her life?


    Nellie''s lips curled into a sly smile. She intended to show Greta that ying the devoted sister wasn''t as easy as it seemed.


    She scanned the store, bypassing the ridiculously priced dresses at the front to avoid usations of leeching off her sister. Finally, she casually grabbed a dress from a rack, "I''ll take this one."


    Though mixed in with others on the rack, this dress was quite pricey. It was right behind the exclusive spotlighted editions.


    Greta was certain Nellie wouldn''t


    know its worth, and wanted to put


    on a sisterly act. However, her


    expression soured when she samet


    the price tag. "Nel, this dress doesn''t suit you. Yourplexion won''t work with this color." Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    The maid muttered under her breath, "If you don''t want to buy it, don''t make empty promises then."


    Nellie, holding her head high, instructed the maid, "I want this one... and these too. Wrap them all up."


    She continued to point at a few more until the maid whispered, "Ma''am, the money Mr. Dawson gave might not cover all this."


    That was when Nellie reined in her


    shopping spree. She ended up buying five dresses and tossed one over to Greta, "Greta, my husband gave me too much spending money. I can''t use it all. Help me out


    Greta watched her spend money like it was nothing, with no concern for saving, and frowned as if Nellie were taking something from her. "Nel, why are you buying so many dresses and spending so much? Don''t you feel guilty about how hard Cameron works for that money?"


    The maid chimed in, defending Nellie, "Ms. Greta, your dress costs way more than Mrs. Dawson''s. If you can splurge, why should she hold back?"


    Greta was caught off guard, awkwardly mumbling, "I need these for social events. Unlike you, Nel. Cameron doesn''t seem to let you attend his parties."


    Nellie replied, "Hate to burst your bubble, Greta, but Cameron has already invited me to tonight''s party. It''s supposed to be a big deal, and no other woman can receme, so I have to be there with him.

 Chapter 90

    Greta''s eyes softened with a hint of pity. "Nel, Cameron''s just been stringing you along. He''s been setting the stage for me to be at the banquet all along." Nellie''s fists clenched tightly beneath her sleeves.


    Greta''s sneer cut deeper. "He asked Mom toe and mess with you just to ease his guilty conscience by giving you a shot at the banquet. But..."


    She leaned in, whispering into Nellie''s ear. "He''s sure you hate these kinds of events, so that''s why he picked a cheap dress for you."


    Nellie smirked, "Guess I''ll show up in a bargain dress then. It''s not just me who''s gonna be embarrassed."


    Greta hadn''t seen thating, and her n backfired so spectacrly.


    However, her pride couldn''t stand the thought of Nellie, who she deemed beneath her, getting the upper hand. She forced a grin, her voice low, meant only for Nellie. "Nel, between us, Cameron''s always chosen me. Just watch. No matter how much you want to go, if I say no, Cameron will back me up."


    Nellie''s eyes danced with defiance. "Well, I''ll be waiting."


    Nellie bought the dress without bothering to try it on and sauntered out of the boutique with an air of indifference.


    Greta''s face turned a shade of envy when she overheard the shop assistant''s admiringment, "Rich folks'' wives have it so good. She just bought pricey dresses without a second thought."Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Jealousy roiled inside her. In a huff, she grabbed her phone and dialed Cameron. "Cameron, I want to be your date for tonight''s banquet."


    Cameron''s indulgent voice floated over, "Greta, don''t be silly. If you''re my date, you''ll end up drinking too much, and that''s not good for you... Let Nelliee with me instead."


    Greta was livid. "I''ll miss out on being with you just because of my fragile health. If I can''t go to the banquet, I might as well hit a bar and drink to my heart''s content..."


    "Greta, don''t joke about your health."


    "Cameron, you don''t get it. Today, Nell bragged about going with you, and I''m so jealous of her."


    "Nellie?" Cameron''s voice crackled with irritation.


    "Then she shouldn''t go." His voice turned dark.


    Over at the Dawson house, Nellie tried on dress after dress, but the maid wasn''t much help with advice. "Everything looks stunning on you, Madam.


    "The red dress makes you look so alluring, the white one so gentle. You''re a natural beauty, and the


    e


    dresses just add to it. ent


    Suddenly, the living room door swung open, and Cameron''s decisive footsteps echoed as he climbed the stairs.


    Nellie stood before the full-length mirror, her heart instinctively tightening.


    "Nellie, you don''t need to go to the banquet tonight," Cameron announced, his voice clear. Nellie had anticipated this, but that didn''t stop the shiver from running down her spine. She turned to face him. "Cameron, I''ve already bought the dress."


    "Next time then," Cameron''s gaze lingered briefly, a sh of admiration crossing his eyes before he looked away, indifferent. Nellie''s face was a mix of emotions.


    Disappointment? It was more like a resigned eptance of reality. After all, in two lifetimes, she''d never bested Cameron, and any hope she''d once had long since faded.


    Still, the sting of being treated like a pawn painfully gnawed at her.


    "Why?" she finally asked, her voice tight with frustration.

 Chapter 91

    "There''s no reason!" Cameron snapped, brushing off any exnation.


    Nellie''s nails nearly dug into her skin. "Is it because Greta''s going to the ball with you?"


    Cameron flinched, caught off guard for a split second, but he quickly regained his cool. "Nellie, for an event like that, your sister is just more fitting."


    Nellie clenched her fists tight. To Cameron, she seemed forever stamped as someonecking depth and pedigree. She would always be someone without a proper background or education.


    Even as a world-renowned fashion designer now known as Miss Nathalie, Cameron''s bias still tapped into her old insecurities that bubbled beneath the surface.


    Fueled by defiance, she reassured herself. ''It''s his loss, Nellie. It''s not that you''re not worth it. It''s his poor judgment.''


    She released her fists and strode gracefully toward Cameron. With a piercing look, she challenged him, "Is it really because Greta''s more suitable than me?"


    Under her intense gaze, Cameron couldn''t quite hold her stare. "What else could it be?"


    Nellie scoffed. "Cameron, if you already nned on taking Greta, why did you drag me into this mess today? What were you thinking?"


    Cameron froze like a deer caught in headlights. Facing the fire in Nellie''s eyes, he realized he had misstepped.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    "Nellie, I''m really sorry about what happened with your mom yesterday. I wanted to make it up to you by inviting you to the ball... But your sister wanted to go too, and you know, she''s now a fashion designer. The people at the ball could be important clients for her. I figured it was more beneficial for her, so I went with it..."


    Nellieughed, but it was the kind that sent shivers down his spine.


    Cameron felt uneasy with herughter. "Nellie, I know I''ve messed up. How about I give you some money to go shopping? Maybe that''ll make you feel better?" Nellie waved him off.


    In her memory, she had been the one to attend the ball before in herst life. The guests were power yers from elite circles. Cameron, being a junior, had to toast with them and inevitably got tipsy, thanks to his low tolerance. Nellie had to step in, drink after drink, to keep the business rtions smooth. She ended up with a stomach ulcer and almost died. It took forever for her to recover.


    But Cameron never showed gratitude.


    Cameron was a bit lost. Nellie''s eyes always seemed too intense, full of mystery.


    Right in front of him, Nellie casually peeled off her gown and tossed it in the trash. "You really are something, Cameron. You nned to take two women to a ball... What you think is making amends feels like an insult tome."


    Cameron bit his lip. Then, suddenly, he frowned. "I heard you maxed out my card today?"


    Nellie shot him a disdainful look. "Your card only had a few thousand bucks. What, feeling the pinch now that your wife spent it?"


    Cameron was usually generous to a fault. He was just puzzled. "You never used to splurge like this." He recalled how she used to fret over buying a coat that cost a few hundred.


    Nellie smirked a hint of irony in her


    eyes. "I was once a girl from the


    slums, and no one mocked me for shabby dothes. Back then, I was free, no matter what. But now, as Mrs Dawson, any little misstep has your mom and sister ready to chew me out."

 Chapter 92

    Cameron''s face tightened. "You really don''t need to worry about what they say..."


    Nellie let out a sarcasticugh.


    Cameron frowned. "What did I say that''s so amusing?"


    Nellie replied, "When those rumors are about me, you expect me to just suck it up. But if they were about Greta, would you tell her to do the same?"


    She tossed the credit card onto the floor and strode away. As she walked off, her voice rang back, clear and sharp. "You''re pretty generous buying my sister a dress." Cameron stood there, rooted in ce, her words leaving him feeling ashamed. Had he really only been defending Greta and never considering Nellie''s feelings? As he watched Nellie''s retreating figure, her nonchnt attitude towards him inexplicably got under his skin.


    Back in her bedroom, Nellie flopped onto her bed, eyes closed, trying to rx. Suddenly, her phone rang with a familiar tune, prompting her to answer almost instinctively. "Hey! The fashion week g is happening tonight. You''ve been sent a special invite. Are you going?" Lizzy''s cheerful voice chirped through the phone. Without missing a beat, Nellie answered, "Absolutely."


    Why wouldn''t she go? She wanted to show Cameron that what he thought of as a gift was something she could easily have on her own.


    His so-called generosity? Just a joke to her.


    "Lizzy, get me a dress. Make it the most stunning one."


    Lizzy''s excitement was palpable. "Are you nning to make a killer impression? I''ll bring the dress right over."


    At 6 p.m., Nellie heard Cameron''s car pulling out of the driveway. She stood by therge window, a sly, cold smirk tugging at her lips.


    The g was still hours away, but there was Cameron, eager to meet Greta.


    At the International Club, Cameron


    and Greta arrived at the elite''s pre-g for fashion week. They were a striking pair, drawing admiration the moment they walked in.


    "Mr. Dawson and Ms. Greta are such a perfect match."


    Those in the knowmented over this pair. It''s such a shame that Mr. Dawson wanted to save Greta and had to marry that woman because she donated a kidney to Greta."


    en N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Cameron and Greta quickly became the evening''s most admired couple.


    "Mr. Dawson remains devoted to his old love while staying true to his wife-it''s rare to find someone so passionate and honorable."


    But amidst thepliments, a lone voice of dissent cut through the air.


    "Oh, please! People these days make


    infidelity sound so noble. If Mr. Dawson can''t let go of his past, he shouldn''t have dragged someone else into it. Now he''s got a lovely wife at home and yet he''s sneaking around with his ex. How is this not cheating? And some folks even praise such betrayal as being


    passionate and honorable?"


    Cameron and Greta''s faces flushed with embarrassment. Feeling uneasy, Cameron quickly dropped Greta''s hand.


    Everyone turned toward the voice, only to see a stunning figure gliding into the room.

 Chapter 93

    Nellie was the one doing the talking.


    Today, she was dressed to the nines, her hair styled into cascading waves, her lips painted a fiery red, and she was rocking a form-fitting emerald gown that screamed sexy and enchanting, nailing the essence of feminine allure. But there was one thing that shed with her fierce outfit: the oversized sunsses she wore. Anyone could see she was trying to keep her true identity under wraps.


    "Mr. Benjamin, here''s thedy you''ve been searching for," said Benjamin''s eager assistant, his eyes practically twinkling.


    Benjamin was absolutely mesmerized by the stunning woman in front of him. He had a thing for women who wore their beauty boldly. Leaning in, he whispered to his assistant, "Make sure you get her number for meter." The assistant nodded. "Got it."


    Nellie moved with a graceful elegance, her figure swaying like a gentle breeze, her curves exuding a dangerously irresistible charm. Her beauty was vivid and sensual, without crossing into vulgarity, and somehow, amidst her dazzling allure, there was a hint of innocence. As she walked past Cameron and Greta, she paused intentionally.


    Cameron shot her a fierce re and warned, "Keep your mouth in check." He wouldn''t let anyone stir up trouble between him and Greta. Most people would give him a bit of respect and avoid embarrassing him. But today, he ran into someone who wasn''t afraid to push back.


    Nellie shot back with a sarcastic edge, "You have the guts to cheat with your own sister-inw but can''t handle a bit of gossip?"


    Furious, Cameron raised his fist. "Shut up. Don''t push me into hitting a woman."


    Nellie chuckled, tilting her chin up. "You never had manners with women. Why are you now putting on a show?"


    Cameron''s eyes flickered with confusion. "I''ve always thought I was easygoing with women. You must''ve got a wrong impression from some false rumors."


    Nellie hit him right where it hurt, "Sure, you are kind to all women. But what about your own wife?"


    A flicker of turmoil crossed Cameron''s eyes.


    In a rush of desperation, Greta suddenly pped Nellie. "Stop spreading lies about me and Cameron?"


    Nellie, holding her cheek, let out a cold, mocking smile. They wanted to silence her, but she was determined to speak her truth. "He tricked Mrs Dawson into marriage, took her kidney then subjected her to at kinds of emotional abuse and refused to be a real husband... Is this his idea of kindness to women?"


    With just a few words, she painted a vivid picture of Cameron''s despicable nature.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron was shaking with rage. "You''re spouting nonsense without knowing the whole story. You''re here just to make trouble. Someone, get her out of here now!"


    When the security team didn''t budge, Cameron was furious. "What are you standing around for? Get her out of here."


    The head of security looked uneasy. "Mr. Dawson, she''s a VIP guest at this event."


    Cameron was left speechless.


    Benjamin quickly swooped in to smooth things over. "Cameron, why get riled up over a spat with a girl? Let''s head inside."


    Cameron took the chance to back


    down. In a hushed tone, he said to Benjamin, "That woman must''ve been nted here to ruin my rep. Can you dig into who she really is?"


    en


    Benjamin hesitated a bit before saying, "Cameron, don''t you think her voice sounded an awful lot like your wife Nellie?"


    It was like a bolt of lightning struck Cameron, leaving him frozen in ce.


    Every word from Nellie was a crushing blow to Cameron. If it really was Nellie, just how deep did her hatred run to strike at him with such relentless force?

 Chapter 94

    "It''s just not possible," Cameron muttered, shaking his head. He always believed Nellie loved him too much to harbor such hatred.


    Nellie had just wrapped up her task for the day and was trying to sneak away when she identally bumped into a solid chest. A gentle hand steadied her, and she looked up to see Nathan giving her a cheeky wink. "Your disguise skills are getting sharper," Nathan teased.


    Nellie replied, "After embarrassing him today, he''s bound toe looking for trouble. Best you keep your distance so you don''t get caught in the fallout."


    Nathan grinned, "Don''t be in a rush to leave. Stick around and enjoy the show. I promise he''ll be too preupied to bother with youter."


    Intrigued, Nellie decided to hang back and watch from the sidelines. Who knows, she might even lend Nathan a hand.


    The moment passed quickly, and soon, the venue was buzzing with clinking sses and lively chatter. Gone were the days when everyone gathered around Cameron with ttery. Now, guests formed clusters, chatting in groups, signaling the end of Cameron''s reign as the center of attention. It was like a grand disy of fireworks, dazzling but fleeting.


    Cameron frowned, lost in thought about when his influence had started to wane. He couldn''t quite figure it out until he noticed a crowd flocking around Nathan. They were chatting animatedly, and Nathan wore an effortlessly charming smile.


    Nathan''s every move exuded a certain grace, almost like royalty ustomed to respect. Cameron was baffled. How had Nathan, who was barely eighteen, garnered such admiration?


    "Watch out for your brother, Benjamin," Cameron advised his friend. "Give him time, and he might just take everything that belongs to you."


    Benjamin chuckled dismissively.


    "You''re overestimating him. Sure, his maternal family holds power, so people show him respect. But he''s still just the McCoy family''s


    grandson, and they won''t hang 1.76


    power to him. He''s caught between the McCoy and Rond families and is simply enjoying a little sweetness. That''s it." Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Just then, Cameron saw Nathan''s lips move slightly, and the crowd around him approached Cameron Each carried a ss, enthusiastically toasting him, "Mr. Dawson, I''m the general manager of Minerva Corp. I''ve admired you for ages. Here''s to your youthful sess."


    "I''m the founder of Blossom Corp. Here''s to you, Mr. Dawson, graced with a charmingpanion as refreshing as a spring breeze."


    They were so eager and ttering that Cameron, out of courtesy, couldn''t refuse and found himself drinking ss after ss. It wasn''t long before the alcohol got to him, and he felt a bit tipsy.


    Seeing this, Greta became worried. She whispered, "Cameron, the party hasn''t even started. Pace yourself. There are more VIPs you''ll need to toast."


    Cameron tried to gather himself, politely declining more drinks. "Sorry, I''m not much of a drinker."


    But they weren''t letting him off. "Mr. Dawson, if you can''t drink, let your lovelypanion do the honors."

 Chapter 95

    Greta took a step back, her cheeks flushing with panic. "I can''t drink alcohol."


    A mockingugh echoed through the crowd. "Oh,e on, who are you trying to fool? Everyone here knows there are only two types of women at these functions: the wives of the big bosses or their hardworking assistants. You''re clearly not Ms. Dawson''s wife, and you don''t seem eager to help him with his work, so what brings you here?"


    Greta felt her face burning with embarrassment.


    Cameron stepped in, trying to defuse the situation. "My wife had an unexpected emergency, so she asked her sister to fill in for her. Her sister isn''t in great health and can''t drink. Sorry for any confusion."


    Greta was just about to feel a sense of relief when the questions persisted, "Mr. Dawson, is your wife really unable to show up?"


    Cameron''s expression turned stern. "What exactly are you suggesting? Are you saying I don''t know my own wife''s situation?"


    "Mrs. Dawson was at my boutique earlier, excitedly picking out dresses for tonight. Are you sure she won''t be upset about the sudden switch?" the instigator pressed on.


    Cameron was secretly annoyed with Nellie for making her shopping spree so public and stirring up unnecessary rumors.


    The crowd watched Cameron with a mix of curiosity and amusement.


    In their circles, it wasn''t rare for men to have secret flings or sponsor young women through school, but everyone knew how to y the game. Bringing your spouse to these events to show a united front was the smart move. Cameron''s actions were now seen as a bit naive.


    Cameron was in a bind, so Greta quickly grabbed a ss of wine and drank it down in one gulp. She smiled and exined, "You''ve all got it wrong. Mrs. Dawson just found out she''s expecting, so she''s unable to attend events like this. I''m here to help Mr. Dawson handle the drinks."


    Her quick thinking immediately


    eased the tension. The crowd''s doubts about Cameron disappeared, reced by congrattions. "Mr. Dawson, congrats! You''re going to be a dad."


    From a corner came the tter of a


    wine ss hitting the floor. Everyone turned to see Nathan looking startled. His naturally aloof demeanor masked an unreadable indifference.


    Realizing he became the center of attention, he gracefully said, "Sorry about that, slipped right out of my hand." The crowd chuckled and murmured.


    "Mr. Nathan is all grown up now, and he''s bing quite the handsome young man," an elder remarked.


    "In a couple of years, it''ll be time for him to think about marriage. Wonder which luckydy will catch his eye."


    Cameron saw a chance to shift the focus. "Mr. Nathan, I have a sister, she''s eighteen, talented, and quite the beauty. If you''re interested, I could introduce you..."


    Nathan''s unreadable gaze lingered


    f.nBelongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    on Cameron. With a faint smile, he elegantly picked up two sses of wine and approached Cameron, offering one. "Thanks for the offer, Mr. Dawson. Let''s have a toast."


    Cameron eyed the full ss of alcohol, clearly hesitant.


    Before he could respond, Nathan passed the ss to Greta. "Looks like Mr. Dawson can''t handle his drinks. Maybe you should take care of this one for him."


    Greta''s face fell, but she had just said she was here to handle the drinks for Mr. Dawson, hadn''t she?

 Chapter 96

    She had no choice but to tilt her head back and down her drink in one go. Little did she know, Nathan was quick to refill her ss. "Greta, you sure can handle your drinks. This one''s on me," he said with a smirk. Reluctantly, Greta gulped down another drink. Nathan wasn''t finished, though. He poured her yet another, saying, "This one''s for you and Mr. Dawson..."


    Whether it was the booze or the surprise of it all, Greta''s face turned an rming shade of pale. Cameron sensed something was seriously wrong, and gently pushed her ss away. "Mr. Nathan, a little drink''s good for fun, but let''s not go overboard," he said apologetically.


    Nathan nodded and let Greta off the hook, but nobody noticed the sly glint in his eyes. He''d been serving her the strongest alcohol around, and after two sses, he was sure it would overwhelm her.


    Soon, Greta couldn''t handle the onught of toasts from several influential tycoons and ended up downing a few more sses. Before the party was even over, her body started to rebel. She kept rushing to the bathroom to throw up, looking utterly miserable. "Cameron, I feel awful. Can I leave early?" she whispered to him.


    Cameron worried for her well-being and decided to leave the party with her.


    That night, Nathan took Cameron''s ce, cozying up with the powerful elite and snagging several key fashion projects away from him.


    Back at the vi, Griffin stormed in, smashing the fruit tter on the coffee table in a fit of rage. "Cameron, you really outdid yourself this time. Why did you bring a sickly woman to a business event? She neither boosts your image as a happily married man nor can she drink for you. She just dragged you down. Have you lost it?"


    "Now look at the mess. The bigwigs that were interested in the Dawson family have slipped right into the Rond family''s hands. Dawson International might tank this year because of it."


    Cameron hung his head, silently bearing Griffin''s fury. He knew he''d messed up.


    Griffin wouldn''t let up, and Cameron finally promised, "Dad, I made this mess, but don''t worry, I''ll get those projects back."


    Griffin snorted, "You''re married. You need to keep your distance from Greta. Don''t give anyone a reason to use you of cheating."Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron''s expression darkened.


    Griffin, clearly disappointed, added, "Today, everything that happened at the party screams of someone targeting you. Be careful with your actions and words from now on. Don''t get yed again."


    "I know," Cameron replied.


    After Griffin left, Cameron sat on the sofa, deep in thought. He reyed the night''s events over and over until he zeroed in on two people.


    One was Nathan. He''d pushed Greta into drinking too much and emerged as the evening''s biggest winner.. Cameron couldn''t help but suspect he was behind the night''s fiasco.


    But Nathan only recently returned to the Rond family. He had no beef with Greta, and his toasts seemed like genuine respect.


    The other was that mysterious, stylish woman. Could Benjamin be right in thinking she was Nellie?


    Suddenly, Cameron sprang from the


    sofa, his face clouded with anger and stormed upstairs. He kicked open Nellie''s bedroom door, startling her out of her wits.

 Chapter 97

    Nellie gazed at him with an expression that could only be described as pure innocence.


    But Cameron was anything but calm. He stormed up to her, grabbing her and pulling her to her feet, his grip on her wrist causing a sharp pain.


    "Nellie, did you set Greta up on purpose? Did you make her the butt of jokes at the party and force her to take on my drinking duties? Do you have any idea how much she''s suffered because of that?" Cameron''s eyes were practically on fire, his voice a raw, angry shout. "Cameron, what''s going on? I don''t get it," Nellie said, trying to wriggle free from his hold.


    She yed the part of the clueless wife, but inside, she knew exactly what was going on. Nathan had given Greta two sses of wine, and with Greta''s single kidney situation, it was no wonder she couldn''t handle it. Nellie felt a twisted sense of justice seeing Greta go through the same pain she once did.


    Cameron realized her wide-eyed, innocent demeanor and her makeup-free face was so different from the dazzling woman at the party. He finally let go of her, his energy spent.


    He thought, ''What kind of power does Nellie have to pull off a scheme against Greta with those high-society types at the party?''


    And honestly, he doubted she had the smarts to pull off such an borate n that left him in the dust.


    He realized he''d let his anger cloud his judgment. Defeated, he sank onto the couch.


    "Your sister drank too much, and her kidney issues have red up. She''s in the hospital." Nellie blinked, a hint of smug satisfaction in her voice, "Well, that''s karma for you." Cameron was livid. "You..."


    Nellie calmly shot back, "Who was it that promised me one thing and did another? Who made her go to the party instead of me? If she hadn''t, I''d be the one in pain from drinking." Cameron''s handsome face went rigid. A flicker of embarrassment crossed his eyes.


    Just then, the phone rang from the hospital. Cameron picked up the call eagerly, his eyes asionally darting to Nellie with a calcting look. Sensing the impending trouble, Nellie decided it was time to make a run for it.


    Cameron was quicker, grabbing her hand. "Nellie, your sister''s in critical condition. She needs a blood transfusion. You have toe to the hospital with me now."


    Nellie nearly buckled, her legs weak with shock. Despair clouded her eyes. "Cameron, did you even ask if I''m okay with donating my blood?" Cameron was caught off guard. He had assumed that kind-hearted Nellie would be eager to help. "She''s your sister. Isn''t it your duty to save her?" Nellie''s face was a storm of hurt and anger. Her fist clenched as she shouted, "I don''t want to!"


    Cameron''s expression hardened, then turned to anger. He held onto her wrist forcefully, saying, "She''s your sister. If you won''t help her, who will?"


    Nellie shot back, "She''s already taken my kidney. Why should she get my blood, too?"


    "Nellie, your sister is important to me. I can''t just let her die," Cameron said, his eyes heavy with sorrow.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    "Then why don''t you give her your blood?" Nellie screamed, frustration boiling over. "I don''t care if shedives or dies. Why should I save her with blood?"


    Cameron stared at Nellie, unable to believe what he was hearing. "Nellie, when did you be so heartless? You weren''t like this before."


    "And how was I before?" Nellie challenged, her eyes locked on his, curious to see if he remembered her goodness.


    Cameron replied, "Before, you were


    never this selfish. You always did what I asked. You donated a kidney to Greta, made soup for me, waited up no matter howte I got home, and was always polite to me and your sister..."

 Chapter 98

    "What did I gain from being that way?" she shot back with a sarcastic smile. "The title of Mrs. Dawson," Cameron replied, like he was doing her a favor. Nellie chuckled. "What''s good about that?"


    Cameron was speechless. He seemed to realize that being Mrs. Dawson hadn''t brought Nellie any perks. He also noticed that the once naive Nellie now carried herself like a savvy businesswoman, questioning the fairness of their arrangement. "Once you save your sister, I''ll give you anything you want," Cameron said without hesitation.


    "I want a divorce. Is that on the table?"


    Cameron went rigid. He looked deep into Nellie''s eyes to confirm she wasn''t kidding. For some reason, a spark of anger red within him. "Don''t say things you don''t mean. Anything but that, and I''ll make it happen."


    But Nellie stood her ground. "I only want a divorce. Otherwise, there''s no point in continuing this conversation. Find someone else to save your precious girl."


    Cameron stared at her, noticing for the first time the pride in her raised eyebrows.


    He squeezed her wrist tightly, frustration boiling over. "Nellie, who do you think you are? You don''t get to call the shots in our marriage."


    Ignoring her protests, he dragged her to the basement and roughly shoved her into his luxury car.


    "Like it or not, you''re going to the hospital to donate blood to your sister. Nellie, that''s what you''re here for. Know your ce."


    And just like that, Cameron took Nellie to the hospital with an iron will.


    Despair surged through her. In Cameron''s eyes, was she truly so insignificant? His words crushed her spirit, leaving her as helpless as a puppet being led to the hospital''s transfusion room.


    "Doctor, test her blood immediately. She''s Greta''s sister, and they match. Just take her blood for Greta."


    The doctor, bewildered, watched as Cameron rolled up Nellie''s sleeve, exposing her pale arm and cing it on the transfusion table.


    The doctor nced at Nellie, feeling uneasy.


    Nellie''s expression of utter hopelessness made the transfusion feel almost criminal.


    Cameron snapped, "What are you waiting for? Greta needs her blood to live."


    As if in a trance, the doctor inserted the needle into Nellie''s vein.


    Nellie shut her eyes. The sting of the needle spreading through her body was heartbreakingly intense.


    "Cameron, I hate you," she whispered.


    Cameron stared at her nkly, a slight tremor passing through him when he saw the hatred in her eyes. "Nel, I''ll treat you better from now on," he said.


    In the past, Nellie might have felt thrilled at his rare attempts to cate her, even if she knew he was lying. But now, even if he promised her the world, it wouldn''t sway her.


    She felt nothing but revulsion.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    When the blood draw was done, the doctor handed her a cotton swab to press against the needle mark. Cameron offered to help, but Nellie sharply pushed his hand away letting the blood drip freely. She did not even spare him a nce as she stood and left.


    Cameron stood there, stunned. He trailed after her, his expression dark. "Nel, I get that you''re upset, but saving a life matters more. You''ll understand, won''t you?"

 Chapter 99

    "I''ve got zero understanding for you."


    Nellie wanted to scream in pure, unrestrained fury, but her upbringing held her back from causing a scene. Instead, she shot him a sharp, icy look, her eyes overflowing with disdain, before turning away to stare out the window. Cameron felt a sudden, inexplicable panic. He reached out, trying to tend to Nellie''s bleeding arm. Nellie just turned away, stubbornly showing him only her slender back.


    Her voice was colder than a winter''s night. "Cameron, stay away from me. You make me sick."


    Cameron''s hand froze mid-air. The room was thick with tension, the air heavy and oppressive.


    After some time, Nellie''s blood results came back.


    As Cameron went to fetch the report, Nellie closed her eyes, filled with despair. Her blood type was identical to Greta''s. She couldn''t escape being her sister''s personal blood bank.


    Just like in a past life, Greta''s telet count mysteriously plummeted, and Cameron had kept Nellie under house arrest. He forced her to eat blood booster, which she loathed, and donate blood to Greta every week.


    She hadn''t gone down without a fight. But as a donor, her body was frail, and fatiguebined with dizziness made it impossible to get far from the vi before Cameron''s people would catch her and bring her back. Eventually, she was too exhausted to resist anymore.


    She gave her blood to Greta, but her body couldn''t keep up. She was as pale as a ghost. Cameron, realizing she was even more fragile than Greta, finally stopped demanding her blood.


    That was when she stopped loving Cameron.


    History was ying out again in a different timeline.


    Nellie desperately wondered how to break free from this wretched fate. She opened the window, looking down from the sixth floor, and slowly climbed onto the windowsill.


    Cameron came out, report in hand, beaming, "Great news, Nel, you''re in perfect health. You can donate blood to your sister..."


    His words trailed off when he saw Nellie, her legs dangling outside the windowsill, leaving him speechless.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Cameron, if you force me to donate blood to your mistress, I''ll jump right now. Trust me."


    Cameron, mouth half-open, stumbled over his words. "Nel, it''s just a blood donation."


    "I refuse," Nellie shouted, her voice echoing.


    "But she''s your sister."


    Onlookers gathered, drawn to the drama, chiming in, "How selfish. It''s just donating blood, not giving out her life. She''s refusing to do something so small for her sister. This woman has no heart."


    Cameron smirked, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. He relished seeing Nellie misunderstood.


    But he underestimated her. She wasn''t the same submissive person anymore.


    Nellie was relentless. "I''d donate blood to anyone in the world except her. Cameron, I hate her."


    "How can you hate your own sister?" Cameron was baffled.


    "How could she seduce her sister''s husband? How could she willingly be your mistress?" Nellie delivered the final blow.


    The crowd''s mood shifted and they


    were now condemning Cameron


    "That''s too much. He''s making his wife donate blood to his mistress. That''s just vile."


    "Not only does he cheat, but he also expects his wife to support his affair. Could he twist the knife any further?" Cameron''s face fell. "Nellie..."


    Nellie spread her arms wide, "Cameron, you''ve pushed your wife to the Brink of suicide all for your mistress. I want you to live forever with that guilt."


    "Fine, I take it back. Just stop this, and you don''t have to donate blood to your sister," Cameron blurted out, desperate.


    Nellie, who had been leaning forward, straightened up. She locked eyes with Cameron, and let out a heavy sigh of relief from deep within.

 Chapter 100

    The crowd, full of good intentions, helped her down. Nellie was shaken to her core. She leaned against the wall and gradually sank to the floor. Despite everything, she hade out on top in this gamble. Cameron shot her a dark look and walked away, leaving her behind.


    In the hospital room, Gretay on the bed, looking as if all life had drained from her. Her kidneys weren''t functioning properly after a bout of heavy drinking, leaving her unable to urinate and causing her body to swell. Cameron knelt beside her, guilt etched into his features as he held her hand and apologized, "Greta, I''m really sorry. Nellie wouldn''t donate blood, so I had to go to a blood bank for you."


    Greta''s expression was a mix of sorrow and anger. "She wouldn''t even donate blood for me? Does Nellie really hate me, Cameron?"


    Cameron, sharing her frustration, replied, "I don''t know what''s happened to Nellie. It''s like she''s be someone else. She''s no longer the sweet, kind person she once was. I must have been blind."


    Greta sighed, resigned, "It''s my fault for being so weak. If she won''t help me, I guess it''s just my bad luck."


    Cameron''s eyes were full of sympathy. "Greta, the doctor said it''s just mild acute kidney failure. If you recover and take care of yourself, you''ll be alright."


    Greta felt a bit reassured. "Cameron, I feel so useless. I tried to shield you from a few drinks and ended up making a mess of things. Don''t you resent me for dragging you down?"


    Cameron, full of affection, said, "Greta, you''re so considerate. How could I ever me you?"


    Greta was moved to tears. "Thank you, Cameron." Their hands remained tightly sped together.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Outside, Nellie observed the scene


    with a nk expression, her


    previously still heart now stirring.


    She was grateful she was no


    ?? nger


    the naive girl who lived only for Cameron, which allowed her


    calmly face her husband''s closeness with another woman. Still, she felt a pang of sympathy for her past self. Breaking free from her reliance on Cameron had been an excruciating ordeal.


    When Greta noticed Nellie, she stiffened but didn''t let go of Cameron''s hand. "Nel, did youe to see me?" she called out softly.


    Cameron turned, noticing Nellie''s


    indifferent gaze fixed on his and Greta''s intertwined hands. A bad feeling crept over him, and he instinctively let go of Greta''s hand. Greta trembled, her eyes welling up with tears, but she stayed silent. Her performance was pitiful to anyone watching.


    Cameron internally berated himself, ''What are you doing? How could you hurt the girl you truly love for Nellie, who means nothing to you?'' Determined, he reimed Greta''s hand and gently patted it. Greta nced at Nellie, a triumphant look in her eyes.


    "Why are you here?" Cameron asked coldly. "If you''re not going to give blood to your sister, there''s no point in you being at the hospital. Just leave."


    Greta watched Nellie with a sense of


    smugness. But Nellie stepped into


    the room, giving Greta a critical once-over. "I just wanted to check on ce-over.


    my sister. Is she really about to die


    as you''re saying?"


    Greta''s face turned white again, and she choked out, "Nel, how could you say such a thing?"


    Nellie replied, "You''re overthinking it. I couldn''t care less about your health. I''m just here to ask my husband if he wants toe home with me."

 Chapter 101

    Cameron''s face went pale as he quietly but intensely whispered to Nellie, "Nellie, your sister is seriously ill, and not only are you indifferent to her condition, but you''re also trying to take me away. Who will care for her if I leave? Do you actually want her to die?" Nellie furrowed her brows, responding, "You''re not a doctor, nor are you her closest family. I fail to see how your presence here benefits my sister''s health in any way."


    Greta, overwhelmed with emotion, burst into tears. "I see it now, Nel. You''re here to take Cameron from me. I can''t stand a chance as the sick one, so just take him."


    "I''m not leaving you, Greta. Don''t cry." Cameron turned back to Nellie, his voiceced with anger. "Nellie, how can you be so cold-hearted?"


    Nellie chuckled at Cameron''s double standards.


    There was a time when she was burning up with a fever, and Cameron left her to go hiking and watch the sunrise with Greta. When she tearfully confronted him about his indifference, he snapped, "Nellie, I''m not a doctor. Coming to me when you''re ill is pointless." Nellie spoke clearly, emphasizing each word, "Cameron, when I had a fever, when I had a kidney transnt surgery, and when I..."


    When she was inbor....


    "Where were you?"


    Confronted with Nellie''s usations, Cameron felt a pang of guilt. He murmured, "I know I neglected you before, but it won''t happen again."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Cameron, there''s no future for you and me," Nellie said firmly, turning on her heel and walking away.


    Cameron stood there, bewildered, her words echoing in his mind: what did she mean by having no future together?


    As Nellie exited the hospital, she pulled out a voice recorder from her pocket and pressed a kiss to its surface.


    "All the favoritism you''ve shown Greta will eventuallye back to haunt you."


    Greta''s condition was a


    rollercoaster Doctors issued critical condition notices several times, and Cameron nearly abandoned all his work to stay by her side. Naturally, he didn''t have the bandwidth to address what happened at the party.


    Greta was at the Capital''s best hospital with top-notch doctors, so her condition gradually stabilized over a month.


    When Cameron returned to his work life, he discovered that the businessndscape in the Capital had shifted dramatically.


    Nathan had capitalized on Cameron''s distraction, taking over several of his projects. Cameron''s performance took a nosedive. After a bout of frustration, he pondered: how did Nathan outmaneuver him?


    He was just a rookie, barely out of the gate.


    The saying goes, "Know your enemy and yourself, and you won''t face defeat."


    Eager to uncover the reason for his loss, Cameron asked Matt to gather all the intel on Nathan''s takeover.


    Soon enough, Matt returned with a hefty stack of documents.


    Cameron spent sleepless nights going through them, zeroing in on the projects Nathan had snagged. When heid eyes on Nathan''s bid designs, he had to concede defeat.


    en


    For the past couple of years, he''d focused heavily on Greta. To boost her career, he had entrusted her with keypany designs. Greta undoubtedly had talent and initially secured many lucrative projects. However, her skills paled when


    Cameron sighed, "That kid Nathan is so young yet so astute. He nabbed such a brilliant designer."

 Chapter 102

    Cameron couldn''t help but feel a cocktail of envy, jealousy, and resentment towards Nathan, and a sneaky idea to snatch Nathan''s top designer started brewing in his mind. He told Matt with utmost seriousness, "I need the details on thatpany''s designer. Get it to me, pronto."


    "Yes," Matt replied.


    As Matt was leaving, he remembered something and added, "Oh, by the way, sir, your father has cut off thepany''s support for Greta. Her medical bills are overdue." Cameron''s face turned ghostly pale, and after a moment, he muttered bitterly, "Take it out of my personal ount."


    Matt looked uneasy, "You''ve missed three meetings this month. Your father was furious and, in front of all the shareholders, announced he was freezing all your bank ounts." Cameron was taken aback. "I see."


    That evening, Cameron dragged his weary self back home, feeling utterly defeated.


    At the doorstep, he saw his inws, who rarely saw eye to eye, standing united, hand in hand, against theirmon enemy-Nellie.


    Patrick, looking anxious, said, "Nellie, your sister''s sick. She needs a ton of money for treatment, and we''re out of options. You''ve got to help us out."


    Nellie stood on the steps, looking down at them.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Patrick''s silver hair and anxious expression were real; he genuinely cared about his eldest daughter. But the more he cared for Greta, the colder Nellie''s heart grew. For the first time, the thought of paternal love and her father''s favoritism made her feel physically ill. "Why?" She asked, her voice calm and detached.


    Patrick rolled up his sleeves and shook his fist, "Your sister''s sick, and it''s your duty as her sister to help out. What more do you need?"


    Nellie stared at him with disdain. Did he really think she was still the little girl he could push around?


    "Thew doesn''t say a sister has to support her sibling," Nellie retorted.


    Patrick, clenching his teeth, said, "How did I end up with such a heartless daughter? If I''d known you''d turn out like this, I should''ve never let you live."


    Nellie suddenlyughed, tears glistening in her eyes. Patrick''s worry for Greta was in to see, but so was his rejection of Nellie.


    "Do you regret having me? I regret it, too. I regret not being more careful when choosing a father and ending up with someone as irresponsible as you," Nellie said, her voice cold.


    "I don''t want to argue. If you want


    money, find awyer. Let them dig


    into the civil code and see what someone like me, a caged bird in a rich family, owes you," Nellie said, turning on her heel and walking away with grace.


    Patrick was on the verge of breaking down. "Nellie, if you don''t help your sister, she won''tst long. I''m


    begging you... if you''re willing to pay for her treatment, I...I''ll let youe back to our family."


    Nellie nced back with a sweet


    smile. ¡°No, thanks. I''ve been with the


    Brown family, and it was...my personal hell. I never want to go back there. So, to avoid that


    I Ne


    nightmare, I''m definitely not paying for Greta''s treatment."


    Cameron watched Nellie skip into the vi, her steps lighter than ever. He felt a strange heaviness in his heart.


    This Nellie was someone he hardly recognized. She used to be the most devoted daughter. How had she be so cold-hearted?

 Chapter 103

    Cameron managed to brush off Patrick and Miranda with a few quick words before trudging heavily into the house.


    As he walked past Nellie''s room, he hesitated for once instead of just ignoring it. Standing at the door, he got lost in his thoughts, trying to unravel why Nellie had turned so cold and unfeeling. But every reason he could think of seemed to fall short. How did she end up like this?


    Unable to hold back, Cameron knocked on the door. After waiting for what seemed like ages, there was still no answer. Frustrated, he said, "Nellie, I know you''re in there. Open up. I''ve got something to say."


    From inside came Nellie''s stiff voice, "I need to rest. Whatever it is, it can wait till tomorrow." Her tone was icy and even a bit annoyed.


    Cameron was caught off guard. Back in the day, Nellie would''ve been thrilled if he reached out to her. But now, even when he swallowed his pride to approach her, she acted like he was thest person she wanted to see. This was just like he used to treat her. Feeling a pang of regret, Cameron softened his voice, "Nellie, your sister''s really sick this time. You should be there with your parents to help her through. That''s what families do..."


    Cameron''s face fell, but he pushed on, "I know your folks made mistakes when you were a kid. But it''s been so long, and at least in the past few years, your dad and sister have been good to you. Maybe try to be a bit more forgiving."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Nellie''s voice cut through like a knife. "Get out."


    Suddenly, the door swung open, and Nellie stood there, her eyes zing with anger. "Cameron, I''m no saint. I hold grudges, big time... I''ll never forgive them, not in this life, and not in any other."


    Cameron''s face went pale, a shiver running down his spine. This vengeful side of Nellie shook him to his core, reminding him of the time he took one of her kidneys. Inparison to Patrick and Miranda, he wasn''t much better. Would Nellie hold a grudge against him, too?


    Cameron tried again, "Nellie, everyone makes mistakes..."


    But she interrupted, cold as ice, "Cameron, you''re no different from them. You''re just another backstabber who forgets kindness and breaks promises."


    Cameron''s face twisted with


    difort as if he was in deep distress. Suddenly, Nellie mmed the door with a loud bang, making him jump. With a heavy heart, he walked away. He couldn''t shake the feeling of heaviness in his chest.


    Back in his bedroom, he sank into the sofa, his mind elsewhere. His


    phone buzzed, breaking his


    thoughts It was a message from et


    ovel


    Greta with a photo of an old-fashioned pocket watch engraved with ancient symbols.


    Along with the picture, Greta had sent a little blurb:


    Name: Timeless Cycle


    Origin: Ancient king''s burial treasure, age unknown.


    Value: Legend says the Timeless Cycle was a love token between a mysterious king and his queen. If you can unlock it, you''ll learn about your beloved''s past and future lives.


    en


    How to unlock: Unknown.


    Cameron nced at the pocket watch, feeling utterly disinterested. Then Greta''s message chimed again: [Cameron, I want it.]

 Chapter 104

    Cameron was feeling a bit strapped for cash, but when Greta asked for a favor, he didn''t hesitate. He promised: [I''ll get it for you].


    Greta beamed at his message: [Cameron, I heard the Fashion Rival Auction is happening at your family''s Carlton Hotel next week. That Timeless Cycle is up for grabs. You''ve got tond it for me.] [Consider it done.]


    By the time the auction rolled around, Greta''s mysterious illness had vanished. As they entered the event together, Cameron caught sight of Nellie sitting right up front, and he couldn''t hide his surprise. How did someone he thought of as a nonentity score a VIP seat?


    And there she was, seated between the well-known Nathan Rond and Grayson McCoy. The two cousins, both young and blessed with striking looks and sharp wit, had been groomed by their influential families and were already making waves in the business world. Nellie, nestled between them, seemed almost invisible.


    "Cameron, my sister must''ve used your name to get that prime spot. She really doesn''t know where she stands," Greta said, echoing his thoughts.


    Cameron''s face grew stern. He had repeatedly warned Nellie not to throw his weight around, but she seemed to have ignored him. He decided he''d have words with herter.


    Little did he know, Nellie''s seat was rightfully hers, given her solid reputation in the fashion world.


    Just then, a hostess approached with a warm smile. "Ms. Greta, Mr. Dawson, you''re among the honored guests at this auction. We''ve got seats saved for you. Pleasee with me."


    Greta had carved out her niche in the Capital''s fashion scene and was quite happy with her second-row, left-side seat. Unlike what she assumed about Nellie, she''d earned


    8


    her ce through talent and att


    perseverance.


    Cameron, however, was puzzled. Despite his clout, he''d been ced in the second row, left side-hardly


    befitting his usual top-tier statuet


    While he wasn''t personally fussed, Greta was quick to voice hero displeasure.


    She challenged the organizers, "Why do Nellie and Nathan get front-row seats while Cameron and I are behind them?"N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Cameron listened closely as the


    hostess exined, "Ma''am, those in the front are either major yers in the fashion industry or sponsors of this auction. Our management determines the seating. If you have any issues, please reach out to them."


    Greta was momentarily lost for words. Given her status, a second-row seat was already a big deal. She shot Nellie a resentful look. "Cameron, Nellie must''ve spent a fortune just to show up like this." Cameron was puzzled, "Where''d she get the cash to sponsor this event?"


    As soon as he sat down, he couldn''t resist texting Nellie: [What are you doing here? This isn''t your scene.]

 Chapter 105

    Nellie felt her phone buzz, pulled it out and nced at the message. Her subtle movement caught Nathan''s eye, and when he glimpsed at the message, his handsome brows knitted together.


    Nellie felt a surge of anger, ready tosh out. To Cameron, she''d always be the out-of-ce nobody, unworthy of being here. His message mocked her, implying she didn''t belong. She started typing a retort, but Nathan''s elegant hand gently stopped her. She looked up to see him giving a slight shake of his head. Nellie sighed, erased her response, and locked her phone.


    Cameron''s cold stare bore into her, and after repeatedly checking his phone with no reply, frustration clouded his face.


    He was sure she had read his text. Irritated, he shot off another message: [Nellie, are you using your Mrs. Dawson name to snag that prime seat underhandedly?]


    He added a blunt warning: [Don''t use your title for your own benefit. You''re making me look bad.]


    Nellie saw his message, and her heart, numb until now, ached with a familiar pain.


    Cameron was frigid and ruthless. He''d shower Greta with privileges, paving her career path with his wealth and influence. Doors opened effortlessly for her.


    However, as his wife, Nellie received neither financial support nor a helping hand. He treated her like a potential thief, wary she''d gain even the slightest benefit.


    Nellie was done with Cameron''s endless insults. She typed back, [If you''re so worried about me being Mrs. Dawson and basking in your glory, then why don''t you have the guts to strip me of the title?]


    Just as she hit send, Nathan snatched the phone and blocked Cameron. "Nellie, trash belongs in the bin. Don''t let him get to you."


    When Cameron tried texting Nellie again, all he got was a ring red question mark.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Had she blocked him? How dare she?


    He looked up at Nellie, who sat gracefully in the front row, her eyes soft and smiling, as if his


    interruptions hadn''t ruffled her calm one bit. He felt utterly insignificant.


    She was bing quite the actress. If she was so unfazed, why did she block him?


    As Cameron stewed over Nellie''s actions, the auction kicked off.


    The first item was a sapphire ne framed by pink diamonds.


    It was priced too low to rattle the elite, especially since it was second-hand. The host tried hard to drum up interest, but no one bid. Desperate, the host turned to the audience, "Is there anyone in the fashion world who can highlight this ne''s charm?"


    Silence fell.


    Then, Greta stood confidently, "Sapphires symbolize power. This ne was a royal heirloom passed from queen to her


    swnovel


    daughter. Owning it means divine favor and a prosperous path


    Her remarks drew apuse but no buyers, as no one wanted to unt their ambitions.


    The host, feeling awkward, praised, "Miss Greta, your vast knowledge truly showcases your reputation as a top designer in the Capital."


    Then, with a clever shift, the host


    turned to Nellie, "Miss, you are sitting in the center. I believe you must be a fashion industry leader. Surely, you can help auction this ne, right?"

 Chapter 106

    With the host''s hopeful eyes on her, Nellie got to her feet. Suddenly, a murmur rose from the crowd behind her. "Isn''t that Mrs. Dawson, who''s clueless about everything?"


    "What does she know about fashion? I bet she''s never even heard of the Sapphire Ne."


    "Shh, let''s not embarrass Mr. Dawson. Just drop it."


    Cameron''s face darkened with embarrassment.


    Nellie shed a subtle smile, thinking about how those who looked down on others often forgot that fortunes could change like the tides. She carefully chose her words to keep her knowledge under wraps. "I might not be a fashion expert, but I do happen to know about this ne. Miss Greta is both right and wrong. It was indeed a gift from Her Majesty to her daughter, but it''s not about power. It symbolizes ''a lifetime of love,'' the most heartfelt blessing from Her Majesty to her daughter.''T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Nellie, how do you know this is what the ne means? Her Majesty is so ambitious, so trivial love matters wouldn''t tie her down. Seems like you made this up just to grab attention," Greta''s friend challenged, standing up to dispute her im.


    Nellie remained unfazed. "The sapphire is nked by two cherry blossoms made from pink diamonds. One isrger than the other. The message behind the cherry blossoms is that you should love one person your whole life."


    The host was taken aback. "Wow, there really are two cherry blossoms, and one is indeed bigger than the other."


    The audience erupted in apuse. Greta''s friend turned green with envy.


    Nellie turned back, giving her a teasing smile. "You''re mistaken. The flowers here symbolize not romantic love but a mother''s love. It''s the Queen''s deep affection for her daughter."


    The apuse roared once again.


    Many daughters from elite families raised their paddles, knowing this ne would be perfect for pleasing their mothers.


    Greta''s face was flushed with embarrassment.


    Cameron, however, watched Nellie sit down. He never realized Nellie could hold her own so brilliantly.


    The next item was a bracelet.


    The host announced an opening bid of three thousand, which drewughter from the crowd.


    Nellie unexpectedly raised her hand. "I''ll take it."


    Someone whispered, "She''s the Dawson family''s least favored daughter-inw. I heard she is from the slums of course, she can''t afford anything valuable. This little trinket suits her."


    The host called out. "Three thousand going once. Three thousand going twice..."


    Suddenly, Nathan raised his paddle. "I bid five thousand two hundred."


    Nellie looked at him, puzzled, silently asking, "Why are you bidding against me?"


    Nathan winked at her, mouthing. "Nellie, you like it, so I''ll get it for you."


    Everyone was baffled. "What''s the big deal about this bracelet? Why are they both so keen on getting it?" Nellie reluctantly backed down.


    Nathan


    asked


    On the bracelet. The host


    d him, "Mr. Nathan, why are you so interested in this bracelet?


    looks quite ordinary."


    Nathan replied, "That''s because you don''t see its worth. This braceletas made of floral charms meaning happiness, and I want to give it to my dear friend. I hope she will always have carefree days.


    The crowd finally got it, sighing with regret. "If I''d known it was for such a beautiful reason, I would''ve bid too." Nellie stayed cool and collected, her gaze gentle as she watched Nathan. Her eyes unexpectedly became teary.


    As the auction reached its peak, Nellie started to feel sleepy.


    Until the host loudly announced, "Up next for auction is - Timeless Cycle..."


    Nellie''s sleepiness vanished, and her lovely face turned as pale as a sheet.

 Chapter 107

    Timeless Cycle, a name that seemed to be etched into the very fabric of Nellie''s being. Even though decades had passed, the memories tied to it were as vivid as if they''d happened yesterday. This locket traveled through the ages and was once her daughter''s most prized possession in a previous life. It had been with her for just a few short years but held immense sentimental value.


    In this life, Nellie couldn''t bring her daughter into the world. However, she would get the items her daughter loved. This was her way of keeping the connection alive.


    There was something even more intriguing about this locket. Rumor had it that the locket held a mystical power-a power that could reincarnate lives. Of course, Nellie wasn''t sure if this was true, but she was determined to find out.


    If Timeless Cycle truly had the power of reincarnation, maybe there was a way to bring her daughter into this world without involving Cameron.


    Nellie never imagined that the bidding for Timeless Cycle would be the highlight of the auction. She assumed its secret was her own, but when the auctioneer announced the lot, a wave of paddles shot up, catching her off guard and sparking a sense of urgency. No matter what, she had to have it.


    The auctioneer started the price at $130,000, and it quickly skyrocketed to $10 million, thinning the crowd of bidders. In the end, Greta and Nellie were locked in a relentless bidding war.


    Every time Nellie raised her bid, Greta upped it by another $10,000. Nellie went all-in at $20 million, but Greta was relentless.


    She cast a knowing look at Nellie and taunted, "Nellie, we''re at $20 million. Do you really have the cash to back this up? Or are you just trying to jack up the price?"


    Nellie shot a defiant nce at


    pet


    Cameron and replied, "My husband''s the heir to Dawson International. Twenty million is chump change for him. But can you really afford this locket Greta? After your illness, the Brown family''s been strapped for cash. It''s only thanks to my husband''s generosity that you''ve managed to keep afloat."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Greta hadn''t expected Nellie to air their dirtyundry like that and expose family secrets in public. Her words also stirred up old rumors about Greta and Cameron that had been circting in the media.


    Greta''s face fell, looking hurt but


    holding back tears. Even Cameron''s expression turned icy. His fists clenched tightly beneath his sleeves, and his re at Nellie was intense. It was as if he wished he could silence her on the spot. Yet, being theposed man he was, Cameron quickly gathered himself, With a cool demeanor, he raised his paddle, delivering a crushing blow to Nellie. "Fifty million dors, I''m buying the locket."


    Jumping from $20 million to $50 million was astronomical for both Nellie and Greta.


    Greta''s eyes sparkled with triumph as she watched Nellie, her determination to im the locket unwavering.


    Nellie, meanwhile, was left staring at Cameron, who''d made his intentions clear-he was going all out to secure the locket for Greta. Only those who weren''t privy to the underlying tensions looked on with admiration and envy.


    "Who would''ve thought Mr. Dawson was such a devoted husband? He''s stepping up to buy this locket for his wife. He must truly love her," they whispered.

 Chapter 108

    Only Nellie knew the backstory: in their past life, Cameron had also auctioned off this heart-shaped locket, only to gift it to Greta in the end. Oddly, Greta never uncovered the secret of Timeless Cycle and, bored with it, handed it down as a gift to Nellie''s daughter. In that bygone life, Nellie had once confronted Cameron about his favoritism with a heavy heart. "I''m your wife, and I love this locket too, yet you didn''t hesitate to give such a precious thing to my sister. Do you even love me?" Cameron''s response stung. He dismissed her feelings entirely with a casual, "If your sister wants it, let her have it. I''ll just get you another one." The following day, he brought home a cheap imitation worth barely a few thousand.


    Nellie closed her eyes, and the memories from before still felt like fresh wounds. The sting of being belittled by someone she loved was something she could never get used to. If it were anything else, Nellie might have let it slide. But this locket was her only clue to finding her daughter, and she was ready to do whatever it took to get it back.


    She raised her bidding paddle with determination. "I bid 50.01 million."


    The crowd was baffled. "Aren''t they a couple? Why is Nellie bidding against Mr. Dawson? If he wins, wouldn''t he just give it to her?"


    A few sharp observers caught on. "Maybe Mr. Dawson doesn''t n to give the locket to his wife."


    "What? How could he do that to her?" The crowd murmured in disapproval.


    Cameron couldn''t ignore the whispers around him. His face reddened with embarrassment, but his resolve to win the locket stayed strong. "60 million," he countered.


    "60.01 million," Nellie quickly followed up.


    Cameron''s cold eyes fixed on Nellie, and he finally voiced his true feelings. "Nellie, do you even have the money to buy it?"


    Nellie shed him a confident smile. "Sweetheart, I am Mrs. Dawson,


    after all I''ve never used your money for luxury. Just this once, spoil me a


    bit. You wouldn''t mind, right?"


    en


    "Wow, Mr. Dawson is really stingy, huh? How has he never bought his wife any luxury goods?" gasped a girl, clearly shocked.


    Cameron red at Nellie, her clever maniption making him smirk.


    "Anything else, but not this locket. It''s just not for you," he finally said, echoing words from their past life.


    Nellie knew he was dead set on


    neo


    outbidding her. As a rising star in the fashion world, her finances were no match for the deep pockets of Dawson International. Just as worry started to creep in, Nathan, standing beside her, casually raised his paddle. "I bid 100 million


    The room buzzed with excitement.


    "What''s so special about this locket? Why are both big shots fighting over it?"


    "Why is Mr. Nathan interested in


    Timeless Cycle? He''s young, and etN?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    heard


    d he doesn''t even have a


    girlfriend. What''s he gonna do with a locket for girls?"


    Nathan ignored the chatter, standing tall and dignified. He slowly turned, his icy gaze meeting Cameron''s.


    "Mr. Dawson, care to raise the stakes?"

 Chapter 109

    Nathan''sid-back demeanor lit a fire in Cameron, who boldly dered, "Why not? A mere hundred million-I''ve got that covered."


    Cameron upped the ante. "One hundred million and ten thousand."


    Nathan shed a sly grin and calmly told the auctioneer, "I''ll bid five hundred million."


    Cameron was absolutely floored. "I''m out," he said, slumping back into his seat, clearly defeated.


    Nellie was pretty surprised. In the previous life, Cameron fell for Nathan''s tricks and kept upping his bid. When he reached a billion, Nathan suddenly stopped. Though Cameron ended up with Timeless Cycle, he nearly drained all his cash reserves. Later, when Nathan went after his projects, Cameron couldn''te up with enough money and was at Nathan''s mercy. His empire fell apart quickly, and his sess was short-lived. But this time around, why has everything turned out so differently?


    Nathan''s sudden fivefold increase in bidding while Cameron wisely held back was unexpected.


    Nellie winced as she watched Nathan. Sure, Timeless Cycle was valuable, but blowing five hundred million on it was a bit much. What was it about that piece that Nathan couldn''t let go of?T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Lost in thought, Nellie watched Nathan step up to im Timeless Cycle, a satisfied grin spreading across his face.


    Benjamin, though, was not impressed with Nathan''s splurge and snidely remarked, "Nathan, your granddad''s gonna blow a gasket when he hears you blew so much on something so trivial." Nathan shot him a frosty look. "I''m using the inheritance my mom left me. Got a problem with that?"


    Benjamin was left speechless.


    Everyone knew Nathan''s mom was the cherished daughter of the McCoy family. She''d been a powerhouse, amassing a fortune before passing away young, leaving her billions to Nathan. This inheritance put a target on his back, with many eager to im a piece if anything happened to him.


    Nathan''s biological dad, his dad''s new wife, and her son stood to gain the most, along with uncles, aunts, and cousins from the McCoy side. Naturally, everyone was watching how Nathan handled his wealth.


    Benjamin, not hiding his displeasure,mented, "Why''re you spending five hundred million on a stupid locket? If your mom knew how you''re burning through her fortune, she''d be rolling in her grave." Nathan shot him a cold nce. "My business is none of yours, Benjamin."


    Realizing he''d overstepped, Benjamin mmed up.


    After the auction, Greta emerged, looking downcast with tear-streaked eyes, while Nellie seemed lost in her own thoughts.


    Cameron noticed their dejected looks, but he only approached Greta, trying to console her. "If you really want that locket, I''ll figure out a way to get it from Nathan. Don''t lose hope."


    With Cameron''s reassurance, Greta''s tears turned into a smile. "Cameron, you''ve got to get it for me," she pleaded.


    Nellie watched them with an expressionless face. Greta had Cameron tofort her, but Nellie''s own dismay went unnoticed.


    At some point, Nathan appeared, standing tall in front of Nellie. Despite his youth, his height and presence made it impossible for Nellie to ignore him.

 Chapter 110

    She managed to muster a faint smile at him. "Nathan, congrattions on getting what you wanted."


    Nathan lifted Timeless Cycle ne with a knowing look. "This? It wasn''t for me. My friend loves it, so I bought it for her."


    Benjamin, standing nearby, snorted, "Nathan, since when did you have a friend?"


    Nathan''s eyes softened as they met Nellie''s.


    Suddenly, it clicked for Nellie why Nathan had made a bid for Timeless Cycle. Her eyes widened in shock-it was such a pricey gift, and he intended to give it to her.


    However, epting such a valuable present without earning it didn''t sit right with her.


    "Nathan, this ne means the world to me. I''d like to buy it from you. I can''t pay right now, but I''m willing to write you an IOU and pay it back over my lifetime," Nellie insisted, determined not to owe Nathan any favors.


    To her surprise, Nathan gave her a sly wink. "Nellie, if you really want this ne, drop by my office sometime, and we can work out a deal."


    Nellie nodded eagerly.


    But Cameron intervened, stepping in front of Nellie and taking it upon himself to decline Nathan''s offer. "Nathan, my wife isn''t versed in business. If you''re keen on selling the ne, I''m open to discussing a deal. I hear you''re interested in that Eastside property?" The Eastside property was a red-hot project, eyed by all the top firms in the city, but the Dawson family snagged it. Left untouched for two years, its value had soared as Eastside thrived.


    What was once worth billions was now worth several times more. Cameron''s proposition was indeed a tempting one for any businessman.


    Worry clouded Nellie''s eyes; she feared Nathan might not resist the allure and would swap the ne for thend.


    She silently pleaded with Nathan, shaking her head, hoping to sway him from agreeing to Cameron''s deal.


    Greta added her two cents, "Mr. Nathan, Mr. Dawson''s offering you a slice of the Eastside project. You could make a killing. You should really jump on this opportunity; they don''te around often."


    Nathan''s brow furrowed. He found Greta''s condescending tone quite off-putting.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Looking down at Greta, he remarked, "Mr. Dawson''s bending over backward for this locket, all for you, Miss Greta, isn''t he?"


    Cameron didn''t confirm it. After all, both Dawson sisters were after this ne. Cameron''s attempt to please Greta while ignoring his wife''s feelings was a ssic jerk move.


    However, his silence spoke volumes.


    Nathan switched gears. "Sorry, but the Eastside property doesn''t catch my eye. So, Mr. Dawson, I''m going to make a deal with Miss Nellie."


    Cameron was stunned. "Why?" He couldn''t wrap his head around why Nathan would choose to deal with Nellie.


    Nathan leaned in close to Cameron, whispering, "Mr. Dawson, women are the easiest to fool."


    Cameron, missing Nathan''s sarcasm, kept on with his advice, "Mr. Nathan, even though Nellie married into the Dawson family, we won''t fund her business ventures. If you think you can tap into the Dawson wealth through her, you''re barking up the wrong tree."

 Chapter 111

    Nathan was dead set on his goal. "Can''t you see, Mr. Dawson? Miss Nellie is determined to get her hands on Timeless Cycle ne. I reckon she''d jump at any offer I make."


    He paused, his charming eyes glinting with mischief. "It doesn''t matter if she''s broke. Once the deal''s done, her debts will naturally fall on you. After all, you''re herwful husband, aren''t you?"


    Cameron was livid, his face turning ghostly pale. He red daggers at Nathan, but that devilish grin told him he was powerless to stop him. So, he turned his frustration towards Nellie. After all, she was easier to handle. He barked at her, "I forbid you from making any deals with him."


    Nellie was having none of Cameron''s nonsense. "I want this locket, no matter the cost. It''s a done deal."


    Fear flickered in Cameron''s eyes. "Have you lost it? What can you possibly trade with him? You''ve got no money, no property... just a face that''s barely passable..." he almost shouted. Nellie, cutting right to the chase, replied, "Cameron, you''re my husband. Can you buy the locket for me?"


    Cameron nced at Greta, looking troubled.


    Nellie mocked him, "Since you, as my husband, won''t fulfill my wish, I''ll have to make the deal myself. How I do it is none of your concern." Then, she left without a backward nce. Cameron was left seething.


    Three dayster, Nellie showed up at the Rond mansion as nned. Nathan was in his study, gazing at the locket in his hands, a tender smile ying in his eyes.


    A servant came to announce, "Mr. Nathan, Mrs. Dawson would like to see you."


    Nathan''s smile vanished, his voice icy enough to chill the room. "From now on, don''t call her Mrs. Dawson. Just call her Nellie."


    The servant was puzzled by this odd request, unsure why Nathan was being so peculiar. After all, Ms. Nellie was indeed Cameron''s wife.


    "Yes," the servant conceded.


    Nathan''s tone softened. "Let her in."


    The servant obliged and soon led Nellie into the study. "Mr. Nathan, she is here."


    Nathan waved him off. "You can leave now. I''ve got some business to discuss with her. Do not disturb us unless I say so." "Yes."


    As the door closed, Nathan sprang up, quickly approaching Nellie, his earlier stern expression reced by a warm smile.


    Nellie took him in. Nathan, minus the suit jacket, in ck trousers and a white shirt, his dark hair and eyes set against his skin, looked like a living work of art.


    "Nathan, you seem to have shot up a bit. It won''t be long before you can hold your own. Soon, those who doubted and dismissed you will be few and far between. Things are really looking up for you," Nellie said, beaming with pride.


    Nathan, towering over Nellie now, pulled her hand to his cheek with a boyish charm. "Around you, I never want to grow up. I want to keep getting those New Year''s gifts from you and have you make me beautiful clothes for my birthday..." Nellie smiled indulgently. "Alright, I hope you stay young at heart forever."


    After exchanging pleasantries, Nathan handed her the locket he''d bought. "Nellie, why are you so keen on this locket? I thought you didn''t care about fame or fortune."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.

 Chapter 112

    Nellie''s hands trembled with excitement as she took hold of the heart-shaped locket. "Nathan, I''ve got a secret I can''t spill just yet. Please, don''t pry. When the time''s right, you''ll figure it out on your own." Sensing the need for a change of topic, Nathan chimed in, "Since you adore this locket so much, consider it my gift to you."


    Nellie looked up, surprised, and shook her head firmly. "Nathan, it''s way too valuable. I can''t ept such a pricey gift from you."


    Nathan gently but firmly ced it back in her hands. "Don''t worry, Nellie. I never make a deal that doesn''t pay off. That 500 million? I''ll get Cameron to pay me back with interest."


    Nellie replied skeptically, "Why on earth would he spend that much on me?"


    Nathan''s smile was mysterious. "If he''s not willing to pay up, he has only one option left: divorce."


    It was as if a light bulb went off in Nellie''s mind. A long-lost innocence flickered in her once-sorrowful eyes. "Nathan, you''ve really saved my bacon," she said, brimming with gratitude.


    Nathan nodded. "Nellie, I promised I''d help you break free from Cameron''s hold, and I will."


    Nellie fished a bank card from her purse and handed it to Nathan. "Even if Cameron doesn''t chip in, I can handle it. This is my card, with 90 million on it. All my future earnings will go here. I''ll earn enough to pay you back."


    Nathan took the card, shing a charming smile. "You''re giving me all your money. Does this mean you''re my sugar mama?"


    A soft, almost motherly seriousness crossed Nellie''s face. "I see you''ve picked up the yboy ways so quickly."


    She sighed, "Our financial worlds are poles apart. Even if I wanted you to be my sugar baby, you probably wouldn''t need it."


    Nathan handed the card back, a hint of annoyance in his voice. "Why are we being so transactional? You''re my lifesaver. I won''t have you being so formal with me. No matter what the future holds, the bond we share is worth more than money. Spending hundreds of billions on you wouldn''t even faze me."


    Nellie looked at him, her eyes misty with emotion.


    She knew he was destined to be a shrewd businessman, always on the hunt for profit, but she never imagined he used to be such a genuine and grateful soul.


    What had driven him to be that formidable figure?


    "Nathan, I really hope you can always stay this genuine and pure," she wished he wouldn''t turn into a heartless tycoon.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan teased, "Nellie, the business world is full of temptations. I might stray. But as long as you''re there to keep me in check, I think I can stay true to myself." Nellie nodded eagerly. "Okay, but don''t you ever say I''m nagging."


    Nathan''s dark eyes turned serious. "Nellie, you need to live a long, long life to stick around with me."


    Nellie was taken aback. In her past life, she wasn''t blessed with longevity. But this time, with her heart guarded, she was determined to live to a ripe old age. "Don''t worry. I''ll be with you till the end," Nellie promised.


    Nathan''s eyes sparkled with a knowing smile.

 Chapter 113

    After Nellie left, Nathan casually told the servant, "Can you pour me some tea?"


    The servant paused, a bit taken aback. "Tea?"


    Nathan, always known for his refined tastes, had never been one for something as simple as tea. The servant wondered if he had heard correctly. Nathan''s eyes sparkled with mischief. "Yeah, today I''m in the mood to try it out."


    "Alright then," the servant said, scratching his head as he walked away, still puzzled.


    Soon enough, the servant returned with a steaming cup of tea. Nathan took a sip, savoring it. "Not bad at all," he mused, looking quite pleased.


    Then Nathan did something unexpected he pulled out his phone and, breaking his usual routine, posted on social media with a cheeky message: [Making money off women is a breeze.] And then, in a strange twist, he made the post visible only to Cameron.


    The servant felt like he''d just swallowed something sour. His face was a picture of confusion. He had always thought Nathan was a bit naive, but now he seemed as crafty as an snake. Meanwhile, at the Dawson residence, Nellie walked in and found Cameron sitting on the couch, his eyes shooting daggers. He was gripping his phone so tightly it was a wonder it didn''t shatter.


    "You met Nathan, didn''t you?" he snapped, clearly having seen Nathan''s social media post.


    Nellie brushed past him, heading straight upstairs without a word.


    Cameron jumped to his feet and pushed Nellie onto the sofa, looming over her with his towering presence. He grabbed her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. "Nellie, even if you sold your soul, Nathan would never hand over Timeless Cycle. You''re such a fool."


    But then, to his shock, Nellie pulled out Timeless Cycle from around her neck. His handsome face registered pure disbelief. "He actually gave it to you? How on earth is that possible?" Recalling Nathan''s boastful post, he stared at Nellie in disbelief. "How much did you pay him?"


    Nellie pushed him away angrily and sat up straight. "How much do you think I have?" she retorted with a mockingugh. "But I did promise to be at his beck and call from now on." Cameron was furious, his anger boiling over. "Nellie, you are my wife! How can you serve another man and humiliate me like this?"


    Nellie toyed with the ne, giving him a sly smirk. "Taking care of him gets me something worthwhile. What have I got from serving you, aside from losing out?" Cameron was left speechless.


    Nellie pushed past him and headed upstairs with confident strides.


    Suddenly, Cameron called out after her, "Nellie, I want you to call off whatever deal you made with Nathan. Give back Timeless Cycle."


    Nellie turned slowly, inventing an excuse on the spot. "Our deal is already in effect. If I break it, I''ll have to pay double the penalty. Are you ready to shell out ten billion for me?"


    Cameron was caught between shame and fury. He was ashamed because he didn''t have the funds to match the penalty and furious because Nathan had yed his cards so well against Nellie. "Idiot," Cameron muttered through gritted teeth.


    But Nellie just shrugged it off. "Cameron, if you''re worried about being dragged down, just divorce me."


    "Nellie, between us, the only way out is death, not divorce."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 114

    Returning to her bedroom, Nellie took out the precious heart-shaped locket, watching its colorful shimmer dance in her palm. The sadness in her eyes was hard to miss.


    "Mom, I know I''m not going to make it. I overheard you talking with Dr. Anne. I know you''re heartbroken and can''t bear to let me go. But soon, I won''t be here with you anymore. I''ve always worn this locket, and now I''m giving it to you. Let it keep youpany instead of me." Nellie sobbed uncontrobly. "No, I won''t let you die, never."


    "Mom, don''t be sad. I''ll let you in on a little secret: wearing this locket will fill your dreams with happiness. I dreamt of you with a handsome man who loves you dearly."


    "Mom, Dad loves Auntie Greta more than he loves us. So, let''s stop caring about him. We''ll take back our love. You should go find that handsome man," her chubby little hands gently wiped the tears from her mother''s cheeks.


    At that moment, Nellie''s grief was overwhelming. She couldn''t dwell on her child''s strange words, missing the secret of Timeless Cycle.


    "Mom, you have to wear the locket around your neck... Don''t let Auntie Greta and Dad trick you out of it."


    The child grabbed the locket hanging around her neck, pressing it into Nellie''s hand. Her fading energy radiated apassion far beyond her years.


    Nellie clung to her daughter, but her little one''s breath, like grains of sand, slipped away beyond her control.


    "Ah..." A heart-wrenching cry escaped Nellie''s lips.


    Dream or reality, Nellie couldn''t tell anymore.


    The gut-wrenching goodbye was like a mark etched into her very being. Once awakened, it made every fiber of her body ache with sorrow.


    Cameron heard amotion from upstairs, his brow furrowing. With a heavy sigh, he got up and headed upstairs. He pushed open Nellie''s door to find her curled up in the corner. Walking over, he asked irritably, "What''s going on with you?" Nellie looked up at him, her eyes burning with anger.


    Cameron assumed she''d been hurt by someone else, and his words took on a mocking tone, "I''ve warned you, Nellie. You''re neither rich nor clever, yet you thought you could do business with Nathan. What happened? Did he push you around?" He dragged a chair over and sat in front of her, tauntingly, "Come on, tell me how he messed with you. Should I y the hero?"


    He failed to notice the tempest brewing in Nellie''s eyes. All traces of her usual gentleness were gone. Suddenly, as if possessed, sheshed out at him with fists and kicks.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Cameron, I hate you. I hate you.


    "Get out! I never want to see you again."


    Cameron frowned, "What''s your problem? I haven''t done anything to you. Why don''t you go take it up with whoever actually hurt you? Nellie, just because I''m your husband doesn''t mean I should clean up your mess."


    Nellie was now consumed by fury, and wed at him, "Give me a divorce, Cameron. I want a divorce."


    Cameron shoved her away, and Nellie crumpled to the floor, exhausted.


    With a look of disdain, Cameron brushed off the spot where she''d touched him.

 Chapter 115

    "Nellie, seriously, take a look at yourself. Where''s the dignity and grace of Mrs. Dawson?


    "You don''t have the looks to impress nor the brains to handle business, and every day is another episode of drama... I must''ve been cursed to end up marrying you," Cameron shouted, his eyes zing like a trapped animal. Nellie slowly regained her calm. She picked herself up from the cold floor, her face a mask of destion, but inside, her heart was a storm.


    She had thought Cameron was just cold because he didn''t love her. But it wasn''t just that he actually looked down on her.


    "Cameron, have you finally shown your true self? All that talk about being responsible for me forever was just nonsense. It was actually a show to make yourself look honorable," Nellie chuckled weakly, her voice barely above a whisper. "How foolish I''ve been." It took living two lives to see Cameron''s true colors.


    "Cameron, doesn''t it make you sick to keep dragging this out?"


    Hit where it hurt, Cameron fumed after holding it in for too long. "Nellie, you''ve gotten smarter. But no matter what you do, I won''t divorce you. My reputation can''t be tarnished because of you."


    Watching Cameron stumble away, Nellie smirked a little.


    Howughable. Despite her humble beginnings, Nellie wasn''t just a pretty face but also a force to be reckoned with in business. Cameron was blind to her worth.


    That night, Nellie couldn''t sleep. Cameron''s refusal to divorce her was a constant headache. Only in the early hours, worn out, did she finally drift off.


    Half-asleep, she caught bits of a conversation-Greta''s voice. "Cameron, Timeless Cycle is priceless. Nathan wouldn''t have spent all that money just to hand it to Nellie. She must have offered him something big in return."


    "She''s a woman with nothing. What could she offer Nathan?" Cameron scoffed.


    "Cameron, you and Nathan are business rivals. Aren''t you worried Nellie might sell your secrets if Nathan bought her off?"


    Cameron''s arrogant voice came through: "Her? Even if Iid out all my secrets, she wouldn''t get them. She''s too simple to be a spy."


    Nellie''s eyes opened, her lips curled in a smile that didn''t reach her eyes.


    ''Cameron, oh Cameron, after all this time, you really don''t know me.''


    Herpany called Forever Yours was barely a year old, but it was already bringing in millions. People called her a business genius.


    Greta spected maliciously, "Nellie never had love from our parents and grew up poor. Someone like her can''t resist material temptation. Just a bit of warmth from Nathan, and she''d be all his. Timeless Cycle is worth a fortune, I bet she''d be at his beck and call forever."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The thought of his wife serving another man stirred something ugly in Cameron. His anger, barely contained, threatened to blow the roof off. "I won''t let her have the chance to be with any other men."

 Chapter 116

    Nellie couldn''t help but chuckle at the whole situation. Did Cameron seriously think she was some kind of caged bird? Was he really trying to dictate her social life? It was downrightughable. Cameron kept going, unbothered, "Nathan''s just a clueless kid. He''s no threat at all."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Just then, the door creaked open, and there was Nellie, standing in the doorway with her phone, looking like she''d just caught them red-handed.


    Cameron and Greta''s faces went pale with panic. Greta quickly scrambled to exin, "You''ve got it wrong, Nel. Cameron and I were just talking, honestly!"


    "Talking? Alone? In the middle of the night?" Nellie snapped a photo with her phone.


    Instead of jealousy or anger, Nellie''s face showed nothing but disdain, which threw both Cameron and Greta for a loop. The old Nellie would''ve lost it if she saw Cameron getting cozy with someone else. Cameron seemed momentarily distracted by his thoughts.


    Greta snapped back to reality, and lunged for Nellie''s phone. "Who said you could take pictures? Delete them right now!"


    Not wanting to make a scene, Nellie tossed the phone to Greta. She had already sent the photos to Lizzy anyway.


    Relieved, Greta deleted the photos and handed the phone back.


    Nellie crossed her arms, a smirk ying on her lips. "This is my house, Greta. It''s time for you to hit the road. You''re not wee here."


    Greta''s face turned ghostly white. "Nel, how can you treat me like this?"


    Tears brimmed in her eyes as she turned to Cameron. "Cameron, if my sister can''t stand meing around, I don''t think I can be here anymore."


    Cameron shot Nellie an angry re. "Nellie, you don''t get to make the rules here. That''s my job. Greta is always wee, and if you keep this up, you can leave."


    Nellie justughed, unfazed. "Oh, really? Just remember, Cameron. Don''te begging me to return."


    She spun around and mmed the door shut, the sound echoing through the house and causing Greta to flinch.


    Cameron, looking like a storm cloud, was not in the best of moods.


    "Cameron, she''s really upset. What now?" Greta managed to muster a few tears.


    Cameron shrugged it off. "How long can she stay mad? She alwayses back, no matter how many tantrums she throws."


    Greta wiped her tears and smiled. "You''re right."


    The two of them headed downstairs, arm in arm.


    Meanwhile, Nellie had packed her bags and wasing down the stairs, suitcase in hand.


    In the living room, Greta and Cameron watched Nellie, stunned. Greta broke the silence. "Nellie, quit the drama. When have you ever really left Cameron?"


    But this time, Cameron looked a bit rattled. Nellie''sst walkout had already put Cameron in a bad light with Griffin. If she pulled it off again, it could be even worse for him.


    Nellie walked right up to Cameron and handed him a divorce agreement. "Cameron, you''re not the center of the universe. Not everyone is glued to you. If you''ve got the guts, sign this and let me go. You can take your own path, and I''ll take mine."

 Chapter 117

    Greta red at Nellie, her voice icy. "Nel, how dare you talk to Cameron like that? Apologize to him right now."


    Nellie''s usually warm eyes zed with anger, and then, out of nowhere, a loud p echoed in the room, followed by Greta''s scream. "Ah!"Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nellie had pped Greta with all her might, her eyes filled with hatred. "Greta, who do you think you are? You think you can tell me what to do?" Greta immediately ran into Cameron''s arms, sobbing softly. "Cameron, I was just trying to guide my sister. I didn''t expect her to take it the wrong way."


    Nellie was beyond words. dAs she turned to leave, Cameron grabbed her wrist firmly. "Nellie, say you''re sorry to your sister."


    Nellie stared at Cameron like he was a fool. "Seriously? Didn''t you see she had iting?"


    Cameron snapped back, "She''s your sister. She has the right to do that."


    Nellie let out augh, fueled by anger, fighting to free herself from Cameron''s grip. "Sister? She''s just the person who took my kidney. Cameron, if you''re not slick, don''t try to juggle two women at once. You''ll probably just screw it up." Cameron saw a dangerous glint in Nellie''s eyes that made him freeze. Could Nellie really despise him that much? He had to be imagining it.


    "Let go of me."


    "Not until you apologize."


    The air was thick with tension as the two faced off.


    Just then, the butler walked in, breaking the standoff. "Mr. Dawson, Mr. Rond is here."


    Cameron reluctantly let go of Nellie''s hand, but not without a final order. "Go to your room. Don''t embarrass yourself in front of Mr. Rond."


    Nellie asked the butler, "Which Mr. Rond?"


    "Mr. Nathan Rond," the butler answered.


    Cameron''s face darkened. "What''s he doing here now?"


    As he spoke, a subtle woody scent filled the room, calming and elegant. Then, in walked a young man, his presence as graceful as a gentle breeze.


    Cameron forced a smile, all charm and no sincerity. "If I''d known you were visiting, I would have greeted you properly. My apologies."


    Nathan ignored himpletely, heading straight to Nellie. His warm gaze settled on her, but when he saw the mark on her face, his expression turned icy as he looked at Greta. Greta, intimidated by his cold aura, shrank back closer to Cameron.


    "Did you hit her?" Nathan''s voice was as cold as ice.


    Greta''s voice shook. "My sister was disrespectful to Cameron, so I thought I''d teach her a lesson, being her sister and all..."


    Nathan''s voice was chilling. "Sister? Fine, your sister owes me a huge debt. Are you going to pay it back for her?"


    Greta turned ghostly pale. "We''re only sisters by blood, no legal ties."


    "Then what gave you the right to hit her?" Nathan began rolling up his sleeves, clearly ready to settle scores.


    Greta was petrified. Cameron pulled her behind him, gritting his teeth. "Mr. Nathan, this is a private family matter. You have no ce here." Nathan shot back, "Mr. Dawson, Greta here looks more like your wife. Favoring a mistress over your wife wouldnd you in deep trouble." Cameron, barely holding his temper, replied, "Mr. Nathan, you''re sticking your nose in where it doesn''t belong. Don''t you think?"

 Chapter 118

    Nathan pulled a document from a file and shook it open with a flick, revealing the agreement inside. It was a debt contract between Nellie and him.


    "From now on, Nellie has to work for me around the clock to pay off a ten billion debt. Her face represents mypany. If you harm her, it affects my flourishing business. Mr. Dawson, do you still think I shouldn''t get involved in Greta''s situation?" Nathan said softly. Cameron couldn''t help but find the situation absurd. "This is ridiculous. Mr. Nathan, aren''t you aware ofborws? Even if Nellie signed a lifelong contract, legally, she can only work eight hours a day..."


    Before Cameron could finish, Nathan flipped to an addendum. It stated that Nellie voluntarily agreed to overtime, with double the pay as perborws. Her signature and thumbprint were there as well. Nathan carefully tucked the contract away, then shed a smile at Cameron. "Mr. Dawson, if you want to buy out Mrs. Dawson''s contract, you''ll need to pay me ten times the penalty fee." Cameron''s face turned pale, ring at Nellie with frustration. "I warned you, doing business with him is a losing game."


    Nellie was taken aback by Nathan''s meticulous nning. He was truly the future Rond heir apparent.


    Instead of panicking, she faced Cameron with a mocking look. "Cameron, either pay up to free me, or let''s get divorced. You don''t have to worry about my debt then."


    Cameron''s expression darkened. Nellie noticed a flicker of hesitation in his eyes, sensing his internal conflict. She instinctively knew he was contemting leaving her behind.


    Nathan spoke gently, "Nellie, today''s your first official day at work. Come with me."


    Nellie followed Nathan, leaving the Dawson household behind.


    After she left, Cameron slumped on the couch. Greta tried to console him. "Cameron, my sister''s gotten tangled up with Nathan and is deep in debt because of his schemes. This could end up affecting the Dawson family." Cameron scoffed, "I''m not just going to sit and do nothing."


    Greta chimed in, "Maybe you should just divorce Nel?"T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron fell into a brooding silence. Regret shed in his eyes. Initially, when bidding for Timeless Cycle, his goal was either to win the locket for Greta or drive up the cost to drain Nathan''s resources.


    Little did he know Nathan would flip the script on him. By exploiting Nellie''s misstep, Nathan had ced Cameron in a tight spot.


    Cameron now faced two options: either cover Nellie''s colossal damages or divorce her to save himself.


    "Nathan yed his cards well," Cameron had to admit with reluctant admiration.


    Greta, ever ttering, added, "Cameron, someone like Nathan is no match for you. It''s just that Nellie is holding you back..."


    Mentioning Nellie made Cameron''s face cloud over again. "Nellie, you''ve left me no choice."


    Joy flickered in Greta''s eyes.


    Meanwhile, Nellie sat in Nathan''s luxury car, her expression somber, eyes looking forlornly out the window. Nathan gently touched her swollen face, his voice warm and empathetic, "Nellie, I''m sorry I waste. You''ve been through a lot."

 Chapter 119

    Nellie turned her head, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. "Nathan, you couldn''t have picked a better time to show up. With all thismotion you''ve stirred up, Cameron might finally decide to divorce me."


    Nathan shook his head. "I''m not sure it''s that simple. Even though he''s head over heels for your sister, he''s stubbornly refusing to divorce you..." He hesitated, lost in thought.


    Nellie suddenly realized that Nathan wasn''t exactly the go-to guy for love advice. Pouring her heart out to him felt like ast-ditch effort when all else had failed.


    Surprisingly, Nathan disyed wisdom beyond his years, continuing his assessment. "Cameron''s a businessman through and through. For him, marriage isn''t about feelings; it''s about what''s beneficial. Staying married to you is more advantageous than not. That''s the bottom line."


    Nellie frowned, puzzled. "But to him, I''m just dead weight. Why would he want to keep me around?"


    Nathan replied, "People in his position can''t afford any blemishes on their reputation. You''re the shining savior in his life; marrying you was his way of saying thanks. Divorcing you now would paint him as ungrateful. Plus, he''s scared someone might call him out for tricking a vulnerable woman into marriage. Once the dominoes start falling, his reputation will be in shambles."


    Nellie''s eyes gleamed with a newfound determination. If she could bring Cameron down, she''d feel her life wasplete. "He''s a sneaky liar, but he won''t let himself get caught."


    Nathan''s look turned intense. "Don''t worry. He may be crafty, but I''m a pro in this game. If he wants a battle of wits, I''ll make sure he loses big time."


    Nellie didn''t know what Nathan had nned, but she had an unshakable faith that he could outsmart Cameron.


    "Nathan, I can''t thank you enough," Nellie expressed her gratitude with a simple look.


    Nathan, with a touch of concern, said, "From now on, I need you to put on a show. Make him choose between clearing his debts and divorcing you." Nellie immediately fell into character. "Nathan, my fate is in your hands. I''m ready to follow your lead."


    Nathan chuckled, "Well, sorry for the trouble."


    Their eyes met, and they shared a quiet smile.


    Nellie knew her divorce battle with Cameron wouldn''t end quickly, but she couldn''t afford to let her career slide. She had to stay focused on her business.


    "Nathan, I''m thinking of moving my Mn-based brand, ''Forever Yours,'' to the Capital..." she said earnestly, locking eyes with Nathan. "I want to coborate with you."


    Understanding Nathan''s potential, she boldly added, "You''ll get the lion''s share of the profits."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan paused, repeating with curiosity, "Forever Yours?"


    Then, a smile spread across his face. "What''s your n for this partnership?"


    Nellie knew teaming up with Nathan, given his brilliant business sense, was like securing a golden ticket. She didn''t hesitate to lower her own stake. "Nathan, I''m Jasmine''s top student and can take the role of creative director. You''ll handle market expansion. As for profits, I''ll settle for just ten percent."


    Nathan leaned in, his voice yful, "Nellie, ''Forever Yours'' has both our names on it. Why split the profits so narrowly? The earnings are yours. I''ll be the legal face, taking on all the risks for you."

 Chapter 120

    Nellie was momentarily taken aback. She couldn''t help but reach over and ruffle his hair. "Did I identally bring home a goofy puppy?" she teased. Nathan let out a heartyugh.


    He drove Nellie to a charming vi, and just as he was helping her out of the car, a swarm of paparazzi suddenly appeared, snapping away like mad.


    Thinking quickly, Nellie switched things up and pretended to support Nathan instead. Her face was a mask of tension and worry. She dreaded the media spinning tales about her and Nathan. Her reputation was already shot, so more gossip didn''t faze her, but Nathan''s spotless name was on the line.


    Nathan noticed the subtle shift in Nellie''s demeanor and was moved by her thoughtful and genuine nature. His gaze turned sharp as he red at the paparazzi, his age-defying intensity showing through. "Is Benjamin that desperate to cast himself as the Rond family heir?"


    Nellie was confused, "Now that he''s got dirt on us, Nathan, do you have a n if Benjamin tries to stir up trouble?"


    "Don''t sweat it, Nellie," Nathan reassured her. "Handling someone like Benjamin is a walk in the park."


    Nellie exhaled, feeling relieved. Whatever Nathan said, she trusted himpletely.


    Nathan settled Nellie into his private vi, where Lizzy was eagerly waiting to wee her.


    Later, Nathan got home, only to be called into the study by Mason.


    Mason was livid. "Your brother told me you''ve been keeping Mrs. Dawson close, and now you''ve upset Cameron?"


    Nathan shot Benjamin a disdainful look, a sarcastic grin tugging at his lips. "You''re quite the messenger. You work faster than a carrier pigeon. I think I''ll have to make better use of you." Benjamin was left speechless.


    "Yes, Grandfather," Nathan replied to Mason without hesitation.


    Mason was clearly disappointed and cautioned Nathan, "You''re new to the social circles, and making powerful enemies isn''t wise."


    Nathan remained calm, "Grandfather, a showdown with Cameron is bound to happen eventually."


    Mason looked startled. Nathan''s ambition was unsettling.


    "But not now!" Mason cut him off, frustrated. "Send Mrs. Dawson back."


    "I won''t do that." Nathan''s defiance was evident.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Mason raised an eyebrow. "I hear Mrs. Dawson is all style and no substance. Even Cameron doesn''t think much of her. Why do you keep her around?"


    Nathan chuckled, "Grandfather, don''t judge before you know the full story."


    Mason squinted his eyes. "What are you getting at?"


    Nathan exined, "Just wait and see, Grandfather. Nellie will soon prove herself, and you''ll realize she''s a hidden treasure."


    Seeing the determined look on his grandson''s face, Mason hesitated. After weighing the pros and cons, he finally advised, "If she truly has untapped potential, keeping her is fine. Just don''t escte your issues with Cameron." "Don''t worry, Grandfather. I''ve got my priorities straight," Nathan assured him.


    Mason nodded. "That''s the way to go."

 Chapter 121

    Nellie handed the divorce proceedings over to herwyers, diving headfirst intounching her new fashion line. Every day, shebed through the markets, learning the ins and outs of the Capital''s supply chains, keeping up with thetest in printing and dyeing tech, and soaking in the street styles from all walks of life.


    Come nightfall, she''d settle under her deskmp, sketching design after design. Her ideas flowed onto paper effortlessly. Days blurred into months, and before she knew it, three months had flown by. She''d churned out hundreds of designs.


    Nathan was all in on her vision, embracing nearly every one of her sketches for production. The whirlwind of activity helped her shove thoughts of her divorce to the back burner.


    Meanwhile, Cameron was growing more restless by the day. At a get-together with friends, Nellie was the talk of the night, even though she wasn''t there. "Cameron, I heard your wife took off with that Nathan guy. Think she''s really leaving you for good?" one friend ribbed. Cameron, lost in thought, took a drag from his cigarette, smoke shrouding his face and emotions.


    Greta chimed in, "Nellie leaving Cameron? No way. She''s more loyal than a puppy. This is just her ying hard to get and trying to win back Cameron''s attention. But honestly, Cameron''s over her antics. As long as she doesn''t make a fool out of him, let her be." Benjamin, who''d been quiet, spoke up, "Cameron, why not just go through with the divorce if you''re not into her? Greta''s been waiting forever; she deserves some rity."Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron stayed silent, and Greta watched him, her heart aching from hisck of response. Tears brimmed in her eyes, but she masked her feelings with a brave face. "I might not be able to have kids..." she started, but her words hung heavy in the air.


    Everyone knew the score: a family like the Dawsons, with Cameron as the heir, wouldn''t settle for a childless marriage. It seemed like an impossible situation.


    Cameron lit another cigarette, took a deep breath, and reassured Greta softly, "Kids or no kids, it doesn''t matter. I wouldn''t want you to go through that pain. My reasons for staying married to Nellie have nothing to do with you."


    Another voice piped up, trying to smooth things over, "Exactly. Cameron adores Greta too much to care about that. Besides, if Greta can''t have kids, Cameron could have a few with Nellie. You know, he could raise them with Greta as their mother, and the Dawsons would be satisfied."


    Greta''s eyes sparkled with hope as she clutched Cameron''s arm. "Cameron, if you really want kids, why not have one with Nellie?"


    Cameron was at a loss for words. His eyes drifted to his phone. It had been three months since Nellie, though nearby, had reached out. Did she still have feelings for him? Would she even want to have a child with him?


    A nagging uncertainty gnawed at him. After the party, he texted Nellie: [Nellie, can we meet?]


    Her response came a dayter: [Is this about the divorce? If not, I don''t see why we should meet.]

 Chapter 122

    Upon seeing the message, Cameron was so furious that he hurled his phone against the wall. He recalled how Nellie used to be, always doting on him like a loyal puppy. Now, she had transformed into someone so distant and unattainable that it was near impossible for


    him to even meet her. How had their roles reversed so dramatically?


    Nellie nced at her now silent phone, her once serene face clouded with determination. After everything, Cameron still didn''t want a divorce. She wasn''t about to waste her prime years on him anymore. Nellie decided it was time for Cameron to face a harsh reality check. She sought out her ace divorcewyer, Jim, and handed him all the documents she had meticulously prepared. "Here are the debts I''ve incurred during our marriage," she began. "And here''s proof of Cameron transferring assets while we were married. These show his affair with Greta, and here''s evidence of his emotional abuse after we tied the knot." "Jim, with all this evidence, can I get a smooth divorce?" Nellie asked, her voice steady but hopeful.


    Jim regarded her with a calm assurance, "With everything you''ve got on him, even a newbiewyer could win this case. Imagine the advantage with me on your side."


    Nellie was taken aback but relieved. "Then I''ll be waiting for your good news."


    Meanwhile, Cameron was nning to give Nellie the cold shoulder for a while. But Nellie''swyer, Jim, came at him like a force of nature. "Mr. Dawson, I''m Jim, Nellie''s divorce attorney. We need to talk."


    Cameron had just wrapped up a morning meeting and was already in a foul mood, thanks to hispanygging behind Nathan''s new business. The sight of Jim only worsened his temper. "I don''t have time for this," he snapped.


    Unfazed, Jim replied smoothly, "Mr. Dawson, you might want to take a look at the divorce agreement Nellie drafted before you make any decisions."


    Jim handed him the agreement. Cameron, with his hands shoved in his pockets, eyed it with a dismissive sneer. "What''s there to see? It''s the usual story of emotional fallout and her leaving with nothing."


    Jim smiled, "This time, it''s different. You''re in for quite a shock, Mr. Dawson."


    Curiosity got the better of him, and Cameron opened the document. His eyes widened in disbelief. This time, Nellie wasn''t leaving empty-handed; she was demanding half of his assets. "In your dreams," Cameron scoffed.


    Jim exined, "Mr. Dawson, ording to the civil code, any ie earned during the marriage-like sries, bonuses, or business profits-is considered joint property."


    Cameron retorted, "I signed a prenup before we got married. Besides, my post-marriage ie is spent as soon as ites in."


    Jim chuckled lightly, "If every man followed your lead, Mr. Dawson, women might choose to stay single, and humanity might face extinction."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Cameron''s expression turned sour. He knew his actions towards Nellie were anything but noble. It wasmon for wealthy families to guard their fortunes, but none were as tight-fisted as he was.


    Jim continued, "Mr. Dawson, even though you didn''t contribute to Nellie''s wealth during your marriage, you must share the substantial debts she rued-fifty percent, to be exact."


    As Jim handed over the bill, Cameron stared at the lengthy list, feeling a headache beginning to throb.

 Chapter 123

    Cameron never thought Nellie could be such a spendthrift. Besides the massive debt she owed Nathan, her spending on luxury items over the years totaled in the billions.


    Cameron''s mind was as clear as day as he gritted his teeth. "Does she think that piling up all this debt will make me divorce her?"


    Jim gently nudged, "Mr. Dawson, if you don''t agree to a settlement divorce, Nellie might have no choice but to file for one." Cameron scoffed, "File for divorce?"


    With his resources, what could Nellie possibly use to fight him? He could drag it out forever if he wanted.


    Jim held up a thick folder. "Mr. Dawson, maybe you should take a look at the preparations Nellie has made for the divorce."


    Cameron took the folder. Inside were photocopies of him and Greta in more-than-friendly embraces, along with countless photos of hering and going from his bedroom. There were even records of all the expenses he''d covered for Greta.


    For years, he thought he''d been careful, sticking to the straight and narrow in his marriage, with nothing improper with Greta. Now, here were all these intimate photos,ying bare his favoritism towards Greta and his coldness towards Nellie. Holding the documents, Cameron felt his blood boil. "Nellie, I really underestimated you."


    Jim added more fuel, "Mr. Dawson, Nellie said if you stall on the divorce, she''ll release these photos on social media. She''s even nning to go live and tell the world how you tricked her into marriage."


    "Tricked her?" Panic shed in Cameron''s eyes. "Is that what she thinks?"


    Jim, all serious, replied, "Wouldn''t anyone think that after seeing these photos?"


    Sweat broke out on Cameron''s palms as he tried to keep calm. "You go back and tell her to wait for my decision."


    Jim nodded and left.


    Cameron returned home, feeling defeated. It took him ages to piece together his scattered thoughts. He let out a bitter smile, never imagining Nellie would drive him to such a state of panic.


    Nellie, who seemed tock any particr talent, turned out to be so shrewd. She''d endured everything just to gather evidence of his affair with Greta. Had he really been so blind?


    Cameron, who always valued his reputation, realized Nellie held the power to strip it away. For the first time, he felt a twinge of respect for her.


    Still, he clung to a thread of hope, believing her kindness might spare him if he yed his cards right. For the first time, Cameron genuinely called Nellie.


    The moment she picked up, Nellie asked, "Cameron, have you decided to go through with the divorce?"


    Divorce, divorce, always about divorce. Cameron didn''t get her stubbornness. He sighed, "Nel, let''s not divorce. We can make it work. I''ll be the husband I should be. As for Greta, I''ll keep my distance..." Nellie rolled her eyes. Just as she was about to hang up, Cameron added, "If you really don''t like me being close to your sister, I can send her abroad so we never have to see her again. How''s that?" Nellie rolled her eyes, "Why now? Cameron, your actiones toote."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Nellie hung up.


    Cameron was left dumbfounded. Even with all these concessions from him, Nellie still insisted on a divorce.


    Nellie forwarded the recording of Cameron''s desperate plea to Greta. And with a wicked remark, she wrote: [Looks like you''re not that important to Cameron after all. When ites to his interests, he can drop you too. So, what do you say, should I get back together with him?]

 Chapter 124

    Greta waspletely flummoxed by the message from Nellie. But the moment she hit y on the recording and heard Cameron and Nellie''s conversation, her face went as pale as a ghost. Cameron was seriously considering cutting her off just to patch things up with Nellie.


    She felt like a fragile vine, unable to survive without Cameron. Her health was in tatters, and medical bills were piling up. Cameron''s support was her lifeline. Her dad''s tiny, struggling business also relied heavily on Cameron''s generosity to stay afloat. Hands trembling, Greta picked up her phone, swallowing her pride for the first time, and begged Nellie, "Nel, what did you do to Cameron?"


    "Oh, nothing much. I just sent him some photos of your affair and evidence of him shuffling assets around during our marriage. He is scared stiff his dirty little secrets will get out, so he''s begging me not to divorce him," Nellie replied, cool as a cucumber. Greta''s face turned ashen with fear, but she also loathed Nellie for her cold-heartedness. "Nel, this will destroy him."


    Nellie didn''t give her another thought.


    Why would she? Ruining Cameron and Greta was her n all along. This pair of lowlifes had caused her daughter so much pain, and her sole purpose now was revenge.


    How could she have any sympathy for them?


    Perhaps the emotional turmoil was too much for Greta; her fragile health took another hit. By the next day, she was back in the hospital.


    Knowing just how to tug at heartstrings, she posted a pitiful hospital selfie on social media, captioning it: [Looks like I''m destined to be alone, just clinging on.]


    Seeing the woman he loved looking so worn out, Cameron couldn''t resist and called Greta tofort her.


    On the call, Greta poured out all herints about Nellie''s actions, ending with a trembling sob. "Cameron, don''t worry about me. You should be happy with her. I don''t want to hold you back. You''vee so far."


    Her noble gesture made Nellie seem even more spiteful byparison. Faced with such a stark contrast, Cameron''s heart leaned heavily towards Greta.


    Nellie didn''t give Cameron a moment to breathe. The next day, she posted a picture on social media of Cameron tending to Greta in the hospital with the caption: [My husband is doting on his first love at the hospital. Should I be jealous?]


    The post blew up. Thement section was flooded with strangers climbing onto their moral high horses to bash Cameron.


    [If he can''t let go of his first love, why did he marry someone else? Isn''t he just stringing his current wife along?]


    [What a disgusting couple.]


    [May all homewreckers get what they deserve.]


    [Those who betray love deserve the worst.]


    [No wonder she''s sick. Is this karma for breaking up a family?]


    Some folks even cooked up wild stories about Cameron and Greta''s so-called romance:


    [Maybe his first love had cancer back in the day and left quietly, not to burden him. Now, he''s sessful and married anew, but his first love has returned, ying the victim and saying it wasn''t her choice to leave. He was torn between past and present and chose the past.]


    [In reality, it wasn''t cancer, and she hadn''t died. The guy got duped. Onlyter did he realize his first love was toxic and his wife was the better choice. But now, his wife was done with him becausete apologies are worth nothing. So, did the wife finally have enough and decide to take down this toxic duo?]


    [Wow, you''re a badass. We''re all rooting for you. Ditch the loser and go shine on your own.]Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    In the midst of all this, Nellie was having a ball: [Thanks, everyone, for the support. I''ve got to get to work today, but stay tuned for more of my tragic marriage saga tomorrow.]

 Chapter 125

    Cameron flexed his massive influence like a storm, shutting down Nellie''s online ount with lightning speed. But by the very next day, Nellie was back with a new ount. This time, she didn''t just share the report of her kidney donation for Greta. Sheid out the whole story in broad strokes: [Young and foolish, I thought a man''s promises were as unbreakable as stone. In the end, I lost my kidney and my love. No, I realized, there was never any real love just my own naive dreams.] The drama was so juicy that thements section exploded with opinions.


    [This guy is way older than OP, and she was just a kid, totally innocent and clueless about the world''s harsh realities. No wonder she fell for his empty promises. What a jerk! He took his wife''s kidney and then cozied up to someone else while leaving his wife out in the cold. I bet he was plotting against her from the get-go.]


    [Oh my God, isn''t this just a straight-up con job?]


    [What a snake of a guy.]


    [Please, Lord, let me never meet a man like him.]


    [Isn''t this organ fraud or something?]


    Cameron read thesements, feeling a mix of shock, fear, and boiling anger. Nellie was like that annoying weed that just won''t die. Was she really trying to drag his name through the mud?


    Thankfully, she hadn''t dropped his name yet. There was still a chance to clean up his mess.


    But Nellie wasn''t giving him much wiggle room. She posted on a public tform: [If you keep hiding like a coward, I''ll spill your real identity tomorrow.]


    Even without naming names, everyone who knew Cameron could see Nellie was calling him out.


    Cameron realized if he kept stalling, everything he''d worked so hard for woulde crashing down. He thought, if a divorce is what she wants, then fine. Maybe it''s for the best.


    Just then, Griffin showed up at Cameron''s ce. He barely sat down beforeunching into a tirade. "Cameron, your wife is out there trashing your reputation, and you''re just sitting back, letting it happen?"


    Cameron''s mouth opened, but he couldn''t find the words. He couldn''t exactly tell Griffin that he was the reason Nellie, who once adored him, had turned into this. So, he dodged the real issue. "She''s just trying to push me into a divorce. Dad, I... I want out."


    Griffin, clearly fed up, snapped, "A divorce? I told you when you took Nellie''s kidney, you''d owe her forever. Now you want to leave her and prove you''re an ungrateful jerk?"


    Cameron argued, "But if I don''t, Nellie won''t stop. She''ll keep airing my dirtyundry."


    Griffin, in a rage, grabbed an ashtray and chucked it at Cameron, hitting his forehead and drawing blood.


    Griffin shouted, "If you knew this would happen, why did you ever get involved? You and that Greta should''ve been over ages ago."


    Cameron didn''t dare wipe the blood off. He just hung his head and took it. "Dad, I see where I messed up."


    Griffin softened a bit at his son''s genuine remorse. He suggested, "Look, women are easy to win over. Just clear Nellie''s debts, and she''lle around. Patch things up. And then, you and Nellie should think about having a kid. A child will tie her down, and she won''t be so quick to talk divorce." Cameron nodded. "Got it."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    To help Cameron weather the storm, Griffin lifted the financial restrictions he''d ced on him.

 Chapter 126

    Cameron reached out to Nathan the moment he got his hands on the cash. [Mr. Nathan, I need to talk to you about the debt between you and my wife.]


    Nathan was chilling at a club bar, embodying the carefree spirit of youth, engrossed in lively chats about life''s dreams with a bunch of equally cocky young men.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    He was all too happy to respond: [I''m at the bar, swing by.] He sent Cameron his location.


    Before long, Cameron walked in. He pushed open the door to find Nathan sprawled out on a couch, looking like he''d had a few too many, his expression slightly buzzed.


    There was Nellie, his wife, taking care of Nathan with a gentle touch. She dabbed a napkin at his lips and thoughtfully draped his jacket over him, probably to keep him from catching a cold. She was so practiced, it seemed like looking after Nathan was second nature to her.


    Even though Cameron had been there for a while, Nellie acted like he was invisible and had not acknowledged him in the slightest.


    Cameron went pale, his steps unsteady. His fists clenched so hard his nails almost broke the skin. "Nellie, what are you doing here?" he asked in a low voice, his tone filled with reproach.


    Nellie paid him no mind, but a nearby colleague filled him in, "Didn''t you know? Nellie is Nathan''s personal assistant. Taking care of him is part of her job."


    Only then did Cameron realize that Nellie was different today. In a white blouse and ck trousers, she looked elegant and sharp, her slim figure perfectly highlighted. There was an air of grace and intelligence about her. She was the picture of a confident, professional


    woman.


    Cameron was momentarily taken aback. He had never seen this side of Nellie before. She was striking, and he found himself unable to look away.


    Nathan''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Mr. Dawson, I''m not interested in installment ns."


    Cameron was shocked. Nathan had snagged Timeless Cycle at a steep price, then flipped it to Nellie at double the cost, tying her down with a sky-high breach of contract fee. He was the quintessential capitalist, ruthless and efficient.


    "Mr. Nathan, you''re raking in money faster than a mint. Aren''t you worried about using up all your luck too soon and making your life toughter on?" Cameron said with a sarcastic edge.


    Nathan chuckled. "I''ll take that as apliment."


    Cameron tried to negotiate. "I''ll offer you a billion. Hand Timeless Cycle back to me."


    Nathan replied, "Timeless Cycle is hers now. Whether she sells it to you is up to her."


    Nellie looked at him intently. "You know I''ve got my eyes set on Timeless Cycle. I suggest you let it go."


    Cameron''s handsome face showed a flicker of anger. "Nellie, since I''m footing the bill, Timeless Cycle should be mine."


    In his rush to make amends, he forgot that they were still married.


    Nellie stood tall, her voice dripping with disdain for Cameron. "You might as well give up. I''m not doing this deal."


    Cameron seethed, "Nellie, I''ve already helped you clear a massive debt. What''s the harm in giving me this stupid locket?"


    Nellie suddenly burst into a sad, mockingugh. "Oh, Cameron, you''re nning to use this locket to win over your old me, aren''t you? All that talk about cutting ties with Greta and sending her abroad was just to appease, wasn''t it?" Cameron looked panicked, his gaze darting around.


    Nellie said, "Good thing I stopped believing you a long time ago."

 Chapter 127

    Cameron stumbled over his words, trying to exin, "It''s just a broken locket. Why do you have to make a big deal? You know it''s for your sister. Her health is touch and go, and her life could end any day now. Think of it as doing a good deed, fulfilling herst wish. Nellie,


    this is thest time I''ll help her. I''m asking you, can''t you see reason?"Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Nellie stared at him, her face expressionless. At that moment, she had a sneaking suspicion that Cameron knew the true significance of Timeless Cycle.


    Nellie met his gaze, her words measured and steady. "Cameron, you love her, and you want to give her the best this world has to offer. But why on earth would I want a man whose heart is already taken by someone else?" "Cameron, you''re despicable."


    Cameron''s eyes widened, unable to find the words.


    Turning to Nathan, Nellie said, "Mr. Nathan, I can handle the billion on my own. Could you give me a bit more time?"


    Nathan, with a generous tone, replied, "I''m a man of my word. Our open-ended agreement stands, so you can pay back whenever. But-"


    With a sly look at Cameron, he added, "If you haven''t cleared your debt by the time you pass, your remains will belong to me."


    The taunting tone really got under Cameron''s skin.


    Nellie gave a wry smile, realizing Nathan was acting a bit immature. How could Cameron possibly care about her remains? He never cared about her in life. Why would he in death?


    "Don''t worry, whether I''m alive or not, you can deal with my body as you see fit," Nellie said.


    Nathan beamed, "Then it''s settled. No going back on this."


    "I won''t," Nellie confirmed.


    Cameron''s pride and ego were crushed under Nathan''s words, sparking frustration inside him.


    "Nellie, don''t forget you''re my wife. How can you let another man decide what happens to you?"


    Nellie replied firmly, "Not for much longer." Then, she took Nathan''s arm and walked away without a backward nce.


    Cameron stood there, dumbfounded, reying Nellie''s words in his mind: What did she mean?


    Two dayster, rity hit him like a ton of bricks.


    He received a divorce petition from the court, and at that moment, it felt like his veins were ready to burst, anger boiling inside him, leaving him feeling weightless.


    He had always thought Nellie''s talk of divorce was just a ploy to draw his attention away from Greta, not a sincere wish to end things. Seeing the divorce papers, he knew Nellie meant business this time.


    He sat down with the petition, carefully reading through it. His heart sank when he read the reason for divorce: "Significant change in behavior before and after marriage, unable to maintain the rtionship, failed to continue living together." Cameron''s mind raced through memories of their time before and after marriage.


    Before they got married, he was patient with her. He felt guilty for needing her kidney for Greta, so he was kind to her. He''d have meals with her, even go to school with her, and watch movies. He did all sorts of silly things that lovers would do. But after they tied the knot?


    His attitude changed drastically, thinking that giving her the title of Mrs. Dawson and afortable life was enough, so he stopped caring as much.


    Meanwhile, Greta, who had lost him, became his constant worry. Fearing she''d do something rash, he was always at her beck and call.


    There was definitely a change in his behavior.


    Reflecting on all this, Cameron closed his eyes, exhausted.


    He was only human, with feelings and desires. For the sake of a kidney, he gave up on love within reach, choosing to marry a woman he didn''t love. He thought his actions were justified.

 Chapter 128

    Nellie''s downfall was her own greed, throwing herpletely off bnce. After snagging the title of Mrs. Dawson, she still wanted more. What did Cameron do wrong?


    Nellie was born into luck but acted like she couldn''t see it and was asking for a divorce. Did she forget that without him, nobody would know who she was? Who would even notice her? Cameron was sure that once they divorced, Nellie would end up right back where she started, struggling to get by.


    "Nellie, you''re going to regret this," he thought, almost picturing her in tears, begging him to take her back. He felt a twisted sense of satisfaction in that image.


    Greta showed up out of nowhere, spotting the divorce papers without making a sound.


    "Cameron, my sister must have gotten some wise advice. Her push-and-pull game is on another level now," she said.


    Cameron stared at Greta, bewildered. "You think she''s just ying hard to get?"


    Even his massive ego couldn''t protect him from the mountain of evidence Nellie had gathered against him or her public airing of his dirtyundry.


    "Greta, I''ve really lost Nellie," he admitted.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Greta replied, "My sister''s being foolish. Once she leaves you, she won''t find anyone better. She''ll end up regretting this big time."


    Suddenly, Cameron pulled Greta into a hug, his affection spilling over. "Greta, I''ve put you through so much. But now that I''m divorcing Nellie, I can finally love you openly."


    Greta, overwhelmed with joy, cried, "Cameron, Nellie''s just driven you crazy. But I''m thrilled to be of use..."


    Cameron, touched, reassured her, "It''s not about using you, Greta. I''ve always held back. I really do love you."


    They embraced tightly, and Cameron no longer hid his affection for Greta. They started showing up at public events together and traveling. They were practically glued to each other, clearly a couple in love. Cameron even swapped out his wedding ring for a couple''s ring that matched with Greta''s, unting it proudly in front of the media.


    Their story caused quite a stir.


    Cameron''s friends rallied around the couple, congratting them for sticking together through thick and thin. "Wow, childhood sweethearts overcame everything if that''s not true love, what is?"


    Greta was so happy she needed something to fill her time. She cooked up a drama, creating an online ount to m Cameron: [Cheating while married, isn''t Cameron scared of karma?]


    Then, Greta leaked Nellie''s divorce petition, adding, "Divorce settled."


    She fueled an online frenzy against Nellie. Insults were flying: [Oh my gosh, she was just a nobody from the slums until Cameron picked her up. He gave her everything, and now she turns her nose up at him. Such ingratitude!] [Praying for karma to catch this ungrateful woman.]


    [It''s clear she''s from the bottom rung, inside and out. Cameron is better off without her. Does she think she can find someone better than him? She''lle crawling back one day, begging for forgiveness. And when she does, Cameron better not give in.]

 Chapter 129

    it didn''t do much to brighten the surroundings. It felt like one of those nights where dawn might nevere.


    The night was still and quiet. Only the stars in the night sky cast their chilly glow, keeping Nelliepany. She was curled up in the corner of the balcony, her smartphone resting beside her, a webpage still open. The faint light from the screen mingled with the starlight, but Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Nathan flicked on the light. Nellie scrambled to her feet, looking a bit frazzled. "Nathan, do you think I could take a break from work for a bit?"Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Nathan walked over, gently tucking her messy hair behind her ear. "Why''s that?"


    "My reputation''s taken a hittely, and I''m worried it might affect you too," she whispered.


    Nathan lifted her chin, making her look up at the stars. "Even the tiniest firefly can shine beautifully. You''ve always taught me to chase the light and walk in its glow. Now that you''re in a tough spot, how can you think of backing down instead of pushing through?" Nellie sat in silence for a moment before speaking. "I''m divorcing Cameron, and he''s bound to try everything to get back at me. It''d be better for you to keep your distance until this whole mess is over. I don''t want to drag you down with me." "You want me to just look out for myself? Wouldn''t that make me a jerk?" Nathan replied.


    "By keeping to yourself, you can help me from the shadows," Nellie reasoned.


    Nathan''s frustration faded, reced by a hint of a smile. "That actually makes sense. With you out in the open and me working behind the scenes, we can tackle Cameron together. It''ll add a bit of excitement to our lives. So, it''s settled. You can''t back out now." "Alright," Nellie agreed softly.


    Meanwhile, Cameron had been glued to his phone more than usual. Whether he was eating, sleeping, or working, he kept ncing at the screen, feeling strangely empty when there were no calls or messages from Nellie. He thought unting his rtionship with Greta would make Nellie jealous, just like before. But this time, there was nothing from her-no jealousy, no anger. It was like they were strangers, devoid of love or hate.


    This new Nellie was not what he had expected at all.


    Kristina''s call came out of the blue. Cameron picked up, hearing the urgency in her voice. "Cameron, the Dawson family''s new Alpany is about to go public. You need toy low. Your thing with Greta is causing a stir, and your dad''s really upset. He said if your personal life messes with the IPO, he''ll pull your responsibilities."


    Cameron''s face went pale. "He has only one son, and he''s threatening to strip me of my powers? What''s the old man thinking..."


    Kristina went silent, the tension almost palpable.


    She sighed, her tone soft yet heavy. "Cameron, I know you''re having a tough time. Ever since you got with Nellie, you haven''t smiled much. But this is a crucial moment. You need to think about the bigger picture. Maybe ease off seeing Greta for now and try to show a united front with Nellie..."


    Cameron sounded exhausted. "Mom, Nellie and I are actually in the middle of a divorce."


    Kristina was furious. "I suspected as much. A girl from a modest background can never be suitable. She just has to stir up trouble now. Tell her not to go overboard. If it affects your future, we won''t take her back, even if she begs to reconcile." Cameron rubbed his temples, feeling a headacheing on. "This time, she''s serious."


    Kristina was taken aback. "Cameron, you''re a smart guy. You know how a divorce could impact thepany right now. Don''t let your dad end up hating you." Her gentle tone felt like a weight pressing down on him.


    Facing reality, Cameron reluctantly picked up his phone and called Nellie.

 Chapter 130

    suck it up and deal with it.


    The ringtone barely got going before it was cut off. It was obvious-Nellie had hung up on him on purpose. Cameron was so mad he was about to block her, but with hispany about to go public, her timing with this divorce talk was like a punch to the gut. He had to He called her again, letting it ring and ring until Nellie finally picked up. Her voice was a mix of irritation and impatience, full of rejection and disdain-just like how he''d treated her in the past.


    "Cameron, there''s nothing left for us to discuss. Just leave me alone..."


    It felt like someone had dumped a bucket of ice water over him. "Nellie, haven''t you always wanted to talk about the divorce?"


    Nellie hesitated, resisting the urge to hang up again. "This is a critical time for the Dawson family''s newpany going public. Do you know how much your antics could damage my career?" Nellie''s voice was icy. "I remember the prenup we signed. If we divorce, I don''t get a cent of your wealth. So why should I care about your career?"


    Cameron felt like he''d been punched in the chest. The girl who once loved him to pieces now didn''t give a damn about his future. When did she change so much?


    "Nellie, I agree to the divorce. But I''ve got two conditions."


    Nellie wanted nothing more than to wash her hands of Cameron. "What are they?"


    He hesitated. "We can divorce, but the announcement has to wait until after thepany goes public. Until then, you''ll have to keep up appearances as my loving wife." Nellie almost bit her tongue in frustration.


    Cameron, sensing her thoughts, said, "You know that without my agreement, a contested divorce could drag on for two years."


    Swallowing her disgust, Nellie reluctantly agreed, "Fine."


    Cameron was taken aback. "You agreed so quickly? Is being with me really that unbearable?"


    Nellie couldn''t even muster the energy to lift an eyebrow. "You''re only just figuring that out? What''s the second condition?"


    Cameron seemed to gather all his courage. "Nellie, have a child with me."


    Nellie felt like she''d heard the most ridiculous thing ever, almost causing her brain to short-circuit. "Cameron, are you serious? We''re getting divorced, and you want me to have your child?" Cameron replied confidently, "I''ll pay you. You won''t lose out."


    Nellieughed in disbelief. "How much?" She wanted to know what price he put on their child.


    "A million?"


    She almostughed herself silly. She was worth millions now, and his offer seemedughable. But she couldn''t unt her wealth before the divorce.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Cameron-true to your capitalist nature. You married me, used my kidney to save your first love, and now you want to use my womb toplete your happy family with Greta?"


    Her eyes suddenly filled with emotion, anger bubbling over. "Cameron, this is in bullying. Are you trying to bleed me dry? You just won''t stop until there''s nothing left, huh?"


    Cameron''s face went pale-he felt a wave of panic, his words stumbling awkwardly, "Nel, it''s not like that. I can''t sleep with strangers, and we were married. I didn''t know you were so against me. If the money''s not enough, just name your price. I''ll make it happen." Nellie''s voice turned cold. "Cameron, do you know why I terminated my pregnancy?"

 Chapter 131

    "What do you mean? Wasn''t it because you just had a kidney donation surgery, and your health was so poor that you were forced to terminate it?"


    Nellie''s face twisted into a dark, sinister smile. "You''re really full of yourself. Cameron, the real reason is... she was your child. I couldn''t stand the thought of her carrying your filthy blood. I was worried she''d inherit your bad genes... and even more terrified that she''d keep me tied to you forever, like a stubborn piece of gum on my shoe."


    Cameron felt a chill run down his spine, his self-delusions crumbling under Nellie''s blunt words. His voice shook uncontrobly. "Nellie, did you really hate me that much from the start?"


    "If you weren''t so arrogant, you''d have realized long ago that I don''t have an ounce of affection left for you."


    Cameron''s breath caught in his throat. His mind was reeling, struggling to process the gravity of her words. "Nellie... I only took one kidney from you. And it was a donation you volunteered for. You can''t hold that against me."


    Nellie rolled her eyes. "Cameron, I''m not ming you. I''m ming myself. I was blind, both in heart and mind, for not seeing through your deceitful facade."


    The word "deceit" hit Cameron like a punch to the gut. He hadn''t expected her to see him as such a lowlife.


    Cameron scrambled to exin, "Nellie, you''ve got it all wrong. I married you with honest intentions. As long as you don''t file for divorce, you''ll always be my wife ... my promise stands."


    "Your wife" Nellieughed bitterly. "This so-called Mrs. Dawson is the biggest joke in town. I''m tagged with the Dawson family name but without the perks-no luxury, nofort of a shared bed. Even when I was sick and needed money, I had to go through your assistant. Cameron, did you ever truly see me as your wife?"


    Cameron''s face flushed with shame.


    "Nel, I admit I was thoughtless. From now on, I''ll give you a credit card and a monthly allowance. You won''t have to go through Matt anymore..."


    "Cameron, it''s toote." Nellie''s voice turned sharp. "You know how maddening it is to be stuck with someone you don''t love."


    Cameron felt an emptiness creeping through his veins but pressed on. "Nellie, we won''t get divorced. I''ll make it up to you..." Tears glinted in Nellie''s eyes. "Cameron, I''ll make you beg me for a divorce."


    Nellie hung up.


    To her, Cameron was nothing but an enemy. There was no chance she''d reconcile or help hispany out of its mess.


    A sly, wicked smile crept across Nellie''s face. She opened herptop,piled her divorce saga with videos and photos, and posted it all over social media with the caption: [A marriage rotten to the core, should''ve ended ages ago...] With a sense of finality, she hit send. Then, she shut off her phone, climbed into bed, and slept like a baby.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron had tossed and turned all night, gued by insomnia. It was well past noon when he finally woke up, jolted by a sharp p. His eyes flew open to find his family gathered around his bed, their faces etched with seriousness. Cameron frowned, puzzled. "What are you all doing here?"


    "Oh, Cameron, how can you be sleeping at a time like this? Do you have any idea what''s happening? It''s like the world is ending," Kristina said, panic evident in her voice.


    "What happened?" A sense of dread washed over Cameron as he picked up on Kristina''s urgency.


    His sister''s voice trembled, "Cam, you need to check today''s trending topics."

 Chapter 132

    Cameron grabbed his phone from the nightstand, and as soon as he unlocked it, he was hit with a flurry of trending news:


    [Cameron''s Marriage Meltdown!]


    [Mrs. Dawson''s social media rant about her terrible marriage was she hinting at Cameron''s betrayal?]


    [An everyday woman facing her wealthy husband''s cheating is bravely asking for a divorce. Is her courage a result of pent-up anger, or does even this ordinary woman have immense pride?]


    [Dawson International''s stock is tanking. Cameron is finally reaping the consequences of his reckless behavior.]


    ...


    Cameron''s face turned stormy with anger. "What on earth did Nellie post on social media?"


    "We can''t put it into words. You should see for yourself."


    Cameron tried to check Nellie''s social media but found he''d been blocked. He couldn''t see a thing.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Thankfully, Cameron''s sister had her phone. Cameron managed to read Nellie''s lengthy post. Without directly naming him and Greta, every word painted them as the ultimate viins, using them of infidelity and deceit. He had no idea she was such a wordsmith.


    Under her post, people had already pieced together the story, angrily calling out the culprits: [Wow, so marrying into money is this tough? No wonder there''s so much scandal in high society.]


    [Who would''ve thought Cameron is such a jerk? With all the women out there, why did he have to go for his wife''s sister? No wonder Mrs. Dawson had the guts to file for divorce.]


    [Just a few days ago, Cameron and his first love, Greta, showed up at an event, and their vibes were totally off. Their chemistry was obvious. So he really was having an affair.]


    ...


    Cameron''s expression darkened further. His grip on the phone was so tight it nearly shattered.


    "Nellie, you shouldn''t have dragged Greta into this mess. Congrattions, you''ve really ticked me off. And just how do you think you''re going to take me on?"


    Griffin, furious, pped Cameron again, clutching his chest as heshed out. "You... Dawson International shares have been dropping since this morning. Our doorstep is littered with trash, and all you care about is protecting your old me. Cameron, you''ve let me down." Kristina quickly helped Griffin, soothing him, "Honey, don''t get worked up. Cameron messed up, but he''ll sort this out. Let''s head home."


    As soon as Griffin and Kristina left, Cameron''s gaze turned ice-cold. Touching his cheek, still stinging from his father''s p, he muttered darkly, "Nellie, you''ve forced me to do this."


    When Nellie woke up and checked her phone, she found dozens of missed calls and a pile of unopened voicemails.


    They were from Greta, Cameron, and from Patrick and Miranda.


    Greta was sniffling as she apologized: "Nel, we''re sisters. How could you put me on st online and let strangers tear me apart? I admit I love Cameron, but he was my boyfriend first. You know why he married you. You were the other woman!" Miranda was downright scolding Nellie: "Nellie, you''ve really let us down. How could you be so cruel, hurting your sister like this?"


    Patrick wasying down thew: "Nellie, you need to pull down your nastyments on social media right now. You owe your sister an apology. You''ve upset her so much she''s fallen ill. Got it?"


    "Nellie, if anything happens to your sister, you''ll regret it."

 Chapter 133

    Nellie watched the group who imed to be her closest family. They were always so worried about Greta, but not one of them ever cared about what she was going through.


    They were genuinely kind to Greta but just as genuinely indifferent to her.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Frustrated, she tossed her phone away.


    "Ouch..." A soft groan followed as the phone smacked into Nathan, who had just walked in. With quick reflexes, Nathan caught it before it hit the ground.


    "Who got you so riled up?" Nathan asked, ncing at the phone for answers.


    When he saw the Brown family''s group chat ganging up on Nellie, he watched her sorrowful face and quietly removed her from the chat.


    "If they make you unhappy, then keep your distance. We can''t choose our family, but we can choose to avoid harm," Nathan said, sitting beside her with concern.


    Nellie sighed, feeling defeated. "Nathan, are they really my real parents? I''m their daughter, too, so why is it that they only care about my sister? Greta gets a headache, and they freak out, but if I were dying, they''d justin about me messing up their floor." Nellie couldn''t forget her past life. After donating a kidney and the struggles of childbirth, her health deteriorated under long-term neglect and sadness. She was ultimately overtaken by illness.


    When doctors told her she was in thete stages of cancer, with not much time left, she longed for some warmth from her parents. But they offered nothing, afraid she''d be a burden. Patrick even said, "If you''re going to die, do it far away and don''t drag us down." At that moment, Nellie felt as if her blood had turned to ice. She waspletely frozen in shock. Even though it was June, it felt like she was in an icebox.


    Living her life over again, Nellie realized her parents'' indifference and cruelty had always been there. She''d been too blind to see it before.


    Nathan patted her hand, saying, "Nellie, not every parent is worthy of the title."


    "You shouldn''t let their negativity weigh you down. How about I take you to work? People might let you down, but work won''t."


    "Alright."


    With Nathan''s encouragement, Nellie''s gloom lifted as quickly as a summer rain.


    Turning her pain into drive, she enthusiastically spread her design drafts in front of Nathan. "Nathan, these are the debut designs I''ve created for ourpany. There are about fifty styles. Help me pick the best ones."


    After looking through the designs, Nathan couldn''t help but praise, "Your designs are the most creative I''ve seen. We need to show these to some key partners."


    He stood up, a hint of mystery in his voice, "Come, I''ve got a ce to take you."


    In Room 916 at the Clubhouse, a group of young fashion elites from the Capital had gathered. As Nathan and Nellie walked in, they stood up respectfully. "Mr. Nathan."


    Nathan gestured for them to sit and began introducing these fashion industry contacts to Nellie. "These are my friends. I''ve invited them to be part of our newpany''sunch. Everyone here will be our partners."

 Chapter 134

    Nellie''s jaw nearly hit the floor as she scanned the faces around the table. These weren''t just any faces. They belonged to the heirs of various rich families.


    Right now, they looked like innocent youngsters, but give it a few years, and they''d be the movers and shakers of the Capital''s fashion scene. Chloe? She was destined to be the next big thing on the international supermodel circuit. Nancy? She''d be taking the reins of the Capital''srgest jewelry empire. And Jay? A hotshot fashion designer everyone would be moring for. Surrounded by these future titans, Nellie could feel her heart race. Her nerves were twisting like a tangled ball of yarn.


    Nathan rose to the asion, introducing Nellie with a gravitas that demanded attention. "Ladies and gentlemen, meet Ms. Nellie, the lead designer at ourpany and the visionary behind our ''Forever Yours'' line. I trust you''ll coborate with her to elevate our luxury brand to the pinnacle of the Capital''s market and beyond."


    A bold voice cut through the introduction, "Mr. Nathan, I''ve always admired your acumen, but why are you appointing Mrs. Dawson as your creative director? I''ve heard shecks the education and fashion sense necessary for such a crucial role. Can she truly manage it?" Nathan chuckled, unruffled, and turned to Nellie with a soft smile. "Looks like you''ll have to show them what you''re made of."


    Nellie pulled out herptop, and as it powered up, she smoothlyunched into her design philosophy. "I''ve burned the midnight oil crafting dozens of designs for socialites, homemakers, students, and career pros..."


    A voice interrupted, dripping with skepticism, "I prioritize quality over quantity in my designs."


    Nellie remained unfazed. She had long grown used to such doubts. Years of character attacks by Cameron and Greta had made skepticism a constantpanion.


    With herptop ready, Nellie opened the neatly categorized folders, each a treasure trove of creativity. She started with the socialite collection, and the room collectively gasped. The designs boasted lines that were both soft and striking, colors that whispered sophistication, and styles that married simplicity with a touch of opulence that resonated with everyone. Each detail screamed elegance. "Did you really create these?" someone asked, almost in disbelief.


    Nellie nced up, locking eyes with her critic. She memorized his outfit, then deftly opened a design application, sketching his attire with a level of skill that left no room for doubt. She then set to tweak the details.


    With a few expert touches on fabric and buttons, his ensemble transformed, radiating a newfound nobility.


    "Wow, that''s incredible," came the unanimous praise.


    Nathan surveyed the room, "Now, do you see what our creative director can do?"


    "Absolutely, we''re convinced."


    "From now on, address her as Miss Nathalie. She''s the only prot¨¦g¨¦ of Jasmine and a key asset to ourpany. But for now, her identity has to stay under wraps."


    "No wonder. She''s exceptional!" everyone agreed, thoroughly impressed.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The meeting wrapped up swiftly, hitting all the crucial points.


    As Nathan and Nellie exited the venue, they happened to run into Cameron at the mall below.

 Chapter 135

    Cameron''s gaze was like a hawk zeroing in on Nellie, simmering with resentment. But Nellie stood tall, meeting his stare head-on, defiant and unwavering. Sensing the tension, Nathan smoothly excused his friends and leaned in to whisper to Nellie, "I''ll be waiting in the car. Just call me if you need me." She nodded in response.


    Cameron moved closer, his presence almost suffocating. Towering over her, he spoke through gritted teeth, "Nellie, you''re really pulling out all the stops for this divorce. Fine, have it your way! But let''s get one thing straight: once it''s done, we''re done. No ties whatsoever." Nellie''s eyes sparkled with a fierce determination. "Cameron, don''t worry. After the divorce, you and I will be done with each other."


    Cameron''s pride stung, and he was baffled at her confidence in leaving him behind. He tried to bring her back to reality. "Nellie, you''ve had it easy for too long. Do you really think you can just slip into Nathan''s world? Without the Mrs. Dawson badge, you''re nothing. You''re acting all high and mighty after a few days as a secretary."


    Nellie just gave him a knowing smile.


    Cameron had always seen Nellie as delicate, but he had no idea that since withdrawing her love, she''d beenser-focused on her career, carving out her own path. Nathan? He was just a cherry on top, not her saving grace.


    "Nellie, remember, no matter how tough it gets, don''te running back to me," Cameron warned, biting back his frustration.


    Nellie rolled her eyes. "Cameron, why are you so convinced that I''ll fall apart without you?"


    "You''ll only be a woman without a safety. You don''t get it, do you?" Cameron retorted.


    Nellie''s face flushed with determination. "I don''t need a safety. I am my own safety."


    Having lived a life where everyone let her down, she knew better than to rely on anyone but herself.


    Cameron found her resolve amusing. "Nellie, let''s see how that goes."


    Nellie was done with the conversation. "Cameron, see you at the courthouse tomorrow. Don''t back out this time." Then, she turned and walked away.


    Cameron shouted after her, "Nellie, delete your social media ounts!"


    She waved him off, "Divorce first, then we''ll talk."


    Cameron was left fuming.


    As she settled into Nathan''s car, Nellie''s slight smile caught Nathan''s attention. "So, he finally agreed?" Nathan teased.


    Nellie nodded, unable to hide her joy. "Yep."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Nathan let out a breath he didn''t realize he was holding. Then, with a yful grin, he suggested, "To celebrate your soon-to-be freedom, how about a fancy dinner tonight?" Nellie happily agreed.


    As soon as Nathan parked, Nellie jumped out to open the passenger door for him, all formal-like.


    Nathan paused, a shadow crossing his bright eyes. "You don''t have to stay in character. It''s after hours. Even secretaries clock out."

 Chapter 136

    Nellie could tell Nathan was in one of his moods, so she quickly tried to calm him down. "Nathan, we can''t keep pretending forever. Tomorrow, I''m divorcing Cameron, and then I can go back to being Nathalie." Nathan''s handsome features finally rxed at her words.


    As they walked into the restaurant, Nathan felt a slight warmth in the air and casually shrugged off his coat. Nellie acted like an eager helper, and rushed to grab it. With a resigned sigh, Nathan tossed it to her.


    Just then, a woman barreled through, too absorbed in her phone call to watch her step, and identally sent Nellie sprawling to the ground. Nathan immediately stepped in front of the woman, his expression icy. She looked up, frowning, only to freeze when she saw Nathan, her mouth falling open in surprise. "Apologize to the person you bumped into," Nathan ordered.


    The woman, who seemed to recognize Nathan, grudgingly came back and muttered a reluctant, "Sorry."


    Nellie thought the voice sounded familiar, and looking up, a flood of memories rushed back. She finally realized it was Fiona, Greta''s best friend.


    In a past life, Nellie had met Fiona at a birthday party Cameron threw for Greta. Greta was draped in a luxurious gown courtesy of Cameron, while Nellie, in a cheap outfit, hade with her sick child to find Nathan. Fiona had mistaken her for a nanny.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    At this moment, though, Fiona clearly didn''t recognize Nellie. After Nellie divorced Cameron, she wanted to cut ties with the past and avoid getting tangled up in Greta''s socialwork. She shook her head at Fiona, letting her off the hook. "I''m fine. You can go."


    Fiona, visibly relieved, picked up her phone and spoke to whoever that was urgently, "Keep your cool. Don''t let those online trolls get to you. Remember, you''re two months pregnant now. Girl, take care of the baby and use that leverage to cement your status in the Capital''s elite circles. Don''t forget to help me out when you''ve made it..."


    Nellie watched Fiona''s retreating figure, her expression growing darker by the moment. She turned to Nathan with a seemingly random question, "Why do you think Cameron''s suddenly so eager to divorce me?"


    Nathan, ever perceptive, had caught onto the underlying secrets in Nellie''s gaze towards Fiona. With a knowing smile, he replied, "Probably because he''s trying to hide his affair."


    Nellie''s smile turned wickedly charming. "I suddenly don''t want to divorce him anymore!"


    Nathan chuckled, "Whatever that makes you happy."


    "No matter what you decide, I''ve got your back," he added, with a yful tone to show his support.


    He knew she carried a lot of unresolved anger and bitterness. If she didn''t find a way to let it out, he worried she might crumble one day.


    Nellie stuffed Nathan''s coat back into his arms, suddenly changing her mind. "Nathan, I''m sorry. I have to leave you today. Tonight, I want to visit my dear sister at the Brown family estate."


    Nathan feigned disappointment. "You know, you''re the first girl who''s ever stood me up."


    Nellie coaxed him, "I''ll make it up to you with a nice dinner..."


    When Nathan kept a serious face, Nellie sweetened the deal. "How about I warm your feet in the winter?"


    Nathan finally broke into a smile. "Alright then, I''ll drive you there."


    At the Brown family estate, Nellie gazed at the duplex vi. Even though, in the Capital, such a vi couldn''tpete with the sprawling estates of the wealthy elite, to Nellie, who grew up in the slums, this ce once felt like a slice of paradise.

 Chapter 137

    It was a shame she was born into hell without a ticket to heaven. Nellie rapped on the door, and the nanny eventually showed up, clearly annoyed. "Who''s knocking at this hour?" she grumbled. When she opened the door and saw Nellie, her eyes widened in surprise. "Oh, Ms. Nellie, what brings you here?"


    Nellie brushed past her without a second thought. "This is my home, isn''t it? Why can''t I be here?"


    The nanny was left speechless. Quickly, she scurried off to get backup, and soon enough, Greta made her way downstairs, taking her sweet time.


    "Nel, what brings you back all of a sudden?" Greta asked, looking quite pleased with herself. Her cheeks were rosy, showing no signs of being bothered by the online scandal that had erupted. Nellie''s eyes lingered on Greta''s belly. t as it was, she knew it carried a child.


    Her husband''s child.


    "I''m divorcing Cameron, and then I''ll have nowhere to go. Greta, you wouldn''t mind if I crashed here for a while, would you?"


    "Absolutely not." Greta blurted out without a second thought.


    Nellie, not pleased, shot back, "I''m part of the Brown family, too. Why can''t I stay here like you?"


    Greta''s voice rising in panic, "You know Dad''s not fond of you. If you insist on staying here, he might just get sick from the stress."


    Nellie frowned, ying up the drama, "So what am I supposed to do? If I have nowhere to go, maybe I shouldn''t get divorced."


    Greta''s face went pale, and she grabbed Nellie''s hand, desperate. "You''ve been waiting for this divorce from Cameron for so long. He finally agreed! If you pass up this chance, it might note again."


    Nellie watched her, amused. "Greta, are you that eager to take my ce?"


    Greta guiltily said, "Nel, I''m only thinking of you. You went to such lengths to force this divorce, even dragging Cameron''s name through the mud. Now, the Dawson family probably hates you. If you don''t go through with it, do you really think they''ll wee you?" She added, with fake innocence, "What''s it to me if you get divorced or not?"


    Nellie smiled. "Don''t worry. I''m definitely divorcing Cameron."


    Greta visibly rxed.


    But then Nellie added, "However, if I have nowhere to stay, I might just change my mind about the divorce."


    Greta couldn''t hide her panic. "I''ll find you a ce right away."


    She darted out with her phone, returning shortly with a triumphant look. "Nel, a friend is letting me stay at his vi in the suburbs for a bit. Can you move in tonight?"


    "It''s in the eastern suburbs, right?"Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    "How''d you guess?"


    "Is it Bayview Vi?"


    Greta''s face drained of color.


    Nellie smirked, "Cameron bought you that ce with our marital assets, didn''t he?"


    Greta swallowed, "How did you know?"


    Nellie didn''t bother answering. She had all the evidence of Cameron''s sneaky dealings.


    Greta, now timid, asked, "Nel, why did you reallye here today?"


    Nellie stared at her with disdain. "Just wanted to see how much sisterly love we have left."


    Greta''s eyes filled with shame. Nellie had donated a kidney to her, but when Nellie needed a ce to stay during her divorce, Greta turned her back. It was clear Greta had lost her ce in Nellie''s heart.


    "Nel, if you want toe back and live here, it''s not out of the question..." Greta tried to patch things up, "but you''ll need to change your attitude and get along with us."


    Nellie looked at her like she was the punchline to a bad joke. "Greta, do you really think I wanted toe back and live here?"


    Greta blinked, confused.


    Nellie dropped the bomb. "Given your ''ster performance'' tonight, I''ve decided to stick it out with Cameron a bit longer."

 Chapter 138

    Greta shivered a bit, "You don''t need ten months just to find a new ce, right?"


    Nellie smirked, her eyes filled with irony as she watched Greta. The realization hit Greta like a ton of bricks. Ten months was exactly when her baby was due, wasn''t it? Her eyes widened in horror. "Do you know something...?"


    Nellie didn''t bother to answer. Her coldugh said it all.


    Greta felt her knees buckle, and she nearly copsed on the floor. "Nellie, what do you want from me?"


    Hands tucked casually in her pockets, Nellie replied, "So after I married Cameron, I got nothing out of it, and also lost a kidney to boot? Do you think I would be okay with this?" "What do you want, then?"


    Nellie yed with her nails, exuding confidence. "I''m not gonna miss out on anything that''s supposed to be mine."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Greta''s voice quivered. "Alright, I''ll have Cameron make it up to you. How about the vi in Bayshore? Will that suffice?"


    Nellie scoffed, "You think a vi in the suburbs is enough to buy me off?"


    Greta snapped, "Nellie, you came from nothing. Living in a vi should be more than you ever dreamed of."


    Nellie pped her. "Greta, you ungrateful thing! It''s because of me that you''re still breathing."


    Just then, Patrick walked in, seeing Greta clutching her face, tears streaming down. He exploded with anger, "Nellie, who let you in here? How dare you bully your sister? Where''s the housekeeper? Bring me the family whip. I''m gonna teach this rebellious girl a lesson!" The housekeeper swiftly took down the family whip-a nasty, spiky thing and handed it to Patrick.


    In a sh, Patrick swung it at Nellie. His moves were so quick that Nellie didn''t even have a chance to react.


    The whip struck her, tossing her frail body into the air before she crashed back down. Her back burned as if it had been set on fire. It felt like an eternity before Nellie regained consciousness.


    With bloodshot eyes, she shouted, "Go ahead, kill me if you dare. If you don''t, I''ll drag the entire Brown family down with me."


    Patrick raised the whip again, but Greta, terrified by Nellie''s threat, stepped in. "Dad, you can''t hit her."


    Patrick was bewildered. "Greta, she''s the reason you''re being harassed online. Why are you defending her?"


    Greta couldn''t meet Nellie''s gaze.


    Nellie slowly got up, her face twisted with a venomous smile, "Why would she stick up for me? She''s just scared because I''ve got dirt on her."


    The truth hit Patrick, and he let the whip fall from his hand. He stared at Nellie, his face pale. "What do you have on your sister?"


    Nellie replied, "You always wanted to be the father-inw of Cameron, right? But thanks to what you did today, that dream is over." Then, Nellie struggled to leave.


    "I''m not getting a divorce. Your daughter will always be the other woman, and your grandkid will forever bebeled a bastard."


    Patrick panicked, "Nellie, you can''t do this to your sister."


    Nellie turned back, "If you want me to divorce, transfer all your assets to me, no strings attached. I''ll consider it a gesture of your so-called fatherly love, and agree to the divorce."

 Chapter 139

    The following day, Cameron arrived at the registration office bright and early, but despite all his waiting, Nellie was a no-show.


    Matt pondered aloud, "Boss, I reckon Mrs. Dawson isn''t really serious about the divorce. Maybe she just wanted to get a rise out of you by bringing it up, but she never thought you''d actually go along with it. Now she''s probably gone into hiding." Cameron''s eyes were shadowed with confusion. He was baffled by Nellie''s actions. She was the one pushing for the divorce, but here she was, not showing up. What was her game?


    Instead of Nellie, it was Greta who showed up, bursting out of a cab in a whirlwind of panic. "Cameron, stop waiting. Nellie... she''s noting."


    Cameron smirked, a hint of sarcasm in his voice. "Nellie, you think you can just y me like that?"


    Frustrated, he barked orders at Matt, "Go find Nellie and bring her here. This marriage ends today."


    "Yes, sir," the assistant replied with determination.


    Cameron didn''t catch the anxious look in Greta''s eyes. Once Matt was out of earshot, Greta confessed, "Cameron, Nellie is stalling because she found out about our secret..."


    Cameron''s expression turned stormy. He had always been so careful and never crossed boundaries with Greta for fear of tarnishing his reputation and ruining his promising future. But a month ago, in a moment of anger towards Nellie and under the influence of too much alcohol, he had let things go too far with Greta, leaving behind undeniable evidence of his infidelity.


    Greta''s health was fragile, and Cameron hadn''t wanted her to go through the ordeal of childbirth. However, Greta pleaded with tears in her eyes to keep the baby, and even the doctor warned that an abortion might make future pregnancies difficult. In the end, Cameron agreed to keep the child.


    He had hoped that by quickly divorcing Nellie, he and Greta could get married fast, and they could pass off any early birth as premature, hiding his wrongdoing. But he hadn''t counted on Nellie being so well-informed. How had she found out?Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    For the first time, Cameron harshly scolded Greta, "Why did you let it slip that you were pregnant?"


    Greta looked utterly distressed. "Cameron, I didn''t tell anyone." Then, a thought struck her, filling her with dread.


    "Could it have been her? Fiona? Cameron, Fiona was the only one I told. You know she''s my best friend, and we share everything. I didn''t think she''d spill the beans," Greta sobbed, looking heartbroken.


    "How could you be so careless with such a sensitive secret?" Cameron''s voice was sharp, his frustration boiling over.


    Terrified, Greta kept apologizing, "Cameron, I''m so sorry."


    Cameron sighed in despair. "Sorry isn''t enough now. We need to shut Nellie down."


    Greta added, "She wants me to hand back all the assets you gave me during your marriage, just like that."


    Cameron was taken aback. "She''s got some nerve. Those assets are mine to give away. Why should I hand them back?"


    Greta looked troubled. "She ims that marrying you brought her no benefits, and she even lost of a kidney. If we can''t find a way to ease her resentment, she''ll drag this out and make sure your child is born out of wedlock." Cameron had never been so cornered, his handsome face flushed with anger. But his love for Greta and their unborn child was too strong, and in the end, he decided to give in.

 Chapter 140

    "It''s just a few properties. Let her have them. Our child shouldn''t be looked down upon."


    Greta struggled to find her words, "She doesn''t want just that. She wants my dad to hand over all his assets to her, no strings attached."


    Cameron''s eyes turned wide as saucers. He couldn''t believe how greedy Nellie had be.


    "How did she turn into this?" he wondered. The sweet, kind Nellie had somehow morphed into a vindictive, petty, and insatiably greedy person.


    Tears welled up in Greta''s eyes as she said, "Cameron, if we don''t give in, what if she spills our secret?"


    Cameron dered, "I''ll hire the best legal team and fight her in court. Nellie, I can''t wait to see what you''ve got against me."


    A relieved Greta responded, "Cameron, finally, you''re taking a stand against her. Nellie''s just all bark and no bite. Her bravado is all because you''ve let her. Now that you''re ying hardball, she might even get scared."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron chuckled at himself. "I used to be too soft, letting her get away with too much. Once thewsuit kicks off, she''ll see how foolish it is to go against me."


    Greta smiled, feeling at ease.


    When Nellie got the court summons, she wasn''t surprised. "Cameron, if you''d rather take this to court than settle things, I''ll make sure you regret it."


    She leaked the news of their divorce case online: [The jerk finally showed some decency, agreeing to divorce. But through awsuit. My ten years with him was just wasted.]


    The inte exploded with the news.


    On one side was the powerful heir, on the other, a helpless girl, Nellie. Public opinionrgely rallied behind Nellie.


    Of course, Cameron also hired some trolls to try to shake Nellie''s confidence.


    [Rumor has it Cameron has hired the top legal team from the Capital, and they''re known for never losing a case. What''s Nellie got to fight with?]


    [Whether Cameron cheated is still uncertain. Nellie''s evidencecks punch. Maybe his kindness to Greta is just nostalgia for an old love, and Nellie''s being irrationally jealous? Besides, in today''s world, which guy doesn''t stray? And he''s been dealing with someone as shallow as Nellie every day, so can you even me him?]


    ...


    Nellie frowned as she read about "the best legal team." Only now did she see how outmatched her courage was against reality.


    A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts.


    "Come in," Nellie said, her voice a bit raspy.


    Nathan entered, apanied by a refined gentleman. Nellie looked at him, surprised.


    Nathan announced, "Nellie, if Cameron''s got the best from the Capital, then we''ll get the world-renownedwyer, Mr. Wade."


    Nellie eximed, "Wade?"


    She''d heard about Wade''s sky-high fees, even higher than international superstars could afford. Plus, Wade only took on one case a year, and those who could hire him were global powerhouses.


    How Nathan, so young, managed to get Wade on their side was beyond her.

 Chapter 141

    Nellie had put Mr. Wade in charge of all things rted to her divorce, diving headfirst into her work while waiting for the legal wheels to turn. Her calm demeanor seemed to unsettle her rivals.


    Greta, feeling antsy, asked Cameron, "Cameron, why haven''t we heard a peep from Nellie''s side?"


    Cameron smirked, "She''s probably scared stiff."


    Kristina chimed in, "She''s just like a leaf in the wind and won''t be floating around much longer."


    Greta let out a heartyugh, but thatughter didn''tst long.


    Just three days before the court date, Cameron got a notice: Nellie wanted their divorce to be made public. That sent Cameron through the roof. He called her up immediately and snapped, "Do you think divorce is some badge of honor? Why are you making it public?" Nellie barely looked up from her sketches, "Because I''m not the one who''s going to look bad."


    Cameron''s face turned a shade darker. "Nellie, why are you trying so hard to embarrass me?"


    Nellie, still unfazed, said, "You made me the Capital''sughing stock first."


    Cameron was left speechless. He knew that Nellie only his wife in name. Without his financial backing, she was often the punchline among the city''s elites. He''d thought she was tough-skinned enough to brush off the mockery. Turns out, it had cut deeper than he imagined.


    "I''m not agreeing to a public trial..."


    "I''m insisting on it."


    And they were at a standoff.


    Cameron shouted, "Nellie, can''t we be reasonable here?"


    Nellie stood her ground, "If you won''t agree to a public trial, I won''t show up."


    She wasn''t the one eager to get this divorce over with. She knew Cameron wouldn''t want their childbeled illegitimate.


    Frustrated, Cameron finally gave in. He just wanted the divorce to be finalized quickly. "Nellie, you''re something else. Fine, public it is. Let''s see who ends up looking foolish. I have an ace legal team that''ll clear me of all the nonsense you''re trying to pin on me." Nellie snorted, dripping with sarcasm.


    "Cameron, your mistress is already carrying your child. Still want to im the affair is baseless?"


    Cameronughed defiantly. "Got any proof?"


    Nellie went silent. Truth was, getting irrefutable proof of Cameron''s affair was like trying to catch the wind. Cameron, feeling triumphant, warned, "Nellie, quit while you''re ahead. Don''t let this backfire on you."


    Nellie hung up on him.


    What a jerk. Did he really think a few shabby houses would make her back down?


    On the day of the court hearing, Cameron and Greta showed up at the courthouse looking sharp and full of confidence, with their legal entourage in tow. The Dawson family tagged along, too, rallying behind Cameron. The press swarmed the entrance, shoving microphones at Cameron, hungry for any juicy tidbits about the high-profile divorce.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "Sir, there are rumors flying online that you cheated on your wife with her sister. Care toment?" The lead reporter, young and full of spunk, hit Cameron with hard-hitting questions, leaving him fuming but unable to respond.

 Chapter 142

    Cameron''s silence only gave the reporters the perfect opening to start spinning their tales. "So, are you silently admitting to this rtionship?" one asked eagerly. "The word is your wife has wanted a divorce for ages now. but, you''ve been stalling. Why the sudden change of heart? Is there some hidden secret?" Greta wobbled, almost hitting the ground, but Cameron was quick as a sh. He caught her and then let go.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "I didn''t push for a divorce before because I worried Nellie couldn''t make it on her own. Now, I''m just worn out from her antics. It''s a reluctant decision." "Seems like Cameron isn''t as cold-hearted towards Miss Nellie as everyone thinks," another reportermented.


    Cameron managed to keep up his good husband image, a slight smile ying on his lips.


    Mid-interview, a red Volkswagen rolled up and parked right in front of Cameron''s fancy Rolls-Royce. The contrast was stark-one screamed luxury, the other, simplicity.


    The wealth gap between Cameron and Nellie was painfully obvious. People murmured, "How can Nellie possibly stand up to Cameron? She''s got no chance," they sighed. Cameron mused to himself, "She''s brought this on herself..."


    Before he could finish his thought, the car door swung open and out stepped Nellie and Wade, side by side.


    "Is that Nellie''swyer? Did she really hire one? Does this mean her chances are better?"


    "Doesn''t matter. Their legal team is the best money can buy. How could a girl from the slums afford awyer to match theirs?"


    Greta''s smile was as warm as a spring breeze.


    Nellie and Wade walked over, and the crowd instinctively parted for them. Nellie greeted the reporters, "Feel free to ask me anything today. I''m holding nothing back."


    The reporters swarmed away from the reticent Cameron to Nellie, firing off questions. "Ms. Nellie, do you honestly think you can win thiswsuit?"


    Nellie replied confidently, "I won''t lose."


    "What makes you so sure?" Cameron scoffed, just loud enough for her to hear.


    Nellie shot him a look dripping with contempt. "Because good always triumphs over evil."


    With that, Nellie and Wade made their way into the courtroom.


    Cameron, head down, trailed behind them. His legal team started whispering urgently, and then the leadwyer, clearly flustered, rushed to Cameron and whispered, "Mr. Dawson, if I''m not mistaken, Nellie''swyer is none other than the famous Mr. Wade." Cameron squinted, "Mr. Wade?"


    The name did ring a bell.


    "He''s a legend in the legal world, known as the ultimate debater. He''s famous for making the impossible happen in every case he''s taken on."


    Cameron chuckled dismissively. "You''ve got to be kidding. If Nellie had the money to hire such a top-notchwyer, why would she bother fighting over the divorce settlement with me?"


    But when court convened, Cameron got the surprise of his life.


    The judge himself couldn''t help but show respect upon seeing Mr. Wade. "Mr. Wade, it''s a privilege to witness your legendary skills here..."


    Hearing their exchange left Cameron totally stunned. His mind wentpletely nk.

 Chapter 143

    Cameron, usually so sure of himself, couldn''t wrap his head around why the world-famous Mr. Wade would step in to help someone as unremarkable as Nellie.


    He nced over at his wife, who stood calmly beside Mr. Wade. The space between them suggested they weren''t exactly on chummy terms.


    Greta came rushing over, out of breath. "Cameron, Nellie got Mr. Wade to defend her. Doesn''t that mean we''re pretty much toast?"


    Cameron took in the scene around him, the press swarming the ce, all eager for the trial to kick off. His nerves were getting the best of him. Losing this case could spell disaster for his reputation. He murmured to Greta, "Our legal team isn''t just for show. We can''t let this throw us off."


    As the court session got underway, the buzz of chatter faded to a hush. With the judge''s steady guidance, both sidesid out their evidence and arguments in an orderly fashion.


    Cameron''s defense team imed, "Nellie, driven by jealousy, twisted the facts, damaging Cameron and Greta''s reputation. She needs to make a public apology and pay them for their losses."


    Mr. Wade used his razor-sharp memory, and clearly mapped out the details Nellie had gathered-dates, ces, people-shooting down the flimsy usations with ease.


    "I object to these ims for three reasons," Wade argued. "First, Greta and Cameron were childhood sweethearts. Second, Greta often stayed over at the Dawson house. Third, after marrying Cameron, Nellie donated a kidney, and he''s been a lousy husband ever since. We suspect Cameron of pulling a marriage scam."


    The opposingwyer shot back, "Greta is Nellie''s sister. Given Greta''s health issues, Cameron, as the brother-inw, was just being kind. As Nellie''s sister, Greta staying over is nothing unusual. Any affair is a figment of Nellie''s imagination."


    Wade countered, "If they were normal sisters, this might make sense. However, our client and her sister grew up apart and had a rocky rtionship. So what''s the real reason behind the visits? I trust the judge will see the truth."


    Wade then showed photos of Nellie and Greta''s past disputes. "For three years, my client and Greta have been on bad terms. So, was Greta visiting for Nellie or Cameron? I believe the judge can figure it out."


    In just a few minutes of intense debate, Wade left the other side speechless. Faced with Wade''s unstoppable arguments and a mountain of evidence, they had no choice but to ask for a break.


    Even Cameron, usually the picture of calm, lost his cool in front of the cameras. His face darkened as he snapped at hiswyers, "Is there any point in continuing this?"


    His legal team exchanged uneasy looks. Finally, one said, "Mr. Dawson, we''re on the back foot morally, but if Nellie''s after your fortune, we''re confident she''ll walk away with nothing." Cameron''s earlier swagger was gone, reced with a grim nod.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    At the next court session, the opposingwyer confidently dered, "My client and Miss Nellie signed a prenup, so if they divorce, she leaves with zilch."

 Chapter 144

    Wade''s usually icy exterior cracked with a victorious grin. "Your Honor, as you can see, Cameron has always been on guard about keeping his assets away from Nellie, both before and after their marriage. This adds weight to the suspicion of marriage fraud." The judge gave a slight nod.


    Cameron looked visibly rattled. Hiswyer jumped in to backtrack. "In wealthy families, it''s typical to have a prenup. Does that mean couples are all up to something shady?"


    Wade shot back, "But do the people in those circles go as far as taking their wife''s organs?"T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The opposingwyer was stumped.


    Switching gears, Wade pressed on, "Your Honor, my client demands the return of all the gifts Cameron gave Greta during their marriage."


    He rattled off the list. "A vi at Bayview Heights, a townhouse in Left Bank City, a diamond ne worth millions, and limited edition designer bags..."


    Greta''s face turned ghostly white, and she bit her lip.


    Cameron''s face was like ash. Wade''s move, while not directly benefiting Nellie, was a serious power y against them.


    The room buzzed with whispers. "He ims he didn''t cheat? Yeah, right."


    "These two are just the worst. Poor Nellie must have the worst luck meeting them."


    "He looks all polished, but he''s no better than a monster."


    Cameron was seething, his face flushed with anger at the torrent of insults. He had never been so publicly shamed.


    The judge had to bang the gavel several times to bring back order. "Does either side have anything else to add?"


    Wade raised his hand. "Yes."


    "Please proceed."


    Wade gave a wry smile. "In addition to marriage fraud, we suspect Cameron of bigamy." He handed over Greta''s pregnancy test results.


    Greta burst out, "I''m suing the hospital! They breached patient privacy."


    The judge said, "Greta, please stay calm. We''re here to handle the divorce case between Nellie and Cameron. Your issue with the hospital is separate."


    Cameron turned as pale as a ghost.


    The idea that the hospital would risk its reputation to leak patient information in Nellie''s favor made Cameron nervous for the first time. It even crossed his mind that Nellie wasn''t just a girl from the slums but someone with serious connections. The opposing legal team was sharp. "Mr. Wade, you can''t prove the child Greta''s carrying is Cameron''s. Your usation doesn''t hold."


    Wade exchanged a knowing nce with Nellie. They both knew Greta and Cameron wouldn''t be foolish enough to hand over proof of paternity.


    From the start, Nellie''s aim wasn''t to nail Cameron for bigamy. She was merely sowing seeds of doubt in the public''s mind. In ten months, when Greta''s child is born, will she still im Cameron as the father?


    If she does, that locks in the bigamy charge.


    After several rounds of heated debate, the judge finally announced, "This marriage has irretrievably broken down, and the divorce is granted. Since the husband has a prenup, he doesn''t owe Nellie any financialpensation."

 Chapter 145

    Cameron might have technically won, but it sure didn''t feel like it. He managed to keep his assets intact, but the victory seemed hollow.


    Greta and Kristina were over the moon, their cheers and high-fives echoing around them. Greta, unable to resist, approached Nellie with a faux-sympathetic smile, saying, "Nel, I told you, didn''t I? You shouldn''t have tried to take on Cameron." Nellie, however, wasn''t the least bit downhearted. In fact, she seemed almost delighted as she shot back, "Do you really think you''ve won here?"


    Her eyes drifted to Cameron standing a little way off, looking like he''d just lost his best friend. She allowed herself a small, knowing smile. "Greta, does he look like a winner to you?"


    Greta turned to see Cameron, head hanging and shoulders slumped, the very picture of defeat. She''d never seen him like this, and an uneasy feeling crept over her.


    And sure enough, the media circus that erupted post-trial was relentless. They rallied around Nellie, using some seriously harsh words to put Cameron in his ce.


    That particrly bold reporter from earlier wasn''t holding back now. He went for the jugr, "Mr. Cameron, Nellie says youmitted marriage fraud and bigamy. Care to exin yourself?" Cameron looked like he''d been caught in the spotlight, difort written all over his face. "There''s nothing to exin. Mywyer will handle this."


    "Mr. Cameron, it seems like you gave Nellie nothing in your marriage and just took what you could. Have you mixed up the cutthroat world of business with being a husband?" Cameron shot him a deadly re. It was obvious. The reporter was out for blood.


    "And who do you represent?" Cameron''s voice was cold, threatening.


    This was a direct threat, but the reporter wasn''t fazed. "After ditching Nellie, are you nning to marry Greta, your supposed true love? And is her baby really yours?" Cameron''s face hardened.


    "Mr. Cameron''s silence seems to say it all."


    Marriage fraud, bigamy... Any of these charges sticking would be a permanent ck mark on his record.


    Admitting fault was bad, but so was saying nothing. Cameron felt like a caged animal, frantic for a way out.


    But there was no way out.


    In a fit of desperation, he finally snapped. In a sh of rage, he grabbed the reporter''s camera and smashed it to the floor. The camera shattered with a loud crash. Cameron, eyes zing, red at the reporter, only to see Nellie standing behind him, her face lit up with a victorious grin.


    It was like a cold wave washing over him, snapping him back to reality.


    He''d always wondered how Nellie, with no power or influence, dared to sue him. She knew about the prenup that protected his assets, but she kept pushing. Now, it all made sense.


    Her greed was just a ploy to rile him up. Forcing him into awsuit was her real game n. Winning wasn''t her aim. Exposing his unsavory side to the world was.


    It was such a clever move by Nellie. When had she be so enigmatic?


    Seeing Cameron''s meltdown, Kristina and Greta rushed over, dragging him away quickly.


    Cameron kept ncing back, his gaze venomous as it lingered on Nellie. Her light steps, her bright smile, her cheerful chat with Mr. Wade... Each moment drove home his realization.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 146

    She might have lost, but she did so with dignity. His win, however, was far from honorable. Sure, he held onto his wealth, but his reputation took a nosedive.


    Back at the Dawson family''s mansion, Cameron dragged himself through the door and copsed onto the sofa, utterly drained. Seeing him like this, Kristina and Greta felt a pang of sympathy tugging at their hearts.


    In her gentle way, Kristina tried to console him. "Cameron, no matter how it yed out, you''ve finally shaken off Nellie. You''re free now."


    Kristina was already picturing a bright future. "Cameron, once you and Nellie are officially done, I''ve got friends who''ll line up the best matches for you in the Capital. With what you''ve got to offer, finding a good girl will be a breeze."


    "And if you end up with a well-connecteddy and have her parents'' backing, it could skyrocket your career. Your dad might even start treating you with the respect you deserve instead of favoring that other son of his."


    Greta''s face fell, her expression growing dark. She tugged quietly at Cameron''s sleeve, her eyes pleading.


    Cameron caught on and responded, "Mom, what are you saying? Greta''s having my baby-I have to stand by her."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Kristina shot a frosty nce at Greta. "Cameron, I know you and Greta are in love, but Nellie''s made a mess of your reputations. If you go ahead and marry her, the gossip will be relentless. Everyone online is watching your every move. Maybe it''s best to let Greta go for now. I''m just thinking of what''s best for you."


    Cameron fell into silence while Greta felt like the perfect dream she had was shattering inside her. She''d hoped that once Cameron was free, he''d marry her. But Kristina''s disapproval was like a p in the face.


    Tears welled up, but Greta tried to keep herposure. "Cameron, maybe your mom is right. This might not be the best time for us. For your career''s sake, maybe we should go our separate ways."


    Her understanding only made Cameron cherish her more. "I''ll sort out the negative press about us," he said stubbornly. "I''ll pay to have it all scrubbed. And maybe leak some other stories to shift the attention. People forget quickly online; soon enough, this will all blow over."


    Greta felt a warm glow inside from Cameron''s determination to protect her. But Kristina''s tone was still icy. "We''ll talk about any wedding nster."


    Kristina''s firm resistance to her joining the family made Greta''s hopeful heart turn cold.


    Cameron''s promises were lovely, but the reality was harsh.


    After the divorce case, the inte buzzed with gossip about him and Greta, spreading like wildfire. Online, people crafted jokes about them, and influencers were doing skits mocking their so-called affair.


    Streamers put on quite the show, nailing Cameron''s hypocritical act and portraying Greta with exaggerated airs. Thements below read: [This drama reeks, but apparently, only Cameron would go for this kind of fake girl."

 Chapter 147

    Even though Cameron wasn''t the type to browse the inte much, he could tell something was up from the strange looks people were giving him. The respect he used to get from his employees had definitely taken a hit, and those who used to be all over him with


    He was working overtime to try and get rid of the online gossip about him, but just as one rumor died down, another popped up just as quickly. The whole situation was such a mess that even his business partners started to hint they didn''t want to renew contracts, afraid they''d get caught in the crossfire. The Dawson family''s stock value was also taking a nosedive. Cameron was stressed out beyond belief.


    Griffin, who lived and breathed his career, was fuming. He took it out on Kristina.


    One morning, in a fit of rage at the breakfast table, Griffin threw a bowl of hot oatmeal at Kristina, shouting, "Look at what your precious son has done! For a woman who''s barely hanging on, he''s even willing to take his own wife to court."


    Kristina was not fully understanding the gravity of it all, and still tried to defend Cameron, "Honey, it''s Nellie who''s being unreasonable. She wants a divorce and a chunk of Cameron''s money... But why should she get his money? She hasn''t earned a cent, and Cameron''s been supporting her for years, but she''s not the least bit grateful..."


    Griffin pped her. He was now furious. "Oh, great. Just like you said, you don''t work and just shop all day, so I guess I shouldn''t give you money either, huh?"


    Reality hit Kristina hard. She was stunned. "Honey, that''s not what I meant..."


    "You''re even worse than Nellie. Nellie was willing to donate her kidney to Cameron, cooked and cleaned for him as a good wife... but Cameron treated her so poorly. And you are causing more trouble than you''re worth, so should I not kick you out?" Griffin''s anger reached a boiling point, and he finally said, "Let''s get a divorce."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Kristina copsed to the floor, sobbing and clinging to Griffin''s legs. "Honey, I was wrong. I''ll make Cameron cut ties with Greta. I swear they won''t see each other again."


    Griffin, through gritted teeth, replied, "The baby in Greta''s belly is Cameron''s, isn''t it? How do you expect them to cut ties?"


    Kristina, resolute, said, "I''ll find a way to convince Greta to end the pregnancy."


    Griffin snorted dismissively and stormed out.


    From that day on, Griffin never came back home. Kristina knew he had gone to his other ce. She felt her position was on shaky ground? Eventually, she decided to get Greta out of the picture.


    One day, Kristina invited Greta to her private studio, and Greta showed up


    eagerly. As soon as she got to Kristina''s lounge, she handed over carefully chosen gift. "Kristina, your birthday''s just around the corner..."


    Before she could finish her ttering words, Kristina cut her off coldly, "Greta, I asked you here today to tell you to keep your distance from my son, Cameron." She tossed a wad of cash at Greta.


    Greta''s face turned pale. Trembling, she asked, "Kristina, what do you mean?"


    Kristina replied. "You''ve seen it yourself. Your constant pursuit of Cameron has led him to do so many irrational things, and now his


    reputation is in tatters. So, /bead ne


    you do the right thing and walk away."


    sine

 Chapter 148

    Greta saw the steely resolve in Kristina''s eyes and dropped to her knees with a thud. "Kristina, Cameron and I truly love each other. And I''m carrying his child. We can''t live without him..." "Get rid of it," Kristina said, her voice icy.


    It was like the world had crumbled around Greta, leaving her in shock. She stared at Kristina in disbelief. "But that''s the Dawson family''s first grandson. Kristina, haven''t you always dreamed of having a grandchild?" Kristina''s expression didn''t change. "Anyone else can give birth to the Dawson heir, just not you."


    Greta felt as if she''d been struck hard.


    "Greta, I''ve arranged for you to go to St. Peter''s Hospital. You need to have the procedure soon, or don''t me me for cutting ties," Kristina said firmly before walking away.


    Greta wept, overwhelmed by despair. She felt utterly helpless, desperate, panicked, and terrified. Right now, she wasn''t the proud woman she once was. She realized she had lost this battle and waspletely defeated. "Nellie, this is all your fault. I''ll never forgive you," she spat out, seething with anger.


    That evening, Cameron trudged back to the Dawson family mansion, each step heavy. Thepany was facing a slew of problems, and he needed to consult with Griffin.


    Griffin was absent, and only Kristina sat alone on the couch, looking worn out and pale, clearly having not rested well.


    Cameron sat beside Kristina, trying to strike up a casual chat. "Mom, where''s Dad?"


    Kristina barely lifted her eyelids, disappointment etched in her gaze. She chose not to answer, instead closing her eyes.


    Cameron was taken aback. His usually loving and doting mother had never been so cold. He turned to the nanny, who sighed and shared shocking news. "Mr. Cameron, a few days ago, Mr. Dawson and Mrs. Dawson had a fight, and he even hit her. Since then, he hasn''te home."


    Cameron was stunned. "Why would Dad hit Mom?" he asked indignantly.


    From his perspective, after all of Griffin''s affairs and the pain Kristina had endured, his father should have been treating her with kindness and care.


    Kristina suddenly opened her eyes


    and yelled, "Why? Because I have a son who''s a disappointment. That''s why! That woman''s son seeds, and she gets all the glory. But my son fails, and your dad wants to kick me out..."


    Cameron stood frozen. "Dad wants to divorce you?"


    Kristina hit Cameron with a flurry of ps, her anger boiling over. "All


    because of you, you


    good-for-nothing! You hadContent is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    everything going for you, but you


    had to get tangled up in that mess."


    "To save Greta, you tricked Nellie... Now, Nellie''s exacted her revenge, leaving you disgraced. Your father''s done with you, and he''s taking it out on me. Our good days are over."


    Cameron felt a deep sense of guilt; his proud mother had never been so broken. "Mom, don''t worry. I''ll find a way to fix my reputation."


    Kristina''s voice was weak but firm. "The only way to clear your name and prove your innocence is to cut Greta offpletely." Cameron felt the sting of those words, his eyes narrowing in determination.

 Chapter 149

    "Mom, Greta''s carrying my baby. I can''t just turn my back on her like that..."


    Kristina''s eyes widened in disbelief. Out of nowhere, she lunged at Cameron, breaking into a fit of rage. "Your father''s about to toss me out, and all you can think of is Greta. Cameron, I raised you through thick and thin, and this is how you repay me?"


    She pushed her hair away, revealing arge burn scar, tears streaming down her face. "Look at this scar. It''s from the boiling oatmeal your father threw at me just because you wouldn''t stand up for yourself. Other women rise in status through their sons, but what did I do to deserve this? I raised you through hardship, only for you to bring such disaster upon me..."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Seeing the scar, Cameron stood there, shocked and speechless. He sighed deeply, "I''m sorry, Mom. I haven''t been the son you deserve. I''ve just brought you more trouble. I''m sorry." He covered his face with his hands, tears seeping through his fingers. Kristina, her voice trembling, asked, "Is all this worth it, Cameron? To abandon your family for Greta and leave us like this, is it really worth it?"


    Cameron didn''t answer, lost in thought as he stumbled away from the Dawson family home.


    The city''s streetlights cast a warm glow over the bustling streets, but, to Cameron, these lively scenes felt alien. He felt like a stranger in his own world, shunned by his father, cursed by his mother as a bringer of bad luck, and even the intebeled him a deceitful husband.


    All he did was identally hurt Nellie while trying to help the one he loved. He didn''t deserve such harsh judgment.


    So why did life feel worse than death right now?


    "Cameron." A soft, choked voice came from behind him.


    Turning around, Cameron found himself at the gate of the Brown family''s townhouse. Greta stood there, looking worn and weary.


    Cameron opened his arms, and Greta rushed into them. They clung to each other tightly.


    With tears streaming down her face, Greta said, "Cameron, why has ite to this? We just loved each other. What''s so wrong about that?" Cameron held her close as if trying to merge her into himself.


    Sensing something was off, Greta looked up at him, her eyes filled with tears. She heard Cameron''s barely audible whisper, "Greta, we need to break up."


    Greta felt like she''d been plunged into icy waters. She needed Cameron''s support for her medical treatment. Without him, she feared she would wither away.


    "Cameron, I can''t bear to be apart from you. Please, don''t push me away. Without you, I''ll fall apart."


    Cameron closed his eyes, tears


    falling. "Greta, this isn''t right. I could


    ignore Nellie''s feelings, but I can''t


    ignore my mom''s. I can''t ruin my


    mom''s peace for my own happiness."  en


    "I''m sorry." Cameron abruptly let go of her.


    Greta broke down in tears. "We''re having a child together, and you want to break up? How are we supposed to live?"


    Cameron said, "Let''s end the pregnancy."


    Greta''s face went pale, staring at Cameron in disbelief. He had once promised that their love was unshakable. So, she had let herself get carried away. She never imagined promises could vanish so easily.


    "Cameron, does breaking up mean cutting all ties? Are we really done, just like that?"

 Chapter 150

    Cameron nodded, his heart heavy with sorrow.


    Greta''s body fell to the ground like leaves swept away by a gust of autumn wind, a single careless moment sending her crashing down.


    "Greta," Cameron called out, his voice brimming with urgency and concern. He scooped up the unconscious Greta and rushed her to the hospital''s emergency room in the dead of night.


    In the long, silent hallway stood a figure, elegant and poised,zily leaning against the wall with a smirk that danced between mockery and yfulness, watching Cameron pace outside the ER like a cat on a hot tin roof. Seeing her, Cameron felt like he''d been struck by lightning. It had only been a few days, but the sight of her now stirred an indescribable feeling in his chest.


    Because of her, his world had been flipped upside down. Once a revered man, he was now a pariah, shunned by all.


    He and Greta had weathered their storms and were supposed to lead a peaceful life, raising a family like everyone else. But because of her, his love story was crushed, and even his mother''s love story withered. He took a step towards Nellie, his eyes a deep, unfathomable shade of dark.


    Nellie nced at the surveince camera above, her smile widening.


    "Nellie... What are you doing here?" He should have unleashed all his grief and anger at her. But instead, what came out was a soft greeting. Maybe he felt a twinge of guilt towards her, too.


    Nellie replied casually, "Oh, I''m just here to watch the drama unfold."


    Cameron squinted, confused.


    Just then, the ER doors swung open, and a doctor approached. "Is the family of the patient here?"


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Cameron rushed over, anxiously asking, "Doctor, how is she?"


    The doctor said, "Thedy is stable, but the baby... the heartbeat has stopped."


    There was a pause as the doctor delivered the heartbreaking news, "You need to prepare yourself. It''s highly likely she may not be able to conceive again."


    Cameron stood frozen. The doctor gave him a sympathetic pat on the shoulder before quietly walking away.


    Cameron let out a grief-stricken cry, copsing to the ground, his strong frame crumbling like y.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Footsteps approached, and a pair of white high heels stopped in front of him. He lifted his tear-streaked eyes to meet Nellie''s gaze. He suddenly remembered how, whenever he was down, Nellie would always find a way to cheer him up.


    Nellie squatted down, a smile ying on her lips, "Does it hurt, Cameron?"


    His face was ashen. How could it not hurt?


    "Good. It should hurt. Cameron, life has a funny way of bncing things out. My child died, so fate took Greta''s child, too." Cameron red at Nellie, "You''re here to kick me while I''m down, aren''t you?"


    Nellie nodded, "Cameron, both your children were lost before birth. Have you ever thought that this is life''s


    Pont for you? That you''re destined to be alone?" Core


    Cameron''s hands trembled violently. "Nellie, this is all your doing. Do you have any idea you''ve robbed your sister of ever bing a mother again f anything happens to Greta because of this, I won''t let you get away with it."


    Nellie''sugh was scornful, echoing in the silence.

 Chapter 151

    "Cameron, she owes me this," Nellie''s face twisted with a fierce intensity. Sheughed eerily, like someone possessed. "An eye for an eye. We''re square now." Cameron finally got it-karma''s a relentless force. Greta owed Nellie a kidney, and Nellie hit back by taking away her child.


    Through gritted teeth, he said, "Nellie, your spitefulness surpasses even your sister''s. Still, in the end, I''m in the wrong. I won''t hold this against you this time, but there won''t be a next time. Tomorrow, we head to the registration office and get our divorce papers. Let''s make sure we never cross paths again."


    Nellie gave him a dark stare. "Cameron, I only meant I''m even with Greta. As for us, our story is just getting started. You tricked me into giving up my kidney, took my innocence without any love, and caused... The list of your wrongs is endless."


    She left out the painful backstory, so Cameron thought it was her petty nature, and he regretted ever getting involved with such a vindictive woman. "Nellie, you''re nuts. I was willing to overlook the death of my child for old times'' sake, but you are still pushing it?" "Alright, if you want revenge, bring it on. But remember, I won''t show any mercy in the future. You''re nothing but an ant to me. I can easily crush you. Don''te crying and begging for mercy when the timees."


    Nellie silently watched him. His cold demeanor matched perfectly with memories from their past life.


    The day their daughter passed away, he scolded her heartlessly over a video call, "Other kids aren''t scared of shots or medicine, but you are. You''re always whining about seeing me. Well, I''m busy, so toughen up and stop calling me over every little thing." With tears streaming down her face, his daughter pleaded, "Daddy, it really hurts. The doctor says I don''t have much time left. Daddy, promise me, can youe home more often to see mommy..."


    Cameron snapped, "Nellie, did you really think teaching her to say that would bring me home? Are you using our child to tug at my heartstrings? That''s disgusting."


    He hung up, irritated.


    Their daughter, devastated, passed away that same day, eyes wide open in despair.


    Later, Greta sent Nellie a picture of Cameron and her on a Ferris wheel.


    She bragged, [Nel, what i


    1.n


    does it make that you married Cameron? He''s always loved me.


    Even if you gave him a daughter, he


    couldn''t love her.]


    In that instant, every ounce of Nellie''s love for Cameron vanished. Cradling her daughter''s lifeless body, she made her way to the snow-covered mountains. She headed towards oblivion.


    ...


    Nellie stared at Cameron, her eyes


    filled with a dark, swirling intensity. When She spoke again, her wasdcy, "Cameron, I''ll im everything you owe me."


    Then, she turned and walked away.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Cameron felt as if ice had wrapped around him. Nellie''s final look sent chills down his spine.


    Why did she despise him so deeply?


    Why? Cameron just didn''t get it.


    Suddenly, Greta''s wailing broke through his thoughts, and, abandoning any reflection on his tangled past with Nellie, he stumbled into the hospital room.


    When Greta saw him, she turned her


    head away, sulking and refusing to meet his eyes. "Now that the child is gone, thest tie that bound us together is broken. You wanted a breakup, so there you go."

 Chapter 152

    Cameron gently held her hand, offeringfort. "Greta, just focus on getting better. I''ll be here for you this whole month."


    Greta felt a flicker of emotion. She turned to him. "When Nellie lost her baby, you seemed so indifferent. But now, with my miscarriage, you''re all worked up. Cameron, you clearly still have feelings for me. Can''t we just stay together?" Cameron''s heart skipped a beat at her words. Had he really been so heartless towards Nellie? No wonder Nellie resented him deeply.


    "Greta, let''s sort things outter. I''ll be here to help you recover. Your health is what matters most."


    "Cameron..." Greta clung to his hand, "I''ve lost our child. Will you give me another?"


    Cameron''s hand jerked away. He looked into Greta''s pleading eyes, his voice rough with emotion. "Greta, the doctor said you might not be able to have children again."


    Those words hit Greta like a sudden thunderp. She was plunged into a state of numbness.


    The miscarriage, Kristina pressuring her to leave Cameron, and the fear of never having children... It was all too much. Her frail body couldn''t handle it, and suddenly, she was overwhelmed, coughing up blood.


    Cameron was caught off guard as her blood sttered on his face. "Greta." He was terrified, shouting frantically, "Doctor!"


    The doctor rushed in, finding Greta lifeless except for her wide-open eyes. They administered CPR, and after what felt like an eternity, her heartbeat returned.


    In those few minutes, Cameron went through emotional chaos. He realized he couldn''t bear the thought of losing Greta.


    He clutched Greta''s hand tightly. The relief of having her back made him determined to do anything. "Greta, we''re not breaking up. Let''s get married." Greta''s tears overflowed with joy.


    The next day, the sun crept over the horizon. Cameron carried Greta out of the hospital.


    The driver pulled up, and Cameron settled Greta into the back seat, instructing coolly, "Take us to the registry office."


    The driver was taken aback, his expression a mix of surprise and uncertainty.


    Cameron was taking the frail Greta to get married right after a divorce. What a spectacle. Wouldn''t this be a pan the face to the previous Mrs. Dawson?


    Could she tolerate such an affront?


    Cameron''s love-struck decisions needed some serious reconsideration.


    V


    Unlikest time, Nellie was at the registration office early for the divorce. Maybe happiness brought her energy, as she seemed toradiate new life.


    Cameron carried Greta out of the car, and Nellie''s previously warm eyes narrowed into slits.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "Cameron, why did you bring her here?" Nellie asked icily.


    Despite feeling weak, Greta managed a smug grin at Nellie, "Nellie, once you and Cameron split, I''m marrying him." Nellie''s expression hardened, her sharp gaze fixed on Cameron. "Cameron, are you trying to humiliate me with this?"


    Cameron kept his face neutral. "I didn''t mean it that way. Your sister''s been down, and I just wanted to lift her spirits. Nellie, can''t you show a little generosity?"


    Greta''s smile broadened as she tightened her grip on Cameron''s hand.


    Nellie''s face went pale. "Cameron, you might not care, but I have my pride. Either she leaves, or we reschedule the divorce."

 Chapter 153

    Greta quickly backed down. The defiant glint in her eyes vanished as she stared meekly at Cameron. "Cameron, I''m too weak to walk."


    Cameron turned to Nellie, anger in his voice. "Your sister just went through a major surgery yesterday; she''s still very frail. How could you be so heartless, making her walk alone?"


    Nellie nced at Greta, and Cameron wasn''t wrong. Greta looked pale and bruised, her eyes red and swollen with exhaustion. But what did that matter to her? Greta had trampled all over her dignity, and now Nellie wasn''t even allowed to defend her own? "Fine," Nellie said decisively. "If you can''t bear to see her walk, then I''ll leave instead, alright?"


    Greta didn''t want to miss her chance to see Cameron and Nellie''s marriage end. She quickly got off Cameron and grabbed Nellie''s hand tightly. "Nel,e on, why are you so mad at me? Aren''t you eager to divorce Cameron? If you miss today, you''ll just drag this mess out longer, and that''s torture for both of you."


    Nellie was indeed desperate to escape this toxic marriage. She paused and shook off Greta''s hand with disgust. "Regretting it now, huh? Weren''t you just smug a minute ago?"


    Greta was weak, and with just a gentle push from Nellie, she tumbled to the ground.


    Cameron rushed forward, grabbing Nellie by the throat in fury. "How could you hurt your sister?"


    Nellie gasped for air, her face quickly turning a shade of purple, but she stared at Cameron with defiance, her eyes zing with a chilling determination. "Cameron, you might as well kill me. If you don''t, just watch as I slowly torment your darling until she''s gone." Cameron''s heart skipped a beat under her venomous gaze, and he let go abruptly.


    "Coward," Nellie spat with disdain.


    Cameron was rattled. Did Nellie really want him to kill her?


    "You are crazy," he muttered. "If you want to die, go find a rope and hang yourself."


    Nellie clutched her aching throat, her tear-filled eyes glinting with a cold, vengeful light. "If I go down, I''ll take you with me."


    A chill ran through Cameron. Did she wish for him to kill her just so he couldn''t escape being punished either?


    ""Nellie, you''re out of your mind," he said, unnerved.


    Nellie ignored him, turning instead to Greta. "If you want me to divorce this jerk, then kneel to me, and apologize for what you did. If not, I''d rather die than divorce."


    Greta had dreamed her whole life of bing Mrs. Dawson. She got up, and knelt before Nellie. "Nel, I''m sorry. +shouldn''t havee between you and Cameron. Please forgive me."


    Nellie pped her hands in satisfaction and headed into the registration office.


    Cameron watched Nellie, now brimming with hostility, and felt as though a massive weight pressed on his heart. He couldn''t believe that his actions had destroyed the simple, kind, and trusting girl. T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He picked up Greta and ced her in the car. "Greta, wait here for me."


    This time, Greta had learned her lesson and didn''t dare provoke Nellie further. She nodded obediently. "Okay."


    Cameron then headed into the registration office. For some reason, the ce was unusually quiet today. Nellie sat at the counter, chatting animatedly with the staff. "Girl, you were incredible just now," one of them said.


    "Remember, when dealing with jerks and mean girls, you''ve got to be tougher than they are," Nellie said, passionately sharing her advice.

 Chapter 154

    Cameron cleared his throat with a gloomy expression, but Nellie and the staff member just nced at him before going back to their lively conversation andpletely ignoring him. "Nellie, you''re like the hero for all those bullied housewives online now. I admire you so much."


    Nellie replied, "I just wish for all girls to never end up like me. It''s better to always be the carefree darling in the eyes of your family."


    "Nellie, you''re really kind."


    Cameron awkwardly sat next to Nellie, who shifted slightly away from him. He nced at her, noticing her clear disdain.


    ''Does she really despise him that much?'' he wondered.


    The staff handed the divorce papers to Nellie, "Nellie, if there''s anything you don''t understand, just ask me."


    Then, they tossed Cameron his copy and went back to ignoring him.


    From the next table, they heard another staff member asking, "What''s the reason for the divorce?"


    The woman sobbed, "He cheated." The man hung his head in shame.


    "How will the assets be divided?" the staff asked.


    The man, his voice barely above a whisper, said, "I''m at fault. She can have everything."


    The staff member sighed, "Seems like there''s still some feelings between you two. Is there a chance for reconciliation?"


    The woman shook her head firmly. "Cheating and domestic violence are my deal breakers."


    The man suddenly broke down. "Honey, I really know I messed up. I don''t expect you to forgive me, but I hope we can still be friends someday."


    Time seemed to stand still. Nellie and Cameron fell silent, lost in their own thoughts.


    Cameron was overwhelmed with a swirl of emotions. He silently wondered if there was any chance for him and Nellie to be friends.


    Unfortunately, the staff didn''t even give him a glimmer of hope and practically wrote him off.


    "Mr. Dawson, there''s no undoing regret. You''ve treated your wife so poorly. Son''t hold your breath for forgiveness. Dreaming of friendship? You''ll be lucky if you''re just enemies."


    Nellie signed the papers with


    determination. Cameron watched


    her, perhaps feeling a pang of


    conscience. "Nellie, where are you


    going to stay after the divoryout


    Should I give you our home?


    ? OrContent is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    maybe some money to buy a new ce?"


    Nellie looked at him sarcastically. "Cameron, have you finally realized you''ve racked up too much bad karma? Are you now trying to do good?"


    Cameron''s handsome face darkened. "So ungrateful." He angrily signed the papers and handed them back to the staff.


    The staff organized the documents, and quickly handed over their divorce certificate.


    Nellie, clutching the certificate, felt like she''d finally broken free from two lifetimes of chains, and to her own surprise, tears of joy rolled down her cheeks. She kissed the divorce certificate and gratefully said to the staff, "Thank you, I''m finally free."


    She stood up, not even sparing a nce at Cameron, and rushed outside in excitement.


    Cameron suddenly followed, catching up with her at the door of the registration office. He grabbed her arm. "Nellie, I need to talk to you."


    Nellie looked at his hand on her arm with irritation. "Get your filthy hand off me."


    Cameron quickly let go. "Nellie, your revenge has made me suffer too. Let''s just end this here."


    Nellie looked at him like he was some sort of rare sight. "Cameron, let me guess, you''re nning to marry Greta next, right? From then on, you two lovebirds will live happily ever after. But at what cost? Did your happily ever after mean I had to sacrifice a kidney?"

 Chapter 155

    Cameron looked genuinely remorseful. "I can make it up to you... as long as you''re not asking for the moon."


    But Nellie shot back, "Cameron, all I want is my kidney back. Can you do that?"


    Cameron went pale. "You said you voluteered to donate."


    "Was it really my choice?" Nellie stepped closer, anger shing in her eyes. "Cameron, you know lying is just asking for trouble."


    Cameron stayed silent.


    Nellie raised her voice. "You promised that if I gave you my kidney, you''d take care of me forever and give me a cozy and secure home. Cameron, did our home feel anything like that?"


    Cameron sighed, "I know I wasn''t the husband you deserved. But I meant it, Nellie, that was my true intention..."


    "Cameron, your hypocrisy turns my stomach. Keep your distance. I don''t want to see you again."


    In a frustrated move, Cameron grabbed her hand. "Nellie, I''m not the viin you think I am. I just loved your sister too much, and it drove me to hurt you. I''m sorry. We were once partners, after all. If you ever need anything, you can stille to me." Nellie let out a bitterugh. "Cameron, if you think this will make me forgive you and give you peace, you''re dreaming. I won''t ever let you off the hook."


    She wanted him to carry that guilt forever. That was the least he owed theirte daughter.


    "Nellie, don''t be so ridiculous. Without me help you, you''ll struggle."


    Nellie, both amused and annoyed, replied, "Cameron, I''m not Greta. I''m no fragile flower. I can shine on my own."


    She brushed past him with ir.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ahead, a sleek, multimillion-dor sports ear waited. Cameron


    watched in disbelief as Nellie slipped into the car, his eyes wide with


    shock.


    en


    Inside the car, Nathan was thrilled and waved Nellie''s divorce papers. "Nellie, this is legit, right? Cameron didn''t just whip this up to trick you?"


    Nellie chuckled at Nathan''s oddment. "He couldn''t get away from me fast enough. Why would he bother with a fake?"


    Nathan remarked, "He''s blind to your worth. One day, he''ll realize what he lost."


    Nellie replied, "His heart''s all about Greta. No other woman stands a chance."


    Sometimes, she did envy Greta. Despite her frail health, she had their parents'' love and the admiration of Cameron.


    Nathan added, "That might change.


    Once he marries Greta, his cherished sweetheart might just be a


    nuisance. Honestly, that frail aet of hers doesn''t hold a candle toyou."


    Nellie couldn''t help but smile at Nathan''s praise.


    Suddenly, Nathan produced a lighter, holding it and the divorce papers out the window.


    "Having your name tied to Cameron is a disgrace." With that, he set the papers on fire, and once most of it was ash, he tossed it into a trash can.


    §Ö


    Nellie didn''t stop him. Instead, she softly recited, "Moss blooms tiny as grains but dares to open like roses. Where the sun doesn''t reach youth springs forth on its own."


    Nathan added, "You''re seen as insignificant as moss by your parents, but you''ve grown wild and brightened the world with your own light."

 Chapter 156

    Nellie suddenly made up her mind. "Nathan, I want to change my surname."


    Nathan replied with a cheerful, "Sure thing."


    But Nellie felt lost. "Whosest name should I take though?"


    Nathan leaned in closer with his charming smile and held her hand tightly, "Why not take mine?"


    As she pondered, she realized that, in both her past and present lives, Nathan had been her rock. If there was anything in the world she still cherished, it was Nathan. "Alright," she agreed.


    Nathan floored the gas pedal, and the luxury car shot off towards the city hall like an arrow.


    Standing at the entrance, Nellie was deep in thought. She was about toy the name to rest here. From this point forward, she would no longer be Nellie Brown. Nathan seemed to sense her mncholy and, with genuine warmth, said, "I''ll walk this new path with you."


    Nellie nodded, her steps heavy as she made her way inside.


    "Excuse me, sir, I want to change my name."


    "Do you have your ID with you?"


    Nellie handed over her ID, her hands trembling slightly.


    "And what''s the reason for the name change?" The clerk slid a form across the counter.


    Nellie picked up the pen, her hand shaking as she wrote. "This name brings bad luck."


    The clerk looked skeptical. "Miss, that is quite an unusual reason..."Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan interjected with a firm tone, "What''s with all the fuss? Just process it."


    Despite his youth, Nathan''s presence wasmanding enough to make the clerk flinch. "Alright, please write your current and new name on the form."


    Nellie carefully wrote her current name: [Nellie Brown.] Then, with deliberate care, she penned her new name: [Nathalie Rond.]


    Nathan''s previously cool demeanor broke into a bright smile at the sight of the name. Finally, there was something precious in this world that was uniquely his.


    As they left the city hall, Nathan, holding her hand, said, "Let me take you home."


    Nellie-no, Nellie was gone. Nathalie had taken her ce.


    Elsewhere, Cameron and Greta had just gotten their marriage certificate without a hitch. Greta''s long-time dream hade true, and she seemed to glow with newfound happiness. However, Cameron felt an inexplicable emptiness. He worried about his mother''s reaction if she discovered their secret marriage. "Greta, let''s keep this under wraps for now." Greta was disappointed. "Are you saying we should keep our marriage a secret?"


    Cameron exined, "My mom doesn''t approve of us. If you want a peaceful life, we need to keep this from her. Otherwise, she''ll make things as difficult for you as she did for Nellie."


    "I just can''t let my mom treat you like that," he added softly.


    Those words melted Greta''s heart. She smiled warmly. "Cameron, marrying you is enough to make me happy. A secret marriage it is, then. We''ve got all the time in the world."


    However, Cameron''s idea of a secret


    marriage differed from Greta''s. He dropped her off at the Brown family home, and Greta, feeling a bit let down said, "Cameron, we''re married


    now. Shouldn''t we live to married


    Cameron replied, "If we live together, it''ll be impossible to keep it from my mom. Greta, for the sake of our


    future happiness, bear with this for


    Once I make my mark in


    now. Once


    business and reim the Dawson


    family inheritance, we''ll be together for real."

 Chapter 157

    "Alright then," Greta said, knowing just when to push forward and when to hold back, which Cameron found both sensible and endearing.


    He pulled her close, wrapping her in his arms. "Greta, I''m going to work my butt off to reach the top. Once I''m there, nothing will stand in the way of our love."


    Greta gazed at him with fiery determination. "Cameron, I believe in you."


    Cameron was back in the game with the resolve of a warrior. At thepany''s shareholder meeting, he boldly dered, "In six months, I''m taking our newpany public."


    His impressive track record still earned him the trust and support of the shareholders. Griffin noticed Cameron''s dedication, and eased up on his usual criticisms. He even made asional visits to the Dawson family estate to reconnect with Kristina and spared no expense in scrubbing Cameron''s name clean from the tabloids.


    What was once a turbulent storm in Cameron''s life was now a calm, clear sky, thanks to his wealthy father shielding him from all the chaos. Everything seemed to be moving in the right direction.


    Meanwhile, Nathalie had wlessly wrapped up her design project, and her top thirty designs were heading to production. The next big step was nailing the marketing strategy.


    Nathan showed up with a list of potential partners. Nathalie''s spirits dipped when she saw the big names at the top: the McCoy family, the Rond family, and the Dawson family, all powerhouse conglomerates. "The Dawson family can''t stand me. They won''t work with me," she assessed coolly.


    "And your dad holds the reins at the Rond family. He dotes on your brother, so you''re not getting any prime resources there."


    "The McCoy family might be worth a shot."


    Nathan grinned, correcting her, "Nellie, while your take is a bit one-sided, you''ve hit the nail on the head."Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie leaned in, curious. "What''s one-sided about it?"


    Nathan exined, "Business is all about the bottom line, not personal feelings. The Dawson family has Cameron, the Rond family has Benjamin, and both are running their family''s fashion and jewelry businesses. They''re not potential partners. They''re ourpetition. That''s the real reason we''re not teaming up with them."


    Nathalie whispered, "So, he''s my rival?"


    "Yep. With the market being so tight, we''ll be going head-to-head with Cameron."


    Nathalie''s gentle eyes shed with intensity. "So, it''s him or me?"


    Nathan nodded.


    "Nathan, I can''t afford to lose," Nathalie dered, unwavering. If she couldn''t tackle Cameron legally, she''d make sure he faced some payback outside thew.


    Nathan advised, "If you don''t want to lose, there''s only one y - team up with the McCoy family."


    The McCoy family, a powerhouse with ties to both the military and business sectors, had a reputation that sent shivers down many spines.


    Despite her apprehension about the politically savvy Nichs, Nathalie was ready to face her fears and outdo Cameron.


    "Is your granddad... easy to deal with?"


    To score a deal with the McCoy


    family, Nathalie, who usually turned


    her nose up at shortcuts, was now


    all ears, learning the art of


    §â§à§Õ§à§Û


    Sensing her nerves, Nathan reassured her, "Nellie, my granddad might be quirky, but he''s a great guy. Plus, he''s totally whipped by my grandma.''

 Chapter 158

    Nathalie suddenly cupped Nathan''s face with a yful grin. "You''re so handsome. You must have gotten those good looks from your mom. I bet your grandma adores you, right? How about you take up the mantle for ''Forever Yours'' and have a chat with the McCoy Nathan shed a charming smile. "Nellie, I''d do just about anything for you, but not this."


    family?"


    Nathalie looked puzzled. "Why not?"Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan''s eyes sparkled with mischief. "If I step in, everyone will know I''m the guy behind you."


    Nathalie frowned, feeling something was a bit off with his words, but after thinking it over, it seemed alright. "You''re right. I was being silly. You''re the big boss around here; no need for you to get involved in small stuff like this."


    In the end, Nathalie decided to take the reins herself and pay a visit to the McCoy family patriarch.


    It was a bright Saturday morning. Nathan was making a rare visit back to the McCoy household, much to Frankie''s delight.


    She quickly instructed the cooks, "My precious grandson ising home today. Whip up a few extra dishes. I want to treat him right."


    Then she turned to the butler and said, "Give the old man a ring and tell him Nathan will be home. He shoulde back soon."


    The moment Nathan stepped inside, his grandma clung to his hand as if afraid he''d vanish. She led him to the couch. "Nathan, you hardly ever stop by. Sit and chat with me for a while."


    Nathan chuckled, "Don''t worry, Grandma, I''m not rushing off today. We can chat as long as you want."


    When things were out of the ordinary, there was often a reason. His grandma eyed him suspiciously. "You little rascal, what are you hiding?"


    Nathan put on a mock look of hurt. "I just missed you and Grandpa so much I lost my appetite. Now I''m back, and you think I''m up to something."


    Frankie couldn''t help butugh. "You


    used to be so withdrawn and not one for socializing. We worried you might be on the spectrum. Even your mom said that without meeting the right person, you''d never change."


    At that, her mood turned somber. "Your mom was always out of everyone''s league. Boys flocked to her, but she paid no mind. And then your heartless dad fooled her..."


    en


    Nathan held his grandma''s hand gently. "Grandma, I''m luckier than Mom."


    Frankie pushed back her sadness and managed a smile. "Nathan, your grandpa said you''ve been more livelytely. Be honest. Have you fallen for someone?"


    Nathan grinned. "If I find a girl I like, you''ll be the first to meet her, Grandma."


    Frankie chuckled, "That''s the spirit. I''ve seen more of life than you have, so I can spot any girl''s tricks a mile away."


    Nathan just smiled.


    Just then, the butler walked in with a card. "Ma''am, a Miss Nathalie sent this visiting card."


    Frankie murmured, "Nathalie?" Then she waved her hand dismissively. "I rarely have the chance to chat with my grandson. Tell her not today."


    But Nathan chimed in, "Grandma, there''s something about the name Nathalie that feels like fate. Why don''t we meet her?"


    Frankie was surprised and said, "Since when did you get so sentimental? Alright, if my dear grandson wants to meet her, then let her in."

 Chapter 159

    The butler made his exit, leaving Nathan feeling oddly jittery. "Grandma, maybe I should step out for a bit," he suggested.


    His grandmother stared at him with surprise. "You never cared for formalities. Since when did you turn into such a gentleman?"


    Nathan quickly made his escape, faster than a jackrabbit. "Grandma, you and Miss Nathalie have business to discuss. I don''t want to interrupt."


    Watching him duck into the study behind the screen, she let him off the hook with a knowing smile.


    Soon enough, the butler ushered Nathalie into the room. Frankie eyed the young woman curiously-she had an air of sophistication, a graceful figure, and was undeniably beautiful, but there was a shadow of sadness in her eyes. It was clear she had a story, and it made Frankie a bit wary. "Please, take a seat, Miss Nathalie," she offered.


    Nathalie sat down with poise, directly across from Frankie. "Ma''am, I''m the Creative Director at ''Forever Yours,'' and I''m sorry to drop in unannounced. I came to discuss the possibility of a coboration."


    Nathalie handed over a stylish portfolio she had prepared, her hands steady, but a hint of nervousness betrayed her calm exterior.


    "Ma''am, this showcases our new luxury line. I heard there''s an opportunity to lease the McCoy building, and I''m hoping you might consider us..."


    Frankie took the portfolio and set it aside on the coffee table, clearly more interested in Nathalie than the documents. "How old are you, Miss Nathalie?"


    Nathalie was caught off guard. She assumed the question was a roundabout way to assess her experience. "I''m twenty-four. I might be rtively new to fashion, but I''m deeply passionate about it..." Frankie cut her off, "Do you know my grandson, Nathan?"


    Nathalie was momentarily speechless. Here she was, ready to talk business, and the conversation took a personal turn. Completely unexpected.


    She nodded, "Yeah, I do."


    The elderlydy gave a knowing smile. "Ah, that exins it."


    The mystery of Nathan''s sudden return home seemed to unravel itself.


    "Are you two friends?" she asked.


    Nathalie felt a twinge of difort. She wanted to tell Frankie they were more than just friends-they''d once been each other''s lifeline, almost like family. But her own insecurities held her back.


    She worried that once Frankie learned of her background, she might react like other high-society women and try to keep her away from Nathan. So, she yed it down. "You could say that."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Frankie was quite shocked. Nathan, with his aloof nature, had never really had friends. Those who tried to befriend him were met with silence, no matter how persistent they were.


    Now, he had a friend. Frankie didn''t care about Nathalie''s background. If Nathalie could break through to her grandson, she had to be special.


    "Nathalie, my grandson is quite


    reserved. He can be moody and distant, but he''s got a good heart. Since you''re his friend, I hope you


    can be patient with him. If he gets stubborn, don''t hold it against him."

 Chapter 160

    Nathalie was kind of lost in thought.


    Every word from Frankie was soaked with deep affection for Nathan. A gentle joy bubbled up inside Nathalie. Nathan had his share of misfortunes, but he was also lucky in his own way.


    Frankie suddenly fell silent, tapping her lips in self-reproach. "Should I not have shared all that with you? You''re not going to think less of Nathan, are you?"


    Nathalie shook her head, her excitement making her words tumble out. "Oh no, Ma''am. Nathan only shows his tough side to those who''ve wronged him. He''s always so sweet with me, and I really like him. I could never think badly of him, not ever." Frankie was taken aback, almost as if struck by lightning. Goodness, what had she just heard?


    "It sounds like you and my Nathan are pretty close, huh?"


    Behind the screen, Nathan couldn''t help but grin. His charming eyes sparkled with amusement, though he didn''t even realize it.


    "I can''t wait to hear how you''re going to respond to my grandma," he thought with anticipation.


    Nathalie snapped back to reality, feeling like her heart nearly jumped out of her chest. "Oh, please don''t get the wrong idea... I see Nathan like a little brother."


    Frankie quipped, "Isn''t the whole older woman-younger man thing pretty trendy with you young folks these days?"


    Nathalie''s face turned beet red. "I''m not just six years older than Nathan, but I''ve also been through a divorce. I''ve never even considered having any romantic feelings for Nathan. Honestly, I don''t n on getting married again."


    Frankie was quiet for a while. "I was a bit forward. Ms. Nathalie. I''ll give your work the attention it deserves. You can head home, and I''ll be in touch."


    Nathalie left, feeling a bit shaky.


    Nathan emerged, his expression serious.


    Frankie nced at him, noting his icy, tense demeanor, and teased, "Has she seen this frosty side of you before?"


    Nathan plopped onto the couch, making it sink under his weight. "Why''d you ask her those odd questions, Grandma?" Frankie yed it cool. "What questions?"


    "You wanted to know about my rtionship with her. You could''ve just asked me."Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Frankie casually replied, "You''ve been going out of your way to help her career along. Do I really need to ask about your feelings? Naturally, I want to know how the person you care about feels about you"


    Nathan was taken aback. Were his feelings that obvious?


    Suddenly, he felt a bit downcast. "You heard her. Looks like I am destined to be single forever."


    Frankie figured Nathan was just at the age where one tends to overdramatize things and saw his affection as a fleeting part of growing up. So, she encouraged him, "I wouldn''t count on that." Nathan''s eyes lit up with hope. "Grandma, what''s your take?"


    Frankie exined, "You were behind the screen and only heard her. You didn''t see how nervous she was. Her hands were shaky, and she was so flustered that she misspoke. Nathan, this girl really cares about you. She couldn''t rx in front of me because she''s that concerned about you."


    Nathan''s face broke into a big smile. "Grandma, now that you know how I feel, I''ll say that both of us have been through tough times. So, I hope you won''t make things hard for her."


    Frankie sighed, "If it were solely up


    to me, I''d prefer you were with someone without aplicated past. But worry you might repeat your mother''s mistakes, so I''ll stay out of your love life. Just remember, Nathan, to love others as much as you love yourself."


    "Thanks, Grandma."


    Around noon, Theo rushed back home. And he showed up with Cameron in tow.

 Chapter 161

    "Honey, where''s my darling grandson?" Theo asked, his voice sharp.


    Frankie sat on the sofa, clearly miffed about Theo''ste return. "Do you even remember you have a grandson? He sat here, bored stiff, trying to keep an olddy like me entertained, and then stormed off," she grumbled. Theo felt a little guilty. "That rascal didn''t even wait for me."


    With a cheerful tone, he tried to smooth things over. "Come on, don''t be mad. I got caught up with some work stuff. Promise it won''t happen again."


    Frankie gave Cameron a once-over. He was, after all, the son of an old family friend. She smiled politely. "Cameron, make yourself at home."


    As Cameron settled onto the sofa, the maid swiftly brought over some fine coffee. Sipping it, Cameron rxed. With such a warm wee, he was optimistic Frankie wouldn''t turn down his request. Cameron jumped right in. "Ma''am, I''m here to see if I can lease the McCoy family''smercial building in the Capital''s prime area. Could you give me that chance?"


    Frankie kept her cool, but inside, she felt relieved. ''Thank goodness Nathalie came to me first. If I''d promised it to Dawson International, Nathan would be so let down.''


    Unaware of Frankie''s inner thoughts, Theo chimed in, "Cameron, your dad and I go way back, and we''ve seen you grow up. Just for that bond, don''t worry, we''ll grant your request..."


    Theo was cut off by Frankie''s sharp tone. "Honey, I''ve already promised the building to someone else."


    Cameron''s smile faltered slightly.


    Theo was taken aback, "Frankie, you can''t be serious. Didn''t we say we''d save this opportunity for Cameron?"Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    She handed him a portfolio. "Take a look at this girl''s work. It''s impressive."


    Theo didn''t even nce at it, tossing it onto the coffee table, feeling a bit ashamed. "Honey, our family''s building is in a prime spot. Any business would thrive there. Why not rent it to Cameron?"


    Coming from a military background, Theo was a man of his word and wasn''t about to back down. "Frankie, we promised Mr. Dawson..."


    Frankie sighed, picking up the portfolio again. "Theo, Nathan rmended this."


    Theo was quite puzzled. "Isn''t Nathan into smart robots? When did he switch gears?"


    She whispered, "This portfolio''s from a youngdy. Your grandson is quite fond of her. She might just be your future granddaughter-inw." Theo was taken aback. ''How did that quiet kid figure things out so early?''


    Once he gathered his thoughts, Theo eagerly grabbed the portfolio. Although he wasn''t exactly fashion-savvy, he nodded in approval. "Not bad at all. My


    vel


    swnov


    grandson sure has an eye fortalent."


    Then, feeling a bit sheepish, he turned to Cameron. "Mr. Dawson, I''d love to work with you. But you know, my grandson''s my pride and joy, and it''s the first time he''s ever asked me for something. Familyes first, sot can''t help you out this time. Sorry about that."

 Chapter 162

    Frankie chimed in, "Cameron, since Nathan came to us with a request, we can''t possibly let him down. He''s the only gift our beloved daughter left us. We hope you understand."


    Since the situation wasid out so inly, Cameron knew it would be in poor taste to push any further, so he left, feeling disappointed. He left the McCoy estate in a bit of a slump.


    If his luxury brand couldn''tnd a spot in the McCoy family''s building, it would be seen as a step down. He''d have to go for more budget-friendly pricing, and starting off on a limited note like that would make the journey ahead even tougher. Unless, of course, he could snag the top-notch production team from the Rond family to give his brand a boost.


    On the other hand, Nathalie left the McCoy estate with a heavy heart. By the time Nathan made it back to her studio, he found her slumped over herputer desk, looking distant and lost.


    "What''s up?" Nathan asked, sitting across from her. He reached out to feel her forehead, making sure she wasn''ting down with something, and felt relieved when she wasn''t.


    Nathalie looked up, her deep brown eyes filled with regret. "Nathan, I didn''t make a great impression earlier. Mrs. McCoy didn''t even check out my work and just sent me away."


    Nathan couldn''t help butugh a little. His grandmother, born into a family with generations of business savvy, had a knack formerce that was hard to beat. But she had one Achilles'' heel-her boundless love for her daughter.


    After her daughter passed away at a young age, Frankie always med herself, thinking it was her absence that led her daughter to be swayed by a no-good man, ending in her untimely death. Frankie poured all her unspent love and guilt onto Nathan. For Nathan, she was always ready to grant any wish.


    "Nathalie, talked to Grandma for


    you. She actually praised your work for its depth and meaning and decided to give you full rights to the prime retail space at our mall."


    en


    The news hit Nathalie like a whirlwind, leaving her teary-eyed andughing all at once. "I got the green light from her! I must be on a lucky streak."


    Nathan gently wiped her tears away. "We''ve just scored the hottest retail spot. Now we need to lock in the best production team in the fashion industry."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Nathalie nodded. "I''ve heard the


    Rond family''s got the best sewing and ironing skills in The Capital. But your dad''s got a soft spot for Benjamin, so how would he


    ever let us have those res?"


    Nathan smirked. "Benjamin''s just a lost cause. If the Rond family''s core businessnds in his hands, it''ll eventually end up with Cameron."


    Nathalie immediately caught on. "If Cameron gets that exclusive


    authorization from the Rond family, he''ll definitely make a


    en


    Nathan grinned. "That''s why you must get ready ande to the Rond family estate with me."


    Being the workaholic she is, Nathalie slung herptop bag over her shoulder and was ready to roll.


    "Let''s do this."


    Meanwhile, over at the Rond family''s estate, in their garden pavilion, Benjamin and Cameron sat sipping tea while the elegant maids attended to them with grace.

 Chapter 163

    Upon hearing about Cameron''s setback with the McCoy family, Benjamin was so furious he shattered the cup against the stone table. "How could Nathan pull something so underhanded? Our families are among the big four financial powerhouses and have been in this together since our ancestors'' days. We''ve always had each other''s backs, but he swoops in and snatches the prime retail spot you had lined up. Cameron, don''t worry, I''ve got your back this time." Cameron beamed with relief. "With your solid support, the Rond family''s fashion design team will be at my fingertips. The Dawson family products will earn their reputation. No prime location is needed because our sales will flow. But..."


    Cameron''s face clouded with worry. "I''m just concerned Nathan will find a way to throw a wrench in the works again."


    Benjamin sneered. "He might have some clout in the McCoy family, but in the Rond family, he''s nobody in my dad''s eyes. If he behaves, he gets scraps. If not, he''s out on his ear."


    Cameron exhaled slowly, feeling reassured.


    But then Benjamin paused, suspicion creeping in. "Cameron, something''s fishy. Why is Nathan gunning for you specifically?"


    It was a lightbulb moment for Cameron. He ran through all his encounters with Nathan and stumbled upon a chilling realization. "Now that you point it out, I see it. The embarrassment he caused me and stealing my prime shop spot was no ident. It must''ve been deliberate."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "Why would he cross you? There''s nothing in it for him," Benjamin puzzled.


    Cameron replied, full of self-assurance, "What else could it be? It''s got to be youthful arrogance. He''s trying to snatch the glory of my prodigy status."


    Benjamin scoffed. "Everyone knows you''re the real deal, Cameron. Nathan doesn''t even have a mother. It''s so ridiculous."


    With renewed enthusiasm, Benjamin urged, "Cameron,e with me to see my grandfather. Once he grants you the Rond family''s core technology, Nathan won''t stand a chance." Cameron nodded. "Alright."


    Cameron never imagined that his biggest rival wouldn''t be some market-dominating business titan but his humble ex-wife, whom he always underestimated.


    Meanwhile, in a south-facing room on the third floor, Nathan stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing quietly toward the gazebo.


    "I feel like we''re in for a tough fight today."


    Nathalie stood beside him, resolute as ever. "If it means taking him down, I''ll dive into any fire pit without a second thought."


    Nathan turned, silhouetted by the light, his tall, elegant figure like a supermodel. His face was shadowed his voice a murmur. "Cameron is slick in business and


    always uses perks to win ove and


    partners. And the Rond family folks? They''re all about the benefits. To beat him, you''ve got to think outside the box."


    Nathalie was straightforward. Although she was sessful in her overseas ventures, she relied on ster service and top-notch quality. Bribery was beneath her, something she found repulsive and refused to touch.


    But losing to Cameron wasn''t an option.


    Suddenly, an idea struck her like lightning. Her eyes lit up as she looked at Nathan, a spark of brilliance dancing in her gaze. Despite Cameron''s tricks, Nathan


    had outsmarted him before.


    This meant Nathan''s wit and strategy were a cut above Cameron''s.


    "Nathan, you''ve got to have a n to beat him," she pleaded, tugging at Nathan''s sleeve, her eyes twinkling with a clever innocence that was as disarming as a child asking for candy.

 Chapter 164

    Nathan yed it cool, pretending not to get it. "Nellie, you know my granddad''s super suspicious. If I openly help you, he''ll definitely start questioning what''s going on between us. What am I supposed to tell him then?" Nathalie was stumped.


    "Why not just pretend to be my girlfriend for a bit?" Nathan suggested with a sly grin. "That way, he''ll have to take you seriously."


    Nathalie shook her head. "No way. I''ve got a bit of a bad rep. Hanging out with me will just drag you into the gossip mill."


    She couldn''t stand the thought of Nathan getting caught up in the drama because of her.


    Nathan led her to the vanity. "Aren''t you the makeup queen, Nellie? Just tweak your look a bit, and no one will recognize you."


    Caught between Nathan''s smooth talk and the urgency of the situation, Nathalie gave in. She curled her hair into big waves, put on some fancy jewelry, slipped into a red jumpsuit, threw on oversized sunsses, and topped it off with bright red lipstick. She looked both fierce and fabulous.


    "You look stunning," Nathan said, genuinely impressed.


    Hispliment didn''t carry the usual cheesy flirt vibe, so to Nathalie, it felt more like a genuine pat on the back.


    Yes, she was stunning. And she deserved the best.


    "Let''s get moving," Nathalie said, a bit anxious. She worried that Cameron might swoop in first.


    In the living room, Mason sat on the couch with a stern look, with Cameron nearby and Benjamin standing next to him, stirring trouble. "Grandfather, Nathan is getting out of hand. He even dared to take the prime spot from Cameron. If he ticks off Cameron, who''s going to fix that mess?"


    When Nathan and Nathalie walked in, it was like a fresh breeze blew through, leaving a hint of roses in the air.


    Everyone looked up instinctively.


    Cameron''s eyes locked onto Nathalie, his gaze intense and


    curious. She was familiar but had an unfamiliar vibe, carrying herself with a confidence he hadn''t seen before. He couldn''t be sure if she were the wife he had once dismissed. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Benjamin waspletely thrown off when he spotted the girl who had once caught his eye. He blurted out, stunned, "Is that you?" Nathalie frowned, not used to being the center of attention. Benjamin''s sudden approach made her uneasy.


    Nathan pulled Nathalie closer, wrapping an arm around her shoulder protectively.


    Jealousy shed in Benjamin''s eyes. He thought to himself, ''Where did Nathan find this gem?''


    Nathan paid no mind to Benjamin, leading Nathalie toward Mason. Their fingers were interlocked, looking like they belonged together. "Grandfather."


    Nathan and Nathalie sto her.


    Nathan''s calm demeanorplemented Nathalie''s


    fresh-faced charm, making them seem like a perfect match belongs to


    Mason was surprisingly polite to Nathalie. "Please, have a seat."


    Nathalie sat down with grace, Nathan settling next to her. His hand held hers, and even though Nathalie felt awkward and tried to pull away, Nathan held tighter, giving her a serious look. Nathalie let it slide.


    In her simplicity, she figured he had his reasons and never suspected he was intentionally being intimate.

 Chapter 165

    Nathan handed Nathalie''s portfolio directly to Mason. "Grandpa, this is the design work my girlfriend, Nathalie, has been pouring her heart into for the past three months. Please take a look."


    The move was sudden and without exnation, catching Cameron and Benjamin off guard and making them feel threatened like never before.


    Benjamin, never one to keep quiet, burst out, "Nathan, what are you up to? First, you snatched the prime retail spot from Cameron, and now you''re after the design team he wants? How can you be so ruthless?"


    Mason paid no mind to their bickering. For this business mogul, skill trumped family ties every time. He took the portfolio, slipped on his reading sses, and began to carefully leaf through it. Benjamin wore a worried expression.


    Cameron, on the other hand, kept his cool. "Nellie, do you really think your work can impress Mason? Don''t make a fool of yourself here."


    Benjamin was stunned. "Cameron, what did you call her? Nellie? How could she be Nellie?"


    Nathalie, feeling exposed by Cameron''s public reveal, felt her palms grow mmy with anxiety.


    Nathan gazed at her with tenderness. For this sensitive and sharp girl to find the courage to stand up to Cameron, she must have faced some serious injustice. He felt for her.


    Nathan watched Nathalie with affection. "Cameron, you''ve got the wrong person. This is my girlfriend, Nathalie. She''s not your sweet and naive ex-wife." Cameron''s jaw dropped. "She... is your girlfriend?"


    "Why else would I be helping her so much? She''s family," Nathan replied.


    Cameron studied Nellie closely, sure she was indeed Nellie. But, he couldn''t wrap his head around how she had be Nathan''s girlfriend.


    Mason, deeply engrossed in Nathalie''s portfolio, would have been visibly amazed by her designs if not for his well-practiced poker face.


    "Cameron, what did you just call her?" Mason, finally snapping out of his focus on the portfolio, asked.


    Cameron nced at Nathalie and said with a patronizing tone, "Mr. Rond, this woman here is my ex-wife, Nellie. She never attended college or studied fashion design formally. She''s not fit to work with the Rond family''s elite design team." T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    His words dripped with arrogance.


    Mason narrowed his eyes. He''d heard the stories about Nellie, the


    homeless girl Cameron took in, meant only to provide a kidney for his true love. Even though Cameron married her out of duty, she lived under Cameron''s pity and sympathy.


    How could someone so humble create such striking designs? Her skilled illustrations, innovative ideas, and vast knowledge all pointed to a rare talent. The astonishing designer Nathalie couldn''t possibly be that ordinary Nellie.


    Mason closed the portfolio, which now felt weighty and significant. He was determined to keep it from rivalpanies.


    "Nathan, you must have your reasons for bringing Miss Nathalie to me, right?" Mason, known for his shrewdness, had already calcted the stakes.


    Instead of handing Cameron a big


    payday, perhaps it was smarter to back his own grandson. But did Nathan have the guts to take the prize right out of Cameron''s hands?


    en


    Right now, Mason was gauging Nathan''s determination.

 Chapter 166

    Nathan said, "Grandfather, I''m eager to dive into the luxury goods market. My newpany is really taking off. We have a top-tier design team and an exceptional production crew. Plus, our retail location couldn''t be better. We''ve got everything lined up; we just need that final push to make it alle together."


    Mason smirked.


    Nathan was already iming the Rond family''s elite production team as his own, showing he''d won over their workers. Benjamin, the poor fool, just seemed to pave the way for others. He would never make it big.


    Mason then turned his attention to Nathalie. "Ms. Nathalie..." With his years of shrewdness, Mason always had a strategy. By insisting on calling her Ms. Nathalie when Cameron referred to her as Nellie, it was clear he only trusted Nathan. He''d rather upset Cameron, the respected businessman than fail to back Nathan.


    Cameron was left speechless. His eyes fell on the portfolio Mason held, realizing it had swayed Mason''s original ns. Still, it was hard for him to believe that Nellie had the chops to win Mason over.


    "Mason, can I have a look at that portfolio?" Cameron asked hesitantly.


    Mason instinctively tightened his grip on the portfolio, clearly protective of it. But he didn not want to cross Cameron as well. He turned the issue to Nathalie. "Mr. Dawson, this belongs to Ms. Nathalie. If you''re keen to see it, you''ll need her permission..." Before he could finish, Nathalie interjected firmly: "This is confidentialpany material, and I''m not agreeing to that."


    Cameron was furious. "Nellie, I wouldn''t steal your work," he said, never having thought much of Nellie''s skills. He just wanted to understand why Mason shifted his stance after seeing the portfolio. If it was genuinely impressive, he''d be convinced. If not, it would suggest Mason had a special ce for Nathan, making Nathan the clear heir to the Rond legacy.


    "Cameron, isn''t it a bit rude to demand to see anotherpany''s confidential files?" Nathan shot a cold nce at Cameron.


    Cameron was taken aback byN?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Nathalie''s


    convinced himself their was


    unwavering stance. He''d


    just@spat. Who did Nellie


    was?


    she


    Faced with the barriers set by Mason, and Nathan, Cameron found a way through. "Mr. Rond, I''ve also brought a portfolio for you to check out."


    Nathan was well aware of Cameron''s agenda. Wasn''t he just trying to get the answers he wanted byparison?


    Mason couldn''t exactly dismiss Cameron. He showed keen interest. "Oh, I''m in for a treat today."


    Cameron eagerly dialed his chief designer, boasting about her


    unmatched skills. "Mr. Rond, you won''t regret seeing her designs. She studied fashion design in college shined both academically and creatively, and won several awards. After graduation, she caught Jasmine''s attention and became her prot¨¦g¨¦. Her expertise has grown by leaps and bounds, and she''s gaining quite a reputation in the industry."


    Mason was even more intrigued. "I''m truly looking forward to it."


    Cameron wasted no time and called his chief designer, urging her to bring her best work to the Rond family estate without dy.


    As they waited, the atmosphere turned oddly tense. Before long, Greta arrived in a whirlwind.

 Chapter 167

    Nathan caught sight of Greta and gave a silent chuckle. "I thought Cameron had sshed out on some big-shot designer. Turns out, it''s just your old me." His teasing remark hit home, revealing Cameron''s tant favoritism, something Mason couldn''t stand. Greta was eager to impress. She handed over her design portfolio to Mason. "Mr. Mason, could you take a look?"Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Mason, in no rush, set his mug on the coffee table and took Greta''s portfolio, flipping through it. The designs were monotonous, with traditional expressions that could give anyone a headache. He skimmed through quickly, reaching the end in no time. The impatience on Mason''s face was unmistakable. He wasn''t pleased with the proposal.


    Greta and Cameron exchanged confused looks, both wondering if Greta''s proposal was really not up to par with Nellie''s. Benjamin, clueless as ever, asked eagerly, "Grandfather, what do you think? Is it better than Nellie''s?"


    Mason snorted, tossing the portfolio back onto the coffee table. It was clear he felt his time had been wasted. Greta''s face fell, and she asked, a hint of frustration in her voice, "If you think my proposal isn''t good enough, could you give me some constructive feedback?" She was convinced Mason was biased towards Nellie and thought that by asking for feedback, she might catch him showing favoritism.


    But Mason was blunt. "Your proposal is too ordinary. Itcks the sophistication of a master''s work. There''s room for improvement across the board."


    Cameron kept his cool, "Greta is young, but her work stands out among her peers." He nced at Nellie as he mentioned her peers. "Nellie''s proposal isn''t without ws either. But everyone has their preferences. If you prefer Nellie''s work, I won''t argue. Still, I firmly believe Greta''s work is superior."


    Greta brightened at his words.


    Mason looked puzzled. "Nellie?"


    Cameron awkwardly corrected, "Nellie is actually this Miss Nathalie."


    Mason smited knowingly. "Miss


    Nathalie''s proposal goes beyond her years. She''s like a seasoned artist,


    able to handle any style. Calling her a master isn''t an exaggeration."


    en


    Swr


    Cameron was stunned, staring at Nathalie in disbelief, while Nathalie stayed calm andposed.


    "This can''t be... Nellie, did you copy someone else''s work?" Greta stammered.


    Nathan fixed her with a frosty look. "You resort to nder when you can''t match someone''s talent? Greta, your narrow-mindedness is disappointing. No wonder your


    designs never movere


    Nathan tucked Nathalie''s portfolio under his arm like a cherished treasure and said his goodbyes to Mason: "Grandfather, Nathalie and I have ns, so we won''t keep you."


    Mason''s eyes twinkled with amusement. "Off you go."


    Holding Nathalie''s hand, Nathan quickly left the hall, not expecting Cameron to follow.


    "Nellie." Cameron caught up with Nathalie in a few strides, blocking her path. "I need to talk to you," he said, his tonemanding.


    Nathan stepped in front of Nathalie, his expression turning icy. "Cameron, stop pestering my girlfriend."

 Chapter 168

    Cameron snapped, "Nathan, she''s my wife..."


    "Ex-wife, actually," Nathalie corrected him with a cool edge.


    Cameron chuckled. "So you''re finally owning up to being Nellie?"


    Nathalie turned to Nathan with a calm but firm voice. "Nathan, I''ve got a few things to say to him too."


    Nathan, looking none too pleased, grudgingly backed off a bit, giving them space.


    As they faced each other, Cameron''s face was stormy as he demanded, "Nellie, why are you going against me?"


    Nathalie couldn''t help but let out a chuckle, more out of frustration than humor. "Business is all about who''s got the skills. You don''t seem to handle losing well. Where''s your ss?"


    Cameron tried to soften his tone. "Nel, this project is crucial for me. Let me take it, and I''ll pay you handsomely. What do you say?"


    Nathalie raised an eyebrow, pretending to clear her ear as if she misheard. "So, you want to buy my project out just like that?"


    Cameron''s expression turned awkward he hadn''t meant for it to be a fair trade, just a quick payoff.


    Cameron hesitated before offering, "One hundred grand."


    Nathalie burst intoughter, tears almost spilling from her eyes. "Are you serious? Do you think I''m a charity case?"


    Cameron tried to reason. "Nellie, one hundred thousand isn''t chump change. Don''t let Mason''spliments make you lose your direction. Your work can''t possibly top Greta''s."


    Nathalie shot back. "Do I need to remind you, Cameron, that I beat Greta at the Mn Fashion Contest? While she''s been off having an affair with you, has she even been keeping up with her work?"


    "I''ve been putting in the effort, honing my skills. My achievements aren''t something someone like Greta can match. Mentioning her in the same breath as me is an insult."


    Cameron had a moment of rity. Right, the Mn Fashion Contest, where Nellie had triumphed over Greta. How could he have forgotten about that?


    He realized his earlier usations against Mason were childish, and the stark difference in talent between Nellie and Greta hit him hard.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Now realizing the truth, Cameron admitted, "I underestimated you."


    Swallowing his pride, he quickly said, "Nellie, name your price. I''m ready to pay big for your work."


    Nathalie touched her finger to her bold red lips, "Cameron, you can''t afford my work. And don''t call me Nellie anymore. The day we split, Nellie was gone."


    "From now on, there''s no more sweet, naive Nellie-only Nathalie, who lives for herself." Cameron felt a wave of irritation. "Nellie, changing your name doesn''t erase our past."


    His stubbornness irritates Nathalie, who stepped forward and stamped down hard on his foot with her high heel. Then she turned on her heef and strutted away, leaving him clutching his foot and looking pale from the pain.


    Greta rushed out just in time to catch the scene, running over to side with Cameron. "Nel, how could you do that to Cameron? You owe him an apology."


    "Are you out of your mind?" Nathalie retorted, giving Greta a push that sent her sprawling.


    Cameron hurried over to help Greta up, his temper ring as he raised his fist, ready to confront Nathalie.

 Chapter 169

    Nathalie suddenly took off her sses. Her eyes, lightly entuated with makeup, usually sparkled with brightness, but now they shed with a fiery anger.


    "Go on, hit me," she challenged, stepping forward, practically daring Cameron to throw a punch.


    Cameron, caught off guard by her steely re, hesitated and slowly dropped his hand.


    "What a pair of idiots," Nathalie muttered, her teeth clenched in frustration.


    Seeing Cameron''s hesitation, Greta chimed in, "Nel, we''re family. Families don''t hold grudges forever. Going against us isn''t smart. Cameron''s sess benefits you, too. If he goes down, so does your support."


    She reached out to grab Nellie''s hand, but Nellie swiftly pulled away. "Don''t touch me. We''re not that close," Nellie replied, her voice cold and distant.


    Greta froze, tears welling up as she pleaded, "Are you still angry with me? Nel, I''m your sister, your own flesh and blood. I know Cameron and I didn''t treat you right, but you''ve gotten your revenge. We were shamed online, and I lost my child. Nel, we''re even now. I owe you nothing."


    Nellie looked at her with disinterest. "It''s a shame you''re not on stage. You''d make a great actress," she remarked coolly.


    Greta''s face flushed with embarrassment. "Nel, am I wrong..."


    Nellie''s gaze on her was as if she was examining a rare artifact. "Your child''s death is karma for your actions. The online scandal happened because of your own behavior. Your misfortunes are your doing and have nothing to do with me. But my suffering, that''s on you..."


    Greta trembled, her face turning ashen. "How did you be so relentless?"


    Suddenly, Cameron pulled Greta behind him, enraged as heshed out at Nellie. Nellie, you think you''re so high and mighty because you''ve got Nathan now, don''t you? You''re fooling yourself if you believe a man like him would truly love someone who got divorced and aborted a


    child. He''s just using Orted a


    you to climb


    higher than Benjamin. Once you''re no longer useful, he''ll toss you aside. Don''te crying to me then."


    Nathalie pped Cameron hard across the face.


    "What?" Greta gasped in shock.


    Cameron stood there, stunned, ring at Nellie in disbelief. "You dare hit me?"


    Nellie fired back, "Who''s the


    shameless jerk that turned me into a divorcee? Who caused my miscarriage? Cameron, you made me feet worthless, but you question my chance at real love. How did I ever miss how revolting you really afe?"


    Cameron stood up, straightening his clothes and clenching his fists. His face darkened with anger as he moved toward Nellie, and his chest heaved with rage.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    It was clear he was about to hit her.


    That was when Nathan stepped in, positioning Nathalie safely behind him. "You wouldn''t hit a woman, would you?" Cameron snapped, "She deserves it."


    Nathan replied calmly, ¡°When you first brought her home, she was innocent and defenseless. Now she''s like a hedgehog, all spines. Shouldn''t you reflect on how you pushed her to this point?"


    Cameron''s tall frame wavered, and Nathan''s words forced him to reflect on his past with Nellie.

 Chapter 170

    He could still faintly recall the day he brought Nellie back to the Dawson family home. He promised, "I''ll give you a stable home from now on."


    She hugged him, and her smile was as radiant as a spring morning as she sweetly said, "You''ve been so good to me, Cameron. I''ll make sure to repay your kindness."


    But the home they shared fell apart at the seams.


    Cameron guiltily attempted to cate her and said, "Nellie, my only mistake was not loving you. But you can''t force feelings. Nellie, think of me as a passing breeze and let me go. I''ll help you move abroad, far from the Capital, so you can start anew and find happiness. How does that sound?" Nathalie smirked, "Who do you think you are to decide my life for me?"


    Desperate, Cameron grabbed her hand. "What will it take for you to leave my world? Nellie, your presence is severely disrupting my life and career."


    Nathalie stared at him coldly. "Ever thought I might be doing this on purpose?"


    Seeing the mocking glint in Nellie''s eyes, Cameron let go, feeling powerless.


    He finally understood that Nellie was no longer the naive girl he could control but a fierce tiger he had unwittingly nurtured. If he wasn''t cautious, she might devour him whole. "You deliberately stole my business?"


    Nathalie''s smile was mysterious. She took Nathan''s hand and walked away.


    As they passed Greta, they overheard her timid warning, "Nel, don''t do anything stupid. Wealthy men like Nathan would never marry a divorced woman."


    Nathalie paused, ncing back at her wedding ring. The diamond wasrge and pricy.


    The ring Cameron gave her back then had diamonds no bigger than grains of rice.


    Nathalie chuckled, "Greta, what do you think Mrs. Dawson would do if she found out you whisked away her precious son?"


    Greta''s face turned pale. She


    nervously ran her hand, wedding ring and all, through her hair. "Nel, don''t worry about me. Whether or not marry into wealth doesn''t matter. As long as Cameron loves me, that''s enough."


    "What a gold digger," Nathan remarked suddenly.


    Greta flinched.


    Nathan and Nathalieughed as they left. Greta could hear them openly talking about her.


    Nathan said, "She''s neither prettier nor more graceful than you, and she reeks of perfume. It''s ridiculous you lost to her."


    Nathalie responded, "Some people just have cheap tastes."


    Nathan mocked, "Nah, trash finds its way to the dump."


    Nathalie agreed, "Better they stick together, so they don''t harm innocent folks."


    "Ha ha ha."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Greta clenched her fists in anger. "Cameron, they''re making fun of me," she whined. Cameron''s expression was grim, his mood even worse. "Let''s just go."


    Even as they left the Rond family''s mansion, Greta''s anger barely subsided. "This is outrageous. Nellie''s gone too far. How can she treat us like that?"


    Cameron had lost a thriving business and a critical design partnership. His career was in shambles, and he couldn''t muster the energy to dwell on Nellie''s insults.


    "Her revenge is far harsher than any words she could say," Cameron replied weakly.

 Chapter 171

    Greta had never seen Cameron so downhearted before. It was like watching a golden boy fall from grace, shattered like a broken marite,pletely devoid of life. "Cameron, what''s going to happen with yourpany?" Greta asked, her voice tinged with concern.


    Cameron was once exuded such confidence and charm in business meetings, but now seemed utterly defeated. "If Nellie doesn''t back off from thispetition, I''m probably going to lose."


    Greta''s face went pale as a ghost. If Cameron failed, it would also mean the end of her dreams for love. She never imagined that Nellie, who once seemed so insignificant, could be such a formidable threat. Greta and Cameron were each lost in their own worries, silent throughout the drive.


    When they reached Greta''s ce, they were so caught up in their thoughts that they forgot to say goodnight, leaving Greta to unlock the door in a daze.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    By the time she snapped back to reality and thought to call out to Cameron, his car had already disappeared into the night.


    Her face turned even paler. Cameron''s indifference left her feeling uneasy.


    "Dad," Greta cried as soon as she saw Patrick, tears streaming down her face. "You''ve got to do something about Nellie. She''s actually going up against Cameron."


    Patrick chuckled warmly. "And here I was thinking it was something serious. How is that girl causing such a fuss? Cameron''s like a prince around here; why would he be worried about an ant like her?"


    Greta sobbed harder. "Dad, Nellie took over Cameron''s spot at the Global Tower and even snagged the chance to work with the Rond family''s fashion team. Cameron''s at his wit''s end. He was in such a bad mood today he wouldn''t even talk to me." "What?" Patrick was both stunned and furious-stunned that his seemingly unremarkable daughter had such skill and furious that Nellie''s actions threatened his beloved Greta''s happiness.


    Greta clung to Patrick, pleading, "Dad, you have to help Cameron. If his business takes a hit, Mrs. Dawson will see me as bad luck and never let me into the Dawson family."


    Patrick adored his eldest daughter, and couldn''t bear to see her so upset. He reassured her, "Greta, don''t worry. I won''t let your sister mess with your happiness with Cameron." "But Dad," Greta said softly, "my sister''s be so heartless; she doesn''t even acknowledge you as her father. What if she won''t listen to you?"


    Patrick''s anger grew. "She thinks


    she''s beyond my reach now that she feels independent? I''ll teach her a lesson she''ll never forget and let her know what happens to thos@who disrespect their parents."


    When Nathalie came home, she felt a nagging sense of dread.


    Lizzy gently ced a warm towel over her eyes. "You''ve been overworking yourself and straining your eyes. You need to take it easy."


    Nathalie yfully poked Lizzy''s forehead. "You''re so young, but you nag like a grandma."


    Lizzy giggled. "If that''s the case, Mr. Nathan must be the world''s oldest wise man." Nathalie looked puzzled.


    Lizzyughed and exined, "He acts like a stern old man, always lecturing me about taking care of you. ''Make sure breakfast is varied. She''s too skinny, and we need to fatten her up. Lunch should be on time, as her stomach is sensitive. No strong tea at night, it might mess with her sleep..."


    Nathalie had never found Nathan''s detailed instructions annoying; she always thought of him as reserved and aloof. But as she heard Lizzy, Nathalie started to see Nathan in a whole new light.  en

 Chapter 172

    Was Nathan''s quiet care all along meant to feel like a gentle presence, nurturing her without a word?


    She let out a deep sigh. "Lizzy, maybe my life was so tough in the beginning that even the heavens had enough of it. That''s why they sent Nathan my way. He''s finally given me the warmth of a real home." Lizzy echoed her sentiment. "The heavens must have looked out for me, too, by giving me such an amazing friend."


    Out of nowhere, the phone started ringing urgently.


    Nathalie and Lizzy exchanged puzzled looks. Who would be reaching out to them at this hour when neither had any family ties in the city?


    Lizzy darted over to the phone with excitement, gingerly passing it over to Nathalie. "Hey, it''s an unknown number."


    A faint, bitter smile crossed Nathalie''s face. She had recently blocked every number and social media contact from the Brown family. They''d have to use an unknown number if they wanted to reach her. Nathalie picked up the call, and a thunderous voice boomed from the other end. "Nellie, get back home right now."


    Nathalie furrowed her brow, finally realizing why she had been feeling so uneasy. She replied coolly, "Sorry, you''ve got the wrong number. I''m not who you''re looking for."


    Patrick was taken aback. "Nellie, you... don''t recognize me?"


    Nathalie found it almostughable. "You really do have a short memory. Thest time you whipped me, I told you that you were wiping out thest bits of family love I had for you."


    Patrick, seething, shot back, "Nellie, you''re being disrespectful. You''ll get your karma someday."


    Nellie retorted, "That''s still better than hit by your whip."


    Patrick was left speechless.


    Nellie hung up the phone. She curled up into a ball, feeling like it was the only way to keep her warmth from seeping away too quickly.


    Why did the fatherly love she longed for always feel so cold?


    Unable to reach her by phone, Patrick switched to another number and texted her: [Nellie,e back home. Your mom''s not doing well.]


    Nathalie saw the message. She


    wanted to ignore Patrick''s text, but


    the news of Miranda''s critical


    swnvelContent ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    condition pierced her heart like a


    knife.


    Her grudge against her mother and anger seemed poised to vanish along with her mother''s life.


    Afraid of living with lifelong regret, she finally chose to go back to the Brown family for onest look at her mother.


    Just onest nce.


    Not out of sympathy but to say goodbye. To finally settle the fragile bond between mother and daughter. The night was cool and serene.


    Nathalie walked under the moonlit sky towards the Brown family''s townhouse. As she rang the


    ????


    doorbell, an impatient voice came from inside, "Who could it be at this hour?"


    When the maid opened the door and saw Nathalie, there was a flicker of surprise mixed with a hint of sympathy. "Ms. Nellie, you''re back." "Where''s my mom?"


    "She''s... upstairs," the maid stammered, her eyes darting nervously.


    Nathalie marched into the house, only to be startled by a heavy thud behind her, like a warning bell that made her heart skip a beat. She paused, feeling a wave of unease.


    d in a ck velvet robe, Patrick stood silently in the upstairs hallway, his face cloaked in shadow.


    Nathalie heard his icy voice, "Nellie, you''ve finallye back."

 Chapter 173

    Nathalie made her way up the stairs and stood in front of Patrick, her voice steady but firm. "I''ve changed my name. I''m not Nellie anymore. I''m Nathalie."


    Patrick reacted as if she''d pped him. He lunged at her, his hands tightening around her neck in a fit of rage. "You''ve forgotten your own heritage. Nellie, if I''d known you''d turn out so rebellious, I''d have tossed you into a ditch the day you were born." Even as she struggled for air, Nathalie''s pride remained unshaken. "You may as well finish me off now," she shot back defiantly.


    Patrick''s grip only tightened, but Nathalie didn''t resist. She simply red at him, eyes filled with a deep-seated resentment as if staring down a lifelong enemy.


    Her icy stare unnerved Patrick, and just as she was on the brink of suffocation, he snapped back to his senses and let go. "Your mother''s waiting for you in her room," he managed to say, breathless.


    Nathalie didn''t waste a word on him and headed straight for Miranda''s room.


    As Patrick watched his daughter walk away, he couldn''t ignore the contradiction-she looked so frail, but her spirit was unyielding as iron. She''d said their bond was broken, and true to her word, she never called him "father" again.


    How could a daughter hold onto such grudges?


    Nathalie paused outside Miranda''s door, lost in thought. Patrick and Miranda had once been estranged, with Patrick showing no interest in visiting Miranda or Nathalie for years. Now, they seemed to have reconciled, living under the same roof. Was Nathalie''s presence the catalyst for their renewed rtionship?


    She knocked softly, and Miranda''s voice beckoned her inside.


    Walking in, Nathalie found Miranda lying on the bed, looking frail and hollow-eyed. There was no joy in their long-awaited reunion, only an awkward silence.


    Miranda finally broke it. "After the scene you and your sister caused, it''s humiliating for me."


    Suspicion clouded Nathalie''s face. "Patrick told me that you''re terminally ill? Is it true?" Miranda was stunned into silence, her mouth opening and closing without a word. "You..."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie made it clear that sheet


    no familial bond with the Brown family. It remained to be seen it Miranda''s appeal to family duty would have any effect.


    Miranda sighed, "What have you be? I''m paralyzed now. Thanks to your sister''s devotion, she convinced your father to stay and care for me. I raised you, so it''s only fair you take over."


    Nathalie''s voice was icy. "Since you''re not on your deathbed, I''m leaving." She turned to go.


    Miranda sat there, speechless.


    But when Nathalie reached the door, she found it locked from the outside. That''s when it hit her-she''d walked right into their trap.


    Nathalie''s eyes burned with anger as she red at Miranda. "You think you can keep me here? That''s against thew..."


    Miranda''s expression turned smug.


    "Nellie, what are you babbling about? You''re just here to care for your sick mother. You need to be out of the spotlight for a bit. Once I''m gone, you can re-emerge, and everyone will praise your devotion."


    A chill ran through Nathalie. "This was your sickly daughter''s idea, wasn''t it?" Miranda''s face twisted with anger. "What sickly daughter? That''s your sister!"


    Nathalie''s heart ached. Her parents were willing to imprison one daughter to protect Greta.

 Chapter 174

    With her eyes red and glistening with tears, she asked, "Can you be straight with me about something? Are you... really my real mother?" Miranda was stunned momentarily, and then a wave of deep disappointment washed over her. "How could you even question if I''m your mom?" Nathalie''s tears streamed down her face. "If you''re my mom, why do you treat me so heartlessly?"


    "Heartlessly?" Miranda shot back, anger ring in her voice. "I''ve sacrificed so much to raise you. What more do you want?"


    "Do you know what people say about me? They im I was born in a beggar''s den, a little beggar myself. But are you a beggar?"


    Miranda''s eyes filled with guilt as she faced Nathalie''s usations. "I was trapped back then, with no way out."


    Nathalie wiped her tears, suddenly finding it pointless to argue with someone like this. "If I had the choice, I''d rather be born to a cat or a dog than be your child." Those words hit Miranda hard, and she lost her cool, screaming, "You think I don''t regret it? If I could choose, who''d want to have an ungrateful child like you?"


    Nathalie replied, "Since we can''t stand each other, let''s just pretend you never had me as your daughter. Let me go!"


    Miranda sneered, "Now that you''ve made something of yourself, it''s payback time, and you want to cut me off. In your dreams."


    Nathalie stared at her greedy face, her heart heavy with sadness. "From the moment you locked me up, our mother-daughter bond brokepletely."


    A flicker of panic crossed Miranda''s eyes, but the Rond family had her too brainwashed. "Don''t hate me. Once Cameron regains control of the Rond family''s power, we''ll let you go. In the meantime, just take care of me." Nathalie wasn''t in a rush, settling calmly on the sofa beside her. "Let''s just wait and see whoes out on top in the end."


    Miranda said, "You''re hoping someone wille to rescue you, aren''t you? Give it up. Besides us, your family, who else cares about your fate?"Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Nathalie ignored her, closing her eyes to rest.


    The next day dawned bright and sunny.


    Nathan picked up some breakfast supplies early and rang the doorbell to Nathalie''s ce.


    Lizzy, still a bit groggy, answered the door. "Mr. Nathan, she isn''t home."


    Nathan''s handsome face tightened with concern. "Where could she have gone sote at night?"


    Lizzy exined, "Last night, she got


    a


    osm the Brown family


    a was really sick, so saying t


    Miranda


    over."


    Nathan''s expression turned dark. "Her damn saviorplex."


    went


    Lizzy hesitated before sharing more, "For some reason, after she went there, we couldn''t reach her on her phone." Hearing this, Nathan stormed off, a scowl on his face.


    In no time, Nathan arrived at the Brown family''s estate. He kicked the door open with a loud crash, sending


    Patrick and the others out in


    shock.


    "Nathan?" Patrick asked, bewildered. "What are you doing here?"


    Nathan''s voice was icy. "Where''s Nathalie?"


    Greta stumbled over her words. "My mom suddenly got really sick, and


    my


    takster rushed home overnight to


    care of her."


    "Bring her out."


    Patrick protested, "Nathan, isn''t this a bit much?"


    Greta chimed in, "Nathan, our family matters aren''t really any of your business, are they?"

 Chapter 175

    Nathan''s lips curled up slightly, hinting at a dangerous edge. "I thought Nathalie was an orphan. Turns out her real parents are alive and kicking... So, maybe Mr. Brown here would like to settle her big debts for her?" Patrick waspletely taken aback, dumbfounded.


    Nathan kept pushing, "A father''s duty is to cover his child''s debts, right, Mr. Brown? You wouldn''t disagree with that, would you?"


    Greta leaned towards Patrick, whispering urgently, "Dad, Nellie owes Mr. Nathan a ton of money. Don''t get mixed up and agree to pay it off."


    Patrick''s face went ashen with anger, muttering, "This reckless kid brings nothing but trouble. How could she owe so much money?"


    Greta tried to confront Nathan, thinking she could handle this young man. But Nathan''s intimidating presence and his chilly vibe made Greta uneasy. It was as if he was the more mature andposed one.


    Greta felt her nerves rising. "Mr. Nathan, just yesterday at the Rond ce, you said Nellie was your girlfriend. So how could you expect her to pay you back?"


    Nathan smirked, "Greta, do you think Nathalie is like you and just uses men for their money to sleep in their fancy beds and live in their mansions? Nathalie isn''t like that. Her debt is official, in ck and white, and she wouldn''t dream of dodging it." Greta''s heart stung from Nathan''s sharp words. "Mr. Nathan, you clearly don''t love Nellie, or you''d wipe her debt."


    Nathan shot back, "You took her kidney and ruined her family. Who are you to talk about love? Don''t cheapen the word."


    Greta struggled to keep herposure. "You!"


    Then Patrick stepped in, "Mr. Nathan, Nellie is an adult. Her debts aren''t our problem."Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan mocked him, "Wow, Mr. Brown, having you as a father must be tough. You''re always taking. never-giving back. You''ve got some nerve. Most would be too


    embarrassed to face her."


    Patrick''s face showed a mix of anger and shame. "Mr. Nathan, leave. The Brown family doesn''t wee you."


    Nathan calmly replied, "So, Mr. Brown, aren''t you going to pay Nathalie''s debt?"


    He pulled out his phone and, with authority, said, "Cancel all contracts with Brown Corp."


    Patrick, still skeptical, said, "Mr. Nathan, we''re a smallpany. We don''t deal with big names like the McCoy or Rond families. You''re wasting your time..."


    Before he finished, his assistant called, "Mr. Brown, our supplier just


    called to end the contract. Our supply chain''s been cut off. We won''t meet deadlines, and the penalties are huge..."


    Patrick seemed to age in an instant. He stared at Nathan, shocked by his savvy and influence at such a young age. "Mr. Nathan, was this your doing?"


    With a smug tone, Nathan said, "Mr. Brown, this house is pretty valuable. Maybe sell it to cover your daughter''s debt?"


    Still unable to understand, Greta said, "Mr. Nathan, my dad doesn''t have to pay Nellie''s debts. If you knew thew, you''d know that."

 Chapter 176

    Nathan''s gaze was as cold as ice. "You''re talking to me about thew? You and Cameron plotted to steal Nathalie''s kidney. Do you even realize that''s illegal?" Greta went pale. "It was my sister who agreed to it..."


    Nathan''s eyes locked onto Patrick. "And Mr. Brown, I assume you''re more than willing to mortgage your vi to me, right?"


    Patrick, drenched in cold sweat, dropped to his knees. "Mr. Nathan, please, have some mercy. This vi is all I have. Without it, my family will be out on the streets."


    "So you''re not willing, huh? That''s fine. Just brace yourself for bankruptcy."


    Patrick, sounding defeated, said, "Mr. Nathan, just so you''re aware, Nellie has already cut ties with us. We''re not obligated to pay her debts."


    Nathan''s anger red. "Mr. Brown, are you ying games with me? A moment ago, you were all family. Now you''re saying you''ve cut ties? Unless a legal document proves this disownment, don''t think you can dodge your debts." Patrick gritted his teeth. "I''ll be cutting ties with Nellie soon."


    He then urgently instructed Greta, "Go get Nellie... no, I mean, Ms. Nathalie."Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Greta suddenly realized that sometimes, power and status were the realw. Just like Cameron once bullied Nellie, Nathan was now serving justice in his own way, leaving them all powerless to resist.


    With her head bowed, Greta headed upstairs. She opened the door and found Nathalie lounging on a deck chair on the balcony, seemingly unbothered by her confinement.


    The room was filled with a strong smell of urine. Red-faced and embarrassed, Miranda cried out to Greta, "Greta, finally, you''re here. Your sister doesn''t know how to take care of me. She won''t give me water or help me to the bathroom, and she ignored me when I wet the bed."


    Greta was shocked at Nathalie''s indifference. "How could you be so heartless? She''s your mother, the one who raised you."


    Nathaliey there, her gaze fixed outside the window, paying no heed to Greta''s words.


    Greta, growing angrier, said, "Nellie, I''m talking to you."


    Nathalie''s voice was soft but firm. "Greta, I suggest you don''t raise your voice at me. Otherwise, I won''t be leaving this room today."


    Frustrated by Nathan''s sarcasm and


    now ignored by Nathalie, Greta tried to reim some dignity. "Nellie are you threatening me? Do whatever you want."


    Nathalie calmly replied, "I''m not leaving. I need to wait for the police. You''re holding me captive, and that''s a crime."


    Greta protested, "Who''s holding you


    captive? Your mother is seriously ill, and you, as her dutiful daughter, insisted oning back to care for her.


    Nathalie held up a voice recorder. "Everything''s recorded here. Greta, you can''t talk your way out of this."


    Greta''s face turned white. "You recorded everything?"


    Nathalie replied, "Did you really think that by taking my phone, I''d just let you push me around?"


    Frustrated, Greta stomped her foot and was forced to plead with Nellie. "Mr. Nathan is here for you. He''s pressuring Dad to cover your debts. Dad feels he has no choice but to consider disowning you."


    Miranda let out a desperate cry. "Nel, you can''t cut ties with us, please."

 Chapter 177

    Nathalie finally got up from the recliner and walked over to Miranda. Those old feelings of hurt and resentment? They seemed like distant memories now, reced by a serene calm.


    "Up until yesterday, I still had a bit of feeling left for you. But now, our bond as mother and daughter is over. You''re a smart woman. You know what I''m getting at. Why try to hold onto something that''s already falling apart?"


    Miranda got the message loud and clear. Nathalie had rushed to see her the moment she heard about Miranda''s illness, which was an act of care. But Miranda had used her illness as a trap to lure Nathalie in, all to protect Greta''s interests. She even teamed up with Patrick to try to cage her.


    Nathalie must have been so disappointed.


    Tears welled up in Miranda''s eyes. "I''m sorry."


    Nathalie just shrugged it off. "You weren''t wrong; you just didn''t love me enough."


    And with that, she walked out without looking back.


    Miranda broke down, crying her heart out.


    When Nathalie got downstairs, her eyes met Nathan''s. They didn''t say a word but didn''t need to. They both got what the other was feeling.


    They just gave each other a nod a silent acknowledgment to keep things cool.


    The papers to cut off the parent-child rtionship were alreadyid out on the coffee table, impossible to miss.


    Nathalie picked up the pen and signed her name without a second thought. Then, she pressed her thumbprint next to it.


    Patrick watched her do it, feeling a strange pull at his heartstrings. He had lost her-his daughter-for good.


    "Nellie..." he called out, his voice full of pain. "Don''t me me. Greta was my first daughter, and she wasn''t well. The doctors said only your cord blood could save her, so I begged your mom to have you. You were born to save Greta, so maybe I always saw you as just a remedy for your sister. I did a lot that hurt you. I hope you can understand a father''s love for his child..."


    Nellie looked at him, her face


    distant. "Mr. Brown, I''ve saved your daughter twice. I''ve repaid my debt for being born. From now on, we go our separate ways. We will have no more ties."  en


    Patrick''s fingers shook uncontrobly.


    Nathalie saw his trembling hands but acted like she didn''t. She smiled at Nathan. "Nathan, I''m finally free."


    Nathan smiled back. "Let''s get out of here. Leave this ce and never look back."


    "Yeah."


    Nathan and Nathalie walked out together, hand in hand.


    Patrick slumped to the floor, his white hair glowing under the light, looking more like snow than ever.


    Greta came over, her eyes downcast. "Dad, you never liked her anyway. Shouldn''t you be happy she''s gone?"


    Patrick replied, feeling empty, "When she was here, I always found something wrong with her. I said she was uneducated, clumsy, and a disgrace. Now that she''s done well, I''ve lost her for good." Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Greta said, "Don''t be sad, Dad. You still have me."


    Patrick seemed a bitforted. "Yeah, thank goodness I still have you."


    Over at the Dawson family vi, Cameron had spent the night on the couch.


    When Griffin got home in the morning, he found Cameron stillzing around and, in frustration, kicked him off the couch.


    Cameron hit the floor with a start,


    wide-eyed in surprise. Catching


    Griffin''s disapproving re,


    Cameron was fully awake. He sat up and mumbled, "Dad," with his eyes downcast.  en

 Chapter 178

    Griffin jabbed a finger at Cameron''s nose, his frustration etched deep into his features. "Look at you! A far cry from your former self. Where''s all that pride you used to unt? You were so sure of your sess, but here you are, losing deals with both the McCoy and Rond families." Cameron hung his head, his voice barely a whisper. "Dad, it''s Nathan-he''s been sabotaging me."


    After a lot of reflection, Cameron had decided that Nathan was a much tougher rival than Nathalie. Losing to Nathan felt like less of a blow to his ego than losing to Nathalie.


    But Griffin wasn''t buying it. He jabbed a finger at Cameron''s temple, his voice booming. "Nathan? It was Nathalie! Mr. McCoy himself called me, saying your proposal couldn''t hold a candle to hers." Cameron protested, "Dad, Theo''s biased towards Nathalie..."


    "That''s nonsense! If it were just Theo, maybe. But even Mason said yourpany''s proposal was way below Nathalie''s. If they''re both saying it, then your designer''s clearly not cutting it."


    A sense of despair washed over Cameron. There was a time when his word wasw, and everyone catered to him. But now, with his fortunes declining, he was left standing alone.


    "Your designer''s cost you these deals. You need to let her go," Griffin ordered firmly.


    Cameron''s face went pale. "Dad, she''s one of the best young talents. Letting her go would be a huge waste."


    Seeing his son''s reluctance, Griffin''s anger red. "Are you ignoring what Mason and Theo said? I said fire her, and that''s final. Otherwise, you can forget about running your fashionpany." Under the weight of his father''s demands, Cameron had no choice but to give in. "Alright, I''ll find a new designer."


    Griffin continued, "I''ve lined up a spot for you on a reality show to boost your fashionpany''s profile. Get ready. You''ll start filming soon."


    Cameron was taken aback. He had once backed many top stars, and now he had to appear on a reality show.


    "Dad, we can hire a celebrity spokesperson for mypany."


    "Do you still have the budget for a big-name star?" Griffin shot back.


    Cameron fell silent.


    Griffin pressed on. "If you can''t afford a top-tier celebrity, then be your own spokesperson. You''re good-looking and sharp. I bet you''ll gain a lot of fans. If you do, your brand will surely take off."


    Cameron resisted the idea, feeling that being on a reality show was like baring his soul for all to see,pletely undignified. Griffin delivered the final blow. "I won''t be putting any more money into yourpany. Whether it rises again or not is all on you."


    Cameron was left without words. Having lived a life of luxury and admiration, the reality of his situation was tough to ept.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    After Griffin left, a defeated


    Cameron headed to a bar to drink away his troubles. When Nathalie got a call from an unknown number, she identally answered it


    The voice on the other end was a generic, polite greeting. "Is this Miss Nellie?"


    Nathalie, slightly annoyed, replied, "I''ve changed my name to Nathalie. Please call me Nathalie from now on."


    "Ms. Nathalie, I''m a bartender.


    There''s a customer here who''s


    drunk and keeps calling your


    think you know him. Could youe pick him up?"

 Chapter 179

    Nathalie was taken aback. After being cast aside by both her birth family and inws for two lifetimes, she never imagined someone could still care for her. This unexpected revtion made her all the more curious about the person who reached out. "Send me the


    address, and I''ll head over right away."


    By the time Nathalie arrived at the bar, the clock had struck midnight. The ce was almost deserted, with just a few weary souls draped over the tables, lost in their own world. Her eyes scanned the room, searching for a familiar face, but she found none, leaving her puzzled and frowning.


    Just then, a waiter approached her with a gentle smile. "Are you Ms. Nathalie?" She nodded, prompting him to softly say, "Your guest is in the booth over there."


    Following his gaze, Nathalie realized she had indeed spotted him earlier but failed to recognize him in his current state. It took seeing the well-known features of her ex-husband for the pieces to click into ce.


    There he was, drunk and disheveled, clutching a bottle as he gulped down its contents. With a heavy thud, he mmed the bottle on the table, slurring, "Nel..."Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Back in the day, seeing Cameron so vulnerable and sincere would have pulled at Nathalie''s heartstrings. She would have made him hangover breakfast, stayed up all night caring for him, and shed tears over his misery-things she used to do without a second thought. But now, she was no longer the same Nellie. She had let go of that pitiful, sad sympathy. Instead, she stood there, quietly observing him as if watching a spectacle.


    Suddenly, Cameron grimaced,


    sliding off the chair like a deted balloon, clutching his stomach tightly. Nathalie knew it was his chronic stomach issue ring up. He had a Severe condition, and there were times he drank to the point of bleeding. She had once carried him to the hospital, saving his life by a whisker.


    Now, her heart felt nothing for his suffering. She simply watched him in silence, and after what felt like an eternity, she finally spoke, "Cameron, you''re really something else. If you could go a lifetime without loving me or respecting me, I''d tip my hat to you as a man of unwavering resolve. But this act right now? It''s just pathetic."


    Cameron''s eyes were half-shut, perhaps from the alcohol. His gaze was unfocused and empty. but, the hand tucked in his sleeve was subtly clenched.


    Nathalie pondered for a moment before saying, "Alright, since I''m here, I''ll do you this onest favor."


    She took out her phone, recording Cameron''s drunken state, and sent the video to Greta, as well as another number.


    When Greta received the message


    and saw Cameron sprawled on the bar floor, mumbling Nellie''s name, her heart sank like a stone. She


    dashed out without hesitatio


    grabbing the first cab she could find and speeding towards the bar.


    "Nellie, you homewrecker, how dare you try to steal my husband?" Greta stormed into the bar, her voice shaking with rage.


    Nathalie stood with her arms crossed, smirking at Cameron, "See, Cameron? I was way more understanding of her affair with you back then than she is of me now. And yet, you thought I was the unreasonable one..."

 Chapter 180

    Cameron''s eyes usually looked dull and lifeless, but right now, there was a chilly, lonely glint in them. Greta dashed over, not even sparing a thought for Cameron''s drunken state. Instead, she went straight for Nathalie, waving her arms dramatically. "Have you got no shame? You''re divorced from him, so why are you all over him like this? What''s your deal?"


    Nathalie wasn''t one to back down easily. She caught Greta''s hand with ease and gave her a light shove, sending Greta sprawling onto the floor.


    "Ouch."


    Nathalie''s push was gentle, but given Greta''s fragile state, it felt like a disaster to her. Her cries of pain snapped Cameron out of his drunken fog, and he rushed to her side. "Greta, are you okay?"


    Greta, pounding her fists on Cameron''s chest in a jealous fit, actually looked a bit adorable. "Why are you with her?"


    Cameron, feeling bad for her, wrapped her in his arms. "Greta, don''t get the wrong idea. There''s nothing between me and Nellie. I was just wasted, and the bartender misunderstood our rtionship, so they called her to look after me." Greta was easily soothed by Cameron''s words.


    However, Nathalie wasn''t having it. "Cameron, you need to update your emergency contacts. If a bartender calls me again, I won''t be there."


    When Greta heard Nathalie was Cameron''s emergency contact, her jealousy red up. "Cameron, why is she your emergency contact and not me? I''m your wife."


    Cameron felt awkward admitting his


    reasons in front of Nathalie. He fumbled with an exnation, "The bartender got it wrong. Let''s just drop it okay? I''m not feeling well. Can you take me to the hospital?"


    The two of them were aical sight, staggering to their feet, arm in arm, looking quite cozy. As a


    married couple, their closeness was nothing unusual. But their was cut short by an


    unexponent


    QUAS


    guest.


    Cameron''s mom walked into the bar, saw them together, and was immediately furious. She marched over and pulled Greta away. "Don''t touch my son." Kristina then took Cameron''s arm, ring at Greta. "What kind of behavior is this?"


    Greta''s lips trembled. "Ma''am, actually, Cameron and I have already..."


    Before she could finish saying they were married, Cameron cut her off in a panic. "Oh, Mom, don''t me Greta. I was just in a bad mood, got drunk and the bartender


    identally went through my phone and called you." Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    He tried to brush off the situation with a few words, but Nathalie''s n wasn''t that easy to dodge.


    She called out Cameron and dropped the bombshell, "Cameron, we''re divorced. I don''t have to take care of you anymore. From now on, your wife should be looking after you." Her eyes pointedlynded on the wedding ring on Greta''s finger.


    Kristina, being the sharp woman she was, immediately caught on to what Nathalie was hinting at. Cameron and Greta were married.

 Chapter 181

    Kristina spotted Greta and Cameron''s matching wedding rings, and her suspicions were all but confirmed. She snapped, pping Greta right across the face. "How dare you sneak around and marry my son, Greta? I really underestimated you." Nathalie took a step back, looking every bit like someone just there to watch the drama unfold.


    Greta was spun around by the p, her frail form twirling before she finally fell into Cameron''s arms. "Cameron," she whimpered, covering her red cheek, tears cascading down like scattered pearls, making her seem tragically vulnerable. With a rebellious fire lit by Greta''s plight, Cameron red at his mother. "Mom, what are you doing? Greta is frail. How could you strike her?"


    Kristina, not missing a beat, pped Cameron, her voice booming with anger. "You''ve defied me over and over for her. For that alone, I could never allow her into the Dawson family."


    Turning to Greta, who was crying so prettily, Kristina added, "Greta, I truly underestimated you. I warned you to stay away from my son, but here you are, two-faced, ying innocent with me while scheming behind my back. Do you think I''m a fool?" In a flustered panic, Greta pleaded, "Kristina, Cameron and I truly love each other. Please, give us your blessing."


    Kristina was long past believing in the fairytales of romance. Now in herter years, she viewed love as a shaky foundation. Greta''s health, her family background-everything about her screamed trouble for Kristina''s aplished son. There was no way she''d let Cameron marry Greta.


    Finally, Kristina''s temper boiled over. "Greta, stop with the sob story. You don''t love my son; you love the medical bills he pays. With him, your cushy life continues. Without him, you''ve got nothing." The harsh truth hit hard.


    Greta, clearly rattled, dropped to her


    knees, raising her hands in desperation. "Kristina, I swear, I really love Cameron. Whether he''s rich or poor doesn''t change that. If you don''t believe me, I swear I swear, if I''ve lied, may I be hit by a car."


    Cameron pulled Greta to her feet, holding her tight, standing by her side. "Mom, Greta is my wife. I won''t leave her. If you push Greta, you''re pushing me. If ites to it, I'' rather leave the Dawson family."


    Kristina was so enraged that she shook. "You fool."


    Then, everything went ck, and she copsed at Nathalie''s feet. Nathalie didn''t want to get caught up in the mess. She quickly stepped back.


    Cameron was taken aback by Nathalie''s eagerness to avoid his mother. Once upon a time, Nathalie had respected Kristina immensely He recalled a time when Kristina was bedridden, and Nathalie cared for her without a second thought.


    But Kristina had only ever remarked, "Your wife''s ce is to serve. She doesn''t deserve to be your wife."


    The cold, distant Nathalie now seemed like apletely different person from the warm-hearted Nellie she once was.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Eventually, it was Greta who dialed 911.


    As they waited for the ambnce, Cameron and Nathalie exchanged nces, a silent storm brewing between them. Cameron''s eyes were filled with shock, confusion, and disappointment...

 Chapter 182

    Natalie watched the chaos she had set in motion with a wicked sense of satisfaction, feeling both exhrated and a bit sore. Greta''s tears, Kristina''s fainting, and Cameron''s helplessness... Why should she care? "Nellie, did you call Greta and my mom here?" Cameron demanded.


    Natalie shed a sly grin. "Sure did. So, Cameron, what''s your n to thank me?"


    Cameron''s eyes zed with a fury that could melt steel. "Thank you? You drove my mom to this state, and you think I should be grateful?"


    Natalie raised an eyebrow. "Come on, Cameron, be sensible. Your wife''s the one who pushed your mom over the edge, not me. Shouldn''t you be having this chat with her instead of your well-meaning ex-wife? That''s just in ungrateful." "Nellie-you''ve always been a handful, and I''ve put up with it. But this time, you''ve really crossed the line. ying games with Greta and my mom''s health is uneptable," Cameron fumed, his words nearly tripping over his anger. "I''ll never forgive you." Natalie chuckled, shaking her head. "Cameron, as if your forgiveness is something I need."


    "I guess I''ve been way too easy on you," Cameron muttered through gritted teeth.


    Natalie let out a heartyugh. "Well, don''t you worry. I''m curious to see what happens when you finally get tough. What''ll it be like when you lose to me?"Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Then, she strutted off, her heels clicking defiantly on the floor.


    Cameron stood there, watching her leave,pletely at a loss. He had faked being drunk today, secretly believing that Natalie, who had once been head over heels for him, couldn''t just stop loving him overnight. Her decision to divorce was probably just a desperate move from a broken heart.


    If he could just show her a glimpse of his softer side, maybe she''d let her guard down. If there was still flicker of feeling for him, he could convince her to scrap the deal between the Rond and McCoy families.


    All he needed was to y the role of a devoted lover to rescue his struggling business.


    However, Natalie''s icy demeanor today gave him chills. Even when he was supposedly drunk and in pain, she didn''t bat an eye. Instead, she coolly orchestrated a text to his wife and mother, setting up a dramatic family feud. And she seemed to r¨¦tish Greta''s injury and his mother fainting.


    She was ruthless.


    Today, he felt like aplete idiot. Nellie didn''t love him anymore. Once he realized this, Cameron felt an unexpected void inside him.


    At the hospital, Kristina woke up to find it was already noon the next day.


    Cameron was by her bed, looking worn out. A shadow of stubble was on his face. He looked utterly defeated.


    As soon as she saw him, Kristina pointed to the door. "Get out. I don''t want to see you, you ungrateful son."


    Cameron''s eyes filled with tears. "Mom, you never liked Nellie, so I divorced her. Now I''m with Greta, but you''re still unhappy?"


    Kristina sat up, seething. "Greta is nothingpared to Nellie."


    Cameron''s jaw dropped. His mother''s wordspletely flipped his understanding. "Mom, Greta''s outside. Give her a break, will you?"


    Kristina snapped, "Did I lie? Greta


    can''t hold a candle to Nellie. Shecks Nellie''s beauty, kindness, and care and spends your money like it''s going out of style. You must''ve been blind to marry her."

 Chapter 183

    Outside the hospital room, Greta''s fragile frame sagged against the wall, her heart heavy with bitterness as she overheard Kristina tearing her down. Was she really second-ratepared to her sister?


    She strained to catch any sound from inside, secretly yearning for Cameron to step up for her. But this time, his silence stretched unbearably long.


    Fear gnawed at Greta; she dreaded the thought of Cameron being swayed by his mother and perhaps even reconsidering his feelings towards his ex-wife.


    With nerves fraying, Greta finally burst through the door, unable to hold back.


    Inside, Kristina sat on the bed, her gaze icy. Cameron was on his knees, his eyes bloodshot.


    Greta''s sudden entrance shattered the uneasy calm between mother and son. Kristina snapped, "Who let you in?"


    Greta dropped to her knees beside Cameron, the picture of devotion. "Kristina, please. Cameron''s been swamped with work, and he''s not well. Cut him some ck, and don''t make him kneel. If you''re angry, take it out on me I''ll bear it for him." Cameron was moved to tears. He helped Greta to her feet and dered firmly to Kristina, "Mom, Greta and I are married. Whether you like it or not, I''m not leaving her."


    Sensing Cameron''s determination, Kristina, seething, shut her eyes. "Get out, and don''t evere back to the Dawson family home."


    Cameron hesitated, a flicker of loss passing over his handsome face. "Mom..." he murmured, choked up.


    "Get out," Kristina barked.


    With no choice left, Cameron left the hospital with Greta.


    Outside, the sky was overcast, mirroring Cameron''s mood. Greta, chosen so decisively by Cameron, couldn''t help but feel ted, though she hid it well, channeling her anger towards Nathalie instead.


    "It''s all my sister''s fault. If she hadn''t told


    would mom to pick you up, she


    t have found out about our marriage. She wouldn''t have gotten sick," Greta fumed.


    Cameron gritted his teeth. "Nathalie!" The name was spat out with such force it was as if he wanted to crush it.


    ...


    Cameron hosted a rare gathering, inviting all his childhood friends, ssmates, and business pals. He nned to rally their support to put Nathalie in her ce.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Tables were set with imported treats, and before getting to the main topic, everyone shared thetest amusing stories.


    Eventually, the conversation turned to thetest gossip.


    "Cameron, heard you split up?" someone asked.


    Cameron sipped his wine casually, feigning indifference. "You all know Nellie was never one for the spotlight. Being with her felt


    embarrassing. I''m finally free."


    en


    1.n


    Normally, his buddies would chime in with, "Good riddance, it was about time!" But today, there was a strange, shared silence.


    Cameron found it odd. "Why''s everyone so quiet? Didn''t you all push me to divorce her? You always said she wasn''t good enough for me."


    From a corner, Jake sighed, "Times change."


    Cameron''s grip on his wine ss quivered slightly.

 Chapter 184

    In just a few words, the shift in status between him and Nathalie wasid bare. Once, he was the unattainable dream for Nathalie, but now, he''d taken a tumble, and she had be the untouchable beauty out of his reach. Cameron yed dumb. "What do you mean?"


    Benjamin was always quicker with his words than his thoughts. He blurted out, "Oh,e on. Cameron, can''t you see it? Back then, Nellie was broke, unsophisticated, and uneducated. Now, this new Nathalie is stunning, sessful, and a powerhouse in her career. Honestly, Cameron, you really blew it by divorcing her."


    Benjamin was like Nathalie''s biggest fan, and he went on and on, "You have no clue. She is aplete transformation, outshining even top celebrities. She''s not just got the looks, her elegance is unmatched, and she''s incredibly capable. Even my granddad can''t stop praising her business smarts, saying she outshines her peers by a mile. He even predicts a bright future for her."


    Once Benjamin opened his mouth, others felt free to join in, no longer scared of stepping on Cameron''s toes. "We totally misjudged her. Who would''ve thought Nellie was a diamond in the rough just waiting to shine?" "Yeah, and for her work to catch Frankie''s eye is something else."


    "Didn''t you hear? While Nellie was away, she was learning from Jasmine. Jasmine had loads of students, but she only let Nellie learn directly from her. Abroad, Nellie''s known as Nathalie, and she''s made quite a name for herself."


    The ss in Cameron''s hand shattered with a sharp crack, and suddenly everyone went quiet.


    His friends'' praise for Nathalie felt like a p to his face. After all, he was the idiot who couldn''t see her worth.


    His buddies quickly tried to console him, "Cameron, don''t get worked up. If you ask me, Nellie still loves you. They say the deeper the love, the deeper the resentment. She only divorced you because she was


    upset about how cold you were before. If you can swallow your prideContent ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    and show her you care, she might juste back. After all, she loved you so much that she lost her dignity before. Love like that doesn''t just vanish."


    Their words eased Cameron''s troubled heart a bit. Hetched onto the idea. Does deep love mean deep resentment? Maybe Nellie still loves him? He almost fell for her act.


    But then Greta spoke up, unable to hold back, "Cameron and I are already married."


    Everyone exchanged awkward nces. Greta got no congrattions, just an awkward silence. Her face turned bright red.


    Cameron didn''t want his beloved to


    face his friends'' disdain, so he jumped to Greta''s defense. "You guys know Greta and I go way back. She''s my responsibility for life. So, please, don''t bring up other girls in front of her. It upsets her."


    The room went silent again.


    The party wrapped up in a cloud of awkwardness. Cameron''s friends made excuses to leave early. Cameron felt the sting of being left behind, and his mood turned dark and brooding.


    Greta couldn''t stop ming herself. "Cameron, I feel like I''ve let you down."


    Cameron hugged her tightly. "They just don''t get how precious our love is. Don''t pay them any mind."

 Chapter 185

    When the reality TV show producers reached out to Cameron, he couldn''t keep up his usual air of arrogance. Even though he was internally resistant, he gritted his teeth and agreed to participate.


    you y your cards right."


    The producer, bubbling with enthusiasm, assured him, "Cameron, our show features the lifestyle of the rich and famous. We are aiming to spark a desire in young viewers to seed. But you''re our main focus. With your charisma, you''re bound to be a sensation if Cameron crumpled the invitation in his hand, but his face remained impassive. "Got it. I''ll be there," he replied coolly.


    The producer left with a satisfied grin.


    When Cameron tossed the crumpled invitation against the wall, Greta emerged, picked it up quietly, and approached him. She spoke gently, "Cameron, I know you''re not a fan of the spotlight. But this reality show could be a game-changer for your career. It can quickly build a massive following. Once you have that fan base, our fashion line will definitely take off. And it''s not just about fashion. With a strong fan backing, you''ll be unstoppable in whatever you do."


    Maybe Greta''s words struck a chord as Cameron silently epted the invitation.


    A weekter, he joined the reality show crew.


    That was when he found out that the other participants were from wealthy families. However, they were marginal figures who were not recognized by their families. They were merely using the show to boost their public image and poprity.


    Cameron felt a chill in his heart. He realized Griffin''s motive for pushing him into the reality show: Griffin had already edged him out of the Dawson family''s power circle, leaving him to carve his own path.


    Ironically, Griffin''s rejection only fueled Cameron''s ambition. He put on a ster performance in the reality show and earned significant poprity.


    After just one episode, he amassed arge following of female fans. They praised his cool and distant demeanor: [Cameron is so cool.]


    [The aloof and mysterious Cameron is exactly my type. I''m obsessed.]


    His reserved nature was mistaken for wisdom: [At thirty, Cameron is soposed. Truly a business genius.]


    Overnight, Cameron''s social media following skyrocketed by millions His impact on Dawson International was@ndeniable. Thepany''s stock prices soared.


    It could be said that the reality show made Cameron, and Cameron made the reality show.


    Over at Rond Corporation, Nathan sat in front of the screen, pondering Cameron''s growing influence.


    His assistant reported, "Mr. Nathan,Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Dawson International''s profits surged yesterday. Even his new


    fashion brand was discovered by


    fans and is being praised to the


    skies Cameron''s stint on the reality show has been wildly profitable. With his built-in buzz, his products practically sell themselves. If this keeps up, he might overshadow ''Forever Yours.""


    After a moment of thought, Nathan looked up and said, "Get in touch with the show''s producers. I want to sponsor the program and also get someone on the show."


    §Õ§Ö


    The assistant nodded. "Absolutely."


    With Nathan''s hefty sponsorship, he would be a major yer on the show, wielding significant influence.

 Chapter 186

    Nathan was slipping someone into the production crew who was sure to be Cameron''s worst nightmare. That was just Nathan''s way-dominate thepetitionpletely.


    Sure enough, by the second episode of the reality show, the lineup of regr guests had shifted. Alongside the original four, a new face made the scene. When the director announced the fresh addition, the crowd buzzed with excitement.


    "Is that the new guest? Oh, he''s got looks that could stop traffic and a brain to match. I heard people often dub him a young genius. Meet the most adored Mr. Nathan Rond."


    Nathan strutted onto the red carpet, looking every bit the part. He wore a shirt crafted by Nathalie herself, with soft fabric and a dark green periwinkle embroidered at the cor, matched with trousers of the same color. He could''ve stepped right out of a fairy tale book as a princely figure.


    He approached Cameron, exuding elegance and a touch of arrogance, his striking looks practically overshadowing him. Cameron nced at him, eyes filled with disdain. "Mr. Nathan, what brings you here?"


    Nathan leaned in slightly. "I''m here to push my girlfriend''s brand into the spotlight."Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron eyed Nathan''s perfectly tailored outfit, his expression turning sour. "She made those for you?"


    Nathan smirked. "Yep, Nathalie loves making clothes for me. My closet''s overflowing with them."


    Cameron felt a pang, like a bee sting, at the reminder. Memories of Nathalie burning the midnight oil to sew for him rushed back. However, he''d tossed those clothes aside without a second thought. He had never valued her handiwork, and after that, she''d stopped making anything for him altogether. Unlike Nathan''s appreciation, his dismissal of Nathalie''s efforts seemed downright cruel.


    The director interrupted, "This


    episode is all about showcasing your wardrobes. You''re all from


    wealthy backgrounds with a keen et


    fashion sense, and importantly, your families have their own fashion


    brands. So, for this round,


    no


    wardrobe will be provided. You''ll be wearing your own clothes."


    Cameron''s eyes narrowed. "Is this your doing?"


    Nathan responded smoothly, "It''s the perfect chance to highlight your family''s brand. Isn''t that what you want?"


    Cameron seethed, "Nathan, I didn''t realize you were such a crafty operator."


    Nathan''s fashion brand was more established than Cameron''s, and he was ready for this, ensuring he''d steal the spotlight and rake in des. Cameron''s brand was


    still searching for the right partners


    and wasn''t even in production yet. Nathan was hitting Cameron where it hurt.


    Nathan taunted, "Surely you ain''t going to back down, right?"


    Cameron was not one to back down easily. "Nathan, don''t count your chickens just yet."


    During the break, the guests scrambled to enhance their


    wardrobes by any means possible, Cameron turned to Greta for help and she reassured him, "Cameron, rx. Luckily, I''ve got plenty of outfits I made for you before. They''ll do the trick."


    Cameron felt a wave of relief.

 Chapter 187

    Greta had crafted most of Cameron''s wardrobe based on his professional life and formal events. This meant his closet was filled with functional suits in safe shades of ck, white, and gray.


    When Cameron donned these suits, they showcased his masculine allure perfectly. But once he became a regr on the TV show, the endless hours on camera and frequent appearances made his uniform wardrobe feel a bit dull to viewers. The entertainment world was brimming with beauty, and audiences were anything but forgiving.


    Before long, Nathan stole the limelight from Cameron.


    Nathan was in that golden age where every angle seemed to favor him. His mature demeanor,bined with his impressive height, gave him an intriguing presence.


    Girls swooned over his pretty-boy looks, while his sense of responsibility captivated women who preferred a more mature, charismatic vibe. His striking blend of elegance and masculinity also sparked envy among the men.


    Thisplex aura, paired with a wardrobe of endlessly adaptable, custom-made outfits, quicklyunched him into the role of a national heartthrob.


    "Just a peacock," Cameron couldn''t resist quipping as Nathan strutted around the set each day in outfits that screamed both quality and style.


    Nathan, far from being insulted, took it in stride with a cheeky grin. "Oh, Cameron, do you know who''s behind these fabulous threads?" Cameron shot him a dubious look. "Nellie?"


    Nathan shook his head, wagging a slender, pale finger. "Nope, not Nellie. It''s Nathalie."


    Cameron''s handsome face clouded over slightly. "Only someone with questionable taste would go for her designs."


    Nathan''s grin vanished, his eyes turning icy. "Cameron, we''ll soon see who trulycks taste."


    Even though Nathan''s time


    on-screen grew, his outfits never repeated. The show''s director couldn''t help but admire. "Mr. Nathan, how do you manage to have


    so many jaw-dropping


    swnoy


    Cameron watched, still skeptical. He couldn''t wrap his head around the idea that his ex-wife was behind all these clothes. Nathan and Nathalie didn''t seem close enough for such an endeavor.


    Creating nearly a hundred custom outfits would usually require a deep connection and lots of time together, neither of which Nathan and Nathalie seemed to share. Nathan proudly dered, "These outfits were designed and crafted just for me by my exclusive designer, Ms. Nathalie."


    The director joked, "Mr. Nathan, I adore your clothes. Mind if we borrow your designer sometime?"


    Eager to give Nathalie a boost,


    Nathan seized the opportunity with a


    bright smile. "You should check out


    ???


    our ''Forever Yours'' brand online. We''ve got a fantastic roster of designers ready to help. Our lead designer, Ms. Nathalie,


    s trained


    by the world-famous designer Jasmine, and her team is hands down the best in the country. You can pick any style, any fabric, and our designers will bring your vision to life. Basically, whatever you''re dreaming of, ''Forever Yours'' can make it happen. Plus, our designers are super friendly, and the prices are just right." Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 188

    The director''s eyes widened in amazement. "Wow, that sounds incredible. I''m genuinely impressed."


    Cameron aimed to trip Nathan up. "You''ve disyed nearly a hundred outfits on the show. You mean they were all crafted by your lead designer? But your fashion brand''s only been around for a few months. Did your designer rocket through designing and producing almost a hundred pieces in that short span?" This sharp and logical questioning put Nathan squarely in the hot seat. It was as if he were being grilled for telling tall tales.


    If Nathan couldn''t back up his ims, he''d be pegged as a braggart with declining credibility.


    Cameron watched him, enjoying the moment. He''s confident Nathan had no evidence to counter his challenge.


    After all, Cameron prided himself on knowing Nathan''s lead designer better than anyone else. That was his recently divorced ex-wife.


    The studio atmosphere turned tense, all eyes fixed on Nathan.


    Viewers watching the live stream were visibly disheartened. Their doubts echoed: [Oh no, could this be? Nathan wouldn''t really lie, would he? That would shatter me.]


    [I think Nathan did lie. Cameron''s questioning is airtight. How could a designer whip up nearly a hundred outfits in just a few months? It''s clearly a fib.]


    Nathan met Cameron''s gaze directly, the smirk on Cameron''s face betraying his inner satisfaction.


    Then Nathan broke into a smile. He mouthed to Cameron, "You brought this on yourself."


    Just as Cameron sensed something was amiss, Nathan began his exnation, "My lead designer isn''t some recent acquaintance. We''ve known each other for years. Ever since we met, she''s been passionate about creating clothes for me. Those vibrant outfits you see were probably designed when I was younger. I was going through some tough times, so my clothes featured patterns like forget-me-nots, lucky clovers, and magnolias. She wanted me to live worry-free."


    The guests on the show erupted in apuse, "Wow, that''s so touching." Cameron, on the other hand, lookedpletely taken aback.


    Nathan continued, "The outfits with a youthful yet mature vibe and more muted colors were made for family gatherings. My designer aimed to give me a dependable and mature appearance. So, she went with a casually sophisticated style"


    "Now that we''reunching our own fashion brand, she believes I have the right look and physique to be the spokesperson. So, she''s constantly pouring her heart into designing stunning clothes for me." After Nathan wrapped up his exnation, he turned to Cameron, "Any more doubts?"Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron''s face turned a shade darker. Nathan''s connection with Nathalie gave him a gut-wrenching feeling.


    ording to Nathan''s story, he and


    Nathalie had known each other for years, and just recently, Nathan publicly confirmed Nathalie as his girlfriend. This made Cameron suspect that Nathalie might have been involved with Nathan even before their divorce.


    This realization only fueled Cameron''s agitation further.

 Chapter 189

    Seeing the fire in Cameron''s eyes, Nathan couldn''t help but crack a smile, which was more dazzling than roses open overnight in spring. But to Cameron, it was just in annoying. Nathan always seemed like a sly fox to him. Out of the camera''s view, Cameron grabbed Nathan by the cor and mmed him against the wall with a force that only seasoned strength could muster. Eyes bloodshot, he barked, "I knew it! Ever since Nellie got back, she''s been acting different. Did you put her up to me?" Nathan started off with a yful, harmless demeanor, but it shifted quicker than a summer storm. His handsome face took on a dark, menacing edge.


    divorcing


    Before Cameron knew what hit him, he felt a cold grip around his neck, like he''d been caught in a vice. He couldn''t breathe, couldn''t move. In a sh, Nathan had him on the ground, his foot firm on Cameron''s chest. Cameron stared up in disbelief. "You''re quite the fighter!"


    In their world,petition was fierce. Everyone knew who aced their grades, who was the martial arts king, and who had the sharpest mind. They knew each other''s strengths like the back of their hands. Cameron had never heard of Nathan being exceptional at anything, but Nathan''s disy just now left him stunned, like he''d stumbled upon a shocking meme.


    In their circles, Jake was the martial arts champ, but even he might not hold a candle to Nathan''s skills.


    Nathan crouched down, eyes as cold as a snowstorm. "Cameron, I don''t like being touched. Try it again, and it won''t end with just a fall."


    He lifted his foot, letting Cameron scramble to his feet. Cameron was still swirling with confusion and anger. "Nathan, you still haven''t answered me. Have you been seeing Nathalie all along?" Nathan seemed momentarily lost in thought.


    Had he really been involved with Nathalie? Maybe yes, maybe no. It was a question with no easy answer.


    Cameron took his silence as


    confirmation, feeling like he''dProperty belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    uncovered a secret. "Nathan, I can''t


    believe you''d go for a woman who''s


    been divorced and grew up in the


    §Ö


    slums You''re just using her innocence to get back at me. Poor Nathalie is so easily swayed by sweet talk... To think you''d stoop so low just to one-up me."


    Nathan stared at Cameron with a pitying gaze. "Cameron, you''ve only got half the story..."


    Cameron was stunned for a moment, then a mocking smirk spread across his face, confident in his belief. "If she knew she was just a pawn in your game against me, she''d regret leaving me. She traded a diamond for a pebble."


    Nathan''s handsome face twitched. "Cameron-" he started to retort, but was cut off by the director''s call.


    "Nathan, Cameron, it''s time to gather."


    The recording dragged on into the night, and the weather took a nasty turn, unleashing a raging storm. The show''s guests found themselves stuck on the mountain.


    The mountain''s harsh climate was


    unforgiving, with temperatures taking a nosedive at night. d in just thin shirts, the guests shivered in the cold. The farmhouse


    amodations were basic a


    best, with drafty windows and simple meals-a far cry from what these rich guys, pampered and allergic to dust mites, were used to. They all counted the minutes until they could head back down the mountain.

 Chapter 190

    The production team seized the moment to stir the pot. "You''re allowed one phone call for some outside help. You can have someone bring supplies up here for you," the director suggested, a mischievous grin spreading across his face as he finished. The first guest picked up his phone with a weary expression and said to the camera, "I want to call my dad. After my parents divorced, he left. I''ve never asked him for anything. He missed every big moment in my life. I just want to know if I still matter to him at all." When the call connected, a deep, familiar voice answered, "Who''s this?"


    Nathan''s face fell as he recognized the voice. He stared at the young man with a dark gaze.


    ""Dad, it''s me."


    There was a heavy silence. Then, with a hint of irritation, the voice replied, "What do you want?"


    "I''m on a show..."


    "You''ve got the wrong number."


    Before the young man could say more, the call ended abruptly. He stared at the phone, his eyes welling up.


    The room grew tense, so the director quickly jumped in. "The signal''s a bit spotty up here. Want to try someone else?"


    He shook his head. "Nah, it''s alright. I''ll just hang out here tonight. It''s kinda nice."


    Everyone realized he was the family''s forgotten one, hidden in the background. They felt for him, but no one dared to state the obvious.


    Next, it was Cameron''s turn. He decided to ring his wife. "Greta, I''m up in the mountains, and it''s a bit chilly..."


    Greta instantly replied, "I''ll have my assistant send you some warm clothes right away."


    Cameron was pleased with her prompt response.


    People around whispered, "Mrs. Dawson truly loves her husband."


    Cameron smirked at Nathan.


    When Nathan hesitated, holding


    phone, Cameron taunted, "What


    Sto call your girlfriend? Afraid


    we''ll find out your rtionship''s a sham?"


    He couldn''t believe Nathan was genuinely in love with Nathalie. To him, Nathan''s interest in Nathalie seemed like a well-nned business move.


    Nathan couldn''t stand being provoked and quickly dialed Nathalie''s number.


    Cameron''s expression turned awkward as he watched Nathan confidently dial Nathalie''s number¡ªa number he''d never bothered to remember, even when he was her husband.


    The phone rang for what felt like ages before it was finally picked up.


    "Hi Nathan." Nathalie''s voice was soft and soothing, like a balm for the soul.


    Her gentleness took Cameron back to their first meeting when she was a sweet, innocent girl. Her eyes sparkled like stars, and her voice was soft and warm.


    Now, when she interacted with him, her gaze was cold, and her words were sharp. It was clear her affections had shifted to someone else.


    Cameron felt a pang of regret. But


    what really got to him was Nathan''s overly sweet voice. The guy who was always ready to argue with him was like a different person with Nathalie.


    Nathan even yfully asked her, "Hey, what are you up to?"


    Nathalie''s care was automatic. "Oh, just making some snacks for my friend at home."Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''m jealous of Lizzy."


    "I made some for you, too."


    Nathan grinned. "Save me some. I''ll have them when I get back from work."

 Chapter 191

    "Sure," Nathalie replied with a cheerful nod.


    "Hey, Nathalie..." Nathan started but then hesitated.


    "Nathan, do you need my help with something?" Nathalie knew him well. He was quick-witted, and his words usually flowed with ease. It was only when he was troubled that he stumbled over his words. Nathan nced out at the storm raging beyond the window, picturing Nathalie''s delicate frame in his mind. Ultimately, he held back. "Nah, it''s nothing. I just missed you and wanted to hear your voice." They exchanged goodnights and hung up.


    The director was puzzled. "Nathan, you didn''t ask for help. Are you passing up this chance for assistance?"


    Nathan took it in stride. "Yeah, her health isn''t great. I can''t bring myself to make her worry about me."


    The director gave him a thumbs-up. "Wow, just from the way you two talk, it''s obvious you have a really tight bond."


    Nathan beamed a bright smile.


    One of the nosier guests piped up, "Mr. Nathan, what''s your friend''s name?" His expression was almostical as if he were silently asking: How have I never heard about this friend before? Nathan responded with a touch of pride, "My friend''s name is Nathalie. You see, our names are so simr. It''s like we''re meant to be connected."


    "Your names are almost identical. You''re definitely sharing a bond."Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron, however, looked shocked and suspicious. He''d thought Nathan''s kindness towards Nathalie was part of a long-nned scheme But now he noticed that Nathan had a genuine smile when he talked about Nathalie. Considering his concern for her health, and most strikingly, the connection their names implied... Cameron had to rethink everything.


    He had to admit: Nathan and Nathalie''s rtionship wasn''t as shallow as he''d suspected.


    Cameron began to reevaluate


    Nathan and Nathalie''s history,


    pinpointing a crucial moment: Three


    years ago, Nellie used the name Nathalie at the Mn Fashion Design Competition. That meant their bond was already significant then.


    But it seemed ridiculous.


    Before that, Nathalie and Nathan were supposed to be strangers. How could two people who just met have such a deep connection?


    Cameron''s sharp eyes scrutinized Nathan. Three years ago Nathalie was still Nellie, his wife. A conservative girl like her would never sneak around with another boy, right? What secrets was he missing here?


    The aid mission wrapped up. Greta indeed had her assistant deliver some cozy clothes and nkets to Cameron Everyone was envious "Wow, Mrs. Dawson sent those over so fast. She was afraid you''d catch a chill. That''s true love for sure."


    Cameron had a satisfied smile stered on his face.


    Nathan, patting his empty stomach, threw a wet nket on. "Mrs. Dawson only brought you clothes? No food? That''s not very thoughtful. Maybe she doesn''t love you enough." Cameron shot back, "At least someone sent me supplies."


    Nathan deted instantly. Feeling a bit miffed, he muttered, "I didn''t tell Nathalie I was cold. If I did, she''d send a truckload of stuff my way. Everything you could need: clothes, food, shelter, the works."

 Chapter 192

    Cameron teased, "Nathan, you really know how to y your cards. You''re always keeping the best move forst."


    Nathan chuckled, "Well, my friend, it takes time to see a person''s true heart."


    Inside,ughter and conversation filled the room. But as the night wore on, the chill from outside seemed to creep in, sapping everyone''s resolve to keep warm. Cameron, however, was cozy in hisyers, lounging on the couch and dozing off. The others stomped their feet, trying to fend off the cold, grumbling, "Who would''ve thought it''d be this freezing up in the hills?"


    Someone chimed in at the wrong moment, "Honestly, was it even this harsh when we were filming before...?"


    Just as they were trying to make the best of it, a car horn cut through the stillness of the night. A vehicle was nearing the farmhouse.


    "Is someoneing?" The guests perked up, curious.


    "It''s definitely not my family," someone muttered, visibly disappointed.


    "My folks aren''t picking up their phones. They wouldn''t being for me."


    "Then who could it be?"


    Outside, a warm yetmanding voice called, "Nathan. Come out."


    Before anyone could blink, Nathan was out the door like a shot. "Nathalie!"


    Peering through the dim light, someone spotted a truck loaded with supplies and shouted, "Wow, she brought us a whole truckload of stuff!" "Nathalie''s the best!"


    "Let''s go lend a hand."


    The guests hurried outside to help with the supplies. Cameron slowly opened his eyes. He sat up, ambling over to the window.


    In the pouring rain, Nathan held an umbre with Nathalie beneath it. The umbre was tilted toward Nathalie, leaving Nathan half-soaked. A curious glint flickered in Cameron''s eyes.


    "Nathalie, we''re here to help with the supplies," the guests chimed in.


    Nathalie smiled, "There''s something for everyone. I brought each of you a set of thermal jackets, plus fresh socks and shoes..." "Did you bring any food, Nathalie?"


    "There''s freshly roasted chicken... hot soup... all your favorites, Nathan."


    After the guests had unloaded everything, the room was piled high with supplies. From warm clothing to snacks, it was a bounty.


    Cameron nced at the supplies, a flicker of hope in his heart. Surely Nathalie knew his preferences and had put aside something special for him. After all, he was someone she once loved deeply. Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    As the supplies were eagerly unpacked, the selection revealed seafood, various breads, snacks, and even nuts and seeds... but none of his favorite vors.


    He recalled how Nellie used to make spicy beef jerky just for him. Now, her affection seemed to have faded.


    The guests snatched up the thermal


    jackets, and there wasn''t one fore Cameron. A wave of sadness


    washed over him. The woman who once adored him now seemed indifferent.


    Outside, Nathan and Nathalie were exchanging goodbyes, and it took a while before Nathan returned. NoticingCameron lost in thought Nathan couldn''t resist teasing, "Well, how about that? Isn''t Nathalie more thoughtful and caring than your Wife?"

 Chapter 193

    Cameron found himself caught off guard by Nathan''s sharp words, his face turning a deep shade of red with frustration.


    Clenching his jaw, he demanded, "What''s really going on between you and Nathalie?"


    Nathan crossed his arms, a sly grin on his lips. "Why don''t you take a guess?"


    Cameron attempted a smile, though his irritation was evident. "One minute you''re boss and assistant, then friends, and suddenly lovers. That''s quite the entanglement, isn''t it?" Leaning in with a mischievous glint in his eye, Nathan whispered in Cameron''s ear, "Nathalie and I are simply partners."


    Cameron scoffed, "You''re giving her way too much credit. She just knows how to make a few outfits. Surely your empire isn''t limited to a woman''s sewing room."


    His words wereced with a double meaning.


    Nathan''s smile grew more enigmatic. "Cameron, you''ve hit the nail on the head. I couldn''t care less about the fashion brand. My only goal in teaming up with Nathalie is to outdo you." Cameron''s handsome features paled instantly. He stared at Nathan in shock. "Mr. Nathan, we have no history of bad blood, right?"Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Nathan''s smile was easygoing. "Yes, but you''ve hurt Nathalie. And not in a small way."


    Cameron pieced together a chilling truth from Nathan''s calm demeanor. "I thought you were using Nathalie as a pawn in our business rivalry Looks like I was wrong. Turns out she''s out to destroy me, and you''re her weapon of choice."


    Nathan pped his hands. "Cameron, you''re finally catching on. Your smarts seemed offlely, and facing off against someone so clueless has been dull."


    Cameron gritted his teeth. "Nathan, you''re from a prestigious family, with all the wealth you could imagine. How can you willingly take orders from a woman who came from nothing?" Nathan replied, "Cameron, I never expected you, of all people, to drag your own name through the mud over a mere femme fatale. It seems we''re more alike than we''d care to admit." Cameron locked eyes with Nathan, still grappling with the fact that all of Nathan''s meticulous scheming was for his seemingly unremarkable ex-wife.


    After wrapping up the show''s second episode, Cameron took a break before the next recording and headed back to the heart of the city.


    He made a point to visit his buddy Benjamin. "Ben, do you have any idea what''s really going on between Nathan and Nathalie?"


    Benjamin was just as baffled. "I''ve watched the show, and it''s odd how Nathan and Nathalie act almost like they''re family. But I asked my dad, and he''s certain Nathalie isn''t rted to the Rond family at all."


    "That can''t be," Cameron said, clearly


    rattled. "Nathalie''s usually so


    reserved and socially anxious. She''s wary around strangers, but she shower''s Nathan with more affection than she ever did with me. I''m sure they knew each other well before three years ago."


    Benjamin dismissed the notion. "That''s impossible. Nathan grew up in the McCoy family and was introverted from a young age. Theo was worried about his precious grandson and always had him surrounded by staff. He wouldn''t have had time to meet someone like Nathalie from themon world."


    Cameron shook his head, unconvinced by Benjamin''s exnation.

 Chapter 194

    "There''s more to this than meets the eye," Cameron said confidently, a knowing smile ying on his lips.


    "I''ll dig into it for you," Benjamin replied with a nod.


    Cameron gave a grateful nod before heading back to his family home.


    Inside, Kristinay bedridden. Her hair was streaked with gray. She looked like a shadow of the vibrant woman she once was. It seemed as if the years had caught up with her overnight, leaving her looking weary and frail. Upon arriving, Cameron knelt by his mother''s bedside, his voice heavy with regret. "Mom, I''ve let you down. I''ve gone against your wishes and caused you nothing but grief."


    Kristina turned away, her voice sharp with disappointment. "If you really cared about me, you''d divorce Greta."


    Cameron''s face was clouded with conflict. "Mom, Greta is the love of my life. I can''t leave her. But for everything else, I''m willing to follow your lead."


    Kristina''s anger simmered beneath her closed eyes as she refused to acknowledge him.


    Cameron shared his recent struggles, mostly grievances and frustrations. In the past, Kristina would have jumped to help him, but now she acted as if she hadn''t heard a word.


    He sighed, a sound full of defeat. "Mom, please take care of yourself. I''ll visit again soon."


    With a heavy heart, he turned to leave.


    Just as he reached the door, Kristina spoke up, her voice cutting through the tension. "Your father knows about your marriage to Greta. He was furious and said you''re a lost cause. I think he''s given up on you."


    In that moment, it dawned on Cameron why Griffin had pushed him into that reality show. He realized he had beenpletely sidelined from the Dawson family''s inner circle.


    "I''m sorry for letting you down," he murmured.


    Fueled by anger, Kristina grabbed


    themp from her bedside and


    hurled it at him. "You''ve et


    your future for Greta. Was it it?"


    away


    worth


    Cameron met her gaze, defiance in his eyes. "Mom, please have faith in me. I''ll rise again."Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Kristina sank back into the bed, waving him away with a weary hand. "Just leave. Don''te back. I''ll pretend I never had a son."


    The cracks in Cameron''sposed facade showed, his eyes welling up. "Mom?" he whispered, his voice catching.


    "If you can turn your back on me so easily, why should I keep fighting for you? Our bond as mother and son is broken." Kristina''s words cut deep into Cameron''s heart.


    "Mom, please don''t do this," he begged, inching back towards her on his knees.


    But Kristina was resolute, ordering the security guards, "Take him out. He isn''t allowed back here without my say-so." The guards stepped forward, dragging Cameron away.


    "Mom, please, don''t do this to me..."


    Tears streamed down Kristina''s face. "Without this lesson, you''ll never grow up."


    Cameron, feeling utterly defeated, found himself on a wooden bench in a small garden. The chill in the air cut through him more than the cold in his heart. Hunger gnawed at him, and he looked almost like a beggar sitting there.


    "Are you hungry?" A gentle voice asked. A pair of delicate hands offered him a warm piece of bread.


    Cameron had never appreciated such simple food as much as he did right then. He grabbed it eagerly, taking a big bite. "Careful, don''t choke," came the soothing voice.


    Startled, Cameron looked up to see Nathalie''s kind face. "Nathalie? What are you doing here?" he asked, stunned.

 Chapter 195

    Cameron pulled the bread from his mouth and tossed it into the trash can nearby, his face showing clear disdain for the handout.


    Nathalie''s voice turned snarky, almost instantly. "Oh, the irony. Ten years ago, we met here. You were the one handing out favors, and I was the one begging. Now, look at us. Our roles have reversed. Cameron, you used to look down on me. Should I return the favor Cameron shot back, his anger rising, "I''m no beggar."Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    now?"


    Nathalie nced at his dusty, wrinkled suit and couldn''t help but chuckle. "True, you''re not even as well off as a beggar. At least when I was down and out, my clothes were clean and neat. Look at you, such a mess."


    Cameron scoffed, "These clothes are pricey. Ever seen a beggar in designer wear?"


    With a smirk, Nathalie retorted, "Bup and linen? Back in the day, those were for funeral shrouds."


    Cameron felt a wave of humiliation crash over him.


    The suit was a creation Greta crafted a few years back when she was into experimenting with new, textured materials. She hadn''t thought to check their historical significance, and Nathalie had caught this slip-up, leaving Cameron red-faced. Nathalie''s expertise was clearly a notch above Greta''s.


    Cameron was taken aback by her rapid progress over the years and was genuinely impressed. "I would''ve never guessed you''de so far in just a few years."


    Nathalie, however, kept up her sly digs. "You came back to our old stomping grounds. Can''t shake off thoughts of your ex-wife, can you?"


    As she spoke, she casually pulled out her phone, framed a selfie with Cameron, and snapped a pic.


    Cameron quipped, "Aren''t you worried your new me will get jealous?"


    Nathalie uploaded it to social media, captioning it: [Remembering the good old days.]


    She replied with ease, "Unlike you, I don''t need love to survive."


    Cameron seemed oblivious to the chaos Nathalie''s post might stir. Stunned by her denial of romance he asked sarcastically, "So what''s the deal with Nathan? You''re close, and if it''s not romantic, what is it then?"


    QUAS


    Nathalie slipped her phone away with a look of disbelief. "Are you serious? Nathan''s way younger than me. How could we have anything romantic?" Cameron''s eyes widened as it hit him. Nathan had yed him.


    "Why did you lead Mason to believe you''re his girlfriend?" Cameron asked, perplexed.


    Nathalie exined without


    §Õ§Ý§ñ


    hesitation, "Why should I deny it?df I didn''t y along, how else would Mason hand me the partnership opportunity?"


    Cameron''s anger bubbled to the surface. So, you''re using him tond a deal with Rond Corporation? Nellie, Nellie, I never imagined you''d stoop so low."


    Nathalieughed it off. "Cameron,pared to your and Greta''s pretense, my ethics are sky-high."


    Cameron narrowed his eyes. "I don''t get it. How did I be so despicable in your eyes?"


    Nathalie mmed up suddenly.


    Her resentment towards Cameron had indeed red up unexpectedly. The reason was simple-she had found a new lease on life.

 Chapter 196

    In her past life, she lost her daughter at a young age, and Cameron and Greta had left her physically and emotionally shattered, making her feel older than her years. After her daughter passed, she had no desire to continue living. She dragged her weary, broken body She passed away at her lowest point, only to be reborn right when Cameron''s betrayal was at its peak. He''d tricked her into donating a kidney, took advantage of her innocence without love, and even forced her into surgery while pregnant. Any kindness he showed was just a cover for his maniption, and it was her mistake not to see through his lies.


    through life until she chose a dignified end.


    Now, she was given a second chance and wished she could make him pay.


    "Cameron, you''re my punishment, and I''m yours. We''re both stuck in this unbreakable cycle. Just ept what fate has in store," Nathalie said and walked away, sunsses on, exuding cool confidence. Cameron watched her leave, muttering, "She''s insane."


    He truly believed he''d been fair and caring to Nathalie. Her revenge seemed to him a petty overreaction and was unrted to anything he''d done. Still, he couldn''t shake the feeling that meeting her again was his own bad luck.


    Out of nowhere, Patrick called him in a panic. As soon as Cameron picked up, Patrick''s frantic voice red through. "Cameron, something''s happened to Greta. Get to the hospital right away."


    "What happened?" Cameron asked, flustered.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Patrick was seething, "Isn''t this your doing?"


    Patrick, who had always been respectful to his son-inw, was now livid, signaling that Cameron must have seriously messed up.


    But what had he done?


    He rushed to the hospital, where Patrick, seeing him, was so furious he nearly kicked him.


    Cameron said, "Please calm down. If I messed up, at least exin it to me."


    Patrick''s eyes were red with anger and practically glowing. He hurled Greta''s phone at Cameron. "Take a look and tell me if I''m wrong."


    Cameron picked up the phone,


    which was open to Nathalie''s social media page: Thetest post showed him and her together. His gaze was soft and dreamy, hers yful and wise and they looked surprisingly in sync.


    Cameron defended himself, "Patrick, you''re mistaken. I just bumped into Nathalie and asked her about some things that were bugging me. had no clue she was taking a photo."


    Patrick slumped to the ground, clutching his head in despair. "Exin it to Greta, not me. She saw the photo and got so worked up she fainted."


    Cameron felt both heartbroken and


    powerless, whispering to himself


    "Greta, how could you jump to


    conclusions without knowing the


    truth? How could you not trust me at


    all2


    Patrick was beside himself. "She loves you so much. How could she not be jealous? Especially since Nellie is your ex-wife."


    Nellie?


    A sudden realization struck Cameron. He quickly checked his phone and logged into his alternate ount but couldn''t find Nathalie''s recent post. So, was Nathalie''s post directed at Greta alone?


    It was all a setup.


    Cameron looked at Patrick, bewildered, "Did she craft this whole scheme?"

 Chapter 197

    Patrick was absolutely furious, his eyes practically popping out of his head. "Nellie-if anything happens to Greta, it''ll be on you. I''ll make sure of it."


    Cameron watched Patrick''s wild disy, not with shared anger but with a sort of dazed confusion.


    Amidst the chaos swirling in his mind, he caught a fleeting glimpse of something-the root of Nathalie''s deep-seated bitterness. But just as quickly, it slipped away.


    Ultimately, his protective feelings for Greta took over. "Nathalie, if you''re mad at me,e at me. But why did you have to drag Greta into this? She''s so delicate. Why would you want to hurt her?"


    In the early hours of the morning, the ICU doors creaked open. Looking worn out, the doctor stepped out and shook his head at Cameron and Patrick. "Her health was too poor. We managed to save her this time, but I''m afraid she doesn''t have much time left..." Patrick crumpled to the floor right then and there.


    Cameron asked with tears streaming down his cheeks, "How did ite to this?"


    The doctor, having seen too many families shattered by bad news, could only offer a cold response. "She''s awake now. You both should go see her."


    Without a second thought, Cameron dashed into the room. "Greta!"


    Greta saw Cameron in such a state-haggard, with dark circles under his eyes, holding her hand with a guilty, remorseful look.


    With a heavy heart, he began to exin, "What you saw with Nellie and me it''s not what you think."


    He choked up, "It was just a chance meeting. Honestly, we''re like oil and water. I never thought she''d take such a sneaky photo. Greta, please, believe me. I''d never betray our love."


    Greta had a moment of rity. "So, she was out for revenge on me."


    The pain in her body was almost too much to bear, and she realized her jealousy towards Nellie had cost her dearly.


    Tears streaming down her face, she said, "Nellie, how could you be so cruel? How could you do this to me?"


    Cameron''s voice was choked with emotion as he urged, "Greta, you''ve got to take care of yourself and keep your emotions in check. Don''t let Nellie get to you."


    Greta''s face was ghostly pale, but


    her eyes were alive, burning with et


    resentment. "Nellie, since you''ve


    [email protected]</a>


    shown no mercy, I won''t either."


    "Achoo."


    Nathalie was sound asleep when a sudden breeze blew in, tickling her nose and making her sneeze.


    She was wide awake now.


    Opening her eyes, she found herself face-to-face with a devilishly handsome grin.


    "Hey, Lizzy said you didn''t get home. until the wee hoursst night. It''s not safe for a girl to be out sote?please don''t do that again. I worry about you."


    Nathalie sat up, and Nathan gently draped a coat over her shoulders. "Be careful not to catch a cold."


    Nathalie couldn''t resist giving his cheek a little pinch. "Lizzy calls you a worrywart, and she''s spot on. You really do worry too much." Nathan mumbled softly, "I only worry about you."


    Nathalie''s expression turned serious, her voice tinged with sadness. "Last night, went to the Rainbow Bridge Orphanage to drop off some clothes for the kids."


    Nathan chimed in, "Next time you go, take me with you."Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Nathalie was taken aback. Nathan was so empathetic and kind. He seemed worlds apart from the cold, ruthless man from her past life. Could this be a shift in the tides of fate? Or was he just that good at putting on a front?


    Nathalie nodded. "Next time, I''ll take you along."


    "Oh, by the way, was there a reason you came to see me?"


    Nathan replied, "Nathalie, I''ve lined up a business opportunity for you. A reality TV show wants you to design costumes for their stage."

 Chapter 198

    Nathalie grinned from ear to ear. "This is absolutely amazing news! Having actors wear our clothes on the show is like getting free advertising for our brand. Nathan, let the production team know I''m happy to sponsor them at no cost." Nathan chimed in, "And there''s more good news."


    "Oh? What is it?" she asked.


    "Word from an insider in the Dawson family is that Cameron''s fashion brand is on the rocks. After hisckluster outfit choices got mmed online during the reality show, the chairman of Dawson International has decided to bow out of the fashion scene." Nathalie''s face was a kaleidoscope of emotions. "I''m suddenly feeling a bit sorry for my sister," she said, a sly grin spreading across her face.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Last night, she''d intentionally snapped a flirty moment between her and Cameron and posted it on social media, ensuring Greta would see it. Knowing Greta''s zero-tolerance policy for betrayal, Nathalie was sure i I would hit her hard.


    Now, with her career hanging by a thread, Greta''s fragile health was bound to take another blow.


    Perfect, Nathalie thought. The life she''d once extended for her sister was now slowly being taken back.


    Nathan quipped, "You seem pretty happy, Nathalie?"


    "I sure am," Nathalie replied.


    Sensing an opportunity, Nathan yfully asked, "So, got any rewards for me?"


    Caught up in her happiness, Nathalie agreed without missing a beat. "What do you want?"


    Nathan''s eyes softened as he looked at her. "Nathalie, I want you-"


    Startled, Nathalie stared at him. "Finish what you were saying."


    Nathan let out a barely audible sigh and added, "I want you to be with me forever."


    Nathalie gently patted his head. "Don''t worry, I''ll always be here for you."


    Nathan rolled his eye. Clearly, she still saw him as a young brother.


    Suddenly, there was a ruckus outside.


    "Where''s Nellie? Is she in there? Tell her toe out!" Patrick''s booming voice demanded.


    "Who are you?" Lizzy barely held her ground.


    Nathan''s face turned serious. "Nathalie, let me handle this."


    Nathalie stopped him. "I''ve got it."


    Patrick was at the door, kicking it fiercely. His demeanor was rude and aggressive.


    Nathan signaled to Lizzy. "Let him in."


    Patrick saw Nathalie and Nathan and was stunned. Nathan''s presence was every bit asmanding as Cameron''s, causing Patrick''s bravado to falter.


    Weary, Nathalie asked, "What do I need to do to repay you for giving me life?"


    That single question seemed to shatter Patrick''s resolve. With bloodshot eyes, he used, "Nellie you knew your sister was in bad shape, yet you went out of your way to provoke her... Do you understand what you did? You''ve ruined her. The doctors say she doesn''t have much time left."


    Nathalie''s eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint. "I extended her life, and even if she''s about to die, she lived those extra years because of me. People should appreciate what they have."  en


    Patrick gaped at her in disbelief. "Everyone says you''ve changed, be cold and heartless. I thought you were just being difficult but still kind at heart. Seeing you now, realize you''ve truly changed into someone cruel... Nellie, why couldn''t it have been you who got sick?"

 Chapter 199

    Nathalie stared into her father''s eyes, brimming with resentment. Despite countless efforts to cut the emotional ties, being despised by the man who gave her life still pierced her heart. "What does she have that I don''t?" she asked softly, seeking the answer she''d chased for what felt like lifetimes.


    Patrick was like a mad lion, ring at her as if ready to pounce and tear her apart. "You''re inferior to her in every way."


    It was as if someone had turned off all the lights in Nathalie''s world.


    Sure, she might''ve been naive, but she became brilliantly talented with hard work. She might''ve been in, but she became stunning with a little grace and makeup. But gaining her parents'' love? It felt hopelessly out of reach. No matter what she did, she couldn''t earn their approval.


    A pair of gentle hands, warm like the spring sun, covered her ears. "Nathalie, don''t listen to him. You''re better than that sickly girl in every way; it''s his heart that''s messed up."


    Nathalie''s sense of helplessness slowly faded as she stared gratefully at Nathan. His captivating eyes sparkled as he showed her aforting smile.


    Just when they let their guard down, Patrick suddenly whipped out a dagger, swinging it wildly at Nathalie. "Go to hell! Only your death will bring your sister happiness."


    The cold gleam of the de froze Nathalie in ce. Her mind went nk, her face expressionless, like a lifeless puppet.


    As the dagger closed in, Nathan pushed Nathalie aside, taking the de to his shoulder. It left a shocking wound.


    "Nathan!" Nathalie finally snapped out of it.


    Coming to her senses, Nathalie frantically shoved Patrick to the ground, leaving him sprawled out.


    In utter despair, she weakly told Lizzy, "Lizzy, call the police."


    Patrick looked as if he''d heard something absurd, eyes wide with disbelief. "What did you say? You''re calling the cops on me? Calling the police on your own father won''t do you any good. It''ll ruin your child''s future."


    Patrick was sure Nathalie wouldn''t go through with it. But Nathalie was firm. "Don''t worry. I''ve decided not to marry or have kids in this lifetime."


    Nathan was taken aback.


    Lizzy stepped on Patrick, angrily grabbed her phone, and dialed 911.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Nathalie couldn''t care less about Patrick now. Her attention was on Nathan. She was filled with guilt and self-reproach.


    Tears streamed down her face like a river.


    Nathan tried to console her. "It''s just a scratch; it doesn''t even hurt. Nathalie, don''t cry."


    Nathalie''s voice was thick with emotion. "Why would someone as esteemed as you take a knife for me? For this so-called worthless life?"


    Nathan shot Patrick a fierce re. If not for Patrick''s cruel words today, Nathalie would never feel so low.


    Nathan tenderly reassured her. "Who said your life is worthless? What era do you think this is? Those days are long gone, and now everyone is equal."


    Nathalie managed a smile. She realized how dramatic she''d been, allowing someone who didn''t love her to make her doubt herself.


    She stepped up to Patrick. "You and


    your selfish desires brought me into this world and wanted to tear me apart to make me into Greta''s spare parts. Well, guess what? I''m not having it. What''s mine is mine, and anyone who owes me better pay up."

 Chapter 200

    Patrick''s eyes burned with disbelief as he shouted, "If it weren''t for your sister''s poor health, I would''ve never let you be born. You came into this world to support her. That''s your only purpose. Consider yourself lucky to have been able to donate your cord blood and a kidney to her." Nathalie realized arguing with Patrick was pointless. She decided to conserve her energy and stayed quiet.


    The police showed up quickly. "What''s going on here?"


    Lizzy spoke up, "This man barged into our home and attacked someone with a knife."


    Pointing at Nathalie, Patrick protested, "Officer, she''s my daughter. How can visiting my own daughter be breaking in?"


    The officer looked at Nathan''s injuries and asked Patrick, "Did you do this?"


    Patrick''s eyes darted nervously. "I didn''t mean to hurt anyone. It was an ident, a result of emotional turmoil caused by my daughter."


    Nathalie cut in, "Officer, I have no connection with this man. He broke into my house and tried to assault Lizzy.Nathan got hurt trying to protect her."


    Everyone present was shocked.


    Patrick, agitated, shouted, "Nellie, I''m your father... How can you lie like this?"


    "Don''t go iming me as your daughter. I don''t know you."


    Patrickughed wildly, "Ha! Do you think that ''disownment paper'' means anything? The parent-child bond can''t be erased. You''re my daughter, and that''s that." Nathalie shivered in despair.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    The officer said, "Everyone needs toe down to the station to give a statement."


    Trying to keep Nathan out of trouble, Nathalie pleaded, "Officer, he''s hurt and needs to get to a hospital right away. Lizzy and I wille with you to the station."


    The officer understood her concern, and nodded in agreement.


    As Nathalie was leaving, Nathan whispered in her ear, "Nathalie, don''t worry. You''ll be out soon."


    At the station, the officers questioned Patrick, Nathalie, and Lizzy separately.


    Patrick went on about his father-daughter rtionship with Nathalie and how Nathan''s injury was an unfortunate ident in the heat of the moment.


    But Nathalie and Lizzy both insisted that Patrick had attempted to assault Lizzy and had intentionally hurt Nathan, who was trying to help. Their stories matched perfectly.


    en


    That night, Nathalie and Lizzy were released. However, Patrick was held on charges of attempted assault and intentional harm.


    Patrick cried out in despair when he heard the news, "I''ve been wronged."


    "Nellie, how could you do this to your father?"


    "How could youmit such heartless acts?"


    Worn out from yelling, Patrick slumped against the cold bars. He buried his face in his hands as memories of young Nellie shed in his mind. "Daddy, I miss you. Can you take me home?"


    "Nel, your sister''s not well, and I can barely manage with just her. Stay with your mom."


    "Daddy, I want to go to school too..."


    "Life is what it is. You''re with your mom, and if she can''t afford school, that''s just how it is. ept it."

 Chapter 201

    Nathalie left the police station and made a point to visit Patrick. The small window between them might as well have been an ocean or a mountain, separating father and daughter. For reasons he couldn''t quite grasp, Patrick didn''t hurl insults at Nathalie like he used to. Instead, he just gazed at her, his mind a swirling mess.


    "I know I favored your sister in the past and did things that hurt you. I said things I shouldn''t have. But Nellie, I''m still your dad. The way you spoke about me today just was not right."


    His face softened with a hint of nostalgia. "You used to be so innocent and sweet. Now you''re smart, but you''ve turned so bitter. You''ve let me down."


    Nathalie''s voice was t as she replied, "Why do you think I''ve turned out this way? Isn''t it because of what you''ve done to me?"


    Patrick''s face went pale.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Nathalie continued relentlessly, "You only brought me into this world to use my umbilical cord blood for Greta''s illness. Once she was better, you tossed me aside like some worn-out shoe, leaving me in a dirty, poor slum. If it weren''t for Greta getting kidney disease, would you have even bothered to pretend to care?"


    "The naive version of me was your puppet, willingly donating a kidney to Greta and saving her life once more. I should be your daughter''s lifesaver twice over. But what did you do? You let her take my husband, wreck my family. And you? You never gave me a dime, yet you had the nerve to guilt-trip me with fatherly love. How do you expect me to give selflessly?"


    Nathalie''s emotions boiled over as she spoke, tears finally brimming in her eyes. "Greta treats her pet better than you treat me. I''m your daughter, yet how am I worse off than a pet?"


    Nathalieughed suddenly, augh filled with bitter irony. "You gave me life but never taught me love or respect. And you expect me to love and respect you?"


    Patrick buried his face in his hands, realizing for the first time the depth of Nellie''s pain, all of it inflicted by those she should have been able to trust the most.


    Maybe he felt a twinge of regret, but old habits die hard. Tears streamed down his face as he pleaded, "Nel, I''m sorry for everything. I want to make it up to you. But right now, you have to clear my name. Your sister''s still in the hospital, and I need to be with her..."


    Nathalie, who had seemed soposed, felt her inner fortress crumble. Her eyes reddened as she murmured, "You''re just like him, always promising to make things right. But every time Greta cries, I lose everything. So, I''ve stopped expecting anything from you. The love I want is one-of-a-kind. Your love is too cheap, and I don''t want I it."


    Nathalie gave Patrick onest look, her gaze carrying a dark, destructive energy. Her voice was like a


    haunting whisper from the depths "In my next life, I wish to be a tree, a river a mountain-anything but human. Being human is just too exhausting, too painful."


    Patrick sobbed, "I''m sorry, Nel. I apologize. I made a mistake. Please forgive me."


    Nathalie stood firm. "Dad, just stay here and think about what you''ve done. When you truly understand your mistakes, then maybe I''lle back for you." Patrick finally realized his reckless actions today had backfired, giving Nathalie the perfect opportunity for revenge.


    He became desperate. "Nellie, your sister needs me. I have to be with her. Nellie, you can''t be so cruel. You know I''m innocent..."

 Chapter 202

    Natalie fixed Patrick with a steely gaze. "What was going through your mind when you pulled that dagger?" she asked, her tone icy.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Patrick''s face drained of color. At that moment, all he had wanted was to get rid of Natalie so there''d be no one left to vie with Greta for Cameron''s affection. "Thanks for that stab. It finally gave me the resolve to deal with you," Natalie said, her words cutting like a knife.


    Patrick was left speechless.


    "Oh, and I had your fortune read. The fortune teller said you''d end up alone, with no kids to see you off. Quite the prophecy, huh?"


    Patrick''s eyes widened. "No kids to see me off?" he echoed, his voice barely a whisper. As the weight of her words sank in, he felt his world crumble.


    "Nellie, what are you nning for your sister? I won''t let you hurt her," he stammered.


    Natalie mouthed silently, "I want you all to rot in hell."


    The malevolence in her expression made Patrick feel as if he were staring into the eyes of a vengeful specter. Fear gripped him. "Nellie, we live in a society bound byw. You can''t harm your sister."


    "Rx, Dad, I''m all about following the rules," Natalie replied with a wicked grin. "I''ll just let her know you''ve broken thew and won''t be around for quite some time."


    Patrick was beside himself, shouting, "You can''t tell her that. It''ll destroy her..."


    Seeing him unravel only fueled Natalie''s satisfaction. "Dad, if I don''t tell her, what if she wants to find you?" she taunted before walking away without a backward nce. Patrick sank to the floor, overwhelmed.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, thanks to the doctors'' quick actions, Greta was temporarily out of the woods. Patrick had hired a caretaker to look after her, but Greta, ustomed to a life of pampering, sulked without her father or husband around.


    She tried calling Patrick but hit a dead end. Cameron was unreachable, too. He was tied up with filming and unable to return soon.


    Frustrated, Greta snapped at the caretaker, "I don''t want your help. You''re so clumsy. I want my dad to take care of me."


    The caretaker, trying to be polite, reminded her, "Greta, your dad''s payment only covers today. I''m noting back tomorrow."


    Greta was taken aback. "You''re


    leaving? Who''s going to take care of me then? You can''t leave until my dad finds someone new," she insisted.


    The caretaker shrugged. "You better find someone soon. I''m noting back tomorrow."


    Desperation mounting, Greta frantically tried to reach Patrick again, but it was like he had vanished into thin air.


    Panicked, she pleaded with the caretaker, "Can''t you stay just a few more days?"


    Even the caretaker couldn''t hold back. "You''re such a handful. I can''t manage you."


    And as if things couldn''t get worse, the hospital sent another bill, demanding payment.


    "Greta, your ount''s empty. We need you to settle the bill soon."


    "Please, just a few more days," Greta begged, feeling like she was on the brink.


    Amidst this chaos, Natalie made her entrance She strode into Greta''s hospital room, heels clicking, dressed to the nines in a red dress with wless makeup and nails.


    When Greta saw her, a flicker of hope lit her eyes amidst the despair. "Nel, you''re just in time. Dad''s disappeared. Can you help me find him? Please?"


    Natalie looked down at Greta and took in her tear-streaked face. It stirred memories of her own younger, vulnerable self.


    "Why should I? Give me one good reason," Natalie challenged, her voice cold and detached.

 Chapter 203

    "Because I''m your sister, Nathalie," Greta said, clutching Nathalie''s hand like she was a lifeline. At that moment, Nathalie was her beacon of hope. But Nathalie just coolly pushed her hand away, and Greta noticed her expression was colder than she''d ever seen.


    "Why are you here?" Greta finally asked, the realization dawning on her.


    With a disdainful look, Nathalie replied, "I''m here to let you know Dad''s noting back."


    The weight of those words hit Greta like a ton of bricks. She deted, "What do you mean?"


    "He''s been locked up for breaking thew," Nathalie said.


    Without Patrick''s protection these past few days, Greta had been struggling. The news that her supposed savior wouldn''t return was crushing.


    "What did he do?" she pleaded, holding Nathalie''s hand, her pride slipping away. "Tell me, what did he do?"


    Nathalie gazed into her eyes like she was searching for something, her focus unyielding. "He tried to rape Lizzy and injured Nathan," Nathalie said, glossing over the details.


    Greta went pale as a ghost."That can''t be true. Dad would never stoop so low," she insisted.


    Nathalie kept silent, a knowing smile teasing her lips. She could''ve told Greta it was just an attempt, but she let Greta stew in her own worry.


    "He''s noting back, Greta. What are you going to do now?" Nathalie asked with mock sympathy.


    Nathalie used her calm tone, but Greta caught the hint of mockery. "It was you, wasn''t it? You set him up! Don''t forget, Cameron is my husband. He''ll bring Dad back," Greta shot back, her confidence showing.


    Nathalie shrugged off Greta''s


    bravado and plopped down into


    chair,


    0 chip away at Greta''s


    arrogance. "You really trust


    Cameron, huh?"


    "Absolutely," Greta said, full of herself.


    Nathalie toyed with her nails, her words as sharp as her gaze. "Do you know who Dad hurt?"


    Greta recalled Nathalie''s mention of "Nathan." She hadn''t linked themon name to the prestigious Nathan Rond.


    "Anyone tied up with you must be some nobody," she scoffed.


    Nathalie''s lips curled into a teasing grin. "Nathan, as in Nathan Rond."


    Greta was blindsided.


    Nathan, the treasured grandson of the McCoy family, the rightful heir of the Rond family. He was young, in the


    but his wealth was unmatching,


    Capital''s elite circles.


    "Dad hurt Nathan. Do you really Cameron would take on both tContent ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    and McCoy families for you?" Nathalie pressed.


    son would take on both the et


    Greta''s faith in Cameron was unwavering. "He will. I''m the love of his life."


    Nathalie suggested, "How about a bet?"


    "What kind of bet?"


    "If Cameron truly loves you enough to risk it all, I''ll convince Nathan to drop the charges against Dad. Deal?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 204

    Greta eyed Nathalie with suspicion, her words dripping with disdain. "I know for sure Cameron would go to great lengths for me. But what makes you think Mr. Nathan would even give you the time of day?"


    With a derisive chuckle, she added, "You''re just another pawn in Mr. Nathan''s grand career chess game, a tool he''ll toss aside like an old rag once he''s done. You''re not his only option, just the one that''s convenient right now¡ª" Ending with a sly grin, she taunted, "So, if Mr. Nathan finds a better fit, do you really think you''ll still matter?"Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Nathalie simplyughed. She could see right through Greta''s malicious intentions, having her own share of cunning. Leaning in with a confidence that made Greta squirm, Nathalie said, "Go ahead, find him some better tools. I won''t be jealous. In fact, I''d be grateful. And I''m curious to see if he''d cast me aside like an old rag."


    Deep down, Nathalie wasn''t entirely sure about Nathan. In this life, Nathan was as shrewd as ever and already making his mark in the corporate world, but he was always gentle and genuine with her.


    She had every reason to trust him. Still, memories of Nathan from her past life made her shiver.


    Back then, Nathan would step on anyone to reach the top, and she would''ve been nothing more than coteral damage in his climb.


    Yet, in both lives, Nathan was the only person who had genuinely helped her without expecting anything in return.


    So, Nathalie couldn''t help but wish him well, even if their paths would eventually split.


    After mulling it over, Greta decided against taking Nathalie''s bet. "Hmph, you hold yourself in too high regard. Instead of you asking Mr. Nathan, I will speak to him myself. I believe he is savvy enough to grant me some respect." Nathalie couldn''t help but chuckle. "Well, best of luck to you."


    She added, "And remember, our bet still stands. If you hit a brick wall with Nathan ande running back, I''ll still be here to take that bet."


    Then, she walked away without a backward nce.


    Hearing Nathalie call her ''sister'' sent shivers down Greta''s spine. She had a sneaking suspicion that nothing good ever followed when Nathalie used that endearment.


    Greta sat down and carefully crafted a lengthy, heartfelt message to Nathan.


    [Hello, Mr. Nathan. I''m Greta Dawson, Cameron''s wife. I''m sorry to disturb you sote.


    [Nathalie mentioned that my father identally hurt you. I''m deeply sorry and wish to offer my sincere apologies on his behalf.


    [You might''ve heard that my health


    isn''t the best, and recent dramas with my sister and husband have only worsened it, adding to my stress. I wanted to visit the Rond family personally to apologize, but my health won''t allow it, so I''m reaching out this way. I hope you can forgive my father for the sake of the rtionship between our two families. Let the goodwill between us continue for generations...]


    Greta poured all her energy into this message, hoping to touch Nathan''s heart by mixing self-pity, attempts to discord, a pinch of intimidation, and some ttery.


    However, when Nathan received this long text from an unknown number, he barely nced at it before moving on.

 Chapter 205

    Greta was growing impatient, waiting for Nathan''s reply. Figuring he hadn''t seen her messages, she decided to stick to the old adage: "If it''s important, repeat it again and again," and sent her message two more times.


    Meanwhile, Nathan, annoyed by the constant ding of notifications, finally picked up his phone to block the unknown number. Just before doing so, his eyes caught a glimpse of a crucial part of the message: [Lately, my sister and my husband havepletely ignored boundaries, and it''s driving me crazy, making my old illness re up...]


    Nathan quietly set the phone aside. His strikingly handsome face hid in the shadows, and his dark eyes gleamed like a predator ready to pounce, full of wild intensity.


    This was Nathan''s unhappy state, and his most genuine one.


    "Nathalie, you shouldn''t be like this," he murmured to himself.


    There are so many beautiful things in life, yet Nathalie seemed stuck in the past, unable to let go of her grudges.


    He let out a soft sigh, "Oh well, there''s always tomorrow," trying to reassure himself.


    One day...


    Two days...


    Three days...


    And still, Greta heard nothing from Nathan.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She finally got it-to Nathan, she was invisible, a nobody. For the first time, she felt what it was like to be disregarded, and it stung, filling her with shame. She felt a strange kind of anger.


    "Nathan, I gave you a chance, and you wasted it. So don''t me me for ying hardball now." With that, she turned to Cameron, sending him a barrage of embellished messages. [Cameron, my dad''s in trouble. He identally hurt Mr. Nathan and got arrested.


    [I begged Mr. Nathan three times, but he just ignored me. I''m really at my wit''s end, so I had to reach out to you for help.


    [Cameron, I can''t be without my dad. You know I''m not in great health and need him around.


    [It''s all Nathalie''s fault. She provoked my dad on purpose. That''s why he lost control and identally injured Mr. Nathan.]


    ...


    Cameron was having a long, exhausting day.


    The show''s schedule was packed,


    and even though they were rich heirs, they were still on the fringes of their families. The production team was polite but driven by the bottom line.


    en


    Cameron felt the bitter taste of falling from grace.


    Late that night, Cameron dragged himself back to his room, ready to copse into bed. As hey there, sleep started to pull him under, but his phone buzzed annoyingly. With a frown, he fished his phone out from under the pillow, groggily unlocking it to find over 99 messages from Greta. Instead of feeling worried, he just felt irritated. He tossed his phone aside.


    He let himself get some decent sleep. It wasn''t until the next morning, after waking up, that he reluctantly skimmed through a few of the messages.


    Then he shot back a reply to Greta:


    [The schedule''s super tight right now. I''m basically a zombie during the day. If there''s something urgent, just leave a message. You don''t have to keep calling or sending the same thing over and over ]


    No sooner had he sent it than Greta replied instantly: [Cameron, are you mad at me for bothering you? It''s just that my dad''s in trouble, and I''m desperate, so I turned to you.] Just then, the production crew started calling out. "All guests, please gather in the lobby."


    Cameron quickly texted back: [We''ll sort this out when I''m back.]


    His words were curt, with a hint of indifference.


    Greta felt tears welling up as she read his reply. She could sense his exhaustion, but her own situation was no walk in the park, either. Swallowing her pride, she sent another message: [Cameron, can you help me pay my medical bills?]

 Chapter 206

    But Cameron never bothered to text her back.


    Greta was so furious she hurled her phone across the room. She crumbled into mess of tears, feeling more hopeless than she ever had before. Just when she thought things couldn''t get worse, Nathalie''s call popped up out of the blue.


    Greta nced at the cracked screen on the floor, where Nathalie''s face was distorted into devilish shards. Her smile felt unsettlingly eerie. Facing Nathalie at her lowest was thest thing Greta wanted to do. However, Nathalie was relentless and called over and over again. Exasperated, Greta finally stooped down to pick up her phone. "Yeah?" she answered, her voiceced with irritation.


    Nathalie''s voice came through nonchntly, "I got a call this morning. Apparently, Dad''s not feeling too well. Greta, he''s getting old. If something happens to him, who''s going to look after you?"


    Her words jabbed at Greta''s heart like icy daggers, leaving her breathless.


    "Nathalie, you''re doing this on purpose. You know I''m stuck in the hospital. I don''t have the strength to help Dad. You''re the only one who can..."


    Nathalie replied, ying the victim, "Greta, remember when I had that kidney transnt? No one was there for me-no one to care,fort, or just sit with me. I had to tough it out, living on takeout. But Dad? He was glued to your side 24/7. Now he''s in trouble, and you''re nowhere to be found. If he knew how you''re treating him, he''d be heartbroken."


    After a pause, Nathalie added with a sarcastic twist, "If you really wanted to save Dad, what could possibly hold back your sense of duty? Oh, wait, you''re the pampered princess and always need someone to cater to you. Without help, you can''t do anything, right?" "Fine, let Dad stay where he is then."


    Greta, seething with anger, shot back, "Nathalie, don''t get too cocky. I will get Dad out."


    One evening, Greta managed to sneak out of the hospital. She somehow got a tip-off and slipped quietly into Nathan''s exclusive VIP hospital room.


    Nathan looked up, startled to see her. "Greta? You really are your father''s daughter, aren''t you? Both of you have a knack for barging into other people''s spaces," he said, mocking her.


    Greta rushed over, her voice desperate, "Mr. Nathan, please. I''m begging you to let my father go. I''ll make it up to you someday..." Nathan eyed her as if she were spinning a fairy tale and was intrigued. "And what exactly do you have that I might want?" Greta replied, "I''m Cameron''s wife. He adores me. If I ask him to hand over his projects to you, he''ll do it, no question."


    Nathan squinted, quietly amused by the absurdity of it all.


    "What projects could Mr. Cameron possibly have that would catch my interest?" Nathan kept his face unreadable so Greta couldn''t pick up on his sarcasm.


    "The Dawson family has loads of projects. There''s gotta be something in there for you..."


    Just then, the sharp click of high heels echoed down the hallway.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Nathan''s frosty demeanor suddenly melted into a warm, inviting expression.

 Chapter 207

    As the footsteps neared the hospital room, Nathan abruptly raised his voice, "I just don''t get it. You''re nowhere near as gorgeous as Nathalie. And your manners? It''s just in tacky. How do you evenpare to Nathalie''s elegance? Mr. Cameron must be blind to mistake gravel for a gem." Greta had always been a star performer. She couldn''t stand the thought of being outdone by someone she considered beneath her. She snapped back, "Mr. Nathan, you know nothing about me or Nellie. You have no right to judge us."


    Nathan shrugged, unfazed, "Anyone with eyes can see that Nathalie, with her natural beauty, is way prettier than your face with too many stic surgeries. Her demeanor is softer and kinder... You think your dad and Cameron favor you because you''re better than Nathalie? Nope, it''s ''cause they''re blind. And..."


    His eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint, "Sooner orter, Cameron and your dad will see the truth, and they''ll be kicking themselves for not recognizing real beauty when they had the chance..."


    "No way," Greta shouted, breaking down.


    But quickly catching herself, she straightened up with pride, "My dad and my husband love me unconditionally. That will never change."


    Nathan smirked, "Just wait till reality hits you."Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Outside the room, Nathalie''s expression was hard to read. The way Nathan called her "my Nathalie" made her skin crawl, yet oddly, it felt likeing home.


    The door swung open suddenly, and Nathalie walked in with a food container in hand.


    Nathan instantly turned into a whining puppy, "Nathalie, what took you so long? I''m starving! You''ve got toe earlier tomorrow."


    Otherwise, the boredom was unbearable.


    Nathalie chuckled, ruffling his hair. "If you''re that weak, maybe zip it for a bit. Save some energy."


    Greta watched, wide-eyed, as Nathan and Nathalie exchanged looks full of genuine affection. Nathan''s gaze wrapped around Nathalie, full of warmth and devotion. She felt a wave of embarrassment, having arrogantly assumed Nathalie was just a tool for Nathan. She even tried to set Nathan against Nathalie... How ridiculous.


    "Mr. Nathan, you''re still young and naive about the harsh realities of business. I''m Mrs. Dawson, and by crossing me, you''ve just made a formidable enemy in the business world Clearly, Greta couldn''t


    ept being overshadowed by Nathalie in Nathan''s eyes and was trying desperately to regain ground.


    But Nathan didn''t even nce her way, his eyes still tenderly fixed on Nathalie. Nathalie stood there, casually dressed in a white T-shirt and ck pleated skirt, with just a touch of jewelry. Yet, her simple look only highlighted her glowing skin and striking features, leaving Nathan awestruck.


    Nathalie focused on unpacking the food container, revealing simple dishes like chicken soup, garlic zhini, and shredded pork in sauce-allfort foods from home.


    Nathan frowned. Even though he was injured, he still craved rich, vorful meals.


    Greta seized the moment. "Nel, why are you giving Mr. Nathan such in food? You''re not really trying, are you?"

 Chapter 208

    Nathalie spoke gently, "He''s injured, so he can only have lightly vored foods."


    "But it seems like Mr. Nathan''s not into it?"


    "Well, if he doesn''t like it, he can just go hungry," Nathalie replied with a stern look.


    Nathan''s frown disappeared in an instant, and he shot Greta a fierce re. "What do you even know? I love whatever Nathalie cooks."


    Then, turning to Nathalie with a charming grin, he said, "Nathalie, she''s just jealous because you treat me so well. She''s trying to stir up trouble between us. Don''t fall for it. Your cooking is my absolute favorite."


    Then, he picked up his fork and started eating like he hadn''t seen food in days.


    Greta was taken aback by Nathan''s devotion and reliance on Nathalie. She eyed Nathalie suspiciously, jealousy burning in her eyes. She couldn''t stand the fact that Nathalie had found support in Nathan, a man even more esteemed than her own. Nathan waspletely devoted to Nathalie.Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Nathan shot her a cold look. "Greta, I know you''re here to plead for your dad. But I''m not the one to talk to. You should be talking to Nathalie."


    Greta turned to Nathalie in shock. But Nathalie didn''t even nce her way, as if she were an ant not worth her time.


    Greta felt her knees go weak, realizing she would have to face Nathalie, who despised their father.


    Nathalie said bluntly, "Begging me won''t help."


    Nathan chuckled and said, "Exactly. When he came at you with a knife, I wouldn''t just send him to jail. I''d make sure a few people in there showed them a really tough time, make their life miserable, never let them see daylight again."


    Greta felt a chill run through her, freezing her inch by inch.


    She seemed to grasp something, "So, Mr. Nathan, my father''s real target was my sister, not you, right?"


    The difference between intentional and unintentional injury could significantly affect her father''s punishment. One could lead to criminal charges, while the other might just requirepensation.


    Nathan continued eating gracefully.


    "If his knife had been aimed at me, maybe I could''ve let it slide. But since he went after Nathalie, I had to lock him up. Leaving him free means Nathalie''s life will always be in danger, and I''d be constantly worried for her. How scary would that be?"


    Greta looked between Nathan and Nathalie, shaking her head desperately. "Mr. Nathan, why do you protect Nathalie so fiercely? She''s just a beggar from the slums." Nathan stopped mid-bite, and when his dark gaze fell on Greta, she felt an icy chill.


    "What right do you have to look down on Nathalie? She might have been dealt a bad hand, but she''s yed itwell. Unlike someone who wasted a winning hand. Greta, life''s unpredictable. Who knows, one day you might find yourself in her shoes."


    Nathan''smanding presence seemed to envelop everything. It was as if he ruled the world. Such a powerful aura was something even Cameron couldn''t match. Terrified, Greta stumbled and fled.

 Chapter 209

    After a scare like that, Greta''s health took a nosedive again. Back at the hospital, she came down with a fever, but her medical bills were way overdue. After nagging her about the payments, the doctors were definitely not as friendly as before. Feeling fragile and overwhelmed, Greta cried her heart out in the hospital. With nowhere else to turn, she sent a desperate message to Nathalie. [I ept your bet.]


    When Nathalie saw the message, a confident smile spread across her stunning face. "Cameron, Greta, your time is almost up."


    Cameron had just wrapped up filming the third episode of his show when he got the call from the hospital. The doctor told him Greta was in critical condition, and his tone was anything but gentle. "Mr. Dawson, your wife''s medical bills have been overdue for too long. You''re not hurting for cash, so please pay up so we can keep treating her."


    Cameron had never been on the receiving end of such a lecture. The doctor''s words made his face flush with embarrassment. "Sorry, I''ve been swamped with work and forgot," he mumbled, sounding worn out.


    The doctor didn''t let up. "Mr. Dawson, I know you''re busy, but you''re responsible for her care. She''s been emotionally unstable and even sneaked out, which has messed with her recovery. We need the family to take this seriously. Don''t me us if things go south." Feeling drained, Cameron rushed to the hospital. He hadn''t seen Greta in nearly three weeks, and her appearance shocked him. She looked like a shadow of her former self, so thin and frail, with sunken eyes and hollow cheeks. Her skin looked rough and sallow, making her appear much older.


    Cameron stood there, stunned, his mind nk. He couldn''t tell if he felt more pity or a touch of revulsion.


    When Greta saw him, tears welled up instantly. "Cameron, you''re finally here."


    Her heartfelt cry reignited Cameron''s love for her. Dropping his bags, he dashed over and held her hand tightly, guilt washing over him. "Greta, what happened to you?"


    Greta''s eyes red with anger. "It''s all Nathalie''s doing. She set my dad up and got him thrown in jail. After he was gone, no one cared about me anymore. Cameron, you have to stand up for me."


    Cameron had loved Greta his whole life. Seeing her so heartbroken fueled his anger towards Nathalie. "Don''t worry, Greta. I''ll find a way to get your dad out," Cameron promised, trying tofort her.


    But Greta shook her head,N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    hopelessness in her eyes. "It''s no


    use, Cameron. Don''t waste your time. Nathalie''s got Nathan backing her, and you''re the ck sheep of the Dawson family now. You can''t


    take on Nathan."


    As someone who hated being told he couldn''t do something, Cameron was instantly fired up. "Who does Nathan think he is? I was making waves long before he even showed up."


    Greta''s eyes sparkled with


    determination. "But Cameron, the Dawson elders won''t let you upset their business ties. If you go against Nathan, won''t they strip you of your rights in Dawson International?"


    swnQ


    Greta''s gentle understanding sparked Cameron''s protective instincts. Stroking her hair, he clenched his teeth and dered, If I can''t even protect my own wife what''s the point of having any rights in Dawson International?"

 Chapter 210

    Greta was all teary-eyed with gratitude. "Cameron, you''ve been amazing to me. I must have racked up some serious karma in a past life to be lucky enough to meet you."


    Cameron thrived on Greta''s admiration. He pulled her close and said with heartfelt sincerity, "Greta, you need to take care of yourself. That way, I can throw myself into my work and build a wonderful future for us." Greta blushed. "Okay, I''ll be good."


    Once Greta was settled in, Cameron headed home, took a shower, caught some sleep, and then at the crack of dawn, he was waiting at Nathalie''s doorstep.


    Nathalie eyed Cameron with a hint of amusement. "Mr. Cameron, you''ve lost some weight. Guess acting isn''t all glitz and m, huh?"


    She sure knew how to hit where it hurt, and it ticked Cameron off. He red at her. "Nathalie, I never imagined you''d be so cruel, even to your own father." Nathalieughed, carefree and bold. "Are you here to plead for my dad?"


    Cameron noted how effortlessly she called him ''dad,'' as if she wasn''t the girl who once wanted nothing to do with the Brown family. It made his heart clench.


    Nathalie had always been an open book, her emotions easy to read. But the new version of her, with a smile that masked her true intentions, was terrifying in her duplicity.


    "I''m the only one who''s ever hurt you. I was the one who schemed to bring you to my home, convinced you to give a kidney to Greta, and then failed you as a husband. You have every right to hate me, but don''t drag the innocent into this." Nathalie''s smile turned wicked, chilling him to the core. "Cameron, do you really think you can escape? Don''t worry, your time wille."


    Cameron''s face drained of color as he stared at Nathalie in disbelief. The sweet, gentle girl he once knew was now a devil in disguise, grinning at him with triumph.


    Nathalie moved closer, her fingers lightly tugging at his tie in a mockingly intimate way, but her words were ice cold.


    "Cameron, haven''t you noticed your life''s been going downhilltely?"


    The realization hit Cameron hard.


    Ever since Nathalie returned, his fuck


    had spiraled. All his misfortunes.


    were her doing. He didn''t want to


    believe that Nathalie hated him this much.


    "You really hate me that much?"


    Nathalie replied with a casual air, "You''ve asked me that a lot. Toda I''ll give you a straight answer: Yes, I hate you. I wish you were dead."


    She and her daughter had been taken too soon; why should he get to live peacefully?


    Cameron was stunned. "Nathalie, hate me all you want. Take your revenge on me. But Greta doesn''t deserve your grudges." Nathalie looked at him with disdain. "Cameron, you''re all bark and no bite. If you''re so capable, then protect her."


    Cameron promised, "Just wait, I''ll get your dad out soon."


    "With what?"


    Cameron felt Nathalie was underestimating him. He was Cameron Dawson, so getting someone out of jail should be a breeze, especially since Patrick''s offenses weren''t severe. N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Nathalie gave a knowing smile. "I''ll be watching." Then, she walked away.


    Cameron watched her leave, realizing she felt nothing for him now, and it left him confused.


    They say the deeper the hate, the deeper the love. So, why couldn''t he detect even a hint of love from Nathalie?

 Chapter 211

    Cameron dropped by to see Patrick, and in just a month, the man had aged dramatically-his hair had turned grey, and deep wrinkles carved his face. He looked like someone well into hister years, utterly worn out. Cameron actually felt no sympathy. His only worry was for Greta and how crushed she would be if she saw Patrick like this.


    "I''ll find a way to get you out, but you need to tell me everything. I need the truth," Cameron said, all business-like.


    Tears streamed down Patrick''s face. "Cameron, I didn''t assault Lizzy. Nathalie set me up. Lizzy was in on it with her."


    Hearing about the attempted assault charges against Patrick for the first time, Cameron was shocked, and his view of Nathalie took another hit. "But she''s your daughter. How could she use you like this? Isn''t she worried about ruining herself, too?" "I tried to tell her that if I got caught up in a scandal, it would affect her and any future kids. But she said she''d never marry or have children."


    Cameron was taken aback. Nathalie''s disillusionment with love was his doing, a shadow he had cast on her life.


    His feelings were a tangled mess. On one hand, he despised Nathalie for hurting the gentle Greta, yet he also felt guilty about the pain he had caused Nathalie.


    "What about Nathan then?"


    Patrick, visibly upset, said, "Cameron, I meant to hurt Nathalie. Nathan jumped in to protect her, and that''s how he got hurt. They''re using me of trying to kill Nathan, but it wasn''t what really happened."


    Cameron''s face turned stern. "So, you did mean to kill. You just got the wrong person?"


    Patrick paled, realizing his words almost admitted his guilt. He quickly denied, "No, Nathalie''s words drove me over the edge. I lost control and went after her."


    "Why did you bring a knife to meet her?"


    "It was just by chance. You know I always carry a dagger for self-defense, and I happened to use it that day."


    Cameron looked into Patrick''s panicked eyes and suddenly felt the urge to distance himself from this mess. He also felt a strange sense of pity for Nathalie.


    "Having you as a father is truly Nathalie''s misfortune," he said quietly.


    Patrick was taken aback but then smiled. "Cameron, don''t just me me. You haven''t been any better to her. The way she''s turned out is as much your doing as mine."


    Cameron paused. With a resigned sigh, he said, "If you don''t regret your actions, then stay here."


    Patrick panicked. "Cameron, don''t do this. If I don''t get out, Greta will worry. You don''t want Greta upset, do you?" Cameron felt like he had swallowed something awful, the feeling of being manipted nearly driving him crazy.


    Patrick continued, "And if you don''t get me out, expect Nathalie''s wrath. She hates you the most. If I''m in t


    this mess, who knows what will happen to you?" N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Cameron scoffed. "I''m nothing like you."


    To him, Patrick was just a waste.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 212

    Patrick realized that Cameron wasn''t budging and had no choice but to swallow his pride and plead, "Cameron, please get me out of here. I''ll do whatever you say from now on. Deal?"


    Cameron, clearly annoyed, snapped back, "Wait for me to get back with good news," and then stormed off, his face set like stone.


    Patrick felt hopeful, and rubbed his hands together eagerly. "With Cameron on it, it''s like having double the manpower. I''ll be out of here in no time."


    Back at the detention center, a fellow inmate gave Patrick a long, peculiar look, studying him intently.


    Patrick tried to steer clear of the guy, but he sidled up to Patrick and struck up a conversation. "Are you a Brown by any chance?"Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    "Yeah," Patrick replied, a bit confused. "Do we know each other?"


    The guy put on a friendly smile. "I''m good friends with your daughter. She asked me to look after you."


    Patrick frowned, whispering under his breath, "It must be Nellie. She''s the only one who''d hang out with such shady characters."


    Suddenly, the man''s eyes took on a sinister glint, but his voice dropped to a whisper, "Buddy, since we''re pals, I''ll level with you. I''m actually the serial killer from ten years back, and I''m on death row. Before I go, I''m looking for someone to join me on the trip to the afterlife." Patrick shuddered with fear.


    The man asked, "Are you scared of me?"


    "No, not scared... You know you shouldn''t break thew, right?"


    The man pped him on the shoulder. "Just kidding, man. How about joining me for a shower? You could give me a hand with a scrub..."


    When Patrick stood frozen, the man''s gaze turned icy. "What, you don''t want to help?" His expression was chilling.


    Shaking, Patrick stammered, "I''ll go. I''ll go."


    Not long after Patrick followed the man into the bathroom, Patrick''s pained screams echoed.


    The bathroom was a gruesome scene, blood everywhere, and Patricky on the floor, his ankle''s artery severed.


    The man shed a devilish grin. "Your daughter told me to take good care of you. You''re quite the failure as a father." Patrick''s eyes were wide with disbelief and shock.


    Was it really her? Could she be so heartless?


    The dark turn in Nellie made Patrick


    feel fear for the first time. He


    Vol.ne


    realized he couldn''t treat her like the


    little girl he could push around


    anymore.


    A relentless rainstorm rolled in. The rain washed over the streets, turning the gloomy roads fresh and clean.


    Nathalie stood by the window,


    gazing down from her high-rise.


    Even from a distance, her eye


    found the group of kids below.


    A little girl sat curled up on a flowerbed, wearing a floral blouse.


    Nathalie stared at her, tears glistening in her eyes. "Baby," she murmured softly.


    Suddenly, she couldn''t help herself; she slowly opened the window, her head leaning out. "My baby, wait for me..."


    Just then, the phone rang, snapping Nathalie back to reality.


    She walked over and picked up the phone. The call was from the prison.


    "Hello. Is this Greta? There''s been an incident with your father. Pleasee immediately."


    Nathalie''s lips curled into a slight


    smile.


    sorry, I can''t leave right


    now But I have an older


    can


    her first."


    belongs to en.kikisto You


    "Alright."


    Nathalie hung up the phone and couldn''t hide a hint of joy.

 Chapter 213

    She picked out a stunning dress from her closet and carefully applied her makeup before joining Lizzy for breakfast. After a leisurely morning, she finally headed off to the prison.


    The warden greeted her with an apologetic tone, "Your father was attacked by an inmate on death row. His legs are severely injured, and he''s lost a lot of blood. But your brother-inw just took him to the hospital." Severely injured legs? That was all?


    Nathalie felt a wave of sorrow, her voice unexpectedly soft. "I see."


    The warden noticed her somber expression and shook his head sympathetically.


    Nathalie left the prison and drove to the hospital. After checking with the reception desk, she found out Patrick was being treated in the emergency room.


    Cameron was sitting by himself in the waiting area outside, his handsome face showing nothing but worry and unease.


    As Nathalie walked up, Cameron first noticed her exquisite high heels, which encased her delicate feet. Her toenails were painted in a dazzling polish and adorned with tiny roses.


    Such a bold style seemed out of ce, given Cameron''s current mood.


    Cameron slowly looked up, initially irritated by the intrusion. But when he saw it was Nathalie, his frosty expression melted into surprise.


    If her toes were eye-catching, her whole look today was beyond extravagant.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    She wore a red V-neck dress paired with a massive diamond ne, extravagant earrings, and bracelets. Her long hair cascaded down her back in perfect curls, and even her hairband sparkled. Her glowing face was framed by expertly drawn brows, and her lips were a captivating red.


    She was breathtakingly gorgeous.


    Cameron found himself momentarily stunned. He never imagined his ex-wife could be this beautiful, this alluring, this stylish, thismanding.


    And this calcting?


    "Dressed like this isn''t really appropriate," Cameron''s gaze darkened. Nathalie shot back, "On a happy day like this, how is it not appropriate?"


    Cameron''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Your father''s in critical condition, and you call this happy? You-how did you be like this?" He often wondered how his gentle and kind ex-wife had changed so drastically.


    Just then, the elevator doors opened, and Greta appeared in a wheelchair, pushed by a new caretaker. Nathalie caught sight of Greta and took a step forward, resting a pale hand gently on Cameron''s shoulder.


    She leaned in close, "Look into my eyes, Cameron, and you''ll see why I''ve changed."


    Cameron, unaware of what was


    happening behind him, found himself drawn in by Nathalie.


    Despite her striking appearance, her eyes were filled only with deep despair.


    Cameron felt as though something heavy had struck his heart, leaving him overwhelmed and suffocated.


    Unbeknownst to him, from Greta''s viewpoint, Nathalie and Cameron appeared to be "kissing."


    Greta turned white with rage, trembling with anger.


    Nathalie nced at her, eyes dancing with a taunting smirk. She intended to return the hardships she had endured to Greta.


    "What are you doing?" Greta asked, her voice shaking.


    Cameron, startled, turned to see Greta and hurriedly exined, "Greta, it''s not what it looks like."


    Greta red at Nathalie, who looked


    so impably dressed and


    stunningly beautiful. Compared to her, Greta felt like a mere shadow.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 214

    "Are you actually flirting with your own brother-inw?" Her lips quivered with anger.


    Nathalie sauntered over, leaned in close, and whispered, "I picked up the tricks from you, my dear sister. Isn''t this exactly how you won over my ex-husband back in the day?" Greta''s face turned stark white. "You..."


    Nathalie pressed on, "And my brother-inw didn''t push me away, did he? Just like when you used to make your moves on him, he didn''t turn you down either."


    Images from the past flooded Greta''s mind. She remembered how she used to flirt with Cameron right under Nathalie''s nose. Cameron was clueless about her intentions, but his obliviousness genuinely hurt Nathalie. Now, it seemed the tables had turned, and she found herself in Nathalie''s shoes. But Greta wasn''t as meek or forgiving as Nathalie. She exploded on the spot. "You''re shameless. How dare you flirt with your brother-inw!" In a fit of rage, she pped Nathalie.


    Nathalie touched her cheek, then turned to Cameron and asked, "Did I really flirt with you?"


    Cameron was left speechless, his mind a jumble of confusion.


    If Nathalie''s actions were out of line, then Greta''s past antics were even more shameful. Did Greta pursue him relentlessly when she was aware of the hurt she caused Nathalie?


    For the first time, Cameron felt a rift between him and Greta.


    "Greta, stop this nonsense," he scolded.


    Greta''s eyes widened in disbelief, tears threatening to spill. "How can you take her side? I''m your wife!"This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron sighed impatiently. "I haven''t done anything with her. You''re just imagining things."


    Those were familiar words, but this time, they were directed at Greta, and it shattered herposure. She broke down, sobbing. "Cameron, do you not love me anymore?"


    "I know I''m not as attractive or sessful as Nathalie now. Do you think I''m a in Jane?"


    Her vulnerability threw Cameron off bnce. He sighed, trying to soothe her, "Of course I love you. You''re my wife. Who else would I love?"


    Nathalie scoffed, "I was your wife once. Didn''t you fall for your wife''s sister then, too?"


    Her words hit like a sledgehammer to Cameron''s conscience, highlighting his unfaithfulness. Greta''s insecurities deepened, and she cried even harder. Cameron turned on Nathalie. "Nathalie! Are you stirring up trouble between me and my wife on purpose?"


    Nathalie sneered, "Over a man like you? Only someone as vulnerable and dependent as her would see you as a prize Without your steady support, she''d be lost. And as for me, I''m a sessful, attractive woman. Why would I ever want someone like you?"


    "You..." Cameron was left fuming, his face flushed with embarrassment.


    Just then, the emergency room doors swung open. The doctor walked out, pulling down his mask. "We managed to save the patient''s legs, but he''s likely to be paralyzed."


    en


    IMS


    Greta nearly fainted from the news. "How could this happen?"


    Nathalie mocked her, "Well, Greta, dad''s paralyzed. Not only can hemot look after you anymore, but you''ll also have to care for him. Looks like you''re in for a rough ride, hub?"


    Greta shot back, "He''s not just my dad. You have a responsibility to take care of him too."

 Chapter 215

    Nathalie shrugged with casual grace, her demeanor effortless. "Sure, I''m more than willing to let bygones be bygones and take care of Dad. My only worry is that he might feel a stronger bond with you and choose to be with you instead." Greta''s face turned a shade of difort.


    She was in no position to care for Patrick. If Nathalie decided to pass this responsibility onto her, she''d be in a lose-lose situation.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    If she took it on, with no ie to lean on, her already heavy burdens would force her to rely even more on the Dawson family, making her life feel like that of a beggar.


    And if she didn''t, how could she live with herself knowing that Patrick had poured all his love and savings into her? The fear of being seen as ungrateful and uncaring weighed heavily on her.


    "You can go in and see the patient now," the doctor said.


    Cameron wheeled Greta into the room while Nathalie sauntered in at a distance, calm andposed.


    Inside, Patrick had juste out of surgery and was at his weakest. His eyes were half-closed, weary and aged, and his once full face was now gaunt, reduced to skin and bones. All the vitality seemed drained from him, like an old man on hisst legs. Seeing Patrick in such a state, Greta immediately broke down in tears. "Dad, what happened to you? You have to get better-I still need you."


    Nathalie scoffed, "Someone''s still acting like a big baby, huh?"


    At the sound of Nathalie''s voice, panic washed over Patrick''s face, and his body began to tremble.


    "She''s a demon... a demon... She''s not my daughter..."


    He was too terrified to even look Nathalie in the eye.


    Cameron red at Nathalie usingly. "What did you do to him?"


    Nathalie shot back, "Have you lost your mind? What could I possibly have done? He was in prison. Even if I wanted to, I couldn''t have reached him."


    Then, with a breezy tone, she added, "He probably just snapped in there. I hear it''s a madhouse."


    Greta felt as if her world was crumbling. Her support had vanished, leaving the future looking grim and uncertain.


    "Dad..."


    "He''s not dead yet, so why are you crying?" Nathalie snapped at her.


    Cameron stared hard at Nathalie. Her cold detachment and glee at Patrick''s misfortune were chilling.


    "Nathalie, as you can see, your dad can''t take care of himself now. You''re both his daughters, but with Greta''s health being what it is, I''m counting on you to step up and look after Patrick for a while," Cameron stated firmly.


    Nathalie responded, "Cameron, just because I call him ''Dad'' doesn''t mean he deserves the title. Let me make it clear: this man never took care of me and even plotted with you to steal my kidney. I couldn''t care less about his fate."


    "Hevished all his love and resources on Greta and spoiling her. And now that he''s no longer useful, you want to toss him aside? That''s behavior that society won''t tolerate." Cameron was left speechless. He hadn''t expected Nathalie to be so shrewd.


    Having said her piece, Nathalie, confidently clicked her heels and walked out. It''s like she''s afraid Patrick might try to cling to her


    Greta looked helplessly at Cameron. "Cameron, what am I supposed to do?"


    Already a burden herself, now she faced the prospect of caring for another. Cameron, who now had figure out how to support two people unable to fend for


    novel.n


    themselves, was in a foul mood.


    Without offering Greta anyfort, he simply said, "I''m going out for a smoke." Greta watched his weary figure retreat, tears flowing unchecked down her face.

 Chapter 216

    The life she envisioned in Mrs. Dawson''s world-filled with servants at her beck and call and avish lifestyle-was just a distant dream. Instead, she found herself surrounded by destion, a reality she never anticipated. Yet, in this bleak existence, she held on for dear


    life because if Cameron left her, she felt like she had no path but despair.


    With a hand resting on her stomach, Greta realized she needed to take a leap of faith.


    Cameron''s finances took another hit as he covered medical expenses for both Patrick and Greta and hired a nurse to help them. Staring at his wallet, which seemed to shrink every day, he was overwhelmed with a sense of hopelessness about the future.


    Things got worse when Griffin unexpectedly appeared at the hospital. Cameron, worn out from tending to Patrick and then Greta, was at his lowest. Griffin saw his son, bent and weary, a shadow of his former self, and disappointment was written all over his face. "Is this the woman you sacrificed everything for? Just look at what she''s brought you," Griffin couldn''t hold back his fiery temper andshed out at Cameron right in front of Greta.


    Tears streamed down her cheeks, but in her vulnerable state, she felt powerless to defend herself. Cameron, for the first time, couldn''t muster a response to his father''s harsh words.


    Driven by a mother''s protective instincts, Kristina med Greta for all their woes. "I''ve warned you before. This woman is no good. She''s been a curse to you, Cameron. Once you''re divorced, my son will shine again."


    Trembling, Greta pleaded with Kristina through her tears, "Please, Kristina, don''t tear me away from Cameron. I truly love him..."


    Kristina cut her off, "Love him? How? By tearing him away from his family and making him work tirelessly to support you and your father? Look at him now. He''s lost so much weight and looks so worn out. If you really loved him, how could you stand to see him suffer like this?"


    Cameron was now numb and


    exhausted. As he listened to the argument between his mother and wife, he felt powerless to mediate their conflict, but Kristina''s usations nted a disturbing thought in his mind.


    Did Greta genuinely love him? Or did she just need him?


    If it was thetter, then what did all those years of love and sacrifice mean? Nothing but a cruel joke probably.


    Confronted by Kristina''s relentless usations, Greta felt exposed and helpless, tike all her hidden motives wereid bare. She knew she had used Cameron, but she also knew she loved him. Maybe she just loved herself more.


    She couldn''t let Cameron believe that, so she chose to escape the confrontation. In a flurry of emotion, she shouted, "That''s not true, Kristina, I really love Cameron..." before copsing.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron turned to Kristina in anger. "Mom, do you have to be so harsh? She''s already in such a fragile state. Why do you have to keep pushing her?"


    Kristina felt her heart soften. Despite her frustrations, she couldn''t just stand by. She turned to Griffin. "You see how bad things are for Cameron now. You''re his father. You can''t just ignore him." Griffin, looking at his son''s frail figure, let out a heavy sigh, "We''ll deal with thister."


    hist


    Ignoring his parents'' concerns, Cameron cradled the fainted Greta and rushed to find medical help, his desperation apparent. As Kristina and Griffin watched him walk away, a deep ache settled in their hearts.

 Chapter 217

    To help Cameron find his way back into the upper echelons of society, Kristina cornered Griffin. "You''ve got plenty of kids, and sure, you love them all, but let''s not kid ourselves-Cameron''s your only legitimate son. If he''s spiraling, it makes you look bad." Griffin had always put his heart and soul into raising Cameron. Watching his son choose a path of self-destruction was a massive blow to him. Kristina''s assertive nature was a stark contrast to the more agreeable women Griffin was used to, which had only added fuel to their already strained rtionship. "I''ll give him another shot, but there''s a catch-we''re getting a divorce." Griffin had been itching to make his mistress'' status official, and he seized this moment toy his cards on the table.


    Kristina''s face turned ghostly white as she shook uncontrobly. Thest time Griffin brought up divorce, she brushed it off as an outburst. But now, it was clear: Griffin had wanted her gone all along. Cameron''s sess had been her saving grace, giving her some standing with Griffin. With Cameron''s downfall, Griffin saw no reason to keep her around.


    Kristina wanted to kick up a fuss, but she stopped herself. If she made a scene, Griffin would just stay with his mistress and ignore herpletely, making her efforts as effective as punching air.


    They''d been living apart for ages. The love was long gone. ying the victim or trying to gain sympathy wasn''t going to move Griffin.


    Why not use the divorce to give Cameron a fresh start?


    "Fine, let''s divorce. But Cameron needs to be back as the heir to Dawson International."


    "Does he deserve it?" Griffin''s eyes were sharp, challenging her.


    "Why wouldn''t he? Remember when you married me? The Dawson family was on the brink. I cut ties with my own family and brought my savings to you, giving you a shot at sess. Now that you''re rolling in it, you forget that half of that wealth is mine? Can''t I use my half to get Cameron back in the game?" Kristina shot back, her voice trembling with anger.


    Griffin chuckled, "You think half of what I earned belongs to you? That''s funny. The Dawson business was around before we got hitched, and you haven''t lifted a finger for this family since. The money you gave me back then, I''ve repaid tenfold in jewelry. Do you really think you can walk away with half of Dawson''s assets?"


    Kristina was left speechless, staring at this cold-hearted man. This scene was eerily simr to Cameron''s divorce from Nathalie. Back then Cameron had dismissed Nathalie with the same cold indifference, and her departure hadn''t dented his finances one bit.


    Now, Kristina felt a pang of empathy for Nathalie.


    "If you don''t want to, I''ll spill the beans about your affair," Kristina threatened, her eyes zing with desperation.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Griffin smirked, "You think that would bring me down? Without my say-so, who''d dare leak anything about me? They''d be signing their own death warrant." Kristina gritted her teeth. "Then I''ll refuse to divorce, and your son will forever be known as a bastard."


    Griffin''s eyes were icy, "Do what you want. We''ll remain separated for now. When the time''s right, I''ll file for divorce." Then, he left without a backward nce. Kristina crumpled to the floor, her heart throbbing with pain. She had no idea how long it took before she finally felt a semnce of calm return.

 Chapter 218

    She awkwardly got to her feet and sank into the couch, her eyes staring nkly into space. Then she reached for the phone and dialed a number she knew by heart.


    When the call connected, Nathalie''s deep voice came through. "Need something?"


    "Nathalie, let''s meet up."


    Nathalie hesitated for a moment before giving a slight nod. "Alright."


    By the time Nathalie arrived, Kristina was already tucked into a booth. She had ordered Nathalie''s favorite coffee, and it was still steaming hot. Nathalie was taken aback.


    When Kristina was her mother-inw, she had been nothing but cold. She had always expected Nathalie to live up to her standards, never caring about what Nathalie wanted. Those years in the Dawson family meant Nathalie couldn''t watch her favorite shows or enjoy her go-to drinks.


    Nathalie sat down and quipped, "Being all nice suddenly-what''s the catch? Need a favor?"


    The idea of a proud Kristina humbling herself for Cameron''s sake was the only thing that made sense to Nathalie.


    Kristina sighed softly. "Back when you were my daughter-inw, I always saw you as a Cindere. You came from nothing and did not contribute to Cameron''s career. No matter how good or sensible you were, I always found fault with you."


    "But after you left, Cameron''s career hit rock bottom, and my marriage with his father nearly fell apart. That''s when I realized you were the one who kept the peace and harmony in Dawson family." Kristina''s eyes glistened with tears. "Nathalie, I was wrong about you. I''m asking you now to pleasee back!"


    Nathalie didn''t mince words. "Sorry. I can''t forgive those who hurt me so carelessly."Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Kristina was shocked. She didn''t expect such honesty from Nathalie.


    "Nathalie, if youe back, I''ll make sure Cameron cuts ties with your sister. I promise he''ll be devoted to you." Kristina wasn''t one to give up easily.


    Nathalie raised an eyebrow. "And


    how do you n to guarantee that? Everyone knows Cameron loves Greta deeply, enough to give up the Dawson family''s wealth for her won''t take back a man who doesn''t love me. Unless..."


    A cunning glint sparked in Nathalie''s eyes, signaling it was time to draw her n together.


    "Unless they never see each other again."


    Kristina quickly agreed, "Alright, I promise."


    Nathalie stood up. "Well, good luck then."


    Kristina nodded. "Expect good news from me."


    As Nathalie turned away, her smile was edged with a chill. There was no way she''d go back to Cameron, She was utterly disgusted by him now. Would she want a man like that? No, thank you.


    However, seeing Kristina throw a wrench into Cameron and Greta''s rtionship-that was something she could enjoy.


    At the hospital.


    Kristina showed up at the hospital again, this time not to make a scene with Greta but to calmly address Cameron, who was sitting by the bed, "I need to talk to you. Come with me." Greta immediately panicked, gripping Cameron''s hand. "Cameron..."


    Cameron patted her hand reassuringly. "Don''t worry, I''ll be right back."


    He followed Kristina to the end of the hospital corridor. Kristina''s serious expression made Cameron feel uneasy. "Mom, what do you want to talk about? If it''s about breaking me and Greta up, you might as well head back."

 Chapter 219

    Kristina let out a soft sigh. "Your father wants a divorce. This time, he''s serious. Cameron, I can''t shield you anymore." Cameron was taken aback. "Why does Dad want to split up?"


    Kristina felt a mix of irony and frustration bubbling up. "I''ve got a son who''s thrown his life away. He''s bing the family''s ck sheep, with nothing left to offer. Your dad, ever the practical one, won''t put up with dead weight in the family. So, he''s kicking us out. First me,


    and then it''ll be your turn.


    Cameron took a step back. "He can''t be that ruthless, can he?"


    Kristina let out a bitterugh. "You think everyone''s like you, guided by love and emotions."


    Despair washed over Cameron''s face.


    Kristina couldn''t stay harsh, and softened her tone, "I tried to get you half of the shares, but he shut me down. He said no, just like you did with Nathalie."


    Cameron was stunned. It was like karmaing full circle.


    Kristina continued, "I''m telling you this so you''re ready for what''s next. If your dad''s feelings for you fade, he''ll stop at nothing. I bet soon there''ll be a lot of bad press about you and a lot of praise for your brother. Your dad''s clearing the way for a new heir, and he''ll trample over you to do it."


    Cameron looked numb. He''d been so busy and worn outtely that he had no energy left to fight.


    Kristina watched him helplessly. "Cameron, I know you''re head over heels for Greta, and you can''t imagine leaving her. I won''t tell you to break up. But you need to know that your dad might freeze all your ounts soon, and then you won''t have money for Greta''s treatment. Without it, she won''t hold up for long."


    Cameron shivered, feeling the weight of reality.


    Kristina finally got to the heart of it, "Cameron, staying with Greta isn''t helping either of you. Maybe it''s best if you send her abroad for treatment. That way, you can focus on work and pay for her medical bills What do you think?"


    Cameron seemed conflicted.


    Kristina pressed on, "Cameron, loving someone doesn''t mean owning them. You''re barely keeping it together yourself, so how can you ensure her happiness?" This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After a long pause, Cameron nodded.


    Kristina exhaled in relief.


    Back in the hospital room. When Kristina returned, Cameron wasn''t with her, Greta noticed Kristinae in alone, and realization dawned on her. Her face fell and tears started to flow.


    "Where''s Cameron? Why didn''t hee back with you?" she cried, turning to Kristina.


    "He''s noting back," Kristina said gently, standing by Greta''s bed, watching her.


    Greta broke down, "He''s my husband! Why are you tearing us apart? He loves me, doesn''t he?"


    "But do you love him?" Kristina asked softly.


    Greta was caught off guard, and after a moment, she stuttered, "Of course I love him. Why else would I marry him?"


    Kristina replied, "You married him not out of love but because you relied on him."

 Chapter 220

    Greta shook her head. "No, I love him..."


    Kristina shot back, "Do you love him as deeply as Nathalie did?"


    Greta paused, caught off guard. Anyone with a heart could see the depth of Nathalie''s love for Cameron. It was fierce and undeniable.


    "When Nathalie was just a teenager, she already learned how to doundry and cook for Cameron. She even took care of me when I was sick, all because of him. She was willing to donate her kidney just because he asked. Her love for Cameron was clear as day. Greta, you don''t love him the way Nathalie did. You don''t deserve the kind of love he has to offer."


    Greta wasn''t backing down. "That was then. It''s Cameron''s fault for being so clueless and not valuing the woman who loved him most. Now, Nathalie would rather see him fall apart."


    Kristina nodded, "That''s because Cameron hurt her deeply. Her actions are just the echoes of love unreturned."


    Outside the hospital room, Cameron leaned against the doorframe. Kristina had left the door slightly open on purpose, making sure he could hear every word.


    When Kristina talked about Nathalie''s past devotion and Greta called him foolish, it really hit Cameron hard. Memories of Nathalie''s care flooded back. She would always have a hot cup of water ready before he woke up, squeeze out his toothpaste, iron his clothes, and tie his tie. When he was sick, she was there tirelessly, making sure he took his medicine on time.


    Yet, he never loved her back, taking all her efforts for granted. In contrast, Greta imed to love him but had never really done anything for him. Greta had called him foolish for losing someone as good as Nathalie.


    For the first time, Cameron realized he might have really messed up.


    Inside the room, Kristinaid it out. "I can''t let you stay with my son. You''ll ruin him."


    "I''m not


    her voicone


    edged with malice.


    Sing Vir him," Greta said, does that make him?" Comet


    sick, if he divorces me now,


    Kristina snorted, "He abandoned Nathalie, who loved him dearly. He''s not been a kind person for a while."


    Greta was left speechless.


    Kristina pressed on, "Just consider him unworthy and forget about him."This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "I won''t agree to a divorce," Greta sobbed.


    Kristina pulled a stack of cash from her bag and ced it on the bedside table. "Greta,Cameron has beenpletely cut off by Dawson


    International. He can''t support yout


    anymore. Holding onto him is


    pointless. Use this money to go abroad and find a good doctor to treat your illness," Kristina said before walking away, leaving Greta clutching the thin stack of money, tears streaming down her face.


    Meanwhile, Dawson International was in chaos? At the shareholders'' meeting, Griffin, Cameron''s own father, voted against him continuing as CEO With Cameron''s recent bad press, other shareholders followed the


    suit and he was ousted front


    family''s power circle. The new CEO?


    Cameron''s half-brother.

 Chapter 221

    The shake-up at Dawson International sent shockwaves across the inte, and the digital world buzzed with juicy gossip about Cameron.


    [Mr. Cameron was caught in a scandalous affair, tarnishing his reputation. Dawson International was left with no choice but to drop this once rising star.]


    [Spotted: Mr. Cameron at the hospital tending to his mistress-turned-ailing wife!]


    [Mr. Cameron, now the ck sheep of the family.]


    [Once a high-flying CEO, now reduced to scarfing down takeout as an extra in a show!]


    Cameron became the target of online ridicule. Even though he was too busy to keep up with his phone, he couldn''t ignore the obvious looks from those around him. Their eyes were full of pity and disdain.


    He caught snippets of their whispers, "Look, there''s the guy all over the inte. He dumped his devoted wife for a fling. Serves him right. He''s getting what he deserves. Now his family has turned their backs on him, and he''s hiding out like a scared turtle." Cameron had never faced such humiliation. He shot a fierce re at the person, but his dignity, much like his dwindling assets, had all but disappeared.


    They weren''t intimidated by him. Instead, they met his gaze with mocking smirks.


    Eventually, Cameron retreated, defeated.


    Without him realizing it, the sky had begun to rumble with thunder and lightning. A torrential downpour cascaded from the sky, so heavy that people on the streets dashed for cover.


    Cameron stood in the rain, unmoving. As the rain soaked through him, it seemed to wash away some of the sting in his heart. He kept asking himself: how did things end up this way?


    Once a golden boy, a whirlwind romance had dragged him into the depths of despair.


    Before he knew it, Cameron found himself at Nathalie''s doorstep. He stared at the closed door, and memories from a few years back flooded his mind before the divorce and before he pressured her into donating a kidney to Greta. Back then, just stepping within ten feet of the door would have Nathalie rushing out to greet him, beaming.


    She''d wrap him in a big hug and gently take his coat and bag, always so caring and considerate.


    But back then, his heart was too caught up with Greta, and he took Nathalie''s kindness for granted.


    Ever since the kidney donation, she had grown more distant. He was too thick-headed, or maybe just too


    careless, to notice how stool.


    had


    cooled towards him.


    ive


    If only he''d paid a bit more attention back then and soothed her hurt, maybe her resentment wouldn''t have burned so hot. Would his story have ended differently?


    The door creaked open suddenly.


    Cameron''s heart leaped. He looked up, hopeful.


    Nathalie stepped out, holding an umbre.


    Cameron''s heart soared. Did she still care? Was she bringing him an umbre?


    But Nathalie stopped just a few steps away. She stood there, calm and breathtakingly beautiful.


    The rain slid off her umbre, dripping onto Cameron''s pants, soaking them quickly. Cameron felt a chill seep into his bones. He suddenly realized how foolish he must look.


    Nathalie had been so wonderful tox him once, and he''d failed to cherish her. Now, when her treated him like a stranger, he longed for hero kindness.


    He deluded himself into thinking, surely, she couldn''t just stop loving him after everything?


    Cameron must have been out of his mind to even think of testing Nathalie.


    "Did you need something?" Nathalie asked, her voice tinged with yful innocence after her little trick.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 222

    Cameron locked eyes with her. "Nathalie, what if I told you I regret everything? I regret divorcing you and losing the one person who loved me so deeply. Would you find it in your heart to forgive me ande back to me?" Nathalie felt as if she''d swallowed something vile. She was utterly disgusted.


    "Cameron, isn''t it true you''re still a married man? Unlike my sister, I won''t y the other woman," she replied, her voice tight with anger.


    Cameron was taken aback but still had the audacity to say, "Don''t worry, my marriage with your sister is on itsst legs. It''s only a matter of time before we officially divorce."


    Nathalie shot back, "Cameron, if you had truly loved her for a lifetime, I would have respected you as a man of true devotion. But to think that once you had her, your once-beloved turned into nothing but a pesky annoyance. Are you just like everyone else? Did you get tired of your own wife?"


    Cameron''s expression was pained. "No, that''s not it. I''ve only now realized that the person who loved me most in this world was you. Losing you is my biggest regret."


    Nathalie frowned. "You don''t regret losing me. You regret that marrying Greta cost you your bright future. You''ve only now realized that even cherished memories can turn sour. Being with Greta led to your downfall, and you''ve finally seen that her love isn''t as pure as mine was. Her love came with strings attached. Now, you regret giving up something truly precious for her."


    "And yet, this ''nuisance'' you discarded is thriving. Not only have I be confident and open-minded, but what''s worse for you, I''m now helping your arch-enemy run hispany to easily outsmart you.


    "Looking back, you''ve realized you traded something great for something insignificant. That''s why you''re shamelessly back here, begging."


    Nathalie''s patience wore thin. "But Cameron, what makes you think I''d want you back? A man who''s tainted doesn''t deserve to be by my side." "You''ll regret this." Cameron said, his fists clenched in anger.


    Nathalie grinned smugly, "Regrets? Cameron, haven''t you realized yet? You''re no longer the esteemed Mr. Cameron. Now, you''re broke, abandoned by Dawson International, with a sick wife and a paralyzed father-inw weighing you down. Your life is worse than a beggar''s."


    A beggar?


    Cameron, who once looked down Nathalie for her tough upbringing and struggle for survival, felt deeply insulted when she called hera beggar.


    "I''m no beggar," Cameron roared.


    Nathalie looked at him like he was a joke. "You will be soon enough."


    She said it with absolute certainty.


    Cameron felt an unexpected chill. "Nathalie, be honest, is this all your doing?"


    "Yes," she confessed without hesitation.


    Cameron''s face went pale, and in anger, he grabbed her wrist, shouting, "Why would you do this to me?" Nathalie replied, "Every action has its consequence. Cameron, why are you acting so innocent?"


    Cameron''s face twisted with pain. "I know I might have hurt you before, but Nathalie, I supported you for years, even at the expense of one of your kidneys. Doesn''t that count for something? What''s with thisThis text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    relentless revenge? Why do you hate me so much?"

 Chapter 223

    Nathalie''s face was void of emotion. Cameron couldn''t wrap his head around why she despised him so much. However, she knew that, in this lifetime, he hadn''t fully shown his true colors, and just when he was drowning in guilt, she up and left him.


    In another life, after Nathalie donated a kidney to Greta, she faced severe pregnancyplications. Cameron, in his misguided devotion to caring for Greta,pletely neglected Nathalie, his actual wife, leaving her in the hands of the household staff. Desperate to keep their family together, Nathalie found herself in a constant battle with Greta for Cameron''s attention. She pleaded with him to join her for prenatal checkups, begged him to cook her some soup, and when she was heavily pregnant, barely able to move, she tearfully asked him to get her some maternity clothes. But every time, he just gave her the cold shoulder, saying, "Aren''t the servants here to help? Or are you just trying to outshine your sister?"


    In her frustration, she''d break down. "Why do you do all this for Greta but not for me? Aren''t I your wife?"


    Time and again, Cameron would overlook the needs of his wife and daughter, catering instead to Greta''s endless demands. Nathalie became worn down, both physically and mentally, from his constant emotional neglect. Meanwhile, Greta was spoiled by Cameron and even faked illness to manipte him into having their daughter give her a blood transfusion.


    Cameron, acting like a clueless king, ignored their daughter''s cries and forcefully took her to the hospital. The poor child ended up contracting an infection during the transfusion, leading to multiple organ failures.


    In a fit of rage, Nathalieshed out at Greta, but Cameron, in his attempt to protect Greta, pushed Nathalie away, sending her tumbling down the stairs, leaving her battered and bleeding...


    Cameron showed no care. He just stared at her coldly and said, "You asked for this."


    Those haunting memories suffocated Nathalie every time they crept back in.


    ...


    "Do you want to know why?" Nathalie''s spirit seemed to drain, her voice heavy with sorrow.


    Cameron couldn''t fathom her sudden change in demeanor, but he sensed her hatred ran deeper than he thought.


    "Nathalie, maybe there''s been a misunderstanding between us..." Cameron ventured.


    Nathalie suddenly removed Timeless Cycle and handed it to him. "Give me five hundred million, and it''s yours. With it, you''ll find the answers you''re looking for."


    Cameron looked conflicted. He was strapped for cash at the moment, and shelling out five hundred million for something like this was a tough pill to swallow. "How''s this worth five hundred million?"


    Nathalie chuckled, "I never thought I''d see the day when the extravagant Mr. Cameron turned so tight-fisted."


    Cameron didn''t rise to her bait.


    Nathalie pushed further. "Cameron,


    do you know why you fell so hard and fast? And how I, once a nobody, managed to turn the tables?


    ve


    IMS


    Timeless Cycle has the answers."  en


    Only then did Cameron, still puzzled, take Timeless Cycle.


    "I''ll write you a check," he said.


    Nathalie had the check ready and handed it over. "Just sign here."


    Cameron eyed her warily, suspecting her motives. But being born with a silver spoon, money troubles had never fazed him, and he didn''t see his current situation as a real issue. He still had plenty of assets, after all.


    Nathalie took the check and went inside. As she turned away, no one noticed the wicked gleam in her eyes.


    He signed his name without hesitation.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Cameron, I''ll make sure you be a real beggar."


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 224

    Nathan was lounging on the couch, legs crossed. He sat as straight and tall as an oak tree, though his face was lost in shadows, giving him a bit of a mysterious vibe. Nathalie practically jumped when she saw him, stumbling slightly as she regained her bnce.


    Nathan quickly moved to steady her, sighing with a mix of frustration and amusement. "Nathalie. Why are you so scared of me?"


    Nathalie looked at his ever-maturing face, realizing how much he resembled the formidable figure from her past life, the one who oncemanded respect and fear from everyone. "Did you give him Timeless Cycle?" Nathan asked, his voice carrying a hint of anger.


    "I did. Five hundred million, not a penny less," Nathalie said, proudly holding up the check.


    Nathan chuckled, shaking his head slightly. "You didn''t make a profit, and yet you''re so pleased."


    Nathalie shrugged, "At least I didn''t lose anything."


    Nathan sighed softly, "You just don''t get it."


    "Pardon? Get what?" Nathalie asked, confused.


    Nathan gently ruffled her hair, "Never mind."


    He sighed again, sounding more resigned this time, "Nathalie, I think I might be cursed for a life as a single man."


    Nathalieughed, "What nonsense! Nathan, you are so cute. Just imagine how many girls will be lining up for you in the future."


    Nathan replied with a smile, "Out of all the choices, I''d pick just one."


    Nathalie felt proud, "I didn''t expect you to be so loyal. You''re way ahead of those frivolous rich guys."


    Nathan beamed at thepliment. "It''s all thanks to your good influence, Nathalie."


    Meanwhile, elsewhere...


    Cameron turned and walked straight into the pouring rain. By the time he got home, he was soaked right through.


    He slumped onto the sofa, clutching Timeless Cycle in his hand, feeling its warmth. He dangled it in front of his eyes, taking in the pendant made of opulent emerald, with a sandss on one side and a circle on the other, all strung on a tinum chain.


    Having spent time with Greta, he''d picked up some design insights and knew that the design symbolized rebirth.


    But as a staunch realist, Cameron found the mystical vibes of Timeless Cycle utterly absurd.


    He scrutinized the ne closely and spotted a tiny, intricate pendant shaped like an N. Cameron''s sharp eyes narrowed, and he angrily tossed the ne aside.


    "Nathan?"


    "Nathalie?"


    This ne seemed like a token of theirmitment. Cameron could sense that their rtionship wasn''t just a fleeting fling or a shallowpromise. It was likely something deeper.  en


    After a while, Cameron picked up the ne again, holding it as he


    slowly drifted off to sleep, still


    simmering with the anger of his


    ex-wife''s betrayal.


    He had no idea how long he slept, but at some point, Cameron felt himself waking, as if entering a foggy forest.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    A soft voice echoed in his ears, sounding both far away and incredibly close. "Cameron."


    "Cameron."


    "Who? Who''s calling me?" Cameron looked around.


    The forest was wrapped in fog, hiding any clear views. But then, the voice called out again, "Cameron!"


    Following the voice, Cameron ventured deeper into the misty forest.


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 Chapter 225

    Cameron finally found himself in front of a mysterious mirror, but the guiding voice had disappeared, leaving him alone in silence.


    With a casual, almost idental touch, Cameron illuminated the mirror. He watched, amazed, as the light scattered and reassembled, transforming the once blurry surface into a crystal-clear image. It was Rainbow Bridge.


    A little Nathalie was sprinting barefoot over the cold, grimy ground, with Miranda, disheveled and wild-eyed, hot on her heels, brandishing a broomstick. "I''ll teach you a lesson, you ungrateful brat! Who said you could sneak off to school? Who''ll take care of me if you''re off learning?"


    As Nathalie dashed away, she desperately pleaded, "Mom, I promise it won''t interfere with my chores. Please, let me go to school. Mr. Roberts says I have a knack for learning. Today, I even outperformed all the other students."


    "Mom, if you let me go to school, I can get into college and earn a lot of money. Then, I can take care of you. Please, let me go."


    Miranda, out of breath and coughing violently, pointed a finger at Nathalie, her voice seething with anger. "Run if you dare! I''ll count to three, and if you''re not back, don''t bother calling me your mother again."


    Nathalie nced back, her face drained of color at the sight of her furious mother, and reluctantly trudged back.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Miranda''s broom showed no mercy as it struck Nathalie''s back.


    Nathalie clenched her teeth, tears brimming, as she kept apologizing, "Mom, I''m sorry. I won''t upset you again."


    Miranda''s anger poured out, the broomnding on Nathalie like relentless rain. "Still want to go to school?"


    "No, I won''t go again." Nathalie sobbed, tears streaming down her cheeks.


    Worn out, Miranda copsed onto the ground. She continued her bitter tirade, "You were born unlucky, unlike your sister. Don''t ever dream of achieving anything."


    Nathalie, biting her lip, swallowed her sorrow and helped Miranda up. Her submissive demeanor was heart-wrenching. "Mom, let me take you home."


    Miranda red at her but epted


    the help, leaning heavily on Nathalie''s small frame, not missing


    a chance to belittle her further. "Since Thad you, my health''s never been the same. You owe me for life, Nettie, and you must take care of me."


    "Mom, don''t worry, I''ll take care of you forever."


    "Hmph. At least you are not ungrateful."


    Suddenly, a schrly-looking man, wearing gold-rimmed sses and exuding an air of elegance, approached Miranda and Nathalie. With urgency in his voice, he said, "Mrs. Brown, I''m Nellie''s teacher. I came here today. Look..."


    He pulled out a stack of papers from


    his bag, "These are Nellie''s exam papers. This set of math problems is the toughest ever given in the Capital, and Nellie scored a perfect mark. The next best in our ss was 89. Even Cameron Dawson, a former mathpetition champion, only scored 98. Nellie truly is gifted; she has to continue her education..."


    Miranda eyed him with suspicion, retorting, "Why should I trust you? I know my daughter. She''s barely had any schooling. How could she be as brilliant as you say? I think you have other intentions for my daughter and are trying to trick me."


    Mr. Roberts were both embarrassed and frustrated, "Why are you so unreasonable?"


    Unable to bear seeing her kind teacher being ndered, Nathalie could only send him away, ashamed. "Sir, you should leave. I don''t even like studying. I''m sorry."

 Chapter 226

    "He was the most famous online coach for international math Olympiads, a real whiz in his field." Someone in the crowd recognized him right away.


    Mr. Roberts fished a business card out of his pocket and handed it to Nathalie. "Nellie, I''m leaving my current school. I won''t be able to teach you anymore. But if you change your mind,e find me. Don''t worry about the tuition. I can cover it." Miranda snatched the card from Nathalie and tore it to pieces. "My daughter won''t be looking for you. You can leave now."


    Mr. Roberts sighed and shook his head, resigned. He gave Nathalie a meaningful nce. "Nellie, remember my phone number." And then, he walked away, feeling helpless.


    The scene shifted, and a new image appeared on the stone mirror. Cameron, with his assistant in tow, made a grand entrance at Rainbow Bridge.


    Nathalie was curled up under the bridge, tears streaming down her face. Cameron reached out his hand to her. "Come with me, Nellie. I can give you a warm home." Nathalie''s eyes were filled with hope but also doubt. "There are so many unfortunate people in the world. Why choose me?"


    Cameron was caught off guard. Trying to mask his true intentions, he lied smoothly, "When I decided to do a good deed, you just happened to be the one I met. It''s fate." Innocent Nathalie was unaware of the world''s harshness. She shed a bright smile, showing her pearly whites. "I believe you." Then she reached out her hand to him.


    Miranda, hiding behind a bridge pir, watched Cameron with a sly smile ying on her lips.


    ...


    Standing by the stone mirror, Cameron''s handsome face turned ghostly pale. He understood all too well the meaning behind Miranda''s sinister smile.


    Just the day before, he had met with Miranda, earnestly pleading with her to persuade Nathalie to return to Patrick. He had told Miranda that Greta was seriously ill and urgently needed a kidney transnt. Nathalie was the healthiest and closest blood rtive.


    Miranda took arge sum of money from him without a second thought and betrayed her daughter. She told Cameron, "Nellie doesn''t have any affection for her father and sister: She''s Someone who knows what


    she likes and dislikes; she won''t just


    give up her kidney for nothing."


    So Cameron devised this whole redemption act. He wanted Nathalie to feel grateful for his supposed rescue and then, out of gratitude, willingly donate her kidney.


    And he did seed. Greta''s life was extended. But he never considered that his arrival was never a salvation for Nathalie.


    Before he came along, there was


    already a teacher willing to help Nathalie. Unlike him, that teacher valued talent and wouldn''t have


    clipped her wings. Without him


    Nathalie could have turned to that promising young teacher, surely achieving academic greatness with her intelligence.


    She could have quickly escaped her troubles and had a bright future instead of following him and losing a kidney.


    Realizing this, Cameron fell to the ground, defeated. "Nellie, you have every right to hate me."


    When Cameron slowly woke up, he found his face wet with tears. Surprised, he touched his cheeks and looked around to see he was still on his couch at home. Next to himy Timeless Cycle.


    He picked up Timeless Cycle, staringText ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    at it with fear The vision he''d seen


    was clearly a dream, but the events


    in the dream were also real memories. If he hadn''t woken


    Yo


    and had continued the long dream, might he have seen even mo stories? Would those stories have


    more


    torn at his heart even more?


    He closed his eyes again, hoping to dive back into the dream. But a series of urgent knocks on the door interrupted him.

 Chapter 227

    "Who''s there?" Cameron called out, clearly annoyed, as he marched to the door.


    When he swung it open, he was met with a sight that stopped him cold. Standing there was a woman who looked utterly worn out, her hair a mess, eyes vacant, like a ghost from a horror story. Cameron blinked, trying to process what he was seeing. "Greta, what are you doing here?" he asked, his handsome face etched with shock.


    Out of nowhere, Greta whipped out a dagger, and pressed it against her own throat, her eyes welling up with tears as she locked her gaze on Cameron. "Cameron, I''ve been frail all my life and just scraping by. But meeting you gave me hope. Now that you''ve decided I''m not what you want, life''s lost its meaning. If I''m going to end it, let it be now. You were my greatest love. I just ask that you handle things after I''m gone, so my love for you isn''t wasted."


    As she spoke, the de gently nicked her skin.


    Cameron, panic-stricken, lunged forward, snatching the knife from Greta''s grasp and chucking it far away. His voice was shaky with fear. "What on earth are you doing?"


    Greta stood her ground. "Why are you saving me? You''ve chosen to leave me, and I can''t keep going this way. You might save me today, but what about tomorrow? Or the day after? You can''t be by my side all the time."


    Cameron looked into Greta''s wild, desperate eyes, feeling a mix of tenderness and weariness. Gently, he wrapped her in his arms. "Greta, please stop this. I''m just exhausted. Give me a couple of days to clear my head, and I promise I''ll figure out a way to fix this."


    Greta sobbed into his chest. "Cameron, I know I''ve been a burden. I want to let you go, but I''ve leaned on you for so long. It''s what I know. I don''t know how to live without you."


    Cameron held her close, at a loss for words.


    The truth was, he had no clue how to untangle the mess between Greta and the Dawson family.


    "Oh, great, just what I needed to see first thing in the morning," a voice chimed in, clear and slightly amused.


    Cameron, feeling a twinge of embarrassment, gently nudged Greta away, putting a little space between them.


    Greta noticed his reaction, and her already pale face turned even paler.


    "Nathalie, what do you want?" Greta snapped, her anger ring.


    Nathalie strolled over to Cameron, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Me? I''m here to collect a debt. Seems like your credit''s taken a hit, Cameron, and now your checks are bouncing."


    Greta blinked, stunned. "That''s ridiculous. How could Cameron owe you money?"Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Nathalie''s smile was as bright as ever. "Cameron, why don''t you tell her how much you owe me?"


    With a grim face, Cameron confessed, "I do owe her money. Five hundred million."


    Greta''s face went white as a sheet. In her mind, Cameron''s wealth was meant for her, not to be handed over to another woman.


    "Cameron, how could you owe her so much?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Cameron frowned, his brow furrowing deeper.


    Nathalie just loved every second of the tension, and decided to add fuel to the fire. "Cameron, looks like your wife''s not too keen on you spending on other women." She then turned to Greta with a mocking tone. "I''m not like you. I don''t rely on others'' handouts."


    Greta''s head dropped, a storm of shame and anger raging inside. "That''s not what I meant... Cameron has every right to do what he wants with his money." Her voice was soft, almost submissive.


    Nathalie watched Greta''s act with a sneer. "No need to pretend to be so noble. As his wife, you''re on the hook for half his debts. You''ve got the right to know why he owes it. Why do you live so meekly?"


    Spurred on by Nathalie''s words, Greta mustered the courage to look at Cameron, her eyes shing with a mix of anger and determination. "Cameron, what''s really going on here?"

 Chapter 228

    Cameron said, "I bought her Timeless Cycle."


    Greta''s eyes went wide. "Timeless Cycle?"Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron nodded. "Yep."


    Greta''s anxiety was barely hidden. "Cameron, we''re barely making ends meet. Where did you find the money for Timeless Cycle?"


    Cameron frowned, clearly annoyed by her question.


    Nathalie chuckled. "Greta, you''re just a regr gal, but your man, he''s from a whole different world. When you say ''broke,'' you mean it. For him, ''broke'' might just mean his bank ount''s a little low. If he shuffles some assets around and tightens his belt, he could probably scrape up a few million."


    Greta shivered. "Cameron, are you really going to sell our house and dig us into debt for a ne?"


    Cameron''s voice turned icy. "My business is none of your concern."


    Greta slumped to the floor.


    Cameron was clearly ufortable. He helped Greta to her feet, sighing, "Don''t be such a worrywart. We will make more money."


    Greta was from a humble background, and couldn''t muster such boldness. She was just nervous, anxious, and uneasy.


    "Cameron, you''re in a tough spot right now. Getting back on your feet won''t be easy."


    "Don''t you trust me?" Cameron''s voice carried a hint of anger.


    Greta didn''t dare to say more.


    Nathalie watched the scene unfold with a bit of delight. The couple, who once faced everything together, were now being sharpened by life''s ups and downs, using their sharp edges against each other.


    She pped her hands, throwing in some backhanded praise. "Cameron is able to let go so easily. That kind of attitude is rare."


    Her mix of ttery and criticism made Greta''s temper re.


    Sensing the tension between the two women, Cameron quickly sent Nathalie on her way. "Don''t worry, I''ll get the cash together for you ASAP." Nathalie left, satisfied.


    Cameron quickly put his mansion up for sale, a luxury property originally worth seven million, now marked down by a million.


    When Griffin got wind of it, he was livid. "This reckless fool, he''s really gone off the rails!" he shouted, sweeping the teacups off his desk.


    His assistant tried to soothe him, "Mr. Dawson, please calm down. It''s a shame Mr. Cameron''s gotten tangled up in love, but at least you still have Mr. Justin. You know, Mr. Justin just signed a huge deal with the McCoy family today."


    "The McCoy family?" Griffin''s mood shifted to delight. "Good, good, at least my younger son is making waves."


    Determined to safeguard Cameron''s


    assets, Griffin instructed his


    assistant, "Cameron has a decent


    portfolio of properties. We can''t let him squander it all. Find a way to stop the sale of his mansion


    The assistant nodded, "Got it."


    With Griffin''s behind-the-scenes meddling, Cameron''s house-selling ns hit a snag.


    Then Nathan arrived.


    "Mr. Dawson, I hear you''re looking to sell the house?" Nathan asked directly.


    When Cameron saw him, he was reminded of the symbol on Timeless Cycle and couldn''t see him as the naive kid he once was. Cameron''s expression darkened. "What brings you here?"

 Chapter 229

    "I heard you''re about to sell your house? I''m actually looking for a vi, so I thought I''d swing by."


    Cameron was taken aback, staring at Nathan in disbelief. It was hard not to think that Nathalie and Nathan had orchestrated this whole thing and set him up.


    "Nathalie went through all this trouble to hand over Timeless Cycle to me. Just as I''m about to sell the house to gather some funds, here you are. Nathan, did you both n this?" Cameron couldn''t hide his irritation. Nathan met his gaze with a bold grin. "Yep."


    Cameron was fuming. "Get lost. I''m not selling it to you," Cameron snapped.


    Nathan, however, remained calm andposed, the embodiment of gentle persuasion. "No one else would dare take your house. Haven''t you heard? Your father''s already cklisted it."


    Cameron felt paralyzed. He never imagined he''d be on the opposite side of his father''s wrath.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan went on, "You''re a man who values your reputation. If you don''t repay what you owe Nathalie, I''ll have no choice but to let everyone know about your shady dealings."


    Cameron, who always prided himself on his business integrity, knew that beingbeled unreliable would be his downfall in the industry.


    Caught between Griffin''s pressure and Nathan''s persistence, he finally gave in, "Fine, I''ll hand over the house to you."


    Nathan was ready to keep things rolling. "Why not take care of it today?"


    Cameron nodded, resigned.


    At the registry office, the whole transfer process dragged on for an hour and a half before all the paperwork was done. Even though Cameron got a hefty sum for the house, he couldn''t muster any joy.


    Nathan''s seemingly kind demeanor had a sharp edge. "Please arrange to move out soon. I''d like to settle in." Cameron scowled, "I will."


    He trudged home, feeling defeated


    Greta walked over gracefully and sat beside him. "Cameron, you''ve been looking a bit offtely. Is work wearing you out?"


    But Cameron dropped a bombshell. "Greta, start packing. We''ll need to leave here soon." "Why?" Greta''s eyes widened in shock.


    "I sold the house to Nathan."


    Greta didn''t hide her frustration. "Where are we going to live?"


    Cameron replied, "I''ve got an apartment downtown. We''ll make do there for now."


    Greta, clearly upset, fell silent.


    Cameron was too drained to deal with her mood. He just flopped onto the couch.


    In a hushed voice, Greta asked, "Cameron, have you ever doubted Nathalie? She''s behind everything that''s happened to us." Cameron, eyes shut, repliedzily, "We owe her."


    Greta burst out, "All I needed was a kidney from her. A top-notch kidney doesn''t cost more than a few


    million. You married her, let her live as Mrs Dawson for years-isn''t that worth more than a few million? We don''t owe her anymore."


    Cameron''s eyes shot open. What Greta said might not have bothered him before, but today, it hit a nerve.


    He asked coolly, "Greta, do you really think we owe her nothing?"


    Greta blurted, "Of course."


    But realizing the implications of


    Cameron''s question, she quickly backtracked. "Well, she did do me a favor. But she''s always used that to hold us hostage. I just think she''s too greedy."

 Chapter 230

    Cameron stared at Greta, his eyes searching for the guilt he saw flickering within hers. It tightened something in his chest. He''d always thought of her as fragile, too drained for any kind of scheming, especially with that constant mask of patience and kindness she wore. So, he''d let her get away with a lot.


    "Greta, marrying your sister barely cost me anything. Looking back, I realize I treated her horribly as my wife. She gave you a kidney when she might as well have sold it to a stranger."


    Greta went pale. "Cameron, what are you trying to say?"


    Cameron sighed, "When she came back to the Brown family, we all smugly assumed it was her salvation. But did it ever ur to us that without our meddling, she might have thrived?"


    Greta was visibly upset. "Cameron, that''s not how it was. You know how rough her life was before she came back. Bringing her home meant she could finally have nice clothes and good food."


    Cameron suddenly leaned in, his eyes locking onto Greta''s. "After she went abroad, not a penny of ours was spent, and she flourished. She built her own career and is now wearing designer jewelry I never even thought to buy her..."


    Greta was shaken to her core. "Are you saying it''s my fault for not treating her right? But Cameron, I love you so much. Is it really wrong to not want to share you with another woman?"


    Cameron replied, "We owe her an apology, Greta. We need to make amends."


    With tears brimming, Greta said, "She has it all now. We''re the ones who are broke. What could we possibly offer her?"


    Cameron fell into silence. When he was on top, there were plenty of chances to make things right with Nathalie. But now, she was the one with power, and he had nothing to give.


    As Cameron tried to move their important things out of the vi, the sheer volume of stuff, plus Greta''sck of help, slowed him down. The new owner arrived before they were ready to leave.


    When Nathalie and Lizzy walked in, Cameron and Greta were stunned.


    "How are you the new owner?" Cameron was speechless.


    Greta''s eyes were alight with jealousy and bitterness.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie smirked, "Nathan gifted it to me."


    "A gift?" Cameron was dubious.


    Even if Nathalie and Nathan were close, a vi worth half a billion


    wasn''t something you just gavel


    away unless it was true love


    He suddenly thought of Timeless Cycle pendant. His eyes narrowed with suspicion. "Why would he give you something so valuable? Nathalie, what''s really going on between you two?"


    Nathalie''s long eyshes cast shadows over her eyelids, giving her an enigmatic look.


    Nathan''svish gift left her


    wonderin


    too. Did he see her as a friend or a trusted partner? What would the future hold for them?


    "Cameron, my rtionship with him is none of your business," Nathalie shot back.


    Cameron''s face fell, and as Nathalie carried on, it wasn''t just a blow. It was a total breakdown.

 Chapter 231

    She strutted straight into the roomy living room, casually flopping onto the sofa and crossing one leg over the other, her untamed allure radiating confidently. With such an easy-going vibe, she had clearly imed this vi as her own turf. She picked up a mug from the coffee table, which was from a matching set that belonged to Cameron and Greta. Nathalie curled her lip in disgust and chucked it into the trash.


    This set Greta off, and she shouted, "Nathalie, who do you think you are, throwing our stuff away?"


    Nathalie shot her a dismissive look, exuding an air of authority as if she were the older sister and Greta the younger. "I gave you a week to pack up and leave. If you can''t get it together, that''s on you. The house is officially mine now, and I''ll do whatever I want with it." Still not satisfied, Nathalie flung a picture frame from the coffee table to the floor, where it shattered with a resounding crash.


    Turning to Lizzy, she said, "Tear down all those paintings." She pulled a hammer from the drawer and handed it to Lizzy.


    Lizzy eagerly swung the hammer at the frames, almost like she was possessed by a spirit of chaos. She was thrilled by the sound of destruction. "This is so cool..."


    Cameron went pale as a sheet.


    Greta rushed over, "Nathalie, are you out of your mind? Those paintings are worth a fortune. Do you even know that?"


    Nathalie yed with her perfectly manicured nails, "They''re just a few pieces from some famous artists. Not my cup of tea. If you want them, maybe grovel a bit, say some sweet words, and I might just feel generous enough to hand them over." Greta was so furious that her face turned crimson. "You..."


    Nathalie cut her off, "If you can''te up with anything to say, then don''t bother."


    Her tone dripped with mockery, mimicking how Cameron used to talk down to people when he held all the cards. Cameron picked up on her imitation and sarcasm, and it


    pushed him over the edge.


    He stepped in, chastising Nathalie, "You get a little power and lose your head. Aren''t you worried about the day you get knocked back to reality? Will you still beughing then?"


    Nathalieughed even harder. "Oh,


    Cameron, I''ve been scraping by my whole life. I''m used to living simply Wealth is just a bonus. But you,


    having always lived in luxur


    about to taste hardship. I''m


    are


    ove


    genuinely concerned for you. What Will you do if you can''t handle it?"


    Cameron stayed calm. He never believed he''d actually hit rock bottom. After all, his father wouldn''t let him be aughingstock at Dawson International, right?


    "Do you think my father would really let me hit such a low?" Cameron asked, his voice rxed.


    Nathalie gave him a teasing look, a smirk ying at her lips. "Cameron, you just wait for your dad to save the day."


    Cameron saw the hint of mockery in her expression.


    Nathalie took the hammer from Lizzy and went to town, smashing anything and everything in the vi.


    This vi was supposed to be their


    marital home, but she never felt at home here. She didn''t have her own room, much less a walk-in closet or a jewelry cab. Whenever guests came over, she had to give up her room for them and crash in the maid''s quarters. Her designer clothes and jewelry were locked away, and if she wanted to wear anything, she had to go through Cameron''s assistant. She stored her personal stuff in a shared wardrobe space with the housemaids. Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

 Chapter 232

    Greta was the one who had the vi''s passcode and facial recognition ess, giving her the freedom toe and go as she pleased. She had her own private bedroom,plete with a separate walk-in closet and dressing room. The housemaids treated her like she was


    the queen bee.


    Inparison, Greta seemed more like the real mistress of the house, while Nathalie was just the maid.


    Nathalie stared at the furniture that had once testified to her humble beginnings and decided to smash it all to pieces. Priceless artworks,vish decorations, and ornate murals-nothing was spared. In no time, the vi was turned into a chaotic mess.


    Then she headed upstairs to Greta''s walk-in closet and Cameron''s bedroom, tossing their personal stuff onto the floor and trampling over it. She told Lizzy to gather everything in the garden and set it on fire with gasoline.


    While all this was going down, Cameron stood there, his eyes zing with anger. He hated seeing his cherished possessions destroyed but couldn''t bring himself to lower his pride to Nathalie.


    He shouted at her, "Nathalie, what did these things ever do to you? Why did you have to wreck them?"This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Because your eyes have stained them, your filthy hands have touched them, and that''s why I despise these dirty things," Nathalie snapped, before ripping down a family portrait of Cameron''s and hurling it to the ground. The ss shattered, and she stomped on Cameron''s face in the photo with her high heels, piercing a hole through it.


    Cameron''s pride felt utterly shattered, just like the ss, as Nathalie''s actions tore it apart. He stammered, "Nathalie, if you hate me, do it to my face. What''s the point of taking it out on things? Look at you-you''re acting like a madwoman."


    Nathalie''s eyes were red, her


    demeanor wild and fierce. With a grin and fiery red lips, she said, "Cameron, remember the time I was sick with a fever? Your distant


    cousin came by, and even though there were plenty of rooms, she insisted on staying in mine. You dragged me out of my room despite my pleas. The humiliation I felt then-I want you to feel it today."


    Cameron had long forgotten these events, but Nathalie''s words reminded him how deeply insulting his actions had been.


    "In the past, you were a beggar. I thought giving you a ce to stay would make you grateful..." Cameron said, trying to sound confident.


    "I''m not a beggar," Nathalie shot


    back. "Sure, was poor, my clothes were tattered, and my meals were sparse, but I earned everything with my own hands. I never lived off anyone''s charity. What gives you the right to call me a beggar?"


    Nathalie''s gaze was icy and piercing. "Cameron, you strut around like a phnthropist but look down on themon folk. You''re so hypocritical, and it makes me sick."


    Nathalie didn''t want to look at him anymore and briskly told Lizzy, "Lizzy, show them out. I need to rest."


    Cameron and Greta were stunned. They couldn''t believe they were being kicked out of their own home.


    Lizzy strutted over, full of swagger and arrogance. "You two better get going. Don''t hang around where you''re not wanted." Greta was seething, clenching her teeth. "You will regret this."

 Chapter 233

    Cameron hurried Greta through the parking lot, both of them looking a bit worse for wear.


    Once they slipped into the car, Greta, overwhelmed with a whirlwind of emotions, struggled to catch her breath. She wanted to vent to Cameron, but seeing his stormy expression, she decided against it. Instead, she leaned back, closed her eyes, and tried to rx despite her difort. The drive was wrapped in an uneasy silence, a stark contrast to the days when they could talk about anything and everything. Now, after a string of unfortunate events, an unspoken gap had settled between them.


    When they arrived at the hospital, Greta''s eyes filled with tears. "Cameron, please, I want to go home with you."


    Cameron, visibly worn out, responded, "Greta, please don''t. You''re not well. It''s safer for you here, where the doctors can keep an eye on you. It''s the only way I can have some peace of mind."


    Greta''s tears flowed freely as she voiced her despair, "This illness... it feels like a life sentence. When I''m here, I hardly ever see you, and it''s so lonely. I might as well be dead."


    Cameron sighed, feeling helpless, "I''m swamped with work. Even if you were home, I wouldn''t be around much. Please, Greta, just hang in there. Once things calm down, I''lle get you." Reluctantly, Greta nodded in agreement.


    After settling Greta in, Cameron returned to their cramped little apartment. The three-bedroom ce, only about 120 square meters, felt painfully small to Cameron, who had grown up in a spacious mansion.


    He flopped onto the bed, staring at the in ceiling, a deep sense of helplessness washing over him for the first time.


    How did his life end up like this?


    Once adored by everyone, he''s now left almostpletely alone. Was it wrong to love someone so deeply?


    Exhausted in every sense, he soon drifted into a restless sleep.


    In his dreams he found himself


    perched on a high swivel chair,


    looking down at petite Nathalie. It was back when she''d first arrived at the Dawson family mansion, her eyes alight with curiosity and hope.


    "Nellie, if a friend of yours were seriously ill, would you help her?" He didn''t mention Greta or the sacrifices needed to aid her. He hoped Nathalie would be the answer to his problems, but she wasn''t.


    Without a second thought, Nathalie shook her head. "Cameron, look at me. I''ve got nothing. How could I possibly help anyone?" Cameron''s smile faltered. "But what if she needed something only you could give? Like, say..."


    Seeing her resistance, he quickly changed tack: "A blood transfusion?"


    Nathalie shook her head again. "I wouldn''t."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron was baffled. "Why not?" If she wouldn''t even consider a blood transfusion, a kidney donation was out of the question.


    Nathalie''s voice was tinged with sadness, "I haven''t found a friend yet who''s worth sharing my blood with."


    Cameron''s face darkened. Winning Nathalie over wouldn''t be a walkin the park. She wasn''t willing to donate blood, let alone a kidney. He knew he couldn''t push her too hard and risk driving her away.


    Patience was key.


    Cameron started treating Nathalie with extra cafe, signing her up for art sses since she loved painting. Although he chose a random,


    budget friendly school, Nathalie was still touched by the gesture. She found the tuition steep but felt grateful.


    In return, Nathalie''s gratitude was pure and simple. She threw herself into household chores, cleaning, cooking, and doing everything she could to lighten Cameron''s load. One day, she timidly asked the cleaningdy, "Ma''am, how much do you make a month?"

 Chapter 234

    The maid mentioned, "It''s four thousand a month."


    Nathalie''s eyes lit up at the news.


    Later that night, she sneaked into Cameron''s study. Taking advantage of a quiet moment, she bravely spoke up, "Cameron, I can help with the cleaning too."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Cameron stared at her intently. "Are you trying to earn some money?"


    Nathalie shook her head. "No, you don''t have to pay me. Just give me some tasks to keep me busy."


    She was proud and didn''t want to ept Cameron''s generosity without giving something back. She wanted to work to show her appreciation.


    Cameron assumed she was simply bored and casually replied, "Sure, if you feel like it."


    The next morning, Nathalie was up bright and early, full of energy. With a small bucket in one hand and a cloth in the other, she was like a busy little bee. She made the floors gleam.


    The cleaningdyplimented her, "You''re quite the gem, youngdy. You''re not afraid of hard or dirty work."


    Nathalie blushed, "Don''t worry, I hope I''m not taking your job. I just want to find a way to repay Cameron. He''s spent so much on my art sses, and I can''t pay him back with money, so I offer mybor instead." "You''re a good girl."


    After some time, the art institute teacher gave feedback to Cameron as her guardian, "Nellie shows real talent in painting. We think she should join the professional group."


    Cameron nced at the wall disying the fee structure. The professional and amateur groups had vastly different tuition fees, course content, and examination formats.


    Whether it was the thought of spending more money or dealing withplications, Cameron promptly declined, "Nellie won''t be pursuing a professional art track. She needs to focus on high school and her exams." He then decided to stop Nathalie''s art sses without consulting her.


    Eager for her next ss, Nathalie


    was crushed to learn Cameron had pulled the plug on her lessons. She returned to the Dawson household, sat on the stairs, and quietly cried several times.  en


    She didn''t confront Cameron, believing she had no right to demand anything from him. But her spirit to be the diligent little bee faded, and the floors she once kept sparkling began to dull.


    Even Cameron, usually oblivious, noticed something was amiss with Nathalie. He asked with rare patience, "You''ve seemed downtely and aren''t keeping up with the


    chores. Are you feeling with


    Nathalie looked him straight in the eyes, her beautiful gaze masking her hurt feelings, and still shook her head, "No."


    She was determined not to cause trouble for anyone.


    Cameron''s expression soured, "So why aren''t you doing the chores? You said you would. Nellie, keeping your word is important; people don''t like it when you don''t." Nathalie''s voice was barely a whisper, "I want to go to school."


    Cameron responded without missing a beat, "Oh, you want to go to school? You should''ve mentioned it sooner. I''ll have the butler arrange it for you tomorrow." Nathalie''s tears turned into a smile, "Thank you, Cameron."


    Cameron observed her, realizing how openly she disyed her emotions. He acknowledged that he hadn''t done enough to keep her happy recently. "Nel, I''m busy and sometimes things slip my mind. If you need anything, just let me know."


    Nathalie''s eyes welled up at his words. "Sure thing."


    She wasn''t one to be greedy or ask for more from Cameron, but his words warmed her heart deeply.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 235

    Nathalie was always grateful to Cameron, and her way of showing it was through a steady stream of small, thoughtful gestures. From that moment on, she took special care of Cameron.


    Whenever he came home, she was the first to hand him his shoes. If he got drunk, she learned to whip up a mean hangover breakfast. When he wasid up with a fever, and the housemaids were tiptoeing around to avoid him, Nellie, unafraid of getting sick, was right there by his side, tending to him day and night. After his car ident, she even made her way to a chapel to pray earnestly to keep him safe.


    The housemaids couldn''t help but tease her. "Nellie, you''re so good to Mr. Dawson. Are you head over heels for him?"


    Nellie turned as red as a beet, shaking her head like a rattle. "How could I have such crazy ideas? We''re in totally different worlds; there''s no way we could ever be together."


    Still skeptical, the maids pressed her, and Nellie finally rified, "Don''t get the wrong idea. I''m just paying back Cameron for helping with my education."


    Nellie was always a kid who always paid back kindness, so the maids bought her exnation.


    But her endless attentiveness towards Cameron lit a spark of curiosity in his proud, stubborn heart.


    Every woman who crossed his path seemed to have hidden agendas. Could Nellie, a girl from a humble background, have any different intentions?


    "Nellie, do you have a thing for me?" Cameron asked one sunny afternoon, lounging in a ck robe with the cor open, showing off his lean neck. He cornered Nellie as she brought him tea.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    With her innocent, starry eyes, Nellie gazed at Cameron and replied, "Of course, I like you, Cameron."


    Her straightforwardness only muddled Cameron''s thoughts more. He wondered if she really got what he meant by ''like.'' Cameron, always in a rush, didn''t want to face the idea of rejection, so he convinced himself her affection was romantic. From then on, he tossed a few flirty remarks her way here and there.


    "Nellie, what do you like about me?"


    "Even though you''re from a fancy family, you don''t act all high and mighty You''re all about working. hard and making your own way," Nellie gushed, her words flowing like a never-ending river.


    Cameron was taken aback. Was her admiration just about his independence and hard work? She''s not like other girls who were aft about his shy cars and connections...


    "Nellie, I never pegged you for such a go-getter. How about I teach you the ropes of business one day?"


    Nellie was over the moon. "Thank you, Cameron."


    He''d dangled a carrot of hope in front of her. But as time went on, that promise seemed to fade away, like thunder that rumbles and vanishes in the vast sky. Maybe Cameron had tossed it aside without a second thought.


    Perhaps Nellie was too young, too naive about matters of the heart, or maybe as a girl just trying to get by she was all about bettering herself for the future. So she missed all of Cameron''s not-so-subtle hints.


    However, it seemed Cameron had run out of patience. He started making more direct moves towards Nellie.

 Chapter 236

    "Nell, why are you hitting the books so hard?"


    "Because that''s the only way tond a good job. Then I can earn enough to repay you for your kindness."


    "You really don''t need to work that hard. I could take care of you forever, you know."


    The maid almost dropped the porcin she was holding in shock. She couldn''t believe Mr. Dawson wasying it on thick with Nellie. His attentions felt forced, almost mechanical.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Luckily, Nellie was too innocent to notice Cameron''s hidden agendas. She chirped back, "Cameron, I''ll cherish your kindness forever. But spoiling me like this isn''t truly good for me; it could actually harm me. I might getzy, waste my best years, and end up drifting through life without purpose."


    Cameron rubbed his temples, feeling a headacheing on. He was surrounded by women who tried to please him, ying the role of virtuous saints who imed to be uninterested in money.


    Nellie, who came from nothing, should have been just as ordinary. So, he figured her independence had to be an act.


    Cameron''s patience with Nellie was wearing thin. Heid his cards on the table. "Nellie, an old friend saw your photo and thinks you might be her long-lost sister. She wants to meet you."


    Nellie shot to her feet, her face as white as a sheet. If Cameron had been paying closer attention, he would have noticed her trembling.


    Nellie''s voice shook as she spoke, "Cameron, she must be mistaken. I''m an only child..."


    Cameron frowned, clearly irritated.


    Nellie''s fibs got under his skin. He chalked it up to the so-called ws of the working ss. He refused to dive into the sadness behind her deceit.


    "Cameron, I''ve got something to do. I need to go," Nellie said, making a quick exit.


    She thought she''d made her refusal clear enough to dodge whatever fate had in store. But, ever persistent, Cameron mmed the door shut on her path to freedom. The next day, he went as far as bringing Greta home.


    ...


    Cameron woke up suddenly, bathed in cold sweat. For what felt like ages, his mind waspletely nk.


    The dream came to a screeching halt.


    When he finally came to, shame burned through him like wildfire.


    How had he been so full of himself before?


    Back then all he noticed was Nellie''s attempts to win his favor, so he lumped her in with the other women who fawned over him. She annoyed him at every turn.


    But now, in the dream, he saw it all from a distance. He realized he was ridiculously arrogant and that Nellie''s initial kindness wasn''t because she had feelings for him or wanted more from him. She just wanted to trade her hard work for the education he had offered.


    The meager tuition he provided, for which she toted endlessly, doing more than the paid maids. It turns out that during her years with the Dawson family, she was the one who got the short end of the stick.


    Cameron buried his face in his hands, overwhelmed by shame.


    He let out a heavy sigh.


    The young and naive Nellie had just wanted to study, to stand on her own two feet. She earned her education through sheer hard work.


    Her dreams were modest, but what about him?


    He had casually suggested an average private school to her and gone through borate schemes to introduce her to Greta and Patrick, all for his own gain. The simple things she wanted were so few, yet because of him, she lost so much.

 Chapter 237

    Cameron finally seemed to get why Nathalie held such a grudge against him.


    Maybe it was the long hours without food, but his stomach started acting up again, sending waves of dull pain through him. He leaned against the wall and, with some effort, pushed himself upright. Slowly, he made his way to the kitchen, opened the fridge, and found itpletely bare. Frustrated, he mmed the door shut.


    "Cameron, you know your stomach is delicate. You need to eat regrly. I''ve stocked the fridge with ingredients that are easy on your stomach. I know you''re swamped with work and might not have time to shop, so just let me know when it needs refilling," Nathalie''s caring voice echoed in his mind.


    He remembered how back when Nathalie was around, she took care of every little detail for him, and somehow, his stomach issues had eased.


    But after Nathalie left the Capital, no one else fussed over him like that. He and Greta threw caution to the wind, indulging in whatever they fancied for a while, which only brought his stomach problems back.


    Lately, he''d been running on empty, both physically and mentally, with his bad moods and poor eating habits leading to the worst stomach re-up he''d ever experienced.


    It wasn''t long before the pain left him pale and doubled over. All he could do was squat on the floor and dial 911.


    As he waited on the cold floor for the ambnce, his usual tough-guy attitude wavered a bit. He should''ve listened to Nathalie about eating right and sleeping well. Health really is wealth.


    Time dragged on until the ambnce finally showed up. The paramedics rushed him into the vehicle.


    He overheard them talking about him. "What a shame. Mr. Cameron used to be so full of life, and now he''s living in this tiny ce. He''s sick, and no one even knows. Life sure can flip on you."


    "It''s karma. He was unfaithful. You don''t know how good his ex-wife was to him. When he was in the hospital with stomach issues, she took care of everything and even made a detailed diet n for when he had to eat meals and snacks and what nutrients she had to include at breakfast, lunch, and dinner... She did more than the hospital''s nutritionists. And after all that, he cheated on her and was heartless during the divorce, leaving her with nothing."


    A voice dripping with resentment chimed in, "They say a man who wrongs his wife loses all his fortune;


    someone like him is bound to end up alone and miserable."


    "He''s getting what he deserves."


    Cameron had never felt such humiliation. His fingers clenched into fists, nails digging into his palms.


    Thankfully, the ride was short, and soon he was at the hospital.


    They put him in a regr ward with an IV drip. The cool liquid began to soothe his pain.


    "Where''s your family?" the doctor asked, going through the motions.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    "I can handle everything myself," Cameron replied, not wanting more folks to witness his sorry state.


    The


    a patient. Can you really take y


    220 gave him a look. "You''re


    drip


    the payment desk on


    own?"


    Cameron was silent. After thinking it over, he finally called Kristina.


    Kristina rushed to the hospital as soon as she heard her son was admitted. Seeing him so thin and worn, her heart broke. She sat down next to him, tears welling up before she even spoke.


    "How did you let yourself get like this?" she asked, her voice full of worry.

 Chapter 238

    Cameron stood there, all the old pride drained from him, his head hanging low in shame.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    "So, I heard you moved back to your downtown apartment?" Kristina asked, her voice carrying a hint of concern.


    "I sold the mansion," Cameron replied, his voice rough and strained.


    Kristina''s eyes widened in shock. She sprang to her feet and pped him, the sound echoing in the silence. Her face showed nothing but utter despair.


    Her voice trembled as she spoke, "Do you know what people are saying about you? They''re calling you a waste, a lost cause. But I always believed that you were just too tender-hearted and a good man. I believed that luck wouldn''t abandon you, that you''d find your way back to the top."


    She paused, her voice rising. "But look at what you''ve done! You''ve lost your home. This isn''t kindness; it''s foolishness."


    Faced with Kristina''s harsh words, Cameron fell into a deep and ufortable silence.


    He used to believe he was led by his heart, a genuinely good guy deserving of respect. But the nurses'' words in the ambnce had been a wake-up call, a jolt of reality.


    Yes, he''d been kind and loving to Greta, but he''d been nothing but cruel to Nathalie. The wrongs he did her were now his burden to bear.


    "It''s karma, Mom," he said quietly. "This might be my payback for what I did to Nathalie."


    Kristina''s voice rose with emotion. "That''s just an excuse. Plenty of people cheat in marriage and don''t face any serious consequences. But you only plotted against Nathalie for your true love and gave her beautiful memories. The universe shouldn''t be punishing you." She continued, "Cameron, you need to pick yourself up. Stop making excuses for why you''ve fallen."


    Her words sparked something in Cameron, reigniting a fire that had long been extinguished. He was tired of being stepped on; he needed to rise again.


    "Mom, can you lend me some


    money? I want to start over," he


    asked, desperation clear in his voice. He was like a drowning man clinging to a life raft, his dignity discarded as he pleaded with Kristina, breaking her heart in the process.


    She wiped away her tears. "Cameron, your father is determined to divorce me. He''s moved most of the family''s assets, leaving me with almost nothing. I''m giving you everything I have left. This is yourst shot to make things right. Don''t let me down."


    Cameron swallowed hard. "Mom, I know this is your retirement fund. I promise I''ll invest wisely. I''ll make sure you only gain from this." Kristina beamed, her spirits lifted. "Cameron, it makes me so happy to see you trying to stand up again."


    But then, a thought crossed her


    mind, and her expression turned serious. She nced down the hallway before saying, "Cameron, I''m giving you this money because of my love for you. Don''t you dare spend it on anyone else."


    Cameron understood what she was hinting at; she was worried he''d funnel it all to Greta.


    He looked conflicted. "Mom, Greta is still my wife."


    Kristina''s face hardened. "Just thinking about how everything went downhill after marrying her makes it hard for me to like her. I hope you''ll divorce her and stop letting her drag you down."


    Cameron replied, "Mom, I''ve already wronged Nathalie, and if I do the same to Greta, people will talk even worse about me. If Greta and I stay together, people will eventually understand."

 Chapter 239

    Kristina was left speechless. She stood her ground with an air of authority. "Maybe you have a point. But my money is off-limits for her." Seeing no other option, Cameron relented, "Alright, Mom, I''ll do as you say. Is that good enough?"


    Satisfied, Kristina nodded approvingly.


    Kristina went through her assets. She held onto just her retirement home and passed everything else to her son, Cameron. As Cameron epted these assets from Kristina''s unsteady hands, a weight of responsibility settled on him. He mentally reminded himself, ''Cameron, you''ve got to rise above this, no matter what.''


    Once out of the hospital, Cameron dove headfirst into his work. He let go of the fashion brand he and Greta had built together. With his mind clear of romantic distractions, he saw things as they were: Greta''s designs couldn''t hold a candle to Nathalie''s, and Nathan had already cornered theworking resources.


    He realized the fashion industry was no longer an option for them. So, he turned to his specialty-artificial intelligence. Another reason for this choice was that it was Nathan''s yground, too. Cameron had fallen because of Nathan, and he intended to reim his pride there.


    Defeating Nathan was his path to redeeming his self-respect.


    Having weathered the storm, Cameron emerged tougher. He approached all potential business partners, undeterred by their mocking and dismissive attitudes. Despite the challenges, he got hispany off the ground.


    The media returned to singing his praises: [Only he could fall from the heights and rise again.]


    Spectators were eager for the drama: [Cameron, his half-brother, and Nathan battling it out for supremacy in Al. This is gonna be a show.]


    "I''m betting on Nathan," remarked someone with a knowing tone.


    So, the stage was set with the three Al giants Nathan, the new and old heirs of Dawson International-locked in a standoff.


    At Rond Corporation, NathanN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    stood by a massive window, exuding an aura of cool sophistication in perfectly tailored ck suit. He gazed down at the cityscape, a cigar in hand, his striking features partly veiled in smoke.


    "Like a centipede that refuses to die," he mused, releasing a smoke ring with an almost scandalous grace.


    His assistant stood nearby, slightly bowed, showing utmost deference to Nathan. "Mr. Nathan, you mentioned Mr. Cameron-we thought we''d buried him, yet he''s bouncing back so soon."


    Nathan responded with a casual air, "Cameron, I can''t help but envy you for having such a good mother."


    The assistant-added, "Nathan, Cameron''s making aeback and taking us head-on. The Dawson family''s has a firmer foundation than ours, being around longer. If he teams up with Mr. Justin topete against us, we could have


    if rough."


    Nathan turned slowly, backlit by the window, his features cast in shadow. "No matter how many times Cameron rises, I''ll knock him down just as often."


    The assistant squinted in puzzlement. He couldn''t fathom why Nathan harbored such animosity toward Cameron. From the get-go, taking down Cameron had been his favorite pastime.


    With a hint of doubt, the assistant remarked, "Mr. Nathan, Cameron''s learned from his past. Thiseback is likely fortified. Beating him again will be no small feat."

 Chapter 240

    Nathan shed a devilish grin, as if he already had a master n brewing. "Why should I get into a direct confrontation with him? My prime years are way too valuable to waste on someone like that, wouldn''t you agree?" His assistant looked puzzled. "If we don''t spend time dealing with him, how do we expect to beat him?"


    Nathan nced at his assistant as if he was missing the obvious. With a quiet sigh, he patiently exined, "The Dawson family''s got two heirs, and they''re equally powerful. If they were allies, they''d be a force to reckon with. But if they be enemies, we could easily benefit from their fallout."


    The assistant''s eyes shone with admiration. "Mr. Nathan, you''re a genius. Those Dawson brothers weren''t raised together, so they probably don''t have a tight bond. A little divide and conquer could easily set them against each other."


    Nathan gave a nod of approval. "That''s why you should start honing your skills in the art of persuasion. Whether we can drive a wedge between those brothers might just hinge on that talent."


    The assistant puffed up with pride. "Mr. Griffin ditched his wife for a new me, which has likely stirred up Cameron and his mother. With Cameron and his father''s rtionship already shaky, just a little push from me could shatter itpletely." "I''ll be waiting for your good news," Nathan said, leaning back into his office chair.


    The assistant was caught off guard. "Mr. Nathan, you''re just going to sit here and wait for my news?"


    Nathan, without lifting his gaze, replied, "Is something wrong? Didn''t you say it was going to be simple?"


    The assistant felt a bit embarrassed. Even if it was simple, it still needed time and effort. Then, an idea struck him. "Oh, Mr. Nathan, Mr. Mason mentioned setting you up on a date. He booked your free time... I scheduled it for the weekend." "Cancel it," Nathan said, still not looking up.


    "But Mr. Nathan," the assistant protested, "thedy Mr. Mason''s introducing you toes from a notable family. Can''t you see his intent? He wants to find you a supportive partner."


    Nathan shot him a look. "Do I have to get married for business gains? Cancel it. I''ve got ns for the weekend."


    The assistant, well-aware of Nathan''s schedule, responded, "Mr. Nathan, after you meet with Ms. Nathalie on Saturday, your weekend''s wide open."


    Nathan replied, "I''m nning to spend the entire day with Nathalie."


    The assistant was in a bind. "You''re making it tough for me. How do I exin this to the old man?"


    "Just be honest with him."


    The assistant argued, "But Ms.


    V


    Nathalie is older and entirely career focused. Mr. Mason won''t believe there''s nothing going on between you two."


    Nathan asked, "You think that too?"


    The assistant blurted out, "Everyone thinks so. Even Ms. Nathalie herself."


    Nathan''s tone shifted to serious. "It''s up to us to make it happen."Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The assistant was dumbfounded. "Are you seriously pursuing Ms. Nathalie?" Nathan nodded slightly.


    vel


    The assistant felt so awkward he wished he could disappear. "Mr. Nathan, I thought having Ms.


    Nathalie as your girlfriend was just a business tactic."


    "A business tactic?" Nathan was surprised.


    "Yeah. If you and Ms. Nathalie were seen as a couple, your rivals would view it as a powerhouse alliance, making them think twice about messing with you."

 Chapter 241

    Nathan stood there, momentarily stunned, his usually captivating eyes now sparkling with newfound rity.


    "Does Nathalie see it that way, too?" he wondered to himself.


    "Looks like the road to winning her might be longer than I thought," Nathan murmured, more to himself than anyone else.


    His assistant, overhearing this, was taken aback. To him, Nathalie was someone who had faced many of life''s harshest blows-having been homeless, weighed down by her family issues, divorced, and even having lost a kidney. Yet, there was Nathan, born into one of the wealthiest families, blessed with both looks and brains, and with a knack for the unpredictable-a true prodigy. How could Nathalie ever be a match for someone like him?


    The assistant could only sigh at Nathan''s predicament.


    That weekend, Nathalie got a text from Nathan: [Hey, up for some extra work today?]Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Being the work enthusiast she was, she didn''t hesitate. [Sure thing.]


    [Great, mind swinging by my ce to pick me up?] Nathan asked, pushing his luck just a bit.


    [Always happy to help my boss,] Nathalie responded with an easy-going smile.


    [I''ll be waiting at home, then.]


    [Okay, be there soon.]


    Nathalie drove over to the gate of the Rond family estate. The security guards gave her a curious look but greeted her with friendly smiles as they opened the gate. As her car rolled away, she caught snippets of their hushed conversation. "Looks like today''s going to be interesting. I smell drama," one of them chuckled.


    "Even if she''s pretty, her background and her divorce only make her fit to be Mr. Nathan''s sidekick. No way he''d ever let someone like her into his life."


    "Being linked to Mr. Nathan is already hitting the jackpot for her. Heard he spent a fortune just to keep her happy."


    Nathalie''s expression turned sour. She reversed the car, and the guards fell silent, startled.


    She parked right in front of them and


    addressed them openly, "My rtionship with Mr. Nathan is strictly business. He pays me, and I work hard. Do you really think. Krely on just my looks to earn a


    Swnov


    The guards, embarrassed, mumbled apologies, "Sorry, Ms. Nathalie, we didn''t mean anything by it."


    "That wasn''t funny. It''s a blow to my pride. I work hard and earn my keep through my skills, not my appearance," Nathalie shot back. "We''re really sorry."


    Deciding to let it go, Nathalie drove off. The guards wiped the nervous sweat from their brows.


    "Think she was telling the truth?" one asked.


    "Who knows?" replied the other.


    "Millions spent, huh? Mr. Nathan hasn''t showered any other woman with that kind of cash. There''s definitely more to their rtionship." "Still, she seems pretty decent."


    "True, we bad-mouthed her, and she didn''t flip out like others might have."


    Nathalie parked in the underground lot and had initially nned to go up and see Nathan herself. However, the guards'' gossip served as a reminder. It was best to keep a bit of distance to avoid any unnecessary rumors.


    Instead, she stayed in the car and called Nathan.


    "I''m here, Nathan."


    "Come on up," Nathan replied curtly, his words carrying a subtle urgency. Nathalie wanted to say more, but he had already hung up.


    With a resigned sigh, she stepped out of the car, her heels clicking as she walked gracefully towards the Rond family''s house. Today, their home seemed particrly bustling.

 Chapter 242

    From a distance, the lively chatter andughter from the main hall were impossible to ignore for Nathalie. She couldn''t help but overhear everything.


    "Ashley, you''re both beautiful and smart, just my cup of tea. If you are willing, I hope you''ll give Nathan a shot. Maybe you''ll fall for him. After all, you two are around the same age, so you should have plenty to talk about," Mason was saying. Ashley''s voice, as clear and sweet as a nightingale''s song, echoed back, "Mason, let me be straight with you. I''ve got high standards. If your grandson isn''t good-looking and bright, I''m not interested."


    Mason chuckled at her bluntness, "Ha-ha. You''ll judge for yourself when you meet him. I believe you won''t be disappointed, Ashley."


    Passing by the hall''s entrance, Nathalie couldn''t resist a peek inside. One look at Ashley''s vibrant presence had her hooked.


    Ashley had such a sincere and untouched charm, with eyes as clear as a blue summer sky. It was like she''d never known the world''s harshness. Nathalie could only think one thing: perfect.


    A girl this genuine and pure was just right for Nathan. No wonder, in another life, she was the only woman who stood by Nathan''s side.


    Suddenly, Nathalie''s phone rang, jolting her into a quick retreat. She shielded her phone as she left the hall before daring to answer it. Nathan was on the line, sounding a bit tired, "Nathalie, did you get lost or something? Why aren''t you up here yet?"


    Nathalie blurted out, "Nathan, I just saw your future wife..."


    Nathan''s tone turned sharp, "I''m not even married yet."


    Nathalie gasped. She almost spilling the beans. Nathan and Ashley''s story hadn''t even started in this lifetime.


    Quickly, she backtracked, "No, I meant I saw the girl your grandpa wants to introduce to you."


    "We haven''t even met. How can you be so sure she''s the one?" Nathan asked.


    "Uh-" Nathalie tapped her lips. She was always too quick to reveal what


    shouldn''t be said. "Nathan, youth.


    totally like her. She''s stunning and so straightforward..."


    "Really?" Nathan was suddenly right in front of her.


    Nathalie''s surprise was almost cartoon-like. She''d never seen Nathan look so disheveled before.


    His hair was greasy and clumped et


    with a sprinkle of dandruff. His normally glowing skin was now an uneven tan, blotchy in ces. His clothes hung loose and ill-fitting.


    "Nathan, who did this to your face?"


    Nathan grumbled, "I was hoping you''d be here early to help me with the makeup, but you werete, so I had to wing it."


    Nathalie couldn''t help butugh,Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    set


    "Looks like you really care about this date. You even tried doing yourown makeup. But, you''ve got some room for improvement."


    She figured he''d messed up his own attempt.


    "Nathan, go wash your face. Let me do your makeup, and I promise you''ll be dashing."


    Nathan''s lips curved into a slight smile. Who needed to be dashing, anyway?


    "We''re out of time. We''re alreadyte. I think being punctual is more important than looking good," Nathan said.


    With that, he tugged Nathalie along toward the hall.

 Chapter 243

    Nathalie was a bit puzzled. "Nathan, you''ve got a blind date today. I can take care of the work for you."


    "Work''s important. We''ll head out right after visiting Grandpa," Nathan replied, all serious and no-nonsense.


    Nathalie sneaked a nce at his odd outfit. Whether it was for a blind date or a business meeting, he really should''ve put more thought into his appearance.


    Still a bit lost in thought, she suddenly found herself being pulled into the hall by Nathan, ying the role of his sidekick.


    "Grandpa, we''re here to see you," Nathan announced, holding Nathalie''s head and bowing in sync with her to Mason.


    Mason''s expression soured the moment he saw Nathalie. But being the seasoned diplomat he was, he lightly exined Nathalie and Nathan''s rtionship to the Stewart family, "Ms. Nathalie, Nathan''s an adult now. It''s time to let him spread his wings. You don''t need to shadow him everywhere."


    Nathalie had a lightbulb moment and quickly rified, "I''m just here to take Nathan to work."


    Mason''s face brightened with a smile, but when his eyesnded on Nathan''s bizarre getup, his grin faded.


    "Nathan, what on earth are you wearing?"


    Feigning innocence, Nathan said, "Grandpa, I spent ages on this look today. Isn''t it ruggedly handsome?"


    Mason covered his eyes in exasperation. "You... really overdid it."


    Ashley, standing nearby, examined Nathan, shaking her head all the while. "Mason, you said Nathan was stunning and incredibly talented, right? But the man standing here... is just so average."


    Worried Nathan might miss out on a good match, Nathalie jumped in to save the day. "Mr. Nathan''s just having an off day. His makeup skills are hiding his usual... dashing looks."


    Suddenly, Nathan pulled her into a hug, mping a hand over her mouth. He whispered warmly in her ear, "Nathalie, sometimes silence is golden."


    Nathalie reluctantly zipped it.


    Their cozy disy made Mason''s face turn stormy.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Ashley, however, took it in stride. Realizing her blind date wasn''t her type, she politely told Mason,


    "Nathan''s got a unique vibe, but he''s not my type. Let''s just skip the blind date, shall we?"


    Mason, now thoroughly peeved, red at Nathan.


    Seizing the moment, Nathan made a quick exit, "Grandpa, Nathalie and have some urgent work to handle, so we''ll be off. I''ll make it up to Ms. Ashley another time."


    Mason was fuming, but Ashley''s father Regan was more rxed, "Work''s important. Let him be."


    Mason grudgingly waved them off.


    Once Nathan hopped into Nathalie''s car, he couldn''t wait to borrow something. "Nathalie, where''s your makeup bag? I need it."


    Nathalie, a bit mystified, handed over her stuffed makeup bag.


    Nathan dug out the makeup remover, poured a hefty amount into his palm, and rubbed his hands together before scrubbing his face vigorously. Nathalie watched, wide-eyed, now certain. "You messed up your look on purpose."


    Nathan dropped the act. "I wanted to see if she''d judge me by looks alone. Turns out, Ashley''s just another one of those."


    Nathalie gently advised, "Nathan,


    magic of love often starts with a


    spark. Everyone loves


    things; there''s nothing wrong with that."


    She added, "Ashley''s not only pretty and lively but also from a powerful family. Being with her could make your future a lot easier."

 Chapter 244

    Nathan dered, "I can earn my own fortune. The woman I marry can''t just be drawn to my sess. She has to love me even when I''m at rock bottom."


    With unwavering confidence, Nathalie replied, "Nathan, you''ll never hit rock bottom."


    Years down the line, Nathan would indeed be at the pinnacle of sess, admired by all. How could someone like him ever falter?


    Nathan gazed deeply into Nathalie''s eyes. "Nathalie, I''ve actually been at my lowest before."


    Nathalie looked at him, utterly surprised. His youthful eyes sparkled like stars, untouched by the world''s harshness. She chuckled, "Nathan, everyone has their rough patches."


    To her, Nathan was at the age where life''s true sorrows hadn''t yet revealed themselves. But then, Nathan''s tone turned somber. "It was really bad."


    His face suddenly reflected a profound loneliness and destion. Nathalie felt a sharp pang in her heart, the pain resonating throughout her being. She reached out and sped Nathan''s hand. "Nathan, that''s all in the past now." "Nathalie, can you ever let Cameron and Greta be part of your past?" His voice was barely a whisper.


    Nathalie was stunned. The pain Cameron and Greta inflicted was unimaginable. They stole her kidney, deceived her, and even plotted against her beloved daughter''s life, pushing her to the brink of despair. Their betrayal ran deep. What could Nathan, at such a young age, possibly have gone through to harbor a grudge as deep as hers? Or was he inherently unforgiving and relentless?


    Nathalie sighed. "Nathan, living with hatred is painful, and I don''t want you to have a life like mine."


    Nathan retorted, "Nathalie, when you can let go of your hatred and start fresh, then you can tell me how to live mine."


    Nathalie was left speechless.


    After dropping Nathan off at the


    club, she intended to wait in the car, considering Nathan was going to


    discuss artificial intelligence-a


    swnov


    area she wasn''t familiar with. She didn''t want to get in the way


    But Nathan pleaded, "Nathalie, the big shot I''m meeting today is the king of smart chips. Our Alpany needs to team up with him for the long haul. But Dawson International has ties with him, and he''s likely leaning towards working with Cameron."


    Nathalie asked, "You want to outdo Cameron?"


    Nathan didn''t hold back his ambitions. "Exactly. I''ve prepared extensively to grab this opportunity/ know the big shot dotes on his daughter, who''s a fashion blogger. If you could join me and charm his daughter, I think we''d have this deal in the bag."


    Nathan''s earnest plea left Nathalie with no choice but to help. She murmured to herself, "A fashion blogger, huh?"


    Then, she grabbed her purse and followed Nathan out of the car.


    They entered the club one after another. The staff, upon seeing Nathan, treated him with utmost respect. "Mr. Nathan, your room is ready."This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Nathan nodded. "Unless I say otherwise, there will be no need to interrupt us."


    The staff bobbed their heads eagerly. "Absolutely."


    Watching Nathan''smanding presence, Nathalie could hardly believe how much he had matured. At that moment, she couldn''t help but think, ''This kid has reallye into his own.''


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 245

    harmonious


    pair.


    Nathan walked forward with a confident stride, hands tucked in his pockets and his head held high. Behind him, Nathalie followed, her head slightly bowed. Despite their differences-Nathan tall andmanding, Nathalie petite and sweet-they made an unexpectedly Nathan soon noticed Nathalie falling behind and paused to wait. Seeing this, Nathalie quickened her pace to catch up.


    "Sorry about that. My legs are just too short to keep up," she admitted, a bit flustered by her slower pace.


    Nathan nced down at her, noticing the heavyptop bag weighing on her shoulder. "Hand over the bag," he instructed.


    "But I can''t do that. I''m the assistant, and you''re the CEO. If you''re seen carrying the bag instead of me, people will talk," Nathalie protested.


    Ignoring her objection, Nathan took the bag and slung it over his shoulder. With a yful grin, he teased, "You''re practically the same height as the bag. Is it carrying you or the other way around?"


    Nathalie stood there, momentarily speechless, almost losing herposure. Nathan was quite amused by her expression, and chuckled softly.


    This time, he didn''t march ahead, leaving Nathalie to trail behind. Instead, he walked alongside her.


    They arrived at a suite Nathan had booked in advance. Inside, a round marble table was set with a spread of exquisite dishes, candles, and blooming flowers, casting a warm and romantic glow. It felt more like a dinner date than a business meeting setup.


    The guests had yet to arrive, prompting Nathalie to nce at Nathan with a hint of concern. "Nathan, these bellflowers andvender have pretty specific meanings. They might not be the best choice for a negotiation setting," she pointed out. Feigning ignorance, Nathan asked, "Oh, do you know what they mean?"


    "Bellflowers symbolize eternal love andmitment. Lavender symbolizes waiting for love," Nathalie exined.


    Nathan nodded, as if enlightened. "Ah, I see."


    But despite Nathalie''s exnation, it seemed to go in one ear and out the other for Nathan. "You''re the fashion expert, so you know all about flower meanings. But today''s guest is an older, no-nonsense businessman. I doubt he''ll care about flower symbolism."


    Nathalie sensed something wasn''t quite right. Usually, Nathan was a perfectionist and never allowed a single w to slip by. Could it be that men just weren''t that fussed about flowers? She began to wonder if she was overthinking things. Choosing a spot in the corner, she sat down. After pacing the room a couple of times, Nathan sat beside her.


    Nathalie watched him as he avoided her gaze, checking his watch and grumbling about their tardy business partner. Why aren''t they here yet? Such ack of punctuality. Maybe we shouldn''t even bother with this partnership." N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    Nathalie chuckled. "You''re hardly ever this impatient."


    Nathan tensed slightly. "You noticed?" he inched closer to her.


    "Nathan, do you have a thing for Ashley? You''ve been all over the ce today, putting on makeup and then taking it off. You''re clearly restless. You''re acting like someone in love," Nathalie teased. Nathan opened his mouth to reply, "What does this have to do with her?" His nerves were clearly because of her.


    Just then, footsteps echoed from the hallway.

 Chapter 246

    The door to the suite swung open unexpectedly, and there stood Regan with his darling daughter, Ashley, catching everyone off guard. Nathalie leaned over to Nathan, teasing, "Nathan, so the bellflowers andvender were for Ashley, huh? That''s pretty romantic of you." Nathan was at a loss for words.


    Nathalie stepped forward to greet them. "Mr. Regan, our CEO has been eagerly waiting for you."


    Regan looked puzzled; the person he was supposed to meet today was Cameron, not Nathan. He tried to coax Ashley away, but she seemed rooted to the spot,pletely unmoved.


    Ashley''s eyes were glued to Nathan. Without his makeup and out of his ill-fitting clothes, Nathan looked like he had just descended from the heavens, radiating a golden glow.


    His smooth skin, well-defined features, and sharp jawline gave him an air of confidence. The proud look on his face and his graceful movements drew Ashley in like a moth to a me, trapping her in a timeless allure.


    "Are you Nathan Rond?" Ashley asked, unsure if the strikingly handsome man before her was the same scruffy man she''d met earlier. But after ncing at Nathalie, she was almost certain they were one and the same. Nathan offered an ambiguous reply, "My brother and I both share thest name, Rond."


    He never usually referred to Benjamin as his brother, but here he was, using him as a convenient shield, closer than ever. Truly, a wise man knows when to bend and when to stand firm.


    Ashley wasn''t easily fooled, so she rephrased her question, "Are you Nathan?"


    Nathan shot Nathalie a pleading look.


    Nathalie got the hint. Nathan was experiencing the first stirrings of love and was overwhelmed by Ashley''s boldness. So, she assumed he was feeling a bit shy.


    Nathalie invited Ashley and her father in, "Please,e on in and have a seat. We can chatfortably."


    She even added, "He has been eagerly waiting for you."


    Regan hesitated for a moment. His meeting was supposed to be with Cameron, but then he realized nothing was more important than his daughter''s happiness. So, Regan and Ashley entered and took their seats.


    As Nathalie was closing the door, a shadowy figure darted past her, all too


    5. When she realized who


    it was, her expression froze.


    Cameron stood at the entrance, ring darkly at her as if she had taken something precious from him.


    Nathalie wasn''t about to entertain him and shut the door firmly.


    Cameron was left outside, fuming. Regan was supposed to be his guest, and yet Nathan had swooped in.


    How infuriating!N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    Nathalie returned to her seat, noticing a strange tension in the room. Nathan was staring at her, looking somewhat put out. "Mason wasn''t lying. Nathan, you really are cute," Ashley said, her eyes glowing with admiration as she gazed at Nathan.


    Nathalie responded with


    enthusiasm, "Mr. Nathan was onca reality show and gained nearly ten million followers overnight. His fan base rivals those of top-tier O celebrities."


    Eager to encourage this budding romance, she added, "Mr. Nathan is truly a national heartthrob."


    Ashley looked at Nathan with shy admiration. "Nathan, you are way more handsome than those top-tier celebrities."

 Chapter 247

    Nathalie chimed in enthusiastically, "Oh, definitely! Ashley, you''re young and gorgeous, a perfect match for Mr. Nathan. You two are like a match made in heaven." She gave a yful thumbs-up, as if sealing the deal. But then, Nathan shot her a re sharp enough to cut ss, leaving Nathalie pale and bewildered.


    She looked at him, feeling a bit hurt. Was there a more dedicated assistant out there? Not only did she y chauffeur at the drop of a hat, but she also worried about his future happiness. Why couldn''t he see how much she cared? Nathan''s good mood evaporated as he stared at the flowers on the table. He signaled the waiter, "Can you please take away the candles and flowers?"


    Nathalie mumbled, confused, "I thought they were perfect for the asion."


    Nathan had already pulled himself together, slipping back into his role as the sharp and decisive businessman everyone knew.


    "Regan, it''s been ages."


    Regan grinned, "Nathan, I never expected this. It''s just been a few years, and you''ve grown so much. I hear your fashion brand is doing great..." Nathan nced at Nathalie and said, "Honestly, I started the fashion brand mainly to support my family. My real passion is in tech."


    Regan was taken aback, "Really? I didn''t know you were into tech."


    But Regan was more interested in teaming up with Cameron, so their conversation stayed on the surface.


    He underestimated Nathan, though. Nathan was a master strategist, always a step ahead. Missing out on an opportunity wasn''t his style.


    .n


    "Regan, you''ve really lost touch with the tech scene in the Capital. Three years ago, Cameron was the king; two years ago, his half-brother split thepany into two. Dawson International''s grip on the market shattered. Now, Cameron and his stepbrother are starting fresh. And today, the tech crown belongs to Pulse Technologies, which is mine."


    Regan somewhat dismissed Nathan, thinking he was naive for calling himself the top yer. He had no


    idea how grounded Nathan was


    With the power Pulse Technologies wielded, his im was anything but arrogant. Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Regan was confident in Cameron. "Cameron has a track record. I''m sure he''ll bounce back and do even better." Nathan poured Regan a drink, "You''re overestimating him. As long as I''m around, Cameron won''t rise to the top." Regan''s hand shook, spilling a bit of his drink.


    "Nathan, smart devices need TechFusion chips and drivers. With Tech Fusion backing Cameron, he can''t lose."


    Nathan countered, "When supply outweighs demand and products gather dust in warehouses, both Cameron and TechFusion will be the losers."


    Regan argued, "Cameron''s products used to sell out instantly. Why wouldn''t they now?"


    Nathan replied, "Because Cameron''s products, whether in quality, performance, or quality control, will bepletely outssed by what we''re doing at Pulse Technologies."


    Swr


    Regan was skeptical. "What about the chips and drivers? Who has the better products between Pulse Technologies and Dawson International?"


    "That''s the one area where Pulse Technologies doesn''t beat Dawson International."


    Relieved, Regan smiled, "Chips and drivers are the heart of smart products. If your chips and drivers aren''t as good as Cameron''s, how can your products outperform his?"

 Chapter 248

    Nathan dered with a touch of arrogance, "Who says my chip can''t hold a candle to his?"


    Regan shot back, "Weren''t those your own words?"


    Nathan replied coolly, "Yes, they were. But the chips just don''t outdo Dawson International''s. They are the same brand actually."


    Regan''s face changed instantly. "No way."


    He exined, "Dawson International uses TechFusion''s top-of-the-line chips and drivers-sh Chips and Dragon yer drivers that no otherpany can make."


    Nathan casually added, "Ourpany, Creation, also uses the TechFusion brand. Got a problem with that, Regan?"


    Regan was taken aback. "How did you pull that off? We haven''t partnered, have we?"


    Nathan said, "The sh Chips TechFusion churns out every year aren''t all just for Dawson International."


    Regan quickly caught on, "So, only a third of TechFusion''s chips and drivers go to Dawson International. The rest are scattered among smaller businesses. Have you rounded up these chips..." He trailed off.


    Cameron, trying to keep his products from being overshadowed, had an exclusivity deal with Regan. He could only sell to his publicly tradedpany. But the smaller outfits weren''t bound by this agreement. Suddenly, Regan saw Nathan in a new light. "The younger generation really is impressive."


    Nathan raised his ss, clinking it with Regan''s Regan, don''t say I didn''t warn you. Cameron''s already had one fall from grace. A second could be just around the corner. If Cameron goes under, hispany wilk too. Then the sh Chips you''ve made for him will be stuck in the warehouse, bing worthless stock."


    Regan tilted his head back, downing his drink. "Thanks for the heads-up, Nathan."


    Throughout the conversation, Nathan never once asked Regan for a partnership. Yet, Regan was the first to show interest. "Would it be possible for me to get a tour of Pulse Technologies?" Nathalie chimed in quickly, "Why not today? After dinner, Mr. Nathan''s heading back to the office. How about you tag along, and he can give you a firsthand look at how thepany runs?" Regan hesitated for a moment. He had ns with Cameron that day.


    But Ashley didn''t want to part from Nathan. She clung to Regan''s arm, pleading, "Dad,e on, say yes."


    That sealed the deal for Regan. He pulled out his phone and texted Cameron to cancel their meeting.


    Cameron stood by the towering


    window, looking out over the bustling cityscape below. Once, he was a king at the pyramid''s peak Even though a messy divorce had dented his image, he was confident his iron will would see him back on top soon.


    He was brimming with confidence in his techpany.


    When Cameron saw Regan''s text canceling their meeting, his expression darkened. He never imagine that Nathan could swoop in and disrupt his solid alliance with Regan-and with help from his once-dismissed ex-wife, Nathalie. Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Cameron clenched his fists, his veins pulsing with anger. This was a high-stakes gamble with all his assets on the line. Losing was not an option.

 Chapter 249

    After the dinner party, Ashley yfully tugged on Nathan''s sleeve, pouting just a bit. "Nathan, can I ride with you?" Nathan''s face was as unreadable as a poker face.


    Nathalie just shook her head, a bit exasperated. In another life, Nathan and Ashley had been the picture-perfect couple, gracing TV interviews hand-in-hand and winning over everyone''s hearts. But this time around, Ashley seemed to be doing all the chasing. Seeing Nathan''s cluelessness, Nathalie jumped in to smooth things over. "Ashley, why don''t you join us in the car?"


    Ashley''s face lit up, "Thanks a bunch!" She wasted no time and hopped into the back seat.


    Nathan appeared indifferent. He headed straight for the driver''s seat, leaving Ashley''s smile hanging. Nathalie quickly dashed over, whispering, "Isn''t it a bit unusual for a CEO to drive? Let me handle it."


    Nathan raised an eyebrow. "You sure you''re up for it?"


    Nathalie had just recently earned her driver''s license and still felt a bit anxious behind the wheel. But she knew how rare it was to find Regan to help and didn''t want to mess up. "I''ve got this."


    Nathan hesitated briefly, then tossed her the keys. He settled into the passenger seat.


    With a deep breath, Nathalie started the car. She carefully worked the pedals, and the car crept forward like a hesitant snail. Determined not to show any weakness, she focused intently, trying her best not to give Ashley any reason to doubt Nathan''s decision to hire her. Nathan, however, couldn''t resist a little dig, "Nathalie, can we maybe go a tad faster? At this pace, we''ll hit Pulse Technologies sometime next year."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie shot him a sharp look.


    Ashley, quick to notice, added her two cents, "Nathan, your assistant''s driving leaves a lot to be desired. Maybe it''s time to reconsider?"


    Nathan shot back, "She''s not going anywhere."


    Ashley''s smile faded. "Why''s she so special to you?"


    "Because she is special," Nathan said simply.


    Nathalie felt a bead of sweat on her brow. She red at Nathan. "Stop with the games."


    Nathan turned away, gazing out the window, ignoring Nathalie''s frustrated expression.


    Nathalie felt the need to rify, "Ashley, please don''t get the wrong idea. Mr. Nathan only hired me because helped him out once. He took me on because I was struggling to find work, and he let me stick around to help him out."


    Ashley took a closer look at Nathalie. With her petite stature of about 5''3" and glowing, wless skin, she looked like a porcin doll. Herrge, expressive eyes gave her a youthful charm, and her face with perfectly bnced features made her smile seem genuinely innocent. Her innocence seemed to invite protection.


    An idea popped into her head,


    Yet, Ashley wasn''t entirely buying it, "You look so pretty. You could easily be a star, making way more money. Why do you settle as Nathan''s assistant?"


    possibly to stir things up between


    Nathalie and Nathan. "I know a director who would love a beauty like you. I could introduce you, and you''dnd the lead role in his next big film."

 Chapter 250

    Nathalie knew she couldn''t afford to ruffle the feathers of their business partner''s daughter, so she offered a polite, "Well, that''s really kind of you, thanks." Nathan grumbled in dissatisfaction, "Hmph."


    Both Nathalie and Ashley turned their attention to him.


    "The camera isn''t kind to a pancake face," Nathan remarked coolly.


    Nathalie touched her own face, puzzled. "Is my face really that round?"


    Ashley jumped in, "You''ve got a bit of baby fat, Nathalie, but it''s all in the right ces. You''re super photogenic."


    Nathan turned to look at Nathalie, but his view was limited to her profile. Yet, her striking features still managed to stir something within him.


    The idea of her bing a celebrity, admired by countless fans, inexplicably rubbed him the wrong way. "Do you really want to be an actress?" he asked.


    Nathalie couldn''t afford to turn down a financial backer''s generosity. She nodded, "Yeah."


    Nathan, taking her seriously, said, "Alright, I''ll start a film productionpany and sign you on."


    Nathalie was left startled.


    Ashley waspletely puzzled, "Nathan, why are you so set on being Nathalie''s backer?"


    It was a wake-up call. Nathalie was just as surprised. Whenever she ventured into something new, Nathan would follow, creating tailored opportunities for her. What was his game? "I could also be her client," Nathan suggested.


    Nathalie nearly choked on her own spit. She didn''t have the means to employ such a high-profile figure.


    As they joked around, the car finally pulled up to Pulse Technologies.


    He was taking in the impressive sight of the building. Pulse


    Regan was waiting at the


    Technologies, like its founder, was youthful and dynamic. Its modern architecture, materials, and design were cutting-edge.


    While admiring the magnificent skyscraper, Regan remarked, "Pulse Technologies being housed in such a trendy building really shows its strength."


    Nathan arrived just in time to hear Regan''s thoughts and corrected him, "Regan, this entire skyscraper belongs to Pulse Technologies. We even have an identical one overseas."


    Regan''s jaw dropped. "This building


    is even bigger than those of the century-old giants. Must''ve cost a


    bundle, huh? Nathan, does Pulset


    Technologies really need such a massive space?" His tone carried a hint of disapproval for Nathan''svish spending habits.


    Ashley chimed in sweetly, "Dad, if Nathan''s ever short on cash, our family could sponsor him."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan didn''t react, but Nathalie was internally celebrating like she''d just hit the jackpot, her face glowing with pride as she ttered, "Nathan''s so lucky to catch Ashley''s eye."


    Nathan pulled Nathalie back from drifting towards Ashley, whispering a warning, "Nathalie, I don''t want to rely on women."


    Nathalie rolled her eyes, "Plenty of men wish they could but can''t. Don''t take your blessings for granted."


    Nathan was left speechless. She


    noticed him re at her as if he had


    a deep grudge, so she patted his shoulder, trying tofort him, "Ohe on, Mr. Nathan, there''s nothing wrong with being a


    stay-at-home husband. You won''t have to worry about buying a car or house; just move in with your wife and live a carefree life. Plenty of people would envy you."


    Nathan''s face darkened, "You think I can''t afford a car or house?"


    Was it really worth trading his dignity just to save on a house and car?


    "Hmph," Nathan huffed and stormed off.


    Nathalie was left wondering, "What''s gotten into him today? Why is he all fired up?"

 Chapter 251

    Although Nathan had brushed off Ashley, Regan found himself liking Nathan more and more. "This young man''s got ambition.''


    He admired men who were self-reliant and independent. Too often, heirs to wealthy families sacrificed their marriages to advance their careers-Regan included. Nathalie might have upset Nathan, but it didn''t dampen her enthusiasm to work hard for him. With a polite gesture, she invited Regan to go ahead. Regan and Ashley moved forward, and just as Nathalie was about to follow, her phone rang.


    Nathan, who was ahead, stopped and turned slightly. He saw Nathalie answering the call, and whatever was said made her face fall immediately. From a distance, Nathalie signaled to Nathan, her voice carrying a rough edge. "Go on. I''ll catch up in a bit."Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Nathan got the message and continued on, though his mood had noticeably darkened.


    The call was from Greta.


    Greta was sobbing uncontrobly. "Nathalie, Dad''s not going to make it. You need toe and see him onest time."


    At that moment, Nathalie''s heart was a storm of emotions.


    She felt nothing but numb.


    No pain. No sense of revenge. Just numbness.


    "I won''te," she finally managed to say. "He never treated me like a daughter. I don''t need a father. Our paths split a long time ago."


    Then Miranda''s heart-wrenching cries came through the phone. "Nel, your dad regrets everything. You''ve had your revenge, and it''s ruined him. Why can''t you let it go?"


    "He is dying. If you don''te today, you''ll never see him again. How can you be so heartless and not even give him a final visit?"


    Nathalie replied coolly, "Are you finished?"


    Miranda was stunned into silence. Then she broke down, weeping. "Nellie, how did you be so cold? You''re really not my daughter..." Not my daughter?


    Nathalie''s eyes widened in confusion. Was that a slip of the tongue or a deliberate reveal?


    Nathalie said weakly, "When did you ever treat me as your daughter?"


    With spite in her voice, Miranda said, "Nathalie, since you''re so ungrateful, non''t expect me to care about our mother-daughter bond."


    Nathalie felt as if a chill had swept


    through her. She was grateful she no longer fell for their empty words. Otherwise, when their fake family ties shattered, she''d be heartbroken all over again.


    Nathalie hung up decisively. She stood there, a bit lost. It was the height of summer, yet she felt like she was in an ice cave.


    The family warmth she had yearned for as a child was something she might never have had in her lifetime.


    In the end, Nathalie found herself at the hospital. She''s not here to say goodbye to Patrick but to find answers to her lingering questions.


    In the past, she had wondered if she


    wasn''t truly the Brown family''s daughter so she secretly took her mother''s hair for a DNA test, which confirmed their maternal link. After that she med fate for hero parents''ck of love.


    But now, Miranda''s slip of the tongue rekindled Nathalie''s doubts. She thought, ''Maybe she''s only her mother''s daughter, not Patrick''s. That''s why, when her parents divorced, Patrick easilyd away.''


    After all, Patrick was known to be a father who cherished his daughter.

 Chapter 252

    He was so caring towards Greta, and that was all the proof she needed. So, before Patrick''s time ran out, she needed to snag a hair sample to confirm if they were biologically rted.


    As soon as Nathalie stepped into the hospital, she was blocked by a bunch of burly guys. She recognized one of them as Cameron''s personal bodyguard. It hit her instantly-Greta hadn''t called her here because Patrick was on the brink; it was Cameron''s ploy to use her


    as leverage against Nathan.


    "Ms. Nathalie, the boss wants a word with you. Come with us, please."


    "And if I refuse?"


    The bodyguards closed in menacingly. "Then, don''t me us for getting rough."


    Nathalie nced around; she was in the hospital''s blind spot. The emergency elevator and the stairs were out of service. She didn''t stand a chance against these guys in a footrace.


    "Alright, I''ll go with you." Nathalie knew when to bend but not break.


    The bodyguards cleared a narrow path, ensuring she couldn''t slip away. Eventually, they led her into a swanky VIP suite.


    Opening the door, she found Cameron standing right in the middle of the room, casually puffing on a cigar.


    Cameron turned, his face dark and intimidating. "Pretty gutsy of you to mess with my business partner."


    Nathalie chuckled. "Cameron, business is like a battlefield; it''s all about winning or losing, not the journey. Isn''t that your motto?"


    Cameron''s handsome face twisted with anger.


    "Sure, but aren''t you celebrating a bit too soon? Nathan might not have the nerve to team up with Regan."


    Nathalie snorted. "Nathan isn''t as spineless as you."


    Cameron smirked, something brewing behind his eyes. "Oh really? How about a bet-who do you think Nathan will pick, you or Regan?" "What are you nning?" Nathalie stepped back.


    "Rx, I won''t do anything illegal. I''m just inviting you to stay here for a bit."


    Nathalie caught on. "You want to hold me hostage to pressure Nathan into ditching Regan?"


    Cameron stared, realizing he had underestimated her smarts. "Don''t worry, Nathalie, you''ll just stay here for a few days. I''ll make sure you''refortable and unharmed,Che assured her.  en


    Nathalie fumed. "Who in their right mind would want to stay with you? Cameron, where do you think this leaves my reputation?"


    Cameron''s pride took a hit. Countless women desired hispany, yet Nathalie couldn''t stand him. Did he reallyck his usual charm?


    "You won''t stay with me, but you''re


    always spotted with Nathan." Cameron''s anger red, his tone turning sinister. "Nathalie, don''t tell me you''ve developed feelings for him!"


    "Ha, you should really know your limits. A guy like Nathan isn''t for someone like you to dream about! He''s just young and curious, driven by a conquest. Once he''s done he''ll toss you aside without a second thought."


    Smack...


    Nathalie pped Cameron across the face, pouring all her strength into it. His cheek burned instantly.


    She roared, "Cameron, you''re thest person with any right to call me washed up." And then she spat out three more words, full of venom, "You''re a rapist."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 253

    Cameron''s face went through a whole spectrum of colors, from ghostly pale to a deep flush in no time. Nathalie couldn''t help but feel a smug sense of satisfaction at the sight of his deted expression.


    As he touched his burning cheek, the sharp sting jolted Cameron back to reality, making him realize just how harsh he''d been with Nathalie. Regret tugged at him. "I''m sorry."


    Nathalie shot back with a sarcastic grin, "Cameron, are you having a split personality moment or what? One second, you''re throwing insults; the next, you''re apologizing. With mood swings like that, maybe you should check yourself into a mental health clinic." Cameron was taken aback; he''d never seen Nathalie look at him with such disdain or use such cutting words. Had things between them really gone beyond repair?


    "Nathalie, just take it easy. I''lle by another time." Cameron couldn''t bear to be in the same room with her anymore. Her words pierced him with shame.


    He wanted to bolt, but Nathalie wasn''t about to let him off easy. "Cameron, I didn''t expect you to still have the nerve to stand here."


    Cameron stiffened, his expression darkening as he looked at her. "Nathalie, are you clinging to Nathan just to get back at me? You''re underestimating me and overestimating him. That kid''s no match for me."


    Nathalie chuckled, "Cameron, having confidence is great, but don''t fool yourself. You''re only standing tall in the Capital once again because of your mom''s retirement fund."


    Cameron''s face went ashen. "Nathalie, don''t get too smug. In the end, it''s the winner whoughsst."


    "I''ll be watching."


    Cameron staggered out.


    l.neContent protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Nathalie nced around the hospital room, which had been transformed into a kitchen, a balcony, a bedroom, and a living room. Cameron had really gone all out to keep her confined. Her phone was gone, leaving her without a shred of evidence of her captivity. What on earth was she going to do?


    Meanwhile, at Pulse Technologies, Nathan was giving Regan and his daughter Ashley a tour of the


    1301 ?2


    He observed the cutting-edge technology at Pulse, amazed that their production tools were five years ahead of thepetition. Thepany''s incentive schemes and wages were way above industry standards and were the stuffof envy. Employees who developed new skills could earn bonuses that promised financial freedom.


    Regan couldn''t help but sigh in admiration; no wonder thepany had surged past itspetitors in just a few years and was closing in on the industry giants.


    Ashley was also impressed by Nathan''s business acumen. She found herself falling head over heels for him. She made a snap decision. "Dad, let''s ditch the partnership with the Dawson family."


    Regan looked at her, puzzled. "Sweetie, we need to think this through."


    Ashley pouted, "Oh,e on, Dad, can''t you see? Cameron''s time is up, and Nathan''s going to take over. Plus, I like Nathan, and he''s going to be your son-inw. Whose side are you on?" Regan burst intoughter.


    However, when he turned, he noticed Nathan seemed distracted, staring intently at the door.

 Chapter 254

    "Nathan, are you interested in a partnership with our family?"


    Nathan''s phone buzzed, interrupting the conversation. He gave Regan an apologetic nod and stepped aside to take the call.


    "Hello?"


    "Nathan, it''s me."


    Nathan furrowed his brow, "Cameron? What''s up?"


    Cameron cut straight to the chase, "Nathan, business is all about who gets there first. You''ve swiped my partner right from under my nose. Isn''t that a bit sneaky?"


    Nathan let out a lightugh. "Cameron, you can''t pin that on me. You''ve been causing enough trouble that even fate had to step in. Regannding in myp was just a twist of fate. If the universe is against you, I''m just going along with it." "Nathan, don''t get too smug. Haven''t you noticed your right-hand woman is missing?"


    Nathan''s eyes turned icy, but his tone was carefree, "Oh, you mean Nathalie? She''s a bit of a klutz. Hardly what I''d call indispensable."


    The memory of her turning his romantic date into a business pitch still irked him.


    Cameron was taken aback. Despite Nathan''s dismissive words, he sensed a softness when Nathan spoke her name.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron pressed on, "Nathan, you''re not keen on losing her, are you?"


    Nathan''s hand shook slightly. "Cameron, have you kidnapped her? What do you want?"


    "Simple. I want you to back out of the deal with Regan."


    Without hesitation, Nathan replied, "Alright, I''ll do it."


    Cameron continued, "Once Regan signs with me, I''ll release her immediately."


    Grinding his teeth, Nathan spat, "Cameron! Let her go now. I keep my promises." Cameron chuckled, "Nathan, do you really care about her that much?"


    Nathan''s voice grew stern. "Yes, Cameron Nathalie means the world to me. If youy a finger on her promise you and Dawson


    International will pay dearly for it."


    en


    Cameron was deeply shaken. He knew Nathan had a soft spot for Nathalie, but he hadn''t realized Nathan''s feelings ran this deep.


    "Mr. Nathan, do you really like and care for her that much?" Cameron was baffled.


    Sure, Nathalie was charming and talented, but her modest background was undeniable. Even though she had loved Cameron fiercely and he had hurt her repeatedly, all he felt was guilt, not love orpassion.


    Nathan was a man of immense stature and wealth, but he was treasuring a woman Cameron wouldn''t have given a second nce.


    Nathan paused before speaking slowly, "Cameron, you wouldn''t know a pearl from a pebble."


    His words wereyered with meaning.


    They poked fun at Cameron for


    failing to see true worth and hinted


    at Cameron''s own love interest, Greta, being less than desirable.


    "Nathan, I think you''re just young and naive. Clinging to a woman like she''s thest one on earth..."


    Nathan''s voice cut through, strong and unwavering, "Cameron..."


    His words came through, clear as day, "Time will show you. Letting go of Nathalie was the biggest mistake you ever made."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 255

    Nathan mmed the phone down, his anger palpable. Meanwhile, Cameron was left stewing in a mix of anticipation and anxiety. He couldn''t help but wonder if Nathan would really forsake the golden opportunity to coborate with Regan, all for Nathalie''s sake. Nathalie had been out cold for a full day and night at the hospital. When she finally came to, she discovered she had been whisked away to a secluded mountain vi.


    "Ms. Nathalie, you''re finally awake?" the maid greeted her.


    Nathalie groaned, every muscle aching, and her head felt like it was about to split open. A nce at the wall clock confirmed her suspicions-she had slept far longer than her usual restless four hours. Fourteen hours in total, a record for someone as anxiously wired as her. "Where''s that bastard Cameron?" she fumed, feeling a surge of rage at the thought of him. "How dare he drug me!"


    "Ms. Nathalie, Mr. Dawson doesn''t live here. But don''t worry, he''s instructed me to make sure you''re well taken care of," the maid replied, skillfully ignoring Nathalie''s tirade and sticking to the facts.


    Realizing she was stuck, Nathalie decided it was time to make life difficult for Cameron in return.


    "So, he told you to take good care of me?"


    "Yes, miss."


    A mischievous glint sparked in Nathalie''s eyes. "Well then, I''m not holding back I''m starving. I want top-notch Lobster Bisque every morning and evening. Lunch has to include imported king crab and abalone. Dinner? At least ten different vegetarian dishes. And I want to bathe in distilled water with fresh petals daily... You''ll need to


    pick the petals fresh, mind you."


    The maid hesitated, clearly overwhelmed. "Well..."


    "If you ck off, I''ll trash this ce," Nathalie warned.


    The maid''s expression darkened as she left. Nathalie quietly tailed her to the study, pressing her ear against the door to catch snippets of the conversation inside.


    "Mr. Cameron, this girl is a real handful," the maidined.


    Cameron couldn''t believe what he was hearing. How was Nathalie difficult to please? In his mind, she was always the easy-going type. He figured the maid was exaggerating and snapped, "She''s got two working hands. She can do some chores and cook. How hard can it be?


    The maidid out Nathalie''s extravagant demands, "Mr. Cameron, she won''t be brushed off. She wants Lobster Bisque, king crab, sea cucumber, and abalone-all fresh. Plus, she insists on baths with fresh petals and distilled water."


    Cameron was momentarily


    speechless, then chuckled in disbelief. "ying princess without the royalifestyle, huh? You don''t have to cater to her every whim. Use what we''ve got. If she eats, great; if not too bad. No one is going to spoil her like that."


    "But Mr. Cameron," the maid protested, "Ms. Nathalie said if we don''t meet her demands, she''ll destroy the ce."


    Cameron''s eyes widened. This vi was a gift from his mother. It had cost a fortune to decorate. The paintings on the wall which were worth a small fortune.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 256

    "Just hang tight. I''ll be home as soon as I can."


    Nathalie heard this from around the corner, and quickly slipped out of the study. Following Cameron''s instructions, the maid whipped up a few basic dishes for Nathalie. But Nathalie didn''t even taste them before flipping the table over in a fit of anger. "Did you think I was joking? You think serving me this slop is enough?"


    The maid stood to the side, speechless, knowing full well that Cameron would sort things out when he got back.


    But Nathalie wasn''t about to wait for Cameron to return. She stormed into the kitchen, grabbed a knife, and went on a rampage. She smashed the precious paintings on the walls, breaking their ss frames. Still not satisfied, she tore the canvases into shreds. She finally stopped only when she was convinced that millions had gone up in smoke.


    Cameron hadn''t nned oning back so soon, but the maid''s frantic call changed that. "Mr. Cameron, Ms. Nathalie has gone off the rails. She''s taken a knife and wrecked the ce."Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Cameron slumped onto the couch, his face pale. It hit him then-bringing Nathalie into his home was a colossal mistake.


    Did Nathalie want him bankrupt? Did she want him to experience the life of a beggar, just like she had?


    The answer was definitely yes.


    Snapping back, Cameron grabbed his car keys and dashed out.


    He was at the vi in no time. Initially, he thought the maid was exaggerating, but it turned out she was too understated. The house was a shell of its former self, with only the bare load-bearing walls still standing. The other walls were in shambles. The artistic paint and wallpaper were scarred beyond recognition.


    When Cameron saw the shattered remains of the paintings worth


    millions on the floor, his heart sank Heshed out at Nathalie, "Do you have any idea how valuable those were? Do you realize the kind of money you''ve just blown?"


    Nathalie''s response was to taunt him even more. "Go ahead, Cameron, sue me. Charge me with breaking and entering, with destroying private property..."


    With each word she uttered, Cameron''s face darkened further. He had trapped Nathalie here. How could he possibly take legal action against her?


    In the end, he copsed onto the couch in defeat. "Nathalie, do you really hate me this much? You want to tear my world apart is that it? What can I possibly do to change your mind?"


    He was genuinely afraid of being consumed by Nathalie''s hatred, but he hadn''t realized that Nathalie truly wanted to see him destroyed.


    "Cameron, how can you even ask for


    my forgiveness? Look at what you''ve done-imprisoned me just to get your hands on the Stewart family''s chip. You''ve put your gains above my dignity. Cameron, when you learn to respect others, thene and talk to me."


    Cameron''s expression turned even grayer. "I only invited you as a guest. I didn''t imprison you."


    Nathalie''s voice was sharp as a knife. "A guest? Your hospitality includes taking away a guest''s phone. Serving them scraps?"


    Cameron red at her. "You didn''t even have that much before."


    Nathalie crossed her arms, a cold glint in her eyes. Cameron might''ve felt a twinge of guilt, but his condescending attitude was deeply ingrained.


    "Cameron, ever heard of the saying


    ''What goes aroundes around?'' I used to be poor, and you were the rich kid riding on your family''s coattails. But now, I''m the self-made sess, and you''re the one


    scraping by on your mom''s


    over


    retirement savings." Nathalie


    finished with a click of her tongue, her expression dripping with mock sympathy.

 Chapter 257

    Cameron had a knack for keeping his cool, which was just as well with Nathalie''s sharp tongue always at the ready.


    "Nathalie, there''s no way I''ll ever end up begging on the streets," Cameron dered with rock-solid confidence. "This rough patch is just a blip. Once Ind that contract with the Stewart family, investors will be lining up to back mypany. I''ll bounce back and make a


    ssh, just you watch."


    Nathalie rolled her eyes at his bravado. "Cameron, that contract with Regan isn''t going to happen."


    Cameron shrugged, unfazed. "Nathalie, Nathan''s already pulled out of his deal with Regan."


    Nathalie chuckled. "Even if you got Nathan to drop the deal, do you really think you can strong-arm Regan into siding with you?"


    "Without Nathan in the mix, I''m Regan''s first pick," Cameron said, full of himself.


    Nathalie smirked. "I''ll be here to watch when it all blows up in your face."


    Right on cue, Cameron''s phone buzzed with a call from Regan.


    "Mr. Dawson, there''s been a change regarding our partnership," Regan''s voice was as cold and mechanical as a voicemail.


    Cameron''s grin vanished, and he clenched the phone. "Regan, haven''t we ironed out all the details?"


    Regan didn''t mince words. "Mr. Dawson, honestly, this contract is probably not happening."


    "Why''s that?" Cameron pressed.


    ??.N?velDrama.Org content.


    Regan was direct. "To be straight with you, my daughter has her sights set on Mr. Nathan. It won''t be long before he bes family. Mr. Dawson, as close as we aes first. We can''t choose an outsider over our own."


    Cameron sank into the couch, feeling utterly defeated.


    family


    If Nathan joined the Stewart family, it would be a powerhouse alliance, and Cameron would be cut off from Regan''s resources. His techpany would face a serious supply chain crisis. "Sorry, Mr. Dawson," Regan said before hanging up.


    Watching Cameron''s spirits crumble, Nathalie couldn''t help but feel a bit of glee. She looked at him with a mischievous grin, poking the bear. "Cameron, Nathan taking your ce was inevitable. So, maybe save your tears."


    Cameron shot her an angry re, his chest rising and falling with fury. He snapped back, "I always wondered why Nathan would value someone like you. Turns out, he doesn''t care at all. When pushes to shove, he picks profits over your safety."


    Nathalie believed Nathan made the right call, as this would hit Cameron where it hurt.


    But for some reason, realizing her safety was second to profits made her heart twist painfully. The old feelings of abandonment by family and loved ones in her past life washed over her.


    Her head throbbed with a sharp


    pain. Her mind became a fog. She


    ???


    was unable to separate past from present. Time and space blurred together. "Cameron, guys like you,


    who ditch their wives and daughters and mess up at every turn, have Karmaing your way

 Chapter 258

    Cameron''s face suddenly clouded over as he lunged forward, gripping Nathalie by the throat and shouting, "Shut up. I didn''t walk out on you and our daughter. You were the one who ended our child''s life, and you pushed for the divorce." Nathalie didn''t get angry. Instead, she let out augh that reeked of triumph. "Cameron, calling it abandonment is too generous. You''re worse than a monster."


    Her fiery red lips and that wildugh made her seem like a demon straight out of hell, and it was enough to make Cameron let go, a chill running down his spine.


    "Nathalie, you''re stuck in the past because you''re so narrow-minded and petty," Cameron tried to reason, defending himself. "Lots of men cheat, but do their ex-wives hate them like you hate me?"


    Nathalie''s eyes turned cold, sharper than any de. "Cameron, we had a daughter. She would be three now. She looks just like you, and she loves you so much."


    Cameron was hit with a wave of shock. He suddenly remembered that Nathalie had been pregnant before she went abroad. If she hadn''t lost the baby, then by now, she really would be three.


    Cameron was thrilled. Greta was too frail to have kids. It was amazing that he and Nathalie had a daughter. He felt like he had no regrets left.


    "So you lied about the abortion? You actually had her?" Cameron asked, grabbing Nathalie''s hand. His eyes softened with a tenderness she''d never seen before. For the first time, Nathalie saw something precious in his gaze.


    He started dreaming of a perfect


    future. "Nathalie, since we have a beautiful daughter, let''s stop fighting. We can''t let her grow up in a broken home. Let''s make peace, okay? I''ll work my fingers to the bone to provide for our daughter..."


    Nathalie gave him a scornful look. "You''ve got some nerveing out with that. You''re talking about earning for our daughter and saying you don''t want her in a broken home? Do you really think I''d fall for that nonsense? Ha, you''re just using her as an excuse to get my forgiveness so I won''t be a roadblock for you. Cameron, your hypocrisy is sickening."


    In herst life, when their daughter had a raging fever, he wouldn''t drive them to the hospital because he had a date with Greta. On their daughter''s birthday, he ignored his own child but showed up at a party for Greta''s friend''s kid. He threw a fancy bash and handed out


    expensive gifts.


    Their daughter found pictures on her aunt''s social media of Cameron ying dad to someone else''s child and cried until she almost couldn''t breathe.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    That night, Nathalie swallowed her pride and knelt in front of Cameron, tears streaming down her face as she begged, "Honey, please. Our daughter needs our family to be whole."


    But he just sneered and warned her, "Don''t use our daughter to try and manipte me. Nellie, I can''t stand your two-faced attitude."


    She couldn''t understand what she was supposedly asking for.


    He hadn''t shown her love, nor had he financially supported them. He was so cruel to both mother and daughter that when they passed, they left with nothing but their dignity intact.

 Chapter 259

    Cameron burst out, "Nathalie, you can''t be so selfish. A child needs a dad, and I''m ready to co-parent with you."


    Nathalie snapped back to reality, her emotions leveling out. "Cameron, I lied. We don''t have a child."


    Cameron was already caught up in the fantasy of parenthood. He refused to face reality. "No, you''re lying. We must have a child. If you count the time from when you went abroad pregnant, she''d be around three now. You must have hidden her, right?" Nathalie shut her eyes, tears spilling out. "Cameron, have you forgotten? The moment I knew she was inside me, I didn''t hesitate to end it. I wasn''t going to have your child. Someone like you doesn''t deserve to be a parent." Cameron whimpered in pain, "What did I do to make you hate me so much?"


    Nathalie stayed silent.


    Suddenly, the maid rushed in, flustered, "Mr. Dawson, Mr. Nathan is here with the police."


    A flicker of panic crossed Cameron''s face. He grabbed Nathalie''s hand and dragged her upstairs.


    Nathalie fought back fiercely. "Cameron, you jerk! Let go of me. This is kidnapping. You''re breaking thew!"


    Cameron said, "Nathalie, you''d better hide with me. I''ll show you whether Nathan really cares about you. Once you see his true colors, you won''t be so foolishly devoted to him."


    "I don''t need to test his feelings for me. Cameron, you''re crazy."


    To her, Nathan was family, not a lover. Nathan didn''t need to put her first in everything. Someday, he''d have his own true love and kids. Nathalie felt that as long as Nathan didn''t hurt her, she''d always look out for him. Since Nathalie resisted so fiercely, Cameron tied her up and taped her mouth shut, leaving her in an upstairs room.


    He went to greet the guests while Nathalie squirmed to the window, straining to hear what was happening downstairs.


    Downstairs, Nathan arrived with the police, standing tall and distinct among the two burly officers. His


    demeanor was mature, and his handsome face seemed carved by time, both captivating and


    intimidating.


    For a moment, Cameron felt as if Nathan was older than him. In Nathan''s presence, he felt like a naive junior.


    Nathan approached Cameron, his slightly taller stature pressing down like a weight. Cameron felt the pressure. "Cameron, where''s Nathalie?"


    Cameron shrugged, "Nathan, what are you implying? She is missing, and you''re asking me for her? I could charge you with trespassing."Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Nathan showed his watch, revealing


    a tracking system that had


    god. nee


    Nathalie''s current location pegged at Cameron''s house. Cameron''s face fell


    "Cameron, Nathalie''s been missing for over a day. I tracked her using the system. She''s been here at your vi the whole time. Are you still iming her disappearance has nothing to do with you?"


    Cameron was stunned. Nathan and Nathalie having a tracking system meant their rtionship was very special. Nathalie''s presence was already formidable, but with Nathan''s support, Cameron feared he couldn''t handle it.


    Trying to stayposed, Cameron said, "Nathan, Nathalie is my ex-wife. Isn''t it normal for her to visit my home?"

 Chapter 260

    Nathan''s eyes were as sharp as a hawk''s. "I need to see Nathalie. If she''s doing well-eating and sleeping okay-then I''ll believe what you say. But, Cameron, if you darey a finger on her, I swear you''ll regret it." Cameron studied Nathan for a moment, then chuckled softly. "Oh, Nathan, who are you trying to fool with this act? Why can''t you cut ties with Regan if you care about her so much?"


    Nathan was firm. "Cameron, I promised you I''d walk away from Regan, and I''ve kept my word."


    Cameron looked taken aback. "That''s hard to believe. If you''ve already turned down the Stewart family, why would they still refuse my offer?"


    Nathan''s eyes darted around, searching for any sign of Nathalie. "I''ve stuck to my promise and ditched the deal. Why they won''t work with you is your problem. Cameron, isn''t it about time you kept your word? Let Nathalie go home." Cameron paused, then gave a knowing look to the maid, who nodded and headed upstairs.


    She entered the room where Nathalie was held, knife in hand, to cut the ropes binding her. As she removed the gag from Nathalie''s mouth, she warned, "Ms. Nathalie, be careful with your words. Mr. Cameron only invited you here as a guest and hasn''t harmed you. Even if you make ims, there''s no proof, and no one will believe you."


    Nathalie gave a chilling smile. "Thanks for the tip."


    In a sh, she grabbed the maid''s hand, plunging the knife into her own abdomen, arms, and chest...


    The maid screamed in horror.


    "What the heck?"


    The men downstairs froze at the blood-curdling scream. Before Cameron could react, Nathan shot upstairs like a bolt.


    Two police officers were right on his heels.


    When Nathan kicked the door open,


    he found


    floor,


    Nathalie crumpled on the verywhere, still tied up Wcontent


    and barely clinging to life.


    "Nathalie!" Nathan rushed to her, dropping to his knees, wanting to hold her but terrified of causing more pain.


    "Nathan, it hurts so much. Hold me," she whispered.


    Nathan cradled Nathalie gently in his arms. "Don''t worry, Nathalie. I''ll get you to a hospital right away."


    He carefully lifted her and, as he left, kicked the maid in fury. "Who put you up to this? Was it Cameron? Speak!" The maid trembled, lookingpletely lost.


    When Cameron arrived, he saw Nathan holding Nathalie, her body limp and soaked in blood.


    Cameron was dumbfounded. "How did this happen?"


    Nathan shot him a deadly re. "Cameron, you still im you didn''t kidnap Nathalie?" Cameron shivered.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan, desperate to get Nathalie to a doctor, teft the rest to the police "What are you waiting for? He''s suspected of kidnapping Nathalie and trying to hurt her. Arrest him!"


    The police officer turned to Cameron "Cameron. Nathan''s


    using you of kidnapping Ms


    Nathalie, so you and your maid will need toe with us."


    Cameron was still in shock when the cold handcuffs clicked shut around his wrists.


    "How did ite to this?" Cameron couldn''t wrap his head around it. "I never meant to hurt her."

 Chapter 261

    Cameron got himself detained, and it sent shockwaves through the Dawson family. Griffin was absolutely livid. The moment he got home, he stormed up to Kristina and pped her hard across the face. Kristina, cradling her cheek, started to cry. "Honey, I know Cameron''s let you down again. But he''s your son, and you have to help him."


    Griffin wasn''t having any of it. All he could think about was cutting ties with Cameron to avoid getting caught up in his mess. He tossed a divorce paper at Kristina and snapped, "We''re heading to the registry office now to finalize this divorce. I can''t bear to see you and your foolish son anymore."


    Kristina clung to his legs, pleading, "Honey, don''t leave Cameron now. Please, if you don''t help him, he''ll end up in jail."


    Griffin replied, "Then let him rot in jail. It''s more peaceful without him around."


    Kristina said, "I''ll sign the divorce papers with you, but only if you promise to get him out."


    With a sigh, Griffin agreed, "This is thest time I''m bailing him out."


    After that, they went to the registry office. The divorce papers were ready, and they finalized their divorce without a hitch. Griffin drove off in his fancy car, leaving Kristina to wander the streets, lost in thought.


    Meanwhile, Nathalie had spent a day and a night in the hospital, and she was only getting worse. Nathan, worried sick about her, went to see her doctor.


    "Doctor, how bad are Nathalie''s injuries?"


    The doctor seemed puzzled. "When


    Nathalie came in, she had a few shallow cuts and some big bruises. Nothing too serious, really. But she might have a unique constitution Normally, these kinds of injuries heal pretty fast with a day''s treatment. However, her mental state''s declining... I think the trauma from the kidnapping has really affected


    her."


    Nathan''s eyes turned dark with concern. "I see."


    After talking to the doctor, Nathan headed straight for Nathalie''s room. Nathalie, pretending to be drowsy, closed her eyes when he entered. Nathan sat quietly beside her, his deep gaze locked on her pale face. Unable to stand the silence, Nathalie peeked at him and met his sharp eyes. Feeling a bit guilty, she greeted him, "Nathan, you''re here?"


    Her voice wavered due to the pain, and Nathan''s icy demeanor softened, his eyes reddening slightly. With a gentle mix of concern and affection, he said, "Every time you run into him, you end up all hurt. Nathalie, can''t you just stay away from him?"


    There was something pure and clear in his eyes, and as he got older, they only grew warmer when he looked at Nathalie, like a tranquil spring that could draw you in.


    Nathalie couldn''t help but reach out


    to fix his hair,ughing softly. "Nathan, don''t frown like that. You''re too young to look like an old man


    You should be out there having lots of fun. Don''t worry so much about me." Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Realizing she couldn''t brush him off, Nathalie finally spoke earnestly, "Cameron''s messed up my life. So, I guess I''m stuck with him. If I can''t find peace, neither will he."


    Nathan''s expression turned serious. "What about you?"

 Chapter 262

    Nathan gently held Nathalie''s delicate hand. His eyes were misty with concern. "Nathalie, you''re such a good person. Why do you focus on people who don''t deserve you?"


    Seeing the hope shining brightly in Nathan''s eyes, Nathalie couldn''t bear to disappoint him. She gave a reassuring smile and said, "Alright, I''ll give it my best shot. I''ll try to forget him and start fresh. How does that sound?" Nathan''s eyes lit up with encouragement. "Nathalie, I know you''ve got this."


    Just then, a ruckus echoed from the hallway, causing Nathalie and Nathan to share a worried nce. Nathalie spoke softly, "Nathan, the Dawson family isn''t going to let this slide. You don''t need to get involved." Nathan''s expression turned serious. "Cameron locked you up and even tried to get the maid to hurt you. What he did is unforgivable. How dare the Dawson family think they cane after us?" Nathalie felt a pang of guilt.


    Cameron did kidnap her, but he didn''t mistreat or harm her. However, she had indeed destroyed his family''s prized paintings and falsely used him.


    In terms of the seriousness of the crimes, hers might actually be worse.


    She was walking a fine line and couldn''t risk dragging Nathan into it. She couldn''t let him take the fall.


    "Nathan," Nathalie pleaded, "Pulse Technologies is at a critical point and about to go public. I need you to be at the top, to be my rock. You can''t lose focus now. Sometimes, you have to just let things slide." Nathan was taken aback for a moment. Her words, "Be my rock," sparked a strong resolve within him. "Okay, I''ll be your rock. I''ll make sure you can walk tall in the Capital."


    "Really?" Nathalie''s face lit up with joy.


    As footsteps drew near, Nathalie motioned for Nathan to hide behind the screen.


    Nathan quickly did as he was told.


    Suddenly, Greta stormed into the room. She dropped to her knees in front of Nathalie, tears streaming down her face. "Nathalie, I''m begging you, please don''t press charges against Cameron." Nathalie''s voice was cold. "And why should I? Because he stole my kidney? Or because he used me as your stand-in?"


    Greta turned pale. "He did it out of


    love for me. Nathalie, Cameron is a good person. You can''t destroy him. If he ends up in jail, his reputation will be ruined forever. He''ll never bounce back from that."


    A sly smile tugged at Nathalie''s lips. That was exactly what she wanted. "He brought this on himself."


    ???N?velDrama.Org content.


    Realizing that Nathalie was dead set on taking Cameron down, Greta suddenly became frantic. She stood up and yelled, "Nathalie, you''re so cruel. You think I don''t know that Cameron neverid a hand on you and that you did this to yourself just to frame him? You''ve pulled this stant before with our father. There''s got to be a slip-up somewhere. Just wait till I find proof of you setting Cameron up. I won''t hold back."


    Nathalie''s face went a shade paler.


    From behind the screen, Nathan slowly stepped out.


    Seizing the moment to stir trouble, Greta turned to Nathan. "Mr. Nathan, you need to see Nathalie for who she truly is. This heartless woman is hiding behind a pretty face. Look at what she did to a man she once loved. Imagine what she might do to you, her supposed savior


    Nathalie felt her disguise had been ripped away, leaving her exposed and vulnerable.

 Chapter 263

    She once told Nathan to be a man of integrity, but what about her? She was the embodiment of double-dealing and malice. Would Nathan be let down by her actions? Nathalie awkwardly turned her head, avoiding Nathan''s eyes. Greta couldn''t help but gloat. "Nathalie, you''re destined for a rough ending with your wicked ways."


    Nathalie met her gaze with calm resolve. "Have I ever gotten anything good in return?"


    Her life was a string of betrayals. Her father left her when she was just a baby. Her mother abused her. Cameron lied to her. Greta used her and then stomped all over her.


    In her previous life, she didn''tmit any wrongs, yet she suffered and met an unjust end. Why should she be good in this life? Those who couldn''t reach her would eventually be the weapons she''d use to fight back. The only wild card was Nathan. He was the one person she wanted to be genuine with.


    Greta sensed Nathalie''s vulnerability. She knew how to hit where it hurt. She kept pressing Nathan, "Mr. Nathan, trust me, Nathalie isn''t as good as she seems. If you stick around, she''ll turn on you. Best to keep your distance."


    Nathan tuned out Greta''s ramblings entirely. His eyes stayed locked on Nathalie, and the despair in her eyes made his heart ache. He could feel the hopelessness beneath her burning hatred. Had she not been so deeply hurt, would she have risked her reputation just to drag Cameron and the others down?


    Her hatred and pain twisted Nathan''s heart, causing him intense anguish.


    "Mr. Nathan, don''t you see? She''s using you as a shield for her arrogance. Please, don''t be fooled by her." Greta continued.


    "Shut it!" Nathan, exasperated by Greta''s endless chatter, snapped at her.


    Greta was taken aback. She thought her n was working as Nathan seemed lessposed. She shot Nathalie a smug look.


    "Nathalie, justice will catch up with you. You''ll pay for what you''ve done."


    "Get out," Nathalie replied.


    Greta was surprised. Nathan and Nathalie seemed to be on the same wavelength. Even the tone they used to tell her to leave was identical. With nothing left to say, Greta left in defeat.


    The hospital room fell into an unusual calm.


    "Is what she said true?" Nathan asked.


    Nathalie nodded almost


    imperceptibly. She didn''t want to deceive Nathan. Her voice was rough. "Now you know that I''m such a despicable person. Are you disappointed in me?"


    "Why did you do it?" Nathan''s voice was sharp. He was clearly upset.


    Nathalie felt her defenses crumble. She was overwhelmed by a deep sense of loss. She was probably about to lose the only person who had ever shown her kindness. "Don''t worry, I won''t drag you into this mess." Her voice was tinged with sadness.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan sighed, moved to the chair beside her bed, and sat down. He gently took her hand and said softly, "I''m not mad because I''m


    ???


    disappointed. I''m upset because you don''t care about yourself, and were quick to use such a reckless n for revenge. You''re hurting yourself. Don''t you know how worried I''ve been?"


    Nathalie was taken aback. Nathan''s unwavering support and care warmed her heart, melting away some of the coldness inside.

 Chapter 264

    Tears welled up in her eyes as she looked at him, struggling to speak. "Nathan, don''t you ever find my deceitful side a bit scary?" Nathan just chuckled and gave her a yful flick on the forehead. "I''ll always remember how wonderful you were when we first met." Nathalie felt a wave of emotion. "Nathan, no matter how wicked I be, I promise to protect you forever. Do you trust me?"


    Nathan smiled warmly. "Should you really believe you''re wicked just because someone said you were? You silly goose, why do you let these people get to you so easily? To me, you''re just my sweet, innocent Nathalie." Nathalie whispered, "But it''s true... I did frame Cameron on purpose."


    Nathan''s eyes shed with anger. "Well, he had iting."


    Nathalie fell silent.


    Afraid she might act rashly, Nathan reassured her. "Nathalie, we''ve got all the time in the world. The best way to deal with enemies isn''t a quick hit but to keep them on edge, always unsure, living in constant dread." Nathalie nodded. "I get it now."


    After Nathalie drifted off to sleep, Nathan quietly left the hospital. He didn''t expect to see Greta waiting outside for him.


    As soon as she spotted him, she hurried over. "Mr. Nathan, can we have a word?"


    Nathan frowned, his dislike for Greta apparent in every fiber of his being. "You''re not worth my time," he said dismissively.


    Though her pride was hurt, Greta pressed on. Mr. Nathan, I''m just giving you a heads-up. Nathalie framed Cameron, and it isn''t


    something Griffin will ignore. /N?velDrama.Org content.


    want to steer clear of trouble, you


    should keep your distance from her."


    Nathan shot her a cold nce. "Your life is a gift from Nathalie, and this is how you thank her?"


    Greta''s face flushed with embarrassment and anger. "She pushed me too far... I had to push back."


    Nathan retorted, "So it''s okay for your whole family to gang up on her, but she can''t defend herself? Greta, your double standards might fool others, but not me. Stay away from me; you make me sick."


    Greta''s face turned beet red with


    ever


    shame. "Mr. Nathan, Nathalie must have bad-mouthed me to you, causing these misunderstandings... but you''re a smart man. Haven''t you er wondered why everyone in our family adores me but despises her? It''s because they realized she was trouble from the start."


    With a swift motion, Nathan pped her across the face. Greta''s cheek reddened instantly, and she red at Nathan with teary eyes. "Why would you hit me?" Nathan pulled out an alcohol wipe and cleaned his hand as if he''d touched something dirty. "That''s because I''ve always seen you for what you are a maniptor." Greta''s face was a mix of red and blue with anger. "You don''t believe me?"


    Nathan rolled his eyes. "Why would


    I? Who do you think you are? If someone like you could break the bond between Nathalie and me, I''d


    be no


    different from that fool


    Cameron. Now scram. And don''t


    show your face around me again."


    As Greta walked away, Nathan called after her, "And if you dare badmouth Nathalie again, watch your tongue."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 265

    now questioned if he really was as pure and untouchable as the moon.


    On a biting cold night inte autumn, Cameron found himself huddled by the narrow iron-barred window, his once-proud heart now sinking into a sea of helplessness and loneliness. He stared nkly at the moon outside, the very symbol he once likened himself to. He "Hey," called a fellow inmate, tossing a hard piece of bread his way. "I noticed you skipped lunch and dinner. You must be starving. I managed to sneak this for you."


    Only then did Cameron realize the depth of his hunger. He was feeling as if his stomach was glued to his backbone. He cast a disdainful nce at the bread lying on the filthy floor. Was he really expected to eat something so beneath him?


    The prisoner shrugged and walked away. Time crawled by, and Cameron''s hunger became an unbearable beast. The weakness from his low blood sugar was a relentless chain reaction. Panic set in, a terrible feeling gnawing at him. It chipped away at Cameron''s resolve, bit by bit. Finally, he picked up the piece of bread and shoved it into his mouth, the coarse crumbs suddenly tasting like the sweetest of treats.


    "Ha, thought you were too good for it?" jeered a voice. "Look at you now, gobbling it up like it''s a feast."


    "So, the high-and-mighty Mr. Cameron is no different from a beggar, scrounging for scraps off the ground." "Pathetic, just like a stray dog."


    Laughter erupted around him, a chorus of taunts striking him like stinging ps. His cheeks burned with shame. His heart felt like it had plunged into an icy abyss, leaving him shivering to the core.


    He felt exposed, like those beggars under the bridge, an object of mockery for passersby.


    A figure approached and sat next to him. Cameron looked up to see the man who had offered him the bread. He had thought the man was kind, so he let his guard down, showing a softer side.


    However, the man''s demeanor shifted, his handnding on Cameron''s face as if petting a dog. "Mr. Cameron, how''s that taste?" he asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    Only then did Cameron realize this was all a setup. "You''re mocking me?" Cameron snapped, a mix of anger and humiliation ring up.


    The manughed. "I gave you bread to stave off hunger. You ought to be thanking me."


    Cameron''s face turned a stormy shade. "You''re making a fool of me."


    "Making a foot of you? How? I just left the bread on the ground for you fon to pick up. But Mr. Dawson,Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    remember, I saved you. I''m your


    benefactor. You owe me your gratitude, not resentment. Isn''t that right?"


    Cameron''s eyes widened, the words unnervingly familiar, echoing past actions.


    "How do you n to repay your benefactor, Mr. Dawson? My heart''s not the best. Maybe you could


    donate yours? Surely, as a man oret


    principles, you understand the


    importance of repaying debts. It''s just a heart, Mr. Dawson-would you refuse?"


    The man''s bluntnessid bare his mockery of Cameron''s past selfishness.


    Yet, Cameron found himself unable to muster a retort. His so-called act of kindness towards Nathalie had cost her a kidney, something he hadn''t questioned until now. Faced with this mocking reflection, he saw how wrong he''d been.


    V&


    The man''s mocking gaze softened, reced by a look of pity. "Mr. Dawson, I was just teasing. No bread''s worth a heart. Your ex-wife asked me to look after you, so no thanks needed."


    He wished he could just vanish from this ce.

 Chapter 266

    Cameron''s eyes widened in shock,pletely floored by what he''d just heard. Nathalie was like a specter, forever shadowing him. Why couldn''t she just let go? Why wasn''t it enough for her after everything she''d put him through?


    The guy standing next to him continued, "You know, your ex-wife is something else. When she was younger, she begged on a bridge but refused to eat food thrown on the ground or pick up change. She went hungry for two days until someone finally gave her a proper meal. She bet you couldn''t handle two days of that. I thought she was underestimating you, but it turns out she was spot on. You couldn''t even make it a full day before picking up the piece of bread off the ground. Looks like she won." Cameron''s face twisted as if he''d tasted something awful. It was beyond words.


    Patting him on the shoulder, the guy added with a smirk, "You are just just sad."


    Cameron''s expression darkened even more. He spit out the bread that was stuck in his mouth, suddenly finding itpletely tasteless.


    The guy stood up and said, "By the way, that bread had my urine on it."


    A wave of nausea hit Cameron, and he started vomiting, desperate to get everyst bit of that bread out of his system. His face turned all sorts of colors, and his neck swelled as he heaved, looking utterly defeated.


    The guy justughed. "Your ex says you were born with a silver spoon and never had to face the real world. You always thought you were above everyone. She wanted me to give you a reality check." Laughter erupted all around them.


    "Rich kids just got lucky with birth. They''re just a bunch of softies, really."


    "What''s he got besides a pretty face? Nothing but hot air."


    As the taunts faded, Cameron found himself crumpled on the ground, feeling utterly beaten. A single tear slipped down his cheek. He touched it, surprised to find his fingertips wet. He was stunned that he''d been reduced to tears. The humiliation he faced today was enough to break even his strongest defenses.


    ?????


    Cameron started to grasp what Nathalie was trying to prove with this whole setup. He had mocked her once sneering at her for her slum upbringing, for begging. Only now did he realize how those offhand jabs could cut so deep.


    Finally ready to face the reality of his past with Nathalie, Cameron realized he had always seen himself as superior and more refined. Now, he saw that his so-called refinement was nothing more than an illusion crafted by his privileged background. Without his family''s safety, he wasn''t even as resilient as Nathalie.


    Not even close.


    As the night drew on, rain began to fall. Cold and hungry, Cameron stared out through the bars, feeling utterly hopeless. He didn''t sleep a wink.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Nathalie, why do you despise me so much?" he wondered aloud. "How far does your anger need to go before you''re satisfied?"


    The defiance and stubbornness in his eyes finally gave way to a deep confusion. He was itching to get back home, to dig into Timeless Cycle and find some answers.


    "Cameron." A voice broke through his thoughts. An officer stood at the door. "Your family posted bail. You''re free to go."


    Cameron let out a heavy sigh of relief.

 Chapter 267

    As Cameron let out a sigh of relief, a wave of shame washed over him. He couldn''t help but think, ''If Nathalie were in my shoes, she''d handle this mess with way more grace than I ever could.''


    him, sobbing her heart out.


    Barely managing to stand, Cameron dragged himself out. Kristina and Griffin were waiting for him outside. As soon as Griffin saw Cameron''s bedraggled and worn-out look, his eyes turned cold and dismissive. Kristina, however, rushed over and threw her arms around "What on earth happened? How did you end up in this situation?" Kristina demanded, pounding her fists lightly on his chest.


    Cameron gently pushed her away and shakily approached Griffin. "Dad, I''m innocent," he pleaded.


    Griffin''s response was curt and indifferent. "Well, at least you''re out now. From here on, keep your head low and avoid making enemies of the wrong people."


    Keep your head low? That was a bitter pill for Cameron to swallow, given his pride.


    He turned away, refusing to meet Griffin''s gaze. With a weary nce, Griffin said, "Your mom and I have split. The assets are sorted. You''re an adult now, so it is time to stand on your own feet. Stoping to us every time something goes wrong." Cameron stared at his mother, stunned, while the despair in Kristina''s eyes cut deep into his heart.


    "Why?" Cameron asked, his voice thick with anguish.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Griffin answered, "What do you think? I need someone capable to take over. Look at you. Ever since Greta came into your life, you''ve been actingpletely irrational, like you''re possessed. Even ancient kings made better decisions! A foolish king might lose a kingdom, but I can''t let Dawson International crumble under your watch. I''ve got to support my other son for the role and give him a proper standing."


    Cameron was left speechless.


    Griffin turned and left without another word, leaving Kristina and Cameron standing there, unsure of what to do next.


    Unable to face his mother, Cameron turned and walked away, his steps heavy with shame.


    Kristina watched his dejected figure retreat, her sobs growing louder. Her cries echoed in Cameron''s ears, tearing at his heart. "Mom, I''m sorry," he whispered to himself.


    By the time Cameron made it home, night had fallen. Greta had prepared a sumptuous dinner to wee him back. However, the sight of Greta brought a look of fear to Cameron''s eyes. He acted as if he''d seen


    ghost.


    Greta didn''t hesitate. She rushed to him and hugged him tightly. "Cameron, you''re finally back! You have no idea how tough these days have been for me. I begged my


    parents and even Nathalie to help


    You


    Thank goodness you''re out


    now; all my efforts paid off."


    Hearing her words, Cameron''s hardened heart began to soften. He reached out, gently stroking Greta''s thin, weary back. "You''ve been through a lot," he murmured.


    Greta helped him out of his coat, her


    tenderness like a blooming flower.


    "I''ve drawn a hot bath for you. Go rx a bit. When you''re done, a hot will be ready. Dinner''s almost


    done."


    "Okay," Cameron replied, his voice t, as he made his way to the bathroom.


    The faint aroma of herbal bath salts filled the air as Cameron sank his tired body into the warm water, feeling thefort surrounding him.


    This warmth was a gift from Greta. Yet, on his way home, he''d been thinking of distancing himself from her. He''d been so foolish.


    Greta hadn''t done anything wrong. Why should he push her away?


    "Greta, could you grab me some clean clothes?" Cameron called out, letting go of the barriers he''d built. He was ready to be at ease with her once more.

 Chapter 268

    "Alright," Greta replied cheerfully.


    She stepped into Cameron''s walk-in closet to pick out some loungewear for him, and her eyes fell upon a checkered drawer. To her amazement, insidey the Timeless Cycle ne she had always dreamed of owning. "This ne... is this Timeless Cycle?" Greta eximed, her excitement palpable as she examined the mysterious piece over and over.


    The moment her fingers brushed against a certain spot on the ne, she felt a jolt run through her body as if electrified, and a vivid scene unfolded in her mind.


    "Nel, do you have any idea how much I hate you? You took away my marriage, leaving me to live as the other woman, hidden in the shadows. You must die, and so must your daughter. Only then can I stand proudly by Cameron''s side." "Greta, hurting me might not bother Cameron, but if you harm our daughter, he will never forgive you. Don''t y with fire."


    "Nellie, let''s make a bet, shall we? Let''s see whose life Cameron values more your daughter''s or mine."


    After saying this, Greta swallowed an unknown pill. Soon, her body began to swell rmingly. She was in distress and called Cameron, "Cameron, I don''t think I''m going to make it..."


    Cameron dropped everything and raced back. "Greta, hang in there, I''ming," he assured her.


    After a frantic rush, Cameron got Greta to the hospital. The doctors examined her and delivered shocking news. "Greta has a severe kidney disease and should have been extremely careful with her diet. However, we foundrge amounts of nephrotoxic substances in her body. She''s in critical condition..."


    Greta wept, tears streaming down her face. "It was Nel. After I ate the pastry she made, I felt something was off."


    Cameron was livid. "What a wicked woman."


    The doctor then came with an even more rming update. "Greta needs an immediate sma exchange." "Then use Nellie''s," Cameron suggested.


    Greta objected, "Cameron, Nellie''s got a bad cold. What if she passes the infection to me?"


    The doctor shook his head. "No, the donor must be healthy."


    Greta muttered, "What now? The


    ?


    only ones in our family who can donate are my sister and my niece... My sister''s sick, and my niece is too young. There''s no one left.


    Cameron turned to the doctor, "Will there be any risk to the donor?"


    The doctor reassured him, "As


    as we


    there


    maintain sterile 12 et


    t be any issues, els


    Cameron''s eyes lit up. "Then we''ll use my daughter''s sma."


    The scene shifted to Cameron taking his daughter from Nellie''s arms. Nettie pleaded with him, "Cameron, if Greta needs blood, take mine. Use as much as you need, but don''t put our daughter through this. She''s too little to endure it."


    "You don''t deserve to donate your blood," Cameron snapped, his voice cold and firm. "Cameron, if you go through with this, we''re done. I''ll never forgive you," Nellie warned. Cameron paused, "How can you be so heartless? Greta''s your sister, and you would let her die?"


    "Cameron, this is all part of her scheme. Trust me, it''s a trap."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ignoring Nellie''s desperate sobs, Cameron pushed her away and left in a hurry.


    Nellie copsed, fainting from the emotional strain. "Cameron, don''t make me hate you."

 Chapter 269

    The energy from Timeless Cycle fizzled out, leaving the image to disappear into nothingness. Greta stood there, frozen, breaking into a cold sweat. Timeless Cycle held all her secrets, her wrongs. It was downright terrifying. "Greta," Cameron called from the bathroom.


    She hesitated for what felt like an eternity before tucking Timeless Cycle into her clothes, grabbing Cameron''s cleanundry, and leaving the room. When Cameron emerged, he found her lost in thought at the dining table. With a smile, he asked, "What''s on your mind?"


    Greta turned, shing a soft, teasing smile. "Oh, nothing. I''m just feeling bad for you. You''ve stood up to my sister, who''s as stubborn as theye, all for me. I feel awful about it." Cameron gave her a reassuring pat on the head. "Honestly, my selfishness stirred up trouble with her and even hurt her health. She has every right to hate me. I can''t me her." Greta stared at him, taken aback by his guilt and understanding toward Nathalie. It left her feeling uneasy.


    "Aren''t you being a bit too lenient with her?" Greta asked, jealousy creeping into her voice.


    Cameron replied, "Greta, Timeless Cycle showed me the past. If I hadn''t convinced Nathalie to donate her kidney for my own gain, her life could be so much better now. In the end, we''re the ones who messed up. So, even she schemed to get me locked up, I chose not to hold it against her."


    Greta couldn''t believe her ears. She clenched her hands tightly inside her sleeves. "But what if she takes it further and starts mess with us?"


    Cameron assured her, "I won''t let her hurt you. Trust me."


    Greta sighed. "Now that you''ve fallen out with the Dawson family, they won''t have your back anymore. But Nathalie has Nathan on her side. How will you protect me if she decides to mess with me?"


    Was Cameron now the ck sheep


    of the Dawson family? His eyes burned with fierce determination. "The Dawson family''s sess has my fingerprints all over it. If they think they can just toss me aside, they''re in for a surprise."


    A few dayster, Nathalie''s wounds had healed, and she made a beeline for Patrick''s hospital room. Coincidentally, the room was buzzing with activity.


    Miranda and Greta were there, eyeing Nathalie like she was the enemy. "What do you want?" Miranda demanded coolly from her wheelchair.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Nathalie stood a little distance away, studying Miranda. The once formidable woman was now reduced to a frail figure, timidly sitting in a wheelchair, holding a bedpan. The sour smell of urine lingered in the air.


    Nathalie couldn''t help but feel a pang of sadness. Miranda couldn''t fend for herself, but still took on the responsibility of caring for her bedridden ex-husband, all to ease the load for her beloved daughter, Greta.


    "I''m here to see how the mighty have fallen," Nathalie said with a shrug. "Mom, you know, when I was little all I wanted was to grow up strong and show you that having me as your daughter was the best O investment you ever made


    Miranda''s face grew tense. "What are you getting at?"


    Nathalie continued, "I''m saying that if you hadn''t turned a blind eye and helped your sickly daughter deceive me, with the wealth I have now, I could have cured your illness and given you a life of luxury and dignity."


    Kon

 Chapter 270

    Greta was feeling really hurt and abruptly cut Nathalie off. "Nathalie, don''t start with the fake sympathy. Mom took care of Dad because she wanted to, not because she had to. She''s not like you, who seems to have forgotten where you came from and how to respect your


    parents."


    Nathalie shot Greta a mocking look. "Greta, you only say you take care of our parents with words, don''t you?"


    "All these years, they''ve given everything for you. Have you ever cooked them a meal? Sewn them a piece of clothing? No, you haven''t. So, your so-called care is just empty words."


    Nathalie''s pointed remarks left Greta flustered, and she mumbled weakly, "I''m not well. I don''t have the strength to help them, and they understand."


    "Oh, you''re not well? But that wasn''t the case when you went to Mn for Fashion Week a few years back. You made loads of outfits, then. Howe you didn''t think to make something for our parents?"


    Greta''s face turned a deep shade of red, her eyes darting nervously to Miranda.


    Miranda''s gaze toward Greta turned noticeably icy.


    Nathalie continued to stir the pot. "Mom, look at your hands. You can''t even hold a bedpan without shaking. You should be living infort now. Remember when we lived together in that little ce by Rainbow Bridge? You were almost twenty years younger back then, and I was the one taking care of you."


    Miranda bit her lip, looking down in shame.


    Nathalie''s words had struck a chord. Her two daughters were so different. Greta''s talk was sweeter than her deeds. Nathalie''s actions spoke louder than her words.


    With Nathalie, Miranda felt genuinely happy. With Greta, she felt worn out.


    Seeing Miranda''s expression, Nathalie knew she had made her point.


    Greta couldn''t hold back her anger. "Nathalie, why are you even here? You''ve changed your name, so you''re not part of the Brown family anymore. We don''t want you here." Nathalie replied, "I came to get a strand of hair."


    Miranda''s bedpan suddenly dropped to the floor, spilling everywhere. Greta snapped, "Can''t you hold it properly?"


    Nathalie''s fierce gaze made Greta realize she''d been too harsh on Miranda and fell silent.


    Miranda, trembling, pulled out a strand of hair and offered it to Nathalie, "If you want hair, take as much as you need."


    Nathalie didn''t take the white hair. She knew her bond with Miranda was undeniable.


    In a previous life, they''d already done a DNA test. This time, she wanted to test against Patrick.


    As she stepped towards Patrick, Greta rushed over, shoving Nathalie aside. "What are you doing? Don''t you dare hurt my dad."


    Nathalie noted Greta''s over-the-top


    reaction and nced at Miranda, whose face showed panic. Nathalie figured something was up between her and Patrick.


    "Move aside," she demanded.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    "I won''t let you pull my dad''s hair," Greta insisted.


    Nathalie narrowed her eyes and tried to move Greta aside. But before she could even touch her, Greta was suddenly flung backward like an arrow letting out a blood-curdling scream as she hit the ground


    "Greta!" A tall figure burst through the door.


    In the next instant, Nathalie felt a stinging p across her face.


    "Nathalie, I didn''t think you could be


    this cruel," Cameron saint


    filled with anger.

 Chapter 271

    Cameron burst in like a whirlwind, helping Greta up from the ground. She leaned heavily into him, looking as fragile as a leaf about to fall, her voice barely above a whisper. "Nathalie, I only asked you to stay away from Dad because I was scared you''d pull another one of Cameron''s disappointment in Nathalie grew. His eyes were zing with anger and locked onto Nathalie as he bellowed, "Nathalie, if anything happens to your sister, you''ll pay for it..."


    your stunts and hurt him. Why did you have to be so rough with me? You know I''m not well, yet you treated me like this... cough, cough..."


    Nathalie simply rolled her eyes at his outburst. His re, full of malice, brought back memories from another time. Just like before, whenever Greta yed her little games, Cameron would lose his temper without bothering to find out the truth.


    Back then, Nathalie loved him and worried that his anger would wear him down, so she swallowed all the unfairness in silence, as long as he wasn''t too over the top. But now, with love long gone, Nathalie saw Cameron''s fury as nothing more than the tantrum of a selfish and ugly man.


    "Cameron, if your eyes aren''t working properly, maybe you should donate them," Nathalie said, raising her hand and giving him a p right back.


    The sound echoed loudly, marking the first time Cameron had ever been hit by a woman.


    Greta''s eyes went wide with shock. "Nathalie, did you just hit Cameron?"


    She rushed over, "How dare you hit Cameron? He''s a man; you''ve humiliated him!"


    Cameron pulled Greta back. "Greta, don''t lower yourself to her level."


    But Nathalie, unfazed, tripped Greta, sending her sprawling to the ground. Greta was now on her knees and wincing in pain, crying out, "Nathalie, how could you trip me?"


    Nathalie just stared at her with a smirk. "Didn''t you say I was bullying you? Now we''re even."


    Greta turned to Cameron with aint. "Cameron, look at her. She''s being too much!"


    Without even considering Nathalie''s story, Cameron saw that


    side of


    Greta


    hurt andshed out at


    Nathalie, "Nathalie, apologize to your sister."


    Nathalie scoffed, "Cameron, who do you think you are? You can''t boss me around."


    Fuming, Cameron tightened his on her


    apologize to your sisterThis is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    t end." Content booday, or this


    Ds at "You''re going to


    He was convinced Nathalie needed a lesson. What if she might do something more awful to Greta next time? Nathalie stared at his hand mped around her wrist, as unyielding as a vice, with not an ounce of gentleness. "Oh, please."


    She found itughable. Cameron was so worried she''d hurt Greta that he felt the need to scare her.


    Gritting her teeth, Nathalie warned him fiercely, "Cameron, let go, or I promise you''ll regret it."


    Cameron was unmoved, "Nathalie, I''m giving you a lesson this time. You need to learn not to bully your sister."


    With her free hand, Nathalie grabbed


    her phone and dialed 911. "Hi, I''ddike


    to report an attempted murder by


    Cameron against his exot


    BUMS


    Cameron''s eyes bulged as he shouted, "You''re lying... I didn''t..."


    Nathalie calmly said, "Officer, you can hear him. Cameron''s right here, and he''s holding me against my will."

 Chapter 272

    Cameron immediately let go of her hand.


    After Nathalie called the police, she kicked back in her chair, looking as rxed as if she were on vacation.


    Greta was in a panic. "Cameron, what are we going to do? She''s called the cops!"


    Cameron stayed cool as a cucumber. "Nathalie, I was nning to go easy on you. But if you''re looking for trouble, I''m happy to oblige. Remember, you were the one who hurt Greta first. Even if the police show up, they''re taking you away, not me." Nathalie shot a nce at the surveince camera in the corner. "Cameron, let''s see how this ys out."


    Following Nathalie''s gaze, Greta spotted the camera and went pale as a sheet. She''d deliberately fallen earlier and tried to pin the me on Nathalie for pushing her, sparking this whole mess. She was the one who''d started it all.


    Greta didn''t want things to spiral out of control, so she put on her best innocent face and said to Cameron, "Cameron, let''s just let this go. Sure, Nathalie pushed me, but you also hurt her. Let''s call it even."


    Cameron put on a show of magnanimity to avoid any more drama. "Since your sister is begging me to forgive you, Nathalie, I''ll let it slide. You can go."


    But Nathalie wasn''t having it. She crossed her legs, looking as unbothered as ever, and said, "I''m not leaving. I''m sticking around until the police sort this out."


    Cameron chuckled. "You think the police station is your personalint department? You''re the one in the wrong. How are they going to give you justice?"


    Nathalie fixed him with a steely re. "Cameron, you pped me out of nowhere, and I won''t let it go."


    "And just how are you innocent?" Cameron shot back, anger rising. "You pushed Greta."


    Just then, while they were in the middle of their shouting match, the police arrived.


    Cameron was the first to speak, calmlyying out his version of events. "When I came in, I saw Nathalie attacking her sister. Greta was struggling to breathe, and in a moment of rage, I pped Nathalie, hoping to snap her out of it. But Nathalie got even more worked up and hit me and kicked Greta. I had to grab her wrist to stop her..."


    After finishing his story, he added, "She''s just ying the victim and making a big fuss over nothing."


    After noting Cameron''s ount, the officer turned to Nathalie. "Nathalie, do you have anything to add?"


    Nathalie showed her wrist, which was bruised and rming shades of red and purple, where Cameron had grabbed her.


    "Officer, look at this. Cameron left these marks on me. I want to charge him with assault."


    Cameron stepped back, startled. "How did that happen?"


    Nathalie shot him a triumphant grin when the officer wasn''t looking.


    Cameron protested, "Officer, she was really agitated and clearly meant to harm her sister. I had to restrain her. I admit I might have been a bit rough..."


    Nathalie pointed at the surveince


    camera. Officer, I didn''t hurt Greta. He barged in and hit me without a second thought. I was just defending myself. The footage will back me up."


    Both had their own stories to tell. Thankfully, the officer wasn''t easily swayed. "I''ll check the surveince footage."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, the officer took everyone to


    the surveince room. As the


    footage yed, it clearly showed


    Cameron barging in and Greta copsing backward without Nathalie even touching her

 Chapter 273

    Cameron looked at the surveince and watched Greta hit the ground. He watched himself storm over to Nathalie and, without a second thought, pped her hard.


    Cameron''s face turned sour as if he''d just swallowed something rotten. His earlier bravado vanished in a heartbeat. He stared at Greta, utterly shocked.


    Greta, avoiding his eyes, looked anywhere but at him.


    Annoyed, Nathalie snapped at both Cameron and Greta, "You two are a couple of loose cannons."


    The officer shook his head, equally frustrated, "Cameron, as you can see, your wife tried to frame Nathalie. Yet you went ahead and hit her without knowing the facts. Now Nathalie is pressing assault charges, and we have no choice but to take you in." With hard evidence against him, Cameron had nothing to say. He red at Greta, his usual gentle gaze now tinged with disappointment. "Greta, why would you do that?"


    Terrified by his cold stare, Greta dropped to her knees and pped herself, tears streaming down her face. "Cameron, I''m sorry, I''ve dragged you into this mess."


    "I never meant to hurt anyone. I just wanted Nathalie to get a taste of her own medicine, to feel what it''s like to be wrongly used. I honestly thought she''d change her ways, but it all backfired."


    Ah, so that was what happened. Cameron''s icy demeanor thawed just a little. He helped Greta up, with a hint of resignation, "Greta, I don''t me you. You were just trying to defend me."


    Relieved by his forgiveness, Greta let out a breath she didn''t know she was holding.


    Nathalie, though, was floored. She''d just witnessed what it truly meant to be favored.


    But Nathalie wasn''t about to let things slide. She pointed at Greta and told the officer, "I want to press charges against her, too."


    Cameron immediately got defensive. "Nathalie, stop acting like a rabid dog and going after everyone. Greta hasn''t harmed you. What could you possibly charge her with?"


    Nathalie smirked, "For nder. She used me of something I didn''t do."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron shouted, "That''s ridiculous!"


    The officers, trying to suppress their amusement, gently advised Nathalie, "We understand you''re upset, Nathalie. But Greta''s health isn''t great, and her actions don''t meet the


    criminal threshold. We''ll just give her a warning."


    Reluctantly, Nathalie backed off.


    Cameron, on the other hand, exhaled a heavy sigh of relief.


    Nathalie watched him closely, realizing just how much more he cared for Greta than himself. Suddenly, she had a change of heart. Instead of indirectly going after Cameron, why not target his beloved directly? She approached Greta and said, "I might forgive your man, but you''ll have to make a deal with me."


    Greta, desperate for a way out, replied, "Name it, and I''ll agree."


    Nathalie said, "I want to take Mom with me."


    Greta looked confused. "You''re doing this out of kindness?"


    A mischievous glint appeared in Nathalie''s eyes. She recalled


    condition had deteriorated into mental instability and severe


    something from her past: Pet


    paralysis, leaving himpletely dependent. Even then, his temper was as fiery as ever.


    The caregivers couldn''t handle his outbursts and quit one by one. Greta, the pampereddy she was wasn''t equipped to handle caretaking, so she convinced Miranda to take on the responsibility of looking after Patrick.


    Miranda stuck with it until Patrick passed away.


    If she took Miranda away, the duty of caring for Patrick wouldnd squarely on Greta. Nathalie was curious to see if Greta, the spoiled heiress, would lower herself to tend to Patrick''s most basic needs.

 Chapter 274

    Nathalie wondered if Patrick would ever regret all he''d done for his little princess when he realized she didn''t appreciate him at all. Nathalie couldn''t help but give herself kudos. "My mom raised me, and it''s only right that I take care of her now that she''s older." Greta looked like she was caught between a rock and a hard ce; clearly, she wasn''t keen on losing Miranda as her unpaid helper. But in order to show Cameron the depth of her love, she had to give in.


    "Alright, I''ll agree to it. Just don''t go digging into Cameron''s mistakes anymore, and you can take Mom with you." Greta let go of Miranda like she was a toy, without a hint of remorse.


    Miranda''s face, etched with wrinkles and sorrow, pleaded with Nathalie, whose eyes were as cold as ice. She couldn''t believe Nathalie would truly care for her. She then looked helplessly at Greta, but Greta refused to acknowledge her. She was like a pet whom Greta heldplete control over.


    Miranda hung her head, tears spilling over. In the end, Nathalie wheeled Miranda away.


    The officer left. The drama had finally wrapped up, but things in the hospital were far from over.


    Soon after Miranda left, Patrick lost control of his bodily functions. The room quickly filled with a horrible stench.


    The doctor managed to get hold of Greta andid into her. "Miss Greta, you know your father''s condition. He''s mentally shattered and can''t care for himself. He needs someone with him. How could you leave him alone? He''s had repeated incidents of incontinence and hasn''t been cared for. You need toe clean up this mess now."


    Greta and Cameron rushed to the scene. The sight of the mess on the bed nearly made them both gag. They exchanged looks of sheer disgust.


    Greta was hoping Cameron would step up to help with Patrick, but Cameron, who''d been pampered all his life, wasn''t about to lower himself to take care of someone else.


    Their eyes met, and they both saw each other''s refusal reflected back.


    Patrick, clueless as ever, ranted, "Greta, where''s your mom? What''s happened to her? Why didn''t shee to look after mest night?"


    Greta told him, "Nathalie took Mom away."Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Patrick was floored. "She''s gone... really?"


    Patrick''s bravado crumbled in an instant. His wrinkled face twisted in frustration, and he finally had to swallow his pride and beg Greta. "Greta, I''m really ufortable. Please help me clean up."


    Greta felt a wave of shame and awkwardness wash over her. ¡°What are you saying? We have


    boundaries, and I''m not doing that,¡± Greta snapped back at Patrick.


    Patrick felt crushed. "I''m your father. I''m suffering, and you''re worried about your pride..."


    Greta turned to Cameron, pleading, "Cameron..."


    Cameron frowned, and his refusal was unyielding. "I''m not doing it either."


    They both stood there, feeling utterly awkward in the middle of the room.


    In the end, Cameron had to call in a caregiver, who, seeing their desperation, charged nearly ten times the normal rate before agreeing to help Patrick.


    Greta let out a breath of relief, nut when she turned to Cameron, she noticed a cloud of worry darkening his face. Her heart sank again.


    The caregiver''s fees would run into the thousands every month, and Cameron currently didn''t have a job or ie. Clearly he couldn''t keep this up for long.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 275

    Greta was caught off guard and realized something. "Nathalie, you took Mom away just to make me look bad, didn''t you?" Her frustration with Nathalie grew even deeper.


    On the other side of town, Miranda went home with Nathalie, expecting to find her living in a run-down ce. But as soon as they stepped inside, Miranda was floored by the spacious living room, the luxurious decor, and all the pricey ornaments. This massive apartment on the city''s south side was worth at least six figures. At nearly 4,000 square feet, it was like a rare gem, with a price tag pushing into the millions. It was the kind of ce Miranda could only dream of living in. She was so excited her voice shook. "Nathalie, when did you get such an amazing ce? How did you be so wealthy and not tell us? You have to take care of us now. We''ve had a rough life, and it''s finally time for somefort." With a cool edge, Nathalie replied, "Don''t get the wrong idea. I didn''t bring you here for a joyride."


    Miranda was taken aback. "Then why am I here?"This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Nathalie casually poured herself a ss of juice, sipping it elegantly without offering any to Miranda. After finishing, she looked at her coldly and said, "You remember how you treated me back then, right?"


    Miranda''s eyes flickered with guilt as she fumbled for words. "I''m getting old, so I''m a bit forgetful. I can''t remember things from so long ago."


    Nathalie leaned in, not letting her off the hook. "Real Alzheimer''s doesn''t work like that. People might forget recent stuff but remember the distant past vividly."


    Standing tall again, Nathalie continued, "It''s okay if you can''t recall; I''ll help remind you. The way you treated me is how I''ll treat you."


    Miranda felt cornered and apologized, "Nathalie, I know I messed up before. I''m sorry..."


    Nathalie frowned, feeling her anger rise. Why should someone who caused so much hurt get away with just a sorry?


    She wanted revenge, but she took in Miranda''s frail, timid figure, and her resolve wavered. What was the point of punishing Miranda? She was just an old woman, nearly at life''s end. Fighting with her seemed pointless.


    "Just remember how you were with me. Don''t expect love or respect. But as long as you don''t stir up trouble, I''ll take care of you."


    Miranda had hoped for a prosperous daughter to elevate her. Nathalie''s words brought her back to reality, leaving her disappointed.


    Nathalie added, "You should be grateful. I didn''t leave you with Greta to serve her and deal with that bedridden ex of yours. That''s your silver lining."


    Miranda stayed silent. She didn''t


    want to care for her ex-husband, but


    she loved her daughter Greta too


    much to see her in that role as Patrick''s caregiver.


    "I''d rather go back," Miranda finally said after a pause.


    Nathalie gave her a hard look. "If you''re so keen on going back, I''ll send you back. But not yet. I want you to see how your darling daughter handles that old fool."

 Chapter 276

    "Do you reckon she''s gonna end up waiting on the old man hand and foot?"


    Just the thought of delicate Greta having to cater to Patrick''s every whim tugged at Miranda''s heart. "Cameron loves her too much to let her do all that dirty, exhausting stuff."


    "But what if Cameron''s hit rock bottom and can''t afford to hire someone to look after Patrick?" Nathalie wondered aloud.


    Miranda''s face fell at that. She insisted on going back, "This ce is way too posh for me. I''m just a simple olddy. Please, let me go back."


    Nathalie didn''t budge.


    Lizzy had had enough of Miranda''s whining. With a mischievous grin, she pinched Miranda''s chin and teased, "Oh, you old gal. I oughta dig out that twisted heart of yours and see what''s inside. You''ve got two daughters, and here Nathalie treats you like royalty, while Greta just uses you like a handy tool. Yet, you still wanna go back and help her?"


    Miranda''s eyes flickered with guilt.


    Lizzy caught that flicker and muttered, "Could it be that Nathalie isn''t really your biological daughter?"


    Miranda jumped like she''d been stung, trembling with panic written all over her face. "Nonsense, they''re both my daughters."


    Her reaction only made Lizzy more suspicious.


    Miranda tried to cover up, but it was weak. "Greta''s always been frail. It''s only natural that I worry about her more. Nathalie''s strong; she doesn''t need my fussing."


    Lizzy red at her incredulously. "Never seen a mom y favorites like that."


    Nathalie sat in a rocking chair, her eyes closed, lost in thought. Lizzy''s words made her doubt her own identity even more.


    "Lizzy."


    "Yeah, Nathalie?" Lizzy moved closer to Nathalie.


    Out of the blue, Nathalie grabbed a handful of her hair and yanked hard, handing over several strands, follicles and all. "Help me get a DNA test done with these." "Sure thing, Nathalie," Lizzy nodded.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Miranda''s face stayed neutral.


    Nathalie added, "Try to snag some of my dad''s hair, too, and check mine against his as well."


    Miranda panicked right away. "What''s with all that trouble? If you''re testing mine, why bother with his? Don''t you think you''re just burning money?"


    Nathalie sat up straight, fixing


    Miranda with a steely gaze. "I''ve thought about it. I might be your daughter, but maybe not his.


    Greta and not care about mol


    Otherwise, why would he dote on


    swne gl


    Miranda was flustered. Finally, she burst out, "You guessed it."


    She paused, then admitted in a defeated tone, "You''re right; you''re not his daughter."


    Nathalie''s world cracked open, piece by piece, as she recalled the


    humiliation of trying to win Patrick''s approval only to be mocked and taunted. Her pride shattered, making her almost obsessively believe she was inherently unworthy of a father''s love.


    However, the naked truth was absurd. It turned out that Patrick wasn''t her father at all.


    How ridiculous. She had been wrong from the start.


    Vl


    Nathalie erupted, yelling hysterically, "If he''s not my real dad, what right does he have to guilt-trip me into doing things for him as his daughter? What right does he Kave to boss me around? On what grounds?"


    sto


    Miranda was terrified by her outburst. She shrank back in her wheelchair, looking like she wished she could vanish into thin air.


    Nathalie finally broke down. She clutched her head and cried her heart out.

 Chapter 277

    Miranda looked like a child caught in mischief, huddled in her wheelchair, trembling. "Nellie..." she started, trying to find the words.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, the name only made Nathalie''s temper re even more. She was like a wild lion, charging toward Miranda. She gripped Miranda''s arms fiercely and shouted, "Don''t call me Nellie! I can''t stand that name." Miranda was helpless. "Please, don''t get upset..."


    The more Miranda tried to exin, the angrier Nathalie became. "Why did you lie to me? You watched me make a fool of myself trying to please him. Why? You''re my mom. How could you let your own daughter grovel for a man who isn''t even my family?" Miranda sobbed, "I... I''m sorry, I didn''t realize it would hurt you this much..."


    "What good is an empty apology? It doesn''t fill the cracks in my heart."


    Eventually, Nathalie''s anger dissipated, leaving her weary. She copsed onto the couch, ring coldly at Miranda. "You''re not cut out to be a mother."


    Miranda felt a surge of righteous anger at Nathalie''s usation. To her, it was outrageous for someone younger to criticize an elder. But she couldn''tsh out and scold or hit Nathalie like she used to whenever she was upset. Ever since she found out about the awful things Nathalie had done to Patrick, Miranda had developed a fear of Nathalie.


    She quivered, "Because of you, he''s now bedridden. His mind is a mess, he''s incontinent, and he has been stripped of dignity. You''ve had your revenge. Isn''t it time to let go?"


    A shadow crossed Nathalie''s eyes. "It''s not enough," she hissed.


    Miranda''s nerves went taut. Nathalie''s hatred was like a spark ready to ignite everything around her, leaving Miranda uneasy. "What do you... want?" she asked, her voice shaking. Nathalie replied, "I want you all to feel the pain I''ve endured, too."


    Pale-faced Miranda tried to reason with Nathalie. "Nathalie, you lost a kidney, sure, but look at you now, living a morous life. After all the suffering you''ve put us through, shouldn''t you be satisfied?


    Nathalie''s eyes red, bloodshot. "Did I only lose a kidney? I was betrayed by people I trusted the most and stabbed in the back by my family. You should taste this despair, too."


    Miranda couldn''t grasp Nathalie''s


    pain and thought she was being


    unreasonable. She numbly said, "Ift faced what you did, I''d be grateful for the Jesson instead of wallowing in despair. You''re just being petty... you''re unable to overlook the


    smallest slight."


    Nathalie''s fist clenched tightly. "Remember what you just said."


    Then she turned and headed upstairs. That night, Nathalie cried until the break of dawn.


    The next day, as Nathalie descended the stairs the air felt unusually tense and heavy. It wasn''t until she spotted a distinguished-looking man in the living room that she realized the source of the tension.


    Nathan heard the soft steps on the stairs and turned abruptly. When he noticed Nathalie''s tear-stained eyes, a cold fury shed in his gaze. He strode over, reaching out to touch her face. Nathalie dodged, so he wouldn''t see her vulnerable side.


    Nathan''s anger red. He gripped her chin fiercely. "Who made you cry?" his voice was icy with rage.


    Startled, Miranda dropped the ss she was holding.


    Nathan turned and snapped at her. "Useless old fool. You can''t even hold a ss."

 Chapter 278

    Miranda''s head was hanging so low it looked like she was about to kiss the ground. Nathalie was determined not to let anyone see her wounds. But Lizzy couldn''t hold back her frustration, and spoke up on her behalf. "Mr. Nathan, it''s all Miranda''s fault. She said a bunch Nathan let go of Nathalie and marched over to Miranda with a menacing re. "What did you say?"


    of horrible thingsst night and made Nathalie cry."


    Just as Lizzy was about to exin, Nathan raised a hand to stop her. "I want to hear it from her."


    Summoning all her courage, Miranda nced up at Nathan, but his fierce eyes made her feel like she was being sucked into a ck hole. Her breath caught, and she quickly dropped her gaze again. "Speak," Nathanmanded, his voice booming.


    Miranda''s voice shook as she replied, "I didn''t say anything..."


    After a moment, as if recalling something, she haltingly added. "Oh, she wanted to know the truth about our family, so I told her. She''s not Patrick''s real daughter..."


    Nathan''s eyes darkened dangerously, his fists clenching under his sleeves. "And what else?"


    Miranda tried to y innocent. "I just don''t get it. She only lost a kidney, but she acts like we owe her everything. Can''t she be more forgiving? Wouldn''t it be better if we all just got along?"


    As Miranda spoke, a chill ran down her spine. She looked up at Nathan. His icy gaze felt like a thousand arrows piercing through her, leaving her trembling.


    Nathan was furious as he said, "How dare you! Why do you expect her to help you so selflessly? You''re so shameless. You don''t deserve this life anymore." Lizzy pped in agreement. "Right on. Mr. Nathan has spoken, and I''ll happily oblige."


    Lizzy fetched a pill from a drawer, dropped it into a ss of water, and walked over to Miranda.


    Miranda screamed in terror. "What are you doing?"


    She knew Nathalie''s soft heart and turned to her for mercy. "Nathalie, I''m your mother. You can''t do this. This will bring bad karma."


    Nathalie felt a stab of guilt and unconsciously stepped forward. But Nathan blocked her path, standing like a wall.


    "Nathan..." Nathalie''s face showed her inner turmoil.


    Nathan spoke firmly, "I won''t let you interfere. If she made you unhappy, then let her be even more miserable."


    Nathan''s protectiveness caused a


    e''


    warmth to spread through Nathalie''s heart. She had always been clear-headed and never hurt people who cared about her while protecting someone who didn''t.


    ??


    BUMS


    "I won''t interfere then." She smiled softly, then turned and walked away, feeling lighter.


    Nathan watched her leave, a slight smile breaking through his cold demeanor. Nathalie was such a wonderful girl. If others didn''t appreciate her, he surely dido


    en


    With Nathalie gone, Miranda had no protector left.


    Lizzy let loose, pouring the drugged water into Miranda''s mouth.


    Miranda shrieked from the burning pain. "I''m going to die," she cried out, desperate for help.


    With a wicked grin, Lizzy said, "Don''t worry, I won''t let you die. Your death would spoil my fun. I need you alive. To slowly torment you."


    Not long after swallowing theText content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    drugged water, Miranda''s face


    itched unbearably. She scratched


    furiously, tearing her skin apart. The sight was horrifying. Her skin was raw and bloody, yet she couldn''t stop herself.

 Chapter 279

    Once the effects of the pill wore off, the itch was gone, but it left behind a world of pain.


    "You might as well just end it," Miranda muttered, feeling utterly hopeless.


    Nathan stood there, hands on his hips, looking down at her like she was nothing. "Can''t handle a bit of pain? You''re tough as nails. Suck it up."


    Miranda was dumbstruck by Nathan''smanding aura. He was like some kind of king.


    "Hmph, remember when Nathalie had to beg all over town just to support her useless mother? Do you even know how many dirty looks she got? How many times did she get smacked around?"


    Nathan leaned in close, his breath hot against her ear. It felt like the cold edge of a knife just hovering there. No harm was done, but it was terrifying.


    "Do you even recall the day Nathalie ran barefoot to escape some creep, only to get her foot pierced by a nail? And when she got home, how did you treat her?"


    Nathan''s words pulled Miranda back to that day. The memory was as fresh as yesterday.


    Nathalie returned home, leaving a trail of blood. Her little feet were bleeding, but Miranda offered nofort. She focused only on Nathalie''s empty hands andshed out at her foring back with nothing.


    Miranda shook her head desperately, trying to brush off her past mistakes. "I don''t remember. I don''t remember anything."


    Nathan stood up straight, his voice filled with sadness and regret. "Do you have any idea how much she hurt back then?"


    Miranda''s face remained emotionless. "She''s my daughter. Isn''t it her job to help me out? Every poor kid grows up having to work hard. Those troubles she experienced while begging? Not my fault. She should think about why she ran into bad people and not someone else."This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Nathan''s face twisted in anger, his hand tightening around Miranda''s neck. "Even animals know to protect their kids. You''re worse than an animal." "Lizzy."


    Lizzy, who had been watching, stepped up. "Yes, Mr. Rond."


    Nathan suddenly had an idea and let go. A wicked grin spread across his face. "Help her remember the pieces she''s forgotten."


    Lizzy nodded. "Alrighty."


    She spruced Miranda up and wheeled her out the door.


    Nathan stood there for a bit before snapping back to reality. He grabbed a disinfectant wipe, cleaned his hands like he was ridding them of something unpleasant, and tossed it in the trash.


    Then he headed upstairs. He knocked on Nathalie''s door, which swung open almost immediately.


    Nathan stepped inside to find his


    ?


    favorite Earl Grey tea already on the table, making him smile. "Wow. Why''re you treating me to such. fancy tea? You''re spoiling me."He sounded like he wasmenting the extravagance.


    Nathalie chuckled. "Nathan, nothing''s too good for you."


    Nathan grinned. "Since you love me so much, Nathalie, I''m sure you''ll grant me any request, right?"


    Nathalie teased, "Oh, so that''s what


    you''re up to? I wondered why the


    high and mighty Mr. Rond


    as


    going out of his way to back me up today."


    Nathanughed heartily. "So, Nathalie, will you agree or not?"


    Nathalie''s smile faded, and she turned serious. "Alright, spill it. What''s on your mind?"

 Chapter 280

    Nathan sighed, "My grandfather insists I represent the Rond family at Mr. Justin''s birthday bash."


    Nathalie raised an eyebrow. "So, you want me to whip up an outfit for you?"


    Nathan just sighed again. He grumbled, "Nathalie, you know how dull those rich kids'' parties are. They only care about showing off their cars, mansions, or dates. I''ve got none of that, and I''ll just end up as the butt of their jokes." Nathalie remembered her past life as the overlooked Mrs. Dawson. She was always bullied at such gatherings. It was a bitter memory. She couldn''t stand the idea of Nathan going through the same ordeal.


    "I''ll splurge and get you a Silver Phantom," Nathalie dered with determination.


    Nathan was taken aback. He could totally afford a car. He nned on filling his garage one day anyway.


    Nathan swallowed hard. "But garage fees are steep. Pretending to be rich could backfire on us, right?"


    Nathalie caught his drift. "We might not outshine them with fancy cars or houses, but I can definitely hold my own as your date, right?"


    Nathan chuckled andid it on thick, "Great n. Nathalie, you have radiant skin, gorgeous looks, and those long legs, not to mention you were Jasmine''s star prot¨¦g¨¦ and are a trendsetter. If youe with me, they''d all be green with envy." Nathalie hesitated. "Do you think I can do it?"


    Deep down, she was insecure, having been undermined by her family''s maniptive tactics for too long. The whispers about her being a once-married woman had shaken her confidence.


    Nathan looked her in the eye. "Why wouldn''t you be?"


    Nathalie found herself lost in Nathan''s reassuring gaze. "Alright, I''ll give it a shot."


    Nathan beamed. "We''re pressed for time. I''ll sort out the outfits for the g."


    "Okay." Nathalie knew how extravagant these rich folks'' parties could be, so Nathan''s choice of attire would surely be spot-on.


    ...


    Lizzy wheeled Miranda into a deserted, rundown area.


    "What are you doing?" Miranda''s panic rose.


    Lizzy finally stopped at Rainbow Bridge. "Miranda, this ce must ring a bell for you, right?"


    "Why did you bring me here?"


    Lizzy yanked her out of the wheelchair and dumped her onto the cold, dirty ground beneath the bridge.


    "From now on, you''ll be begging here every day."


    "How can you treat an elderly person like this?"


    "Why not? Isn''t this how you treated Nathalie when she was little? She should have been carefree at that age, but you forced her out of school to beg and live in luxury off her misery. Now it''s your turn to support Nathalie."


    Miranda looked around at the indifferent onlookers and pleaded weakly. Someone, please call the police. My daughter''smitting abandonment..." Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Lizzy addressed the crowd. "Please, don''t believe her lies. Her daughter is the most wonderful daughter anyone could have. In her younger and able years, this old woman waszy and made her five-year-old daughter beg everywhere. She even let her lousy husband pretend to be her daughter''s real father They both tricked their daughter into giving up her kidney..."

 Chapter 281

    The crowd around couldn''t believe their ears. "Good grief, is that even real?" someone eximed.


    "Such a woman shouldn''t be a mother. She deserves to face the music right now," another added, disgust dripping from their words.


    In no time, people spat at her and hurled eggs, leaving Miranda in a pitiful state. She yelled at the top of her lungs, "She''s my daughter! What I do with her is my business. You have no right to judge me!" "Shameless!" someone shot back. "Just because she''s your flesh and blood doesn''t mean she''s your property. You can''t control her life like that."


    "Must be rough having you as a mom," another chimed in.


    Overwhelmed by the onught of insults, Miranda''s bravado faltered. Her thick skin finally cracked, and she realized she had to swallow her pride and beg Lizzy for forgiveness.


    However, when she tried to find Lizzy, she realized that Lizzy had vanished.


    Panic surged through her. Without Lizzy, how would she get home? The thought of living as a beggar forever was unbearable.


    The weather was turning nasty as autumn began to bow out to winter. Miranda had left the house dressed too lightly, and now the biting wind and cold drizzle seeped into her bones, making her shiver uncontrobly. As she huddled for warmth, she quickly felt the gnawing pain of hunger.


    The people around her mocked her with cold detachment. When someone showed a hint ofpassion and offered her food, others quickly intervened. "Don''t give her anything. She doesn''t deserve it." "She''s a real piece of work for abusing her daughter and scheming with her husband to steal her daughter''s kidney," someone remarked.


    Hearing that, the would-be helper pulled back their offerings, tossing them to a nearby stray dog instead. "She''s not worth an ounce of sympathy. I''d rather feed a dog than this vile woman."


    Miranda''s face flushed with shame; she felt like a zoo animal on disy, exposed for all to see.


    As the day waned and evening settled in, a flicker of hope sparked within her: Maybe Nathalie woulde and take her home.


    But her nightmare was far from over.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    The bustling crowd under the overpass thinned out, and the beggars began their nightly routines, turning the lively scene eerily silent. Miranda scanned her surroundings, desperate for salvation. However, redemption wasn''ting, and only troubley ahead.


    A group of sleazy men, grinning


    from ear to ear, sauntered over to Miranda. Completely oblivious to the danger lurking, she naively asked these men for help, "Can you help me call my daughter? She cane and take me home."


    The men sneered in disbelief, "Do you even know who we are? And you''re asking us for help? Ha-ha-ha."


    One of them whipped out a shiny dagger, pressing its sharp edge against her face. "I''ve had my eye on you all day. Someone as rotten as you probably won''t be missed. I was thinking of borrowing something from you..."


    Seeing the knife, Miranda was


    frozen with fear. "You want money,


    is that it? Let me go, and I promise you''ll get plenty. My daughter has no shortage of cash; just help me contact her... I''ll have her bring you the money," she pleaded.


    The thug snorted, "You want your daughter to bring us... money? Damn, I''ve never seen a mom throw her kid under the bus like this. But I don''t want your cash. What I want is your kidney."


    Miranda was too selfish to care


    about Nathalie''s safety. "I''m old. My


    organs are on theirst legs. Taking my kidney''s won''t do much good. My daughter is young, beautiful, and strong. When she gets here, you won''t be disappointed."


    Without a word, one of the men kicked Miranda in the face, knocking her to the ground.

 Chapter 282

    "Don''t think I don''t know the score. Your man swindled your daughter out of a kidney, leaving her with just one. If I took that one, she''d be done for. I don''t fancy having blood on my hands-too much guilt in that. So, it''s better to go for yours instead." He barked out an order, "Okay, guys, let''s make this quick."


    Miranda went white as a sheet. She never thought she''d find herself in such a filthy mess. She snatched up a rock from the ground and smacked it against the man''s head, then, with shaky legs, she scrambled away as fast as she could manage. The menughed uproariously behind her. They trailed after her without hurry.


    Miranda wished she could sprout wings and fly away; she crawled until her strength gave out, feeling utterly hopeless and helpless.


    "Why''d you stop?" The man crouched down, flicked the cigarette from his mouth, and pressed it against her cheek.


    Miranda let out a howl of pain, but the searing physical pain was nothingpared to the terror clutching her heart. "Get away from me! Back off!"Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The men burst intoughter at her fear-stricken face. "Don''t run. We''ll make it quick. It won''t hurt a bit. I promise. You really don''t appreciate the favor. We''re doing you a service by picking your kidney."


    Miranda curled up into a ball. "Don''t touch me. My daughter''s fiercely loyal. If youy a finger on me, she''ll make sure you regret it."


    "Your daughter?" The man sneered, "You pushed her into hell. She wouldn''t care if you lived or died." With that, he suddenly yanked up her shirt, revealing her pale skin.


    Miranda''s face drained of color. Pure terror showed on her face. Then came a humiliating sound. She lost control of herself. The air immediately reeked with the stench. The men covered their noses. "Way to kill the mood." And then, they vanished into the night, disappearing swiftly.


    Lizzy stepped out of the shadows, sauntered up to Miranda, and mockingly asked, "How''s life as a beggar treating you?"


    Miranda red at her, her face gray with shame. "You... you set me up... just to disgrace me..."


    Lizzy looked at Miranda''s empty hands, her gaze turning icy. "A whole day''s work and nothing to show for it? Useless." She kicked her.


    Miranda felt a mix of anger and


    humiliation but mostly fear. She kept


    for forgiveness, "I was wrong. I. shouldn''t have treated my daughter that way before. Please, miss take me home."


    bowing her head to Lizzy, pleading t


    Lizzy''s eyes glistened with emotion "You couldn''t handle being a beggar for even a day? Nathalie had been doing it for years, and you never cared..."


    "I am sorry." Miranda cried, covering her face.


    Lizzy snapped harshly, "If you upset Nathalie again once we''re back, I''ll hand you right over to those traffickers."


    "I won''t! I swear I won''t."


    Finally, Lizzy took Miranda home.


    That night, everything was quiet. Cameron sat up in bed, leaning against the headboard, holding an invitation in his hand, his face clouded with worry.


    Gretay next to him, her voiceced with jealousy "They''re really pushing it. You''re the rightful heir to the Dawson family, but your dad throws this big bash for his illegitimate son. He''s parading him in front of all the big families as if prepping him to take over the Dawson legacy."


    Cameron sighed heavily, "I me myself for not stepping up."

 Chapter 283

    Greta scoffed, "Cameron, do you really think your dad cut you off because you messed up?"


    "What else could it be?" Cameron replied with a hint of indifference.


    "Come on, it''s obvious your dad''s got a soft spot for that mistress of his. He''s been plotting to raise her status for ages. Your divorce was the perfect excuse to chip away at your influence, then he pressured your mom to leave with nothing, and now he''s grooming his illegitimate kid to take over."


    Cameron''s eyes widened in shock. He couldn''t believe how urately Greta had pieced together the situation with such sharp insight.


    Noticing his slight change in demeanor, Greta pressed on, "Look at me, Cameron. No matter what I do, my dad would never abandon me. That''s what a real father''s love looks like. Maybe your dad never truly cared for you from the start..."


    Cameron drifted into deep thought. Greta''s words felt like they had unlocked a flood of jealousy and anger within him, leaving him seething over his father''s betrayal and abandonment.


    His fists clenched, veins popping on his forehead. After a moment, he rxed his grip. "My dad''s always been straightced and honest. It was my divorce from Nathalie that set him off."


    "Let''s hope you''re not putting your trust in the wrong ce. Remember, Cameron, it''s wise to be cautious of others, even if you mean no harm," Greta advised.


    Cameron''s eyes were hollow and numb.


    Satisfied with how her words had stirred things up, Greta let it be and settled in for a peaceful night''s sleep.


    The next morning, Cameron didn''t join Greta for the usual hospital visit to see Patrick. Instead, he got himself ready and drove his new car over to Dawson International.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The security guard at the entrance looked surprised to see him. "Mr. Cameron, what brings you here?" he asked, stepping up to block Cameron''s path.


    Cameron locked eyes with him. His voice was cool as ice. "Am I not allowed up?"


    The guard hesitated, trying to be diplomatic. "Mr. Cameron, are you here for your father? He hasn''t arrived yet. Maybe you could wait here for him?"


    Cameron''s expression darkened. "Do I need permission to enter my ownpany now?"


    The guard stammered, "That''s not what I meant..."


    "Then step aside," Cameronmanded.


    The guard stood firm.


    "Mr. Dawson, you''re no longer with thepany, and you''ll need a pass toe and go. Please, don''t make this hard for me."


    Cameron was once the president of thepany. He''s used to being treated with the utmost respect. Now, he was being stopped by a


    security guard and it was infuriating.


    IMS


    Just then, Griffin and Justin entered,ughing and chatting like a picture-perfect father-son duo.


    Cameron watched them intently, his fists clenching until his knuckles turned white.


    The guard greeted them cheerfully, "Mr. Dawson, Mr. Justin."


    Griffin and Justin looked up and were taken aback to see Cameron there.


    The icy chillin Cameron''s eyes made his presence impossible to ignore. Griffin couldn''t pretend be didn''t see him. "Cameron, what are you doing here?"


    Cameron stared back, his eyes filled with a storm of emotions. But he stayed silent.


    Griffin shifted ufortably. "Cameron, are you short on cash? Tell me how much you need, and I''ll have the finance team send it over..."

 Chapter 284

    Cameron''s lips curled into a mischievous grin. "Do you really think I''m some beggar?"


    Griffin was annoyed, but Cameron''s sharp look made him uneasy. Softening his expression, he responded in a friendly tone, "So, what brings you here?"


    Cameron shifted his gaze to Justin. "Oh, nothing much. I just wanted to see my brother. He is about to take my spot."


    Possibly fearing a showdown between Cameron and Justin, Griffin patted Justin''s shoulder gently. "You head on up. I''ll handle this."


    Justin shot Cameron a frosty re before strutting away, leaving Cameron with a storm brewing inside.


    Griffin stepped closer to Cameron and said, "I know throwing a birthday bash for your brother ticked you off. But Cameron, you need to see that I''m doing this for Dawson International''s sake. You caused quite the scandal recently, and the shareholders won''t back you as the leader. Your brother''s just holding the fort temporarily. Once you''re back in the game, he''ll hand things back over."


    Cameron eyed him, half-convinced, then turned and walked away without a word. Griffin watched him go, shaking his head.


    Cameron returned to his car but didn''t drive off right away. Despite Griffin''s smooth talk, Cameron sensed something was off. Griffin was clearly keeping him out of thepany on purpose.


    Around noon, Griffin and Justin left the building. Cameron, in his newly purchased sports car, discreetly tailed them to a cozy little restaurant.


    After parking, Cameron quickly changed clothes, donned a baseball cap, and slipped inside.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In a private room down the corridor, Cameron saw Griffin, his new wife, and Justin all looking like one big happy family.


    "Honey, I heard Cameron showed up at the office this morning. Was he causing trouble for Justin?" Mrs. Dawson''s voice had a nervous edge, yet it was undeniably charming.


    Griffin reassured her gently, "Don''t worry. As long as I''m here, he won''ty a finger on Justin."


    Cameron''s handsome face turned icy. He couldn''t believe his father who had always been so cold at home, could be so tender with this woman. The contrast between love and indifference was stark


    "Mom, rx. Cameron''s no longer the formidable man he once was Without Dad shielding him, he''s just a weakling. And I''m no


    pushover-I''m not afraid of him," Justin boasted smugly.


    Griffinughed heartily. "Justin, you''ve reallye into your own. I''ve been counting down the days for this moment."


    Cameron''s face turned ashen.


    As Mrs. Dawson served Griffin more food, she gushed, "Honey, you''re a genius. Cameron''s so much older than Justin, and you''ve paved the way for him. Once Justin grows up, you''ll have the perfect excuse to show Cameron the door. Now we can finally be a family out in the open and keep the Dawson estate intact."


    Hearing this, Cameron''s blood boiled, and anger surged in his eyes.


    His father''s betrayal nearly drove him wild, but he managed to contain his fury and left quietly. He hadn''t realized Greta''s suspicions would hit the nail right on the head.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 285

    Lizzy had pushed Miranda to her limits, leaving her feeling mentally drained. Staying at Nathalie''s ce was no longer an option. Quietly, she texted her daughter, Greta: [Greta, I miss you. Can youe and take me home?] Greta felt the high cost of the caregiver weighing on her and Cameron. So, the idea of bringing Miranda back, essentially a free nanny, sounded pretty appealing.


    When Cameron finally stumbled through the door, Greta couldn''t wait to tell him, "Cameron, my mom wants toe home. Can youe with me to Nathalie''s and bring her back?"


    Cameron sank into the couch, letting the soft cushions swallow him up. It was as if that was the only way to keep his bubbling frustrations and anger from spilling over.


    He was already swamped with his own issues and had no energy left for Miranda''s problems. Lighting up a cigar, he asked, "You really think you can convince Nathalie to let your mom leave? Do you think you can win that battle?" Oblivious to Cameron''s mood, Greta just poured him a ss of water and said, "My mom must be miserable there, which is why she wants me to get her. I''m her daughter; I can''t just ignore her when she''s upset."


    Cameron hit her with a dose of reality. "Bringing your mom back here means she''ll be stuck taking care of your dad. It''s just trading one mess for another."


    Greta went silent, her face burning as if Cameron had exposed her true self. In desperation, she yed her usual card. "My health issues have made my parents suffer so much. Honestly, I shouldn''t have lived this long." Cameron was probably worried she might actually mean it. He dropped his resistance. Grabbing the car keys, he stood up and said, "Alright, let''s go get your mom."


    With her goal achieved, Greta couldn''t help but smile.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Nathalie had eventually caught onto Miranda''s sneaky texts to Greta. She snatched the phone and skimmed through the messages.


    She read Miranda''sints about her and couldn''t help butugh in disbelief.


    Miranda had written: [Your sister lucked out. She''s in a massive house, living the high life. I didn''t expect it. But she has a terrible temper now and is always yelling at me like a lunatic.]


    [Even though I''m surrounded by luxury here, I can''t stop worrying about you. If I could, I''d rather be with you, even if it means taking care of your dad. Being with you feels right.]


    [Greta, your sister''s friends are trouble. Stay away from them if you can, or you might get caught in the fallout.]


    Nathalie tossed the phone back to Miranda. "So, you''re that desperate to get back to Greta?"


    Miranda nodded eagerly. "Your sister is much more thoughtful than you. As soon as she heard I was having a hard time here, she rushed over with Cameron to get me."


    Nathalie crossed her arms, watchingContent ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Miranda''s hopeful face, and gave her a heads-up. "I might let you go, but Greta might not truly want you back home. Want me to put her tothe test?"


    With Greta''s support boosting her confidence, Miranda replied, "Test her all you want. I trust that Greta genuinely cares about me. Her kindness can handle any test."

 Chapter 286

    At that moment, Miranda couldn''t resist taking a jab at Nathalie. "She''s not like some people, who act like they''ll take care of me but make my life miserable behind the scenes." Nathalie was at a loss for words. "I''ve always been straightforward. I never imed I''d take care of you."


    Miranda was taken aback.


    Just then, the doorbell broke the tension.


    Nathalie shot a knowing nce at Miranda before heading to the door. When she opened it, Cameron and Greta were standing there, hand in hand.


    Cameron instantly let go of Greta''s hand. Nathalie didn''t feel a thing about it, but Greta was clearly annoyed by Cameron''s eagerness to y innocent.


    Nathalie asked, her voice icy, "What do you want?"


    Greta peeked inside. "I''m here to take Mom home."


    Nathalie shrugged. "Come on in."


    As Greta and Cameron stepped into the living room, Nathalie didn''t offer them a seat or a drink, leaving them awkwardly standing in silence.


    While Greta was supposedly there to pick up Miranda, her eyes couldn''t help but roam thevish decor and extravagant furnishings. The fact that Nathalie was living in such grand style sparked a deep envy in her. "Our parents are struggling while you''re living it up in luxury," Greta sneered.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Nathalie gave her a sideways look. "And what gives you the right to judge me?"


    Greta replied, "I''m your sister."


    Nathalie picked up a ss from the coffee table, took a graceful sip, and then toyed with it in her hand. "So, being my sister gives you the right to criticize me, flirt shamelessly with my man, and stoop low enough to steal my kidney?"


    Greta''s face flushed with anger and shame. "That was ages ago. Why did you bring it up now?"


    Nathalie scoffed, "The wound wasn''t yours to bear. How would you, the one who benefited, understand the pain of scars?" Greta had nothing to say.


    Then, Nathalie shifted gears, putting Greta on the defensive. "Greta, if you as my sister, and our parents, along with my worthless husband, conned me out of my kidney, I''d consider it a repayment for being born. But..."


    swnov


    Suddenly, Nathalie''s grip on the ss tightened, and water sshed out. Greta instinctively moved closer to Cameron. Nathalie''s voice was sharp. "What if I wasn''t your real sister? What would that make all you''ve done to me?"


    Nathalie stood up abruptly, "I think, it would be a crime."


    Cameron staggered, visibly shaken.


    Nathalie''s cold stare drilled into him. "What''s going on, Mr. Cameron? Feeling guilty?"


    Cameron stammered, "Nathalie, how could you possibly not be the Browns'' daughter? If you weren''t Greta''s real sister, how did the kidney transnt go so seamlessly?" Nathalie pulled a DNA report out of a drawer and tossed it at Cameron. "Open your eyes and read it."


    Cameron picked up the scattered


    papers, and when he reached the final page, his face turned ghostly white. It stated that Patrick and Nathalie shared a mere twenty four percent gic simrity. Ng biological connection existed.


    "How can this be?" Cameron muttered. Disbelief was etched on his face.

 Chapter 287

    Cameron''s eyes drilled into Greta''s, filled with questions. Greta was a bundle of nerves, "Cameron, I honestly have no idea why. I... I always thought Nathalie was my real sister." Cameron noticed Greta''s bewilderment and, guided by the thought that ignorance absolves, decided not to push her any further.


    When he turned to Nathalie, a sliver of guilt crept into his voice. "Nathalie, I need to exin why I took your kidney. I really believed you were okay with it."


    "If you really believed that, why did you go to such lengths to deceive me and treat me like family all those years?" Nathalie shot back, leaving him no room to argue. Cameron lowered his head, recalling how Miranda had assured him that "Nellie didn''t care for her sister or father, and she''d never willingly give anything to her sister..."


    Miranda''s words led him to take Nathalie home, thinking he was ying the long game. Nathalie''s usations hit home.


    "I''m sorry..." Cameron muttered.


    Like a vengeful ghost, Nathalie coldly asked, "Do you think a mere sorry wipes out what you did to me?"


    Greta, driven to her breaking point by Nathalie''s relentless attack, shouted, "What do you want then? Are you really nning on suing us? It''s been ages. What proof do you have that we tricked you and didn''t just receive a willing donation?" Nathalie''s smile was sharp. "Proof doesn''t matter. As long as I stand as the victim and call out your wrongs, I believe you''ll be morally done for, even if thew doesn''t get you. Everyone will turn against you, and that''s enough." "You really think that will happen?" Greta retorted.


    Nathalie''s eyes were ice as theynded on Cameron. "I was a child when I got kidnapped."


    Cameron''s face fell. The word "kidnapped" brought home the damage his selfish actions had wreaked on Nathalie.


    His voice was barely audible. "Nathalie, does it have toe to this?"


    "This?" she echoed, almost amused. "If anything, this is too easy on you."


    Cameron was floored, standing there like he''d been struck.


    Nathalie''s hatred ran deep, like it was the only thing keeping her going, pulling him down into the abyss with her.


    It took Cameron ages to find his voice again. He weakly said, "Nathalie, hating me and getting back at me won''t make you happy. Wouldn''t it be better to find some peace? Let me spend the rest of my days making it up to you?"


    Nathalieughed, a cruel sound. "Make it up to me? Cameron, look atContent ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    you now. You''re worse off than fet


    my


    pet. What could you possibly offer?¡±


    Cameron''s eyes finally took in the high-end items Nathalie used a pricey ss and designer bags casually draped over the sofa.


    Shame washed over him. Nathalie hadn''t known a single good day with him, but since leaving, her life had been polished and well-kept.


    And him? It was like karma hade knocking, his life falling apart day by day.


    Greta couldn''t watch Nathalie tear into Cameron anymore, and quickly changed the subject. "Nathalie enough with the back-and-forth. Where''s Mom?"


    Nathalie handed Miranda''s medical report to Greta. "Since you care so much, consider it my gift to you."

 Chapter 288

    Greta leafed through Miranda''s medical report, her face turning pale as she saw the daunting list of illnesses. Among the serious ones were progressive muscr dystrophy, and then there were moremon ones like high blood pressure and diabetes. It was obvious that Miranda would need someone to look after her soon enough.


    Greta had only reached out to Miranda, hoping she could use her as free help to care for Patrick. But now, realizing that Miranda wouldn''t be much help and could even be a burden, Greta felt like backing off.


    Just then, Lizzy wheeled Miranda into the room. The moment Miranda saw Greta, tears sprang to her eyes. "Greta," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. Greta found herself instinctively stepping back as she looked at her.


    Miranda clutched Greta''s hand and pleaded. "Greta, I''ve been waiting for you. You have no idea how tough thesest few days have been. It''s like living in hell." Greta shot a harsh look at Nathalie and used her, "Nathalie, have you been mistreating my mom?"


    Nathalie replied with a shrug. "Oh, Lizzy isn''t exactly a pro at taking care of the sick. There might have been some slip-ups."


    Miranda, tears streaming down her face, protested, "Slip-ups? She purposely abused me. She even made me beg at Rainbow Bridge. I was humiliated beyond words..." Greta erupted in anger. "Nathalie, how could you do this? Mom is this ill, and you still expect her to beg for you?"


    Nathalieughed. "Yep, I had her beg. Guess that makes me heartless."


    She mmed her ss on the table with a loud thud, echoing her seething rage. "When she had me begging all those years ago, was that the most humane thing to do?" Miranda was left speechless. Greta, unable to find the words to defend herself, stayed silent.


    Nathalie waved them off. "Enough. I don''t want you here. Just get out, all of you."


    Greta was flustered and wasn''t truly nning to take Miranda with her. "Mom, you know Dad needs someone to look after him, and I''m already struggling with that. If youe with me, I might end up neglecting you. It''s better for you to stay here with Nathalie... She has better facilities, so you can be morefortable."


    Miranda was taken aback.


    Nathalie couldn''t help but chuckle. "Mom, do you see this? This is the daughter you''ve been longing to see. Do you get the performance she''s putting on today?" Miranda''s eyes were etched with disappointment, but she still stood up for Greta. "Greta''s not in the best health herself; she didn''t have a choice. Don''t mock her."


    Nathalie got up, walked over to Greta, and took the medical report from her hands, tossing it to Miranda.


    "She came to take you home, hoping you''d help her take care of Dad for free. Why did she change her mind? Because showed her your medical report. Once she saw your serious condition, she didn''t want you anymore."


    Miranda stared at Greta, shaking her head in disbelief. "Greta, you wouldn''t do this to me, right? Even if I''m sick, you wouldn''t abandon me. Right, Greta?" Greta was consumed with shame.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie turned up the pressure.


    "Greta, this medical report is fake. The doctor said that with proper care, Mom''s legs might get better maybe even good enough for her to stand again. Then, she could even help you with our useless dad. So, do you still want her?"

 Chapter 289

    Greta clenched her jaw, not caring anymore whether Miranda held any value for her. Nathalie''s humiliating taunts had her blood boiling.


    Nathalie pushed further. "Silent treatment, huh? Is that your way of agreeing? I knew it so long as there was even a sliver of usefulness left in Mom, you''d never let her go, Greta." Nathalie raised an eyebrow, a devilish grin spreading across her face. "You''re a natural-born leech, after all. You won''t be happy until you''ve sucked everyone around you dry." A leech?


    Cameron was suddenly reminded of something Kristina had said about Greta. He could dismiss it as bias if one person called her a parasite, but if two people said it, he couldn''t help but stop and think.


    He reflected on Greta''s past behavior. She had constantly demanded from Miranda and Patrick. However, when Patrick was bedridden, she couldn''t bring herself to clean him. And when Miranda genuinely reached out for help, Greta hesitated, almost as if she were dodging the duty of caring for her.


    Cameron didn''t want to doubt the woman he loved so deeply. It felt like admitting Greta''s ws would only highlight his own poor judgment. He resisted epting that Greta might be a wolf in sheep''s clothing.


    So, he chose to give her another shot. To test her once more.


    Cameron made a firm decision. "Greta, your mom wants toe home. So, let''s take her home."


    Greta had no choice but to agree, albeit stiffly. "Alright."


    And with that, Greta wheeled Miranda away.


    Before leaving, Cameron''s eyes lingered on Nathalie, who watched him leave. Her gaze was no longer gentle. In the depths of her eyes, there was only rampant mockery and deep scheming.


    "Cameron, do you really know the person sleeping next to you? Is she really worth your love?"


    Cameron stubbornly refused to back down. "I trust my judgment and my choices."


    Nathalie replied, "Seems like you haven''t uncovered all of Timeless Cycle''s secrets yet."


    Nathalie''s words suddenly filled Cameron with a sense of unease The story of Timeless Cycle wasn''t going as he wished, and he dared not imagine how bizarre the unknown parts could be. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    When Cameron got home, he headed straight for the closet. He searched for Timeless Cycle and realized it was missing. After a long search, he finally found it in @hiddenpartment.  en


    As he held Timeless Cycle again, confusion clouded his eyes. He had a great memory and clearly


    remembered putting it in his suite


    pocket. The only exnation for its new position was that Greta had moved it.


    "Greta, did you touch my ne?" Cameron asked, holding up the ne.


    Greta kept her cool. "No, not at all."


    Cameron paused, astonished. He was sure Greta was lying. The trust he''d built for Greta seemed to crack.


    "I must''ve remembered wrong," he said casually.


    Greta let out a sigh of relief.


    He held Timeless Cycle, but for some reason, it no longer gave off any energy. Cameron didn''t have any more strange dreams.


    Before he knew it, Justin''s birthday rolled around.


    The party was held at the Dawson family''s estate, a vast property sprawling over several hundred acres. The ce was lush with trees and winding streams, adding an air of mystery. The Dawson family had gone all out for the birthday bash, rolling out a red carpet to the entrance and creating a festive vibe everywhere.

 Chapter 290

    The gatedmunity was pretty strict about who got in and only allowed guests with an invitation. The Dawson family had sent out invites to the big shots of the business world, capping the list at thirty.


    It was morning, and Nathan was buzzing with even more excitement than the birthday boy. Nathan showed up bright and early at Nathalie''s building. Sporting a well-fitted grass-green shirt and a light grey suit, he''d slicked back his boyish bangs, showing off a face that could rival an ancient Greek statue. He was wlessly perfect. This grown-up look made Nathan, who was already a bit of a cool character, seem even more distant and hard to approach.


    Nathalie came down the stairs, and she caught sight of Nathan casually leaning against his luxury car. For a moment, she was lost in thought.


    This version of Nathan was a striking reminder of him from her past life-the business tycoon whomanded respect and fear from the top of the pyramid. The resemnce was uncanny. Nathalie sighed; Nathan was growing up way too fast.


    Nathan looked up and spotted Nathalieing his way. "Nathalie, you look absolutely stunning today," he said, never shy about showering Nathalie withpliments.


    Nathalie nced at her own morous dress-a high V-neck silk gown with a white base embroidered with peculiar green flowers, which gave her an ethereal, otherworldly vibe.


    But something else struck her. "Nathan, our outfits look like they match, don''t they? Are they matching couple''s outfits?"


    Nathan replied, "Of course. You''re my date for the night. If I didn''t make sure we coordinated, some guy would try to whisk you away."


    Nathalie reassured him with a smile. "Don''t worry, I''m not leaving you alone."


    In her past life, Cameron often left her behind, leaving her to face pity or ridicule alone. She didn''t want Nathan to go through that. Nathan gently took her hand. "Nathalie, you said it. Don''t let go of my hand today."


    Nathalie nodded yfully.


    "Then, my princess, shall we?" Nathan opened the car door with a yful ir, inviting Nathalie in.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Nathalie couldn''t help but chuckle. Her makeup was perfect today, and herughter sounded as sweet as the harmonies in spring. It was absolutely captivating.


    Nathan was spellbound. "Nathalie, you shouldugh like that more often."


    "I will. Now, hop in."


    Nathan drove the car smoothly, showcasing his skill behind the wheel, and they soon arrived at the Dawson family''s mansion.


    As Nathan carefully helped Nathalie out of the car, their entrance turned heads instantly.


    They were quite the stunning pair.


    "Nathan," Ashley suddenly appeared out of nowhere. She grabbed


    Nathan''s other hand, pleading, el


    "Nathan, will you be my dance


    partner today?"


    Nathalie didn''t want to put Nathan in an awkward spot, and let go of his hand with a knowing smile.


    Nathan frowned, gently pushing Ashley aside. "Sorry, I''ve already got a date today."


    It was!


    Ashley shot a dismissive nce at Nathalie. She''s just your assistant. Not exactly date material." It a tant snub at Nathalie.


    Nathalie took a deep breath. The contempt bothered her. She moved away, distancing herself from the drama.


    Nathan told Ashley with a serious look, "Ashley, we''re not a match. Stop chasing after me." He then hurried to catch up with Nathalie.


    Ashley stomped her foot in frustration. "Nathan, why don''t you like me?"


    "Want to know why?" A low voice chimed in.

 Chapter 291

    Ashley spun around and was startled to find Greta standing there, looking pale and frail. The sight nearly scared the life out of Ashley, almost making her yell out, "Ghost!"


    Greta quickly introduced herself, "I''m Cameron''s wife." She had a knack for boosting her own importance, instantly earning Ashley''s respect.


    "Oh, so you''re thedy of the Dawson family? My apologies for not recognizing you sooner."


    Greta''s vanity was thoroughly satisfied. "Ashley, do you fancy Nathan?"


    Ashley sighed, feeling troubled. "I fell for Nathan the moment I saw him. But it''s just a ssic case of unrequited love."


    Greta leaned in and whispered, "You and Nathan are meant to be together. He''s your destined prince, but Nathalie''s been the one standing in the way."


    Ashley''s face turned indignant. "So it''s been Nathalie causing trouble all along."


    The two were having such a lively chat that when Greta asked to borrow Ashley''s invitation, Ashley handed it over without a second thought. "Here you go. I''m well acquainted with the Dawson family. I don''t need an invitation to get in." Greta was thrilled. "Thank you."


    The banquet was in full swing at the Dawson family''s estate. It was held in the outdoor courtyard. The ce was already buzzing with mostly wealthy and influential guests, adding to the event''s grandeur.


    When Nathan and Nathalie stepped into the courtyard, Nathan suddenly removed Nathalie''s hand from his arm. Nathalie was puzzled by this move, but then he took her hand, intertwining their fingers. She was caught off guard. This was a gesture more suited for couples. "Nathan, this isn''t right," she whispered.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Nathan was still miffed about Nathalie leaving him earlier. "If I don''t hold on to you, what if you leave me again when someone else makes ament about us?"


    Feeling guilty, Nathalie stayed silent.


    Justin spotted Nathan, and his face


    lit up with delight. He quickly


    grabbed two sses of fine wine and approached Nathan with enthusiasm. "Nathan, I''ve been waiting for you!"


    Nathalie was taken aback by Nathan and Justin''s camaraderie. Justin''s attitude towards Nathan was filled with respect and admiration How did they be so close?


    Nathan took a sip of the wine. "This is excellent."


    The wine must have been top-notch to get Nathan''s seal of approval. He was known to be choosy.


    Nathalie licked her lips, her eyes glued to Nathan''s ss. She hadza strong craving for alcohol. She used to seekfort in drinks - a habit she picked up in herst life because of past disappointments.


    Justin noticed Nathalie''s interest and gave a knowing smile. "Looks like Miss Nathalie has a taste for the finer things, too?" He fetched another ss for her.


    Nathalie eagerly took the ss from Justin, but just as she was about to sip, Nathan snatched it away. He sternly told Justin, "My date doesn''t drink." Justin chuckled.


    Nathalie watched her chance for a drink slip away, feeling a twinge of disappointment. "Nathan, I can handle it."


    Nathan replied, "I know you can drink, but your body can''t take such strong alcohol."


    Nathalie pouted in disappointment.


    Nathan, however, raised his ss with a cheeky grin. "Nathalie, I''ll drink yours for you."

 Chapter 292

    Nathalie was at a loss for words. Nathan was really pushing it.


    "Alright, I''m just gonna grab a drink."


    Nathan kept an eye on her. "Stick to mocktails."


    Nathalie muttered under her breath, "You''re such a worrywart. Aren''t you worried about getting old fast?"


    After she walked off, Justin teased Nathan, "Everyone thinks you''re so aloof and not interested in women. It seems the world has got you all wrong."


    Nathan''s eyes followed Nathalie. As she reached for a ss of wine on the bar, she caught Nathan''s sharp, warning nce. With a resigned sigh, she picked up the mocktail instead. Nathan turned his attention back to Justin. "I''m only sweet to Nathalie."


    Justin was baffled. "I''ve always wondered why Miss Nellie changed her name to Nathalie. She changed her name, and you fell head over heels. Was it destiny?" Nathan chuckled. "Maybe."


    Nathalie sat quietly in a corner, nursing her mocktail. Her beauty was undeniable. With her elegant dress and radiant skin, she practically glowed.


    She caught many eyes.


    Next to her, a few gossiping women kept the chatter going after recognizing her. "Why did Mr. Rond pick her as his date? Isn''t she Cameron Dawson''s ex-wife?" "Yeah, how does she have the gall to show up at her former father-inw''s party?"


    Nathalie''s expression soured. She hadn''t expected to be a target of criticism even in this new chapter of her life.


    But after hearing such endless remarks, she''d grown numb. She met their gazes calmly and even graced them with a gentle smile. It was a masterss in killing with kindness. Then, Ashley and Greta jumped on the bandwagon, ramping up the mockery to new heights.


    "She was supposed to be my sister, but she seduced my boyfriend while I was sick and even married him. Thank goodness Cameron stayed true tome. It''s a shame, though, Cameron came out of that whirlwind marriage with half his life and


    fortune gone."


    Ashley brazenly strode up to Nathalie, ring daggers at her and pointing usingly. "Nathalie, I never imagined you to be such a


    two-timer. You''ve hurt Cameron


    much, and now you''re after Nathan.


    If you had any dignity, you''d leave Nathan be."


    A pack of women gathered around, eager to please Ashley. They echoed her usations against Nathalie.


    "With looks like that, she must be a floozy."


    "The two most handsome men in the city both seem to be under her spell. First Cameron, now Nathan,"


    Nathalie''s serene demeanor probably riled them up even more because they started getting physical. One of them snatched her cocktail and poured it over her. This tant bullying drew even more attention.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    In a corner, Cameron watched Nathalie, frail and besieged by a crowd of women. The scene took him back years.


    He couldn''t help but think


    sarcastically, ''She''s all bark and no bite. She only shows her ws to gentlemen like me, but she turns into a coward in front of a mob of unruly women.

 Chapter 293

    Cameron was pretty amused to see a pack of women trying to take Nathalie down a peg. But as he stood there, he suddenly felt a chill run down his spine. When he snapped back to reality, he saw Nathan''s face turned dark with anger, like a storm on the horizon.


    Nathan made a beeline for Nathalie, striding with purpose. He walked right up to her, pulled her from her seat, and with a gentle tug, she fell into his arms.


    Nathalie was worried her bad reputation might tarnish Nathan''s, and instinctively tried to wriggle free. But Nathan''s grip was firm, holding her tight and steady, leaving her no room to move.


    With Nathalie snugly in his embrace, Nathan stood up for her with force and faced the women who had been giving her a hard time. "Who do you think you are, picking on Nathalie?"


    The women quaked in their boots under Nathan''smanding presence. Their faces turned pale with fear. "Mr. Nathan, I... I didn''t know she was with you!"


    Nathan replied, "Her name''s Nathalie. She''s my girlfriend, and someday, she''ll be my wife. Understand?"


    The women nodded frantically. "Yes."


    Ashley was left dumbstruck. "Nathan, aren''t I supposed to be your fianc¨¦e?" she protested, her voice rising.


    Nathan shot her a frosty re. "My fianc¨¦e? I don''t love you. Do you really think I''d settle for marrying someone I don''t love?"


    Nathalie was moved. Nathan publicly dered their rtionship just to stand by her. It didn''t mean much for her, having gone through a broken marriage. However, for Nathan, it was a big deal that could affect his future. "Nathan..."


    He turned to her, signaling her to hush. "I''m fiercely protective of my own. Mess with Nathalie again, and don''t me me if I show no mercy."


    Cameron watched this unfold, and it stirred something inside him.


    When Nathalie was still his wife, she''d apanied him to fancy parties. He never bothered getting her morous dresses. He never realized that with a little effort, Nathalie could shine so beautifully.


    He had always hesitated to bring her to such events. When Nathalie faced simr cold stares and whispers, he just stood by, not lifting a finger. She must have felt so alone back then.


    But today, Nathalie didn''t even have to say a word when she was bullied. Nathan just easily pulled her close and dered their rtionship, making her the happiest woman in the room.


    ...


    Nathalie didn''t let the attention get to her head. She gently pushed Nathan away and shed him a bright smile. "Nathan, I''ve got this."


    Seeing the calm in her eyes, Nathan rxed a bit. "Nathalie, as long as I''m around, you''re free to get back at anyone who bothers you. Otherwise, folks might think I''m a pushover."


    Nathalie grinned, walked to the bar, grabbed a bottle of beer, and returned to face the woman who had bullied her.


    The woman scowled, "Do you have any idea who I am? If you mess with me, my dad and brother won''t let it slide."


    Nathalie smashed the beer bottle


    over the woman''s head, and just likeContent ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    that, it cracked open. Nathalie


    tossed the broken bottle aside andughed with a wicked edge. "I couldn''t care less who you are. Even if you were royalty, I''d get my payback a hundredfold if you crossed me."

 Chapter 294

    "What the...?"


    The woman let out a scream that could wake the dead. "You hit me? You''re finished! Do you even know who you''re messing with? My family owns the Titan Corporation..."


    Nathalie cut her off, calling her out by name. "Miss Diana, right? Your brother was just here the other day, practically begging me to work with him. Do you have any idea how humble he was? I finally took pity on him and agreed. You don''t seem intelligent, and I''m starting to wonder if your brother''s as much of a fool as you are. You''ve been used like a pawn, and you''re all smiles about it?"Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Diana clutched her wound, staring in disbelief. "You know my brother?"


    Nathalie''s gaze swept over the crowd, and she snapped her fingers at Carl, who looked uneasy. "Aren''t you going to step up for your sister?"


    Carl was visibly annoyed with his sister, gave her a disappointed look, and turned to Nathalie with a smile. "Ms. Nathalie, my sister''s always been reckless. You giving her a lesson today is a favor to me." Diana broke down in tears.


    Carl scolded, "Why are you crying? Are you trying to embarrass us even more?"


    Diana stifled her sobs, sniffling miserably.


    Everyone assumed Nathalie had yed her part, and the drama was winding down. Still, Nathalie turned her attention to Greta, signaling that the real drama was just kicking off.


    "So, Greta, tell me, was it me who seduced your boyfriend, or did your boyfriend kidnap me as a minor to save you? Can you be honest with everyone now?"


    Greta was blindsided by the unexpected turn of events and suddenly found herself under the spotlight. "This... I''m not really clear on the details..." she mumbled. Nathalie held up a USB drive. "Greta, I''m giving you onest chance. If you don''t spill the truth, I''ll let everyone see what''s on this USB."


    Greta panicked instantly. "Nathalie, today''s Mr. Justin''s birthday party. Why do you have to ruin it?"


    Justin shouted, "Nathalie, do whatever you need to do. I won''t hold it against you."


    Justin''s clear support for Nathalie left Greta utterly humiliated. "Nathalie, do you really have to do this to me?"


    Nathalie found it amusing. "You threw the first punch."


    "It was just a joke."


    "That joke wasn''t funny. But it reminded me that I needed to set the record straight about our family''s misdeeds to clear my name in the eyes of the public. So you can''t nder me again," Nathalie dered.


    Greta trembled with fear. Only then did she think to turn to Cameron for help, but seeing her plight, he had no intention of stepping in.


    Greta ran out, tears streaming down her face. Nathan gave Nathalie a thumbs-up. "Nathalie, you''re amazing."


    Nathalieughed heartily. "With support from a powerful person like you, how could I not be?"


    "Looks like I''ll need to work on giving you more of my support in the future."


    Nathalieughed even more joyfully. To handle opponents, you had to be tougher than they were. That was the lesson she''d learned in her past life.


    Good people got bullied, and gentle souls got taken for a ride.


    The women around them no longer dared to speak ill of Nathalie, finally realizing that neither she nor Nathan were people they could afford to cross. And like birds scattering, they all dispersed.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 295

    Cameron slipped away from the bustling banquet hall. He initially nned to find Greta and soothe her aching heart, but as he wandered through the maze-like corridors of the Dawson estate, he caught sight of Griffin, deep in conversation with his assistant in a gazebo, and decided to eavesdrop. He quietly moved closer, concealing himself behind a thick hedge. From his hiding spot, he overheard Griffin say, "Everyone at this banquet is crucial to Dawson International''s sess. Make sure Jay keep them happy. I''m setting the stage for his future leadership at Dawson International." The assistant replied, "Sir, we handed out thirty invites, but the gatekeeper counted thirty-one entries. Looks like one invitation was used twice."


    Griffin frowned, "Can you find out where Cameron is?"


    "Not yet," the assistant said.


    "Check it out. If he isn''t the extra person, don''t worry about it."


    "Understood."


    Cameron felt a pang in his heart. Griffin casually called Justin by his nickname, Jay, but always called Cameron by his full name a ring sign of their strained rtionship.


    Griffin''s words wereced with skepticism, forcing Cameron to confront a harsh truth. He''d been cast aside by Griffin. Just a few days ago, Griffin assured him that Justin was only temporarily stepping in for him at Dawson International, which was clearly a tant lie. His father''s betrayal stirred a mix of sadness and anger within Cameron, nearly causing him to stumble and reveal his hiding spot.


    Once the assistant left, Cameron stumbled out from behind the bushes.


    Griffin looked up, stunned. "Cameron, what are you doing here?" Panic shed across his face, yet he clung to the hope that Cameron hadn''t overheard the conversation.


    Cameron approached, a fierce look in his eyes. "I never imagined the day woulde when my own father would be the one to stab me in the back."


    Griffin froze. "You heard all of that?"


    Realizing there was no use


    Pameron, don''t dropped his act.


    me me. Your


    messy love life has tainted your reputation. You were never fit to lead the Dawson family business. But don''t worry, son, if you ever hit rock


    bottom, I''ve got your back."


    A cold, deste glint appeared in Cameron''s eyes, "Is it really my fault, or have you always been biased? Weren''t you clearing the path for your favorite son?" Griffin, feeling guilty, remained silent.


    Cameron let out a bitterugh. "If you can be so heartless, why should I bother with family loyalty?" An ominous aura surrounded Cameron, making Griffin uneasy.


    Even though Gameron had been


    pushed out of the Dawson family''s inner circle, he had spent years as the president of Dawson International and knew thepany inside out. If he chose to disrupt things, Dawson International could face serious challenges.


    Griffin feared Justin might not be able to handle the consequences. "What do you want?" Griffin asked.


    Cameron trembled slightly. "What do I want? Just what''s rightfully mine."


    Griffin shouted in frustration, "Yours? Everything belongs to the Dawson family. Nothing is yours."


    Cameron felt a deep chill. "I joined you straight out of college. Under my leadership, Dawson


    International''s ranking shot from etThis is from N?velDrama.Org.


    seventh to the top two after eight years. And you say none of it is mine?"

 Chapter 296

    Griffin softened his tone. "I''ll cut you a share of the profits..."


    Cameron, fed up with Griffin''s cold-heartedness, snapped back, "I couldn''t care less."


    "What do you want, then?"


    Cameron didn''t bother to answer. Instead, he turned and walked away, feeling utterly defeated.


    Griffin caught Cameron''s sorrowful words floating back. "This used to be my home. I never thoughting back would be so hard. Dad, you were so good to me."


    Griffin shot back, "You didn''t live up to my expectations. Is it wrong for me not to want a son who''s a disgrace?"


    "If you don''t love me, just admit it. Stop making excuses." Cameron suddenly stopped, turned, and faced Griffin. "I ept that you don''t love me. But using my love and trust to make way for your favorite son? That''s low." Griffin felt a pang of unease.


    As Cameron left the Dawson estate, he bumped into Nathan at the entrance.


    Nathan was casually leaning against a marble lion statue, puffing on a cigarette with finesse.


    Cameron, looking worn out and defeated, didn''t want to engage with Nathan.


    But Nathan couldn''t resist mocking him, "Cameron, what''s it like being betrayed by the person you trust most?"


    Cameron blinked in surprise. "How do you know?"


    Nathan smirked as if he had everything figured out. He blew a smoke ring. "Back when you were the Dawson family''s golden boy, you strutted around like you owned the ce. You looked down on Nathalie. Now look at you. Where''s that confidence gone?" Cameron weakly acknowledged his situation. "Mr. Nathan, you''ve got a sharp eye."


    Nathan shot back, "Cameron, do you believe in karma?"


    Cameron looked confused. "What?"


    Nathan said with a mocking edge, "Isn''t this exactly what you did toz Nathalie? You took poor Nathalie in and pretended to be nice for a few days. To save Greta, you deceived a sweet, trusting girl."


    "When she trusted you most, you stabbed her in the back and took her kidney Cameron, don''t you see it? Your deeds that affected Nathalie''s


    past have be your karma now." N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    It hit Cameron like a bolt of lightning, leaving him shaken to his core. He turned pale and staggered. "I''m sorry."


    Nathan gave him a sideways nce. "What you''re going through now doesn''t evene close to her pain."


    Cameron''s eyes widened in disbelief. Being betrayed by someone so close hurt like hell. Hadn''t Nathalie suffered ten times more?


    Nathan flicked the cigarette from his lips, tossed it to the ground, and ground it under his heel until it was nothing but ash. "Cameron, want to get back at your dad?" Every fiber of Cameron was burning with hate.


    Nathan continued, "Nathalie''s revenge? You''ve got to take it on the chin."


    Cameron''s handsome face turned ghostly white. The wrongs he inflicted on Nathalie hade back around, hitting him squarely. He had to face the consequences of his actions.


    Cameron looked at Nathan and saw his teasing, mocking eyes. He felt a shiver of unease.


    He sensed that his life was being manipted by unseen forces. He felt trapped.


    "Nathan, who are you really?"

 Chapter 297

    Nathan didn''t answer Cameron right away; instead, he lit another cigarette. His long, elegant fingers held the cigarette as the smoke curled around his handsome face, giving him an air of mystery. "Why are you so nice to Nathalie?" Cameron asked, puzzled. How did down-and-out Nathalie end up knowing someone as affluent as Nathan?


    Nathan replied with a calm, "Because she''s worth it."


    Cameron frowned, clearly skeptical about Nathan''s reasoning. Then Nathan hit Cameron with a zinger. "Cameron, you''ve always been the golden boy, who looks like a movie star and has talents that leave everyone else in the dust. How did you end up falling for Greta?" The way Nathan said Greta''s name made it sound like she was some kind of disgrace.


    Cameron shot back, "What''s wrong with Greta? She''s smart, beautiful, kind, and gentle. If she weren''t struggling with her health, she''d outshine Nathalie any day."


    Cameron felt he had to champion Greta''s virtues to avoid looking foolish for his unwavering love.


    Nathan chuckled like he''d heard the funniest joke. His contempt was clear. "Is she smart and beautiful? Kind and gentle?"


    "Oh sure, she''s smart all right-smart enough to scheme her way into taking her sister''s fortunes and husband, and trying to drag you down from your high horse to live in the gutter with her."


    "She''s got you wrapped around her finger. She ys the victim, and you can''t even see straight.


    "Cameron, your taste in women is seriously questionable."


    Cameron red at Nathan. "Nathan, Greta isn''t as bad as you make her out to be. She''s just a bit fragile and likes leaning on others, that''s all."


    Nathan was unimpressed. "Fragile like a parasite that sucks the life out of its host?"


    Cameron protested, "She doesn''t want it to be this way..."


    Ine


    Nathan nced at a shadowy figure lurking nearby, smirking slightly. He''d done what he came to do "Cameron, I''ve said what I needed to. Take care, alright?"


    And then, Nathan walked away.


    Cameron watched Nathan leave. His longshes cast shadows over his eyes, and he muttered through gritted teeth, "Nathan, you think I don''t see through your schemes? Greta only has me now. If I leave too, how will she cope? Nathan, your reyenge is downright ruthless."


    Nathan returned to the party''s main hall, where Nathalie quietly asked, "Where did you vanish to? You were gone for ages." Nathan forced a smile, unable to confess that he''d just done something almost criminal. "Just stepped out for some air, Nathalie."


    Nathalie was perplexed. Why did he go out for air without a word? Such sneaky behavior was out of character. Then, a faint whiff of smoke tickled her nose. Nathalie sniffed and leaned closer to Nathan, making him tense up.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Nathalie''s face was stunning and


    innocent, with a hint of mischief. Her eyes sparkled like stars, and her slightly red lips were incredibly tempting. As she leaned in, Nathan''s heart skipped a beat.


    "Nathalie, what are you doing?" His ears turned red faster than a traffic light.


    Nathalie confirmed the smoke was indeed from Nathan. She stepped back, her face serious. "Nathan, have you been smoking?" Nathan sighed in relief. "Oh, just a little."

 Chapter 298

    Nathalie scrunched her brow and reached into Nathan''s pocket, pulling out a cigarette pack that was nearly empty.


    With a look of displeasure, she waved the pack at him. "Is this what you call smoking just a little bit? You little rascal, when did you even start this habit?" Nathan tried to defend himself, his voice carrying a hint of guilt. "Sometimes when I''m feeling down and stressed, I light up one or two to take the edge off." A touch of worry crossed Nathalie''s eyes. "When do you feel so down and stressed? Why wouldn''t you talk to me about it?"N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Nathan was left speechless; all his stress and sorrow stemmed from her.


    Nathan''s silence made Nathalie sigh. "Nathan, I want you to know that life will throw many challenges your way, but you should always take care of your health." Nathan got a good scolding from Nathalie but ended up chuckling. "Okay. I heard you."


    Only then did Nathalie let it go. She added, "By the way, Ashley was looking for you earlier. She wanted me to tell you she''s waiting for your invitation to dance." Nathan''s face clouded over instantly.


    Nathalie gave him a curious look. "What''s the matter?"


    With a hint of bitterness, Nathan replied, "I really don''t want to dance with her. Nathalie, how about you and I hit the dance floor instead?"


    Nathalie stepped back. "If I dance with you, all those girls who have a crush on you will tear me apart."


    Nathan looked thoroughly bummed out. He suddenly missed the good old days when he was younger, and Nathalie would pinch his cheeks, pat his head, and even lie in bed with him to take care of him when he was sick. Those gestures of affection were so natural. Now, even though she instinctively wanted to be close, her rational side always pulled her back, keeping her at a distance. She lived too cautiously, too carefully.


    Nathan grumbled, "This party is so dull. Nine out of ten women here are marriage candidates my family has pushed onto me. But I don''t like any of them. Am I supposed to keep myself pristine for them?"


    Nathalie was pretty open-minded. "Nathan, one day, when you''re at the top of the world, you''ll have the freedom to choose whom to marry. You can marry whoever you want!" Nathan looked at Nathalie intently. "But what if... the girl I like doesn''t like me back?"


    Nathalie reassured him. "You know how amazing you are, Nathan. What girl could possibly turn you down?"


    Nathan''s face broke into a wide smile.


    Meanwhile, Cameron sat in the gazebo, lost in thought. When he finally left, he identally bumped into someone. To his surprise, it was his mother.


    Cameron broke into a cold sweat. Kristina was famously superstitious, and if she''d overheard what Nathan said earlier, she''d definitely me Greta for bringing bad luck into the family. "Mom, what are you doing here?"


    "If you can be here, why can''t I?" Kristina replied with a chilly tone.


    Cameron pulled Kristina aside to a more private spot. "Mom, Dad and his mistress have secretly tied the knot. They''re a family now. You shouldn''t stress yourself out over them."


    But Kristina seemed deaf to Cameron''s words. She just stared at him. "Did you even pay attention to what Nathan said?"


    Cameron was taken aback. He


    decided to feign ignorance. "He and


    Nathalie are in this together.


    Whatever he''s saying is clearly hot out of goodwill; he''s helping Nathalie get back at Greta..."


    Suddenly, Kristina snapped, pushing Cameron away with force. "He called you a lovesick fool, and he''s absolutely right. Cameron, look at what you''ve brought upon yourself for that woman."


    "You''ve gone bankrupt, and your father has disowned you. You''ve lost everything because of her, and still you refuse to see the truth."

 Chapter 299

    Kristina pulled out her ace. "You need to divorce that woman. She''s nothing but trouble. I won''t let you have anything to do with her. If you don''t, I''ll die right here in front of you." She shouted, her voice echoing through the room.


    Cameron gently gripped her shoulders, trying to soothe her. "Mom, please, you need to calm down. Greta has nothing to do with how things are now. Honestly, Dad never cared about me from the start. He was just using me to set up his illegitimate son... Even if I don''t divorce Greta, he''ll find another reason to boot me out of Dawson International. I heard it straight from him..." Kristina was taken aback, her mind reeling. "What did you just say?" The idea that the man she''d shared her life with could be so ruthless left her stunned.


    The fire in Kristina''s eyes dimmed, leaving them vacant and hollow. Cameron realized he had crossed a line, but it was toote to take back his words. "Mom, trust me. I''ll get back what''s mine."


    Suddenly, a fierce determination red in Kristina''s eyes. She balled her fists, her voice dripping with bitterness. "Your father tricked me. He said our divorce would save Dawson International and promised to hand it over to you once things settled. But it was all a ploy to leave me with nothing. How could he lied to me like this?"N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Then, she broke free from Cameron''s hold and rushed towards the banquet hall.


    The dance floor was alive with soft music and graceful movements, creating an atmosphere of peace. As one song faded and a more romantic tune took over, couples started to sway together.


    In the center, Griffin danced closely with his new wife.


    Nathan noticed Nathalie sitting alone. He was about to ask her to dance when Ashley appeared out of nowhere with hopeful eyes. "Nathan, care to dance with me?"


    He was not interested in dancing with someone he didn''t fancy, so he quickly made an excuse. "Sorry, I''m not much of a dancer."


    Ashley wasn''t giving up. "How about the next song, then?"


    Nathan said. "Sorry, I can''t dance to that one either."


    Just then, Benjamin strolled over, looking sharp in a white suit with golden ents that made him stand out.


    He offered his hand to Nathalie with a charming smile. "Ms. Nathalie, may I have this dance?"


    Nathalie nced at Ashley and Nathan, eager to avoid being the third wheel. She gracefully epted and stood up.


    Nathan''s face darkened instantly, and he stepped in between them. "Sorry, Nathalie doesn''t dance. She''s mine." His possessiveness was clear.


    Benjamin got annoyed and shot


    §Ö§ä


    back. "Nathan, Ms. Nathalie didn''t turn me down. Who made you b¨¨r spokesperson? And when did she be ''yours?""


    Nathan turned to Nathalie, his gaze intense and sincere. "Nathalie, one bad apple is enough for a lifetime. Stay clear of jerks who look good on the outside but are rotten inside."


    en


    Benjamin was fuming. "Nathan, who are you calling a jerk?"


    Afraid that Nathalie might fall for Benjamin''s charm, Nathan exaggerated his ims. "I''m talking about you. You''re notorious for bringing home different women all the time. You''re a real yboy. Nathalie''s too genuine for someone like you."

 Chapter 300

    Benjamin was fuming, his eyes zing. "You''re falsely using me of being a yboy!"


    It looked like the brothers were on the brink of a full-blown fight.


    Quick to intervene, Nathalie gently tugged Nathan aside and politely turned down Benjamin. "Mr. Benjamin, I''m really sorry, but dancing''s not my thing."


    Benjamin grudgingly let it go.


    Nathan, ever the opportunist, chimed in, "Nathalie and I aren''t dancers, but you and Ashley are pros. Since you''re both on the hunt for a dance partner, why not hit the floor together?" Benjamin couldn''t dismiss a suggestion tied to Ashley, so he relented, "Ashley, would you do me the honor of a dance?"This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Ashley just rolled her eyes, huffed, and strutted off, leaving Benjamin hanging.


    Benjamin was left standing awkwardly while Nathan chuckled behind his hand.


    Benjamin shot him a re. "You''re a real piece of work."


    Nathan, stillughing, teased, "Maybe you just need more charm."


    With a dramatic turn, Benjamin stormed off.


    After steering Ashley and Benjamin away, Nathan turned to Nathalie with a grin. "Hey, how about a dance? It''ll save us from all these interruptions."


    Nathalie was caught off guard. "I thought you weren''t much of a dancer?"


    Nathan shrugged. "I''m no Fred Astaire, but you''re family. I don''t mind looking silly with you."


    Taking him at his word, Nathalie nodded. "Alright, let''s give it a whirl."


    Nathan led Nathalie onto the dance floor, hand in hand. The music was dreamy, demanding dancers get up close and personal with some pretty intimate moves.


    Nathalie felt a bit out of her element, unsure where to put her hands. Nathan took charge, cing her hands on his shoulders while his hands rested firmly on her lower back. Nathalie tried to keep some distance, but as the music swelled, Nathan gently pulled her closer into his embrace.


    Nathan was tall and confident and took the lead. Despite Nathalie''s attempts to wriggle free, she found herself caught in his rhythm.


    Nathan gazed down at her, the colored lights casting a glow that made her look especially enchanting. His eyes softened as they lingered on her.


    Then, out of nowhere, chaos erupted. Cameron''s mother burst into the dance floor, wild-eyed and clutching a bottle of acid.


    Screams echoed as the crowd


    scattered in panic. The once orderly dance floor turned into a frenzy, with people dodging Kristina like she was radioactive. Griffin and his new wife got knocked over, setting off a chain reaction of stumbling dancers.


    MS


    Nathalie was swept off her feet and ended up right in front of Griffin. As she regained her bnce and looked up, Kristina was ring daggers at Griffin. The acid bottle was aimed ominously in her direction.


    Nathalie''s heart stopped, eyes wide with terror. She couldn''t bear the thought of being scarred.


    Kristina, clearly unhinged, waved the bottle around, and the acid sizzled as it sshed out. It came dangerously close to Nathalie a couple of times.


    Nathalie was frightened and


    squeezed he eyes shut. In that


    moment, she felt herself being lifted


    and spun around. When she opened her eyes, Nathan was shielding her with his back, acting as her protector. He wrapped her in his arms, and his face twisted in pain.


    Nathalie turned ghostly pale. "Nathan, don''t!"

 Chapter 301

    In that moment, Nathalie''s mind wentpletely nk. She let go of all her worries about the world and clung tightly to Nathan. With a strength she didn''t know she had. Her petite frame pushed through the crowd, dragging him away from the chaos.


    The shouts of Nathalie''s ex-inws filled her ears. Kristina''s voice was raw and piercing as she screamed furiously, "I''ve been married to you for thirty years, gave you my wealth, my time, my energy, all without hesitation. And what do I have to show for it? Your betrayal. I could forgive you for leaving me with nothing, but you went too far by scheming against our son. You made him pave the way for your illegitimate child, then kicked him out of thepany. How could you be so heartless?"


    Griffin looked panicked, his voice shaking as he spoke. "Please, don''t do anything reckless. Listen to me. Cameron is my son, too. How could I possibly do that to him? Don''t worry, I''ll give Cameron a lot of money. With his smarts, he''ll bounce back in the Capital." Griffin''s mixed messages drove Kristina to despair. "But you promised Dawson International would always belong to Cameron. And now you''re talking about starting fresh? You''ve been lying to me..."


    With no trust left in Griffin, she hurled the sulfuric acid she held. It sshed onto Griffin and his current wife, sizzling on contact. Griffin screamed in agony. Inevitably, some guests were also caught in the crossfire, crying out in pain as the acid sttered on them. In an instant, the dance floor turned into a nightmare, filled with gut-wrenching screams.


    Nathalie couldn''t afford to worry about the injured guests; she was focused on getting Nathan to the car outside.


    Half an hourter, Nathalie had Nathan at the hospital. The doctor removed Nathan''s shirt to assess his injuries.


    Standing by his side, Nathalie''s heart


    sank when she saw the wounds on Nathan''s back. The acid had eaten


    away at his flesh, leaving a palm-sized, gruesome wound that exposed bone. The pain he must have felt was unimaginable, and tears streamed down Nathalie''s face.


    Nathan was pale and sweating heavily, but was more concerned about Nathalie''s distress than his own pain. "Nathalie, it doesn''t hurt," he tried to downy it, but his frail voice gave him away. Nathalie reached out to gently wipe the sweat from his forehead. "Nathan, why did you save me?" she couldn''t help but scold.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Nathan replied, "Nathalie, I would willingly risk my life for you."


    Nathalie sobbed even harder, gasping for


    air.


    "You''re such a fool.


    174.


    You can''t put up with this. I''m different ''ve been beaten since was young and even had surgery on my back. This pain is nothing to me. Why did you have to take this hit for me?"


    Nathan felt a pang of sorrow for Nathalie, his eyes instantly welling up. "Cough... If I had known you suffered so much before, I should have found you sooner. From now on, won''t let anyone hurt you."


    Whether it was pity for Nathan or his heartfelt words, Nathalie suddenly threw herself into his arms, crying her heart out. "My life is worthless. It''s not worth your kindness." "Don''t talk nonsense," Nathan said, uncharacteristically angry. "Have you ever thought that the person you so easily dismiss is someone else''s precious jewel?"


    Nathalie was left speechless and was at a loss for words for a long time.

 Chapter 302

    With just a few words from Nathan, it was like Nathalie had been given a magic potion. Her spirit and soul were rejuvenated, lifting her up to new heights. What was once a life full of struggles now felt priceless and cherished. Nathan watched her, lost in her thoughts, and without uttering a word, he reached out and took her hand. That simple gesture filled Nathalie''s heart with warmth andfort. The joy of being valued was overwhelming. The young nurse was visibly moved. She wiped her tears and said, "You two have such a beautiful bond; it''s really touching! Don''t worry, we''ll do everything we can to help him heal quickly and with minimal pain..." The doctor gave Nathan a prescription and exined to Nathalie, "These pills are to be taken orally, and these ointments should be applied twice a day, morning and night. The IV treatment should get him on the mend pretty soon." Nathalie felt a bit more at ease.


    The doctor kindly added, "You can go ahead andplete the admission paperwork. We''ll start his IV treatment right away..."


    Nathalie got everything sorted for Nathan''s hospital stay. She covered the fees and even arranged for him to have a VIP single room.


    When she returned to the room, Nathan was already hooked up to the IV. Since his injuries were on his back, he had to lie face down and couldn''t do much else.


    Worried he might be thirsty, Nathalie quickly got him some water.


    Nathan grumbled, "Nathalie, I''m bored. Can you chat with me?" Seeing her hustling around made him feel a bit left out.


    Nathalie paused, took a seat beside him, and gently massaged his hand, which was connected to the IV. "Okay, I''ll keep youpany. It might help with the pain. What do you want to hear about?"


    "I want to hear about your childhood," Nathan said, looking into her warm eyes.


    Nathalie hesitated for a moment, then let out a deep sigh. Her childhood was a series of tough times, often marked by beatings or begging for survival. She didn''t want toy her burdens bare for Nathan.


    "When I was around eleven or twelve," she started, opting for a happier memory. "I used to collect recybles after school. One evening, went to Rainbow Bridge which was usually pretty quiet then. But that night, it was buzzing with people. When I got closer, I saw a little boy, about five or six, lying under the bridge. For some reason, I felt an instant connection. It was like we were meant to meet. At that moment, he felt like family to me."


    Nathalie gave Nathan a shy smile. "Isn''t that odd? My intuition was spot on."


    Nathan''s eyes widened with surprise, and he squeezed her hand with excitement. "What happened next?"


    Nathalie continued, "Most of the


    crowd was indifferent, but a few kind folks suggested taking the boy to the hospital Then, someone raised concerns and wondered why this kid


    was alone. They also


    heN?velDrama.Org ? content.


    might have had some contagious disease. And even if he didn''t, they were worried something would


    happen to him in their care, and his family would me them. They couldn''t possibly deal with that. So, the well-meaning people backed off."

 Chapter 303

    Nathalie paused, and her face lit with a proud smile. "Oh, I knew the one who was talking. He was the local gangster. He was always causing chaos-thieving, robbing, even kidnapping. He''d been in and out of jail a bunch of times. I wasn''t surprised if the child was one of Nathan nodded, clearly impressed. "Nathalie, you''re so sharp."


    his victims."


    Nathalie got more animated, her eyes shining. "I couldn''t help but feel drawn to this kid, and deep down, I just wanted to help him. So, I had a lightbulb moment. I stepped up and imed the child as my little brother."


    "The guy was scared I''d ruin his ns. He red at me and threatened me, saying, ''Little beggar, you should watch your words. You two don''t look a thing alike...""


    I crossed my arms defiantly and responded, ''Who says siblings have to look alike? I take after our mom, and my brother takes after our dad. Our family''s poor, and our parents aren''t well, so we''ve been out begging since we were little... My name''s Nellie. And he''s..." "The little boy responded, ''My name''s Nate.""


    Nathalie''s face softened with a smile


    as she recalled the child''s quick thinking. "He was so clever. I barely got the words out before he made up a name to go with my story. Everyone around us believed it-even that guy started looking nervous. I seized the moment, moved through the crowd, and went up to the kid. As if by some miracle, he reached out his hand, letting me pick him up."


    Nathalie''s eyes glistened with tears, her voice thick with emotion. "He was just a little thing, light as a feather. Those awful traffickers had starved him, leaving him skin and bones. They beat him where it wouldn''t show and pinched him. When I took him home and gave him a bath, there wasn''t a single part of him unscathed..."N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Tears welled up in Nathan''s eyes, too. "Him meeting you was a bit of luck in all his misfortune."


    Nathalie shook her head, her face clouded with regret. "After I took him home, I hid him in my room. All I had to do was buy a bit more food and teach him how to read and write. The kid was sharp, he learned fast and had a sunny disposition He looked cute, too, but just a little too skinny. I thought I could be there for him forever. But then, just a monthter, my mom found out..."


    Nathalie sniffled, tears rolling down her cheeks. "My mom is the most selfish person. She didn''t want me spending my money on anyone else. She would hurl the nastiest insults at me and Kim every single day. She called me shameless for ying mom at my age, called him a burden, an unwanted child, and said he was dragging us down, She demanded he be sent away. The kid had such pride; his eyes were always red from crying... But I had no choice. I had to work, and I couldn''t stay to protect him."


    Suddenly, Nathalie broke down, sobbing. "All I could do was tell him to hang in there, wait until I could make enough money to take him away. He was so goodx, ignored my mom''s harsh words, and survived in our home for six months. But one day, I came home, and he was gone."


    "My mom told me he''d gotten healthy and just ran off like the ungrateful brat she said he was. But I couldn''t believe her. I stood up to her for the first time, demanding to know where he went. Every day, she came up with a new lie-he was sold to traffickers, ran away, or was dumped at an orphanage."

 Chapter 304

    Tears streamed down Nathalie''s face as she sobbed. "I can''t stand thinking about how young he was. He was all alone in such a harsh world. I always worried about what he would eat, what he would wear, and where he would live. It just breaks my heart. Even now, I dream of him, and it still hurts. I''vee to think of him as my own brother."


    "You just don''t get it. He relied on me so much and trusted mepletely. And yet, I lost him. If only I could turn back time, I''d give up everything to have that warm-hearted boy back."


    This was a sharp, unforgettable pain Nathalie kept buried deep inside.


    When Nathalie didn''t talk about it, life was peaceful. But whenever she did, her heart ached unbearably. She felt such deep empathy for the child who shared a simr misfortune.


    She copsed at the bedside and cried her heart out. Nathan reached out with a shaky hand, gently stroking her hair. His eyes were redder than she''d ever seen. "So, you named yourself Nathalie because of him, right?" Nathan asked.


    Nathalie looked up suddenly, caught off guard by the redness in Nathan''s eyes. "Nathan, I took care of that child for six months. I was just a kid then, but I poured all my heart into him. That''s why he''s left such a deep imprint on my memory. I chose the name Nathalie to honor him. But please, don''t be jealous..."


    She gently shook his hand. "I know how kind you''ve been to me, and I''ll treat you just as well. We also have a very deep bond, certainly no less than what I had with that child."


    Nathan smiled, holding Nathalie''s hand tenderly. "I''m not jealous. I just envy that child for having met you. How lucky he was."


    Nathalie quickly added, "How lucky he was to have met me? I''malso lucky to have met you! Nathan, you''re my lucky star. You''ve made me sessful in my career, and you''ve also saved my life..."


    Nathan couldn''t help butugh. "So you can dish out ttery. If you can do it, then keep iting. I love hearing it."


    Nathalie was a bit stunned.


    Nathan patted her head. "Go wash your face; your eyes are all swollen from crying. I don''t like seeing you cry."


    "Okay."


    Nathalie got up and headed to the bathroom, Nathan watched her leave, tears suddenly streaming down his face. He looked up, trying desperately to hold the tears back.


    en


    "Nathalie..."


    "Nathalie..."


    He repeated her name in his heart over and over again.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    At the Dawson family mansion, sirens wailed as police cars took Kristina away. Ambnces lined up at the entrance, carrying stretchers out with the injured.


    Family members of the injured were fuming, cursing the culprit. "She''s crazy. No wonder he wanted a divorce. Keeping her around was just asking for trouble."


    Cameron, who had rushed over, felt


    his heart sink upon hearing the harsh words about his mother. He grabbed Benjamin, inquiring urgently, "Benjamin, where''s my mom?"  en


    Benjamin shook off his hand. "Cameron, what''s going on with your mom? What got into her to throw acid at everyone? It''s a good thing the police took her away. You should be worried about your dad right now. It looks like he and your stepmom were seriously injured."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 305

    When he received the crushing news, it was like the wind got knocked out of him, making him hunch over in an instant.


    Benjamin offered his advice. "Cameron, your mom''s facing serious charges for intentional harm-she could end up in prison. If that happens, it could mess up your future big time. I think you should rush to your dad and the victims and beg them to write forgiveness letters. Maybe the court will agree to a private settlement. That''s your best bet."


    Cameron snapped back to reality, gave Benjamin a grateful nod, then bolted out of the room.


    After asking around at the hospital, Cameron learned that all the injured people were taken to the Capital Cosmetic Hospital. It was close to the Dawson family mansion and was known for its top-notch treatment of injuries. Using the excuse of visiting his dad, Cameron asked the receptionist about Griffin''s room and hurried there as fast as he could.


    In the ward, Griffiny there in just his boxers, his skin a mess of severe burns. His face was twisted in pain, and despite gritting his teeth, he couldn''t stop the asional moan.


    Cameron stood frozen at the door, taken aback by his father''s pitiful state.


    "What do you want?" Griffin snapped when he saw Cameron.


    Cameron approached, all business like he was negotiating a contract. "I need you to write a letter of forgiveness so my mom doesn''t end up in jail."


    Griffin, still fuming, shot back. "No way. She''s out of her mind. Who knows what she''ll do next if we don''t lock her up." He talked about his ex-wife with nothing but contempt. Any past affection was long gone. Cameron''s fists clenched, and his knuckles popped from the pressure.


    Griffin noticed the anger in his eyes and toned it down, though his voice wasced with resignation.


    "Cameron, you can''t just think about your mom. You have to think about my safety, too. She hates me. If I help her, she won''t be grateful to me; she''lle after me..."


    His excuses were flimsy at best.


    Cameron noted Griffin''s coldness and any respect he had for his father vanished, reced by pure disdain.


    "If you don''t help me, don''t expect me to stay loyal to this family. I''ve been at Dawson International long enough to know how to hit where it hurts if you push me too far."


    Griffin stared, clearly shocked that his own son would threaten him. "What are you going to do?" he demanded.


    Cameron replied, "Dad, you''ve


    always cared most about Dawson International''s future. If I leak evidence of your tax evasion to the


    media, imagine the chaos it''cause in the stock market."


    Griffin never thought he''d be at odds with his son. His anger turned to a bitterugh. "You''re going against me? Cameron, it seems like your independence has gone to your head What makes you think you can take me on?¡±


    Cameron''s handsome face twisted with anger. "Are you really picking a fight with me?"


    Griffin said, "You''ll find out soon enough that without me, you''re nothing."? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Cameron felt the sting of humiliation. "You''re truly despicable. My mom''s biggest mistake was ever meeting you."


    Griffin smirked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Considering she gave birth to a piece of work like you, meeting her was my misfortune."

 Chapter 306

    Cameron''s eyes widened, his heart aching from the sting of his father''s harsh words.


    "Did you just call me scum? Did you say I''m a piece of work?" Cameron''s voice wavered, struggling toprehend how his own father could use such biting words against him. Griffin sighed, "Isn''t it the truth? Isn''t everything you''ve done to Nathalie proof of your lost morality? I''m ashamed to call you my son."


    Cameron''s face went pale. He couldn''t believe that even his father was siding against him in his feud with Nathalie.


    "I just loved Greta too much... I never meant to hurt Nathalie," he tried to exin, though his words felt weak and empty. The hurt Nathalie had suffered was undeniable. Griffin dismissed him with a wave. "Just go. I can''t stand to look at you. Pretend I''m not your father. I''ll do the same. As for your mother, she''s reaping what she sowed."Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    He added, his voice dripping with anger. "Only someone as heartless as her could raise a son as selfish as you."


    The disdain hung heavily in the air.


    Cameron found himself stumbling out of the room. Griffin''s harsh judgment made him question everything about himself. Was he really that awful? Was he truly beyond saving?


    Lost in thought, he wandered through the hospital hallways until he saw Nathalie and Nathan approaching. Nathan was in a wheelchair, and Nathalie was pushing him. Both of them were chatting andughing. They were a picture of warmth and joy.


    A light bulb went off in Cameron''s


    head. Nathan was also a victim, and as the heir of both the Rond and McCoy families, his influence was considerable. If Cameron could win Nathan''s forgiveness, maybe the others would follow suit.


    With newfound hope, Cameron approached Nathan eagerly. "Mr. Nathan," he called out.


    Nathalie and Nathan''s conversation halted as Cameron drew near. Nathan eyed him warily. "Cameron, what do you want?"


    Switching to his business persona,


    Cameron proposed, "I''m here to apologize on behalf of my mother. hope you can forgive her and issue a letter of forgiveness. Don''t worry. I won''t let you go unrewarded. Acan provide you with confidential info that could benefit yourpany."


    Gaining Nathan''s support would be a huge win, and Cameron felt certain he could pull it off.


    But Nathan didn''t even flinch. Unfazed by the offer, he turned to Nathalie. "Cameron, whether we forgive your mother is up to Nathalie."


    Cameron was taken aback. He''d


    always assumed Nathan only


    protected Nathalie because she was useful. He thought their rtionship was purely transactional. Yet here Nathan was, choosing Nathalie''s dignity over a lucrative deal.


    On his way over to the hospital, Cameron had heard the buzz. Nathan had gotten injured saving Nathalie. The whole town was talking about it.


    Cameron was finally convinced. Nathan''s feelings for Nathalie were genuine. Still, he couldn''t wrap his head around why Nathan would care so deeply for a woman with such an unremarkable background. Turning to Nathalie, Cameron ced all his hopes in her hands.

 Chapter 307

    "Nathalie, can we chat for a moment?" This was the first time Cameron had spoken to Nathalie with such a gentle tone.


    Nathalie wasn''t having any of it. "That won''t be necessary," she replied, her voice cold and unyielding.


    Trying to look sincere, Cameron said, "I just want to apologize."


    Nathalie''s gaze was icy, cutting right through him. She saw through his facade. "Cameron, you''re not here to genuinely apologize. You''re just hoping I''ll forgive you to help reduce your mom''s sentence or maybe even get her off the hook." Cameron didn''t flinch despite being called out. Instead, he seemed relieved, as if he was sure that the kind-hearted Nathalie would help him out.


    "Nathalie, my mom was your mother-inw once. She took care of you. Can''t you forgive her because of that connection? Please?"


    But Cameron never really understood Nathalie.


    In her past life, she might have been someone whocked principles, and constantly backed down. She experienced heartbreak as a result of kindness and concession, leading to the death of her beloved daughter. In this life, she''d turned proactive and was ready to fight her own battles.


    She looked at Cameron, almost gleeful. "Cameron, I wouldn''t mind if your mother dropped off the face of the earth. Why would I help her dodge her crimes?"


    Cameron turned as white as a sheet. He understood why she hated him, but he couldn''t wrap his head around why she despised his mom so much.


    "I''m the one who hurt you. Why do you take it out on my mom?"


    Nathalie''s eyes welled up with tears. "You really think your mom''s a saint? She''s just a bully of a mother-inw."


    Cameron''s mind shed back to all the times Kristina had subtly and not-so-subtly insulted Nathalie. Kristina always looked down on Nathalie for marrying Cameron without bringing in anything and for not adding any prestige to the family.


    But every family had its drama, right? Cameron thought Nathalie''s grudge against his mom was just narrow-mindedness.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "I barely recognize you." Cameron shook his head as if Nathalie was a stranger now.


    Thatment hit a nerve with Nathan, who immediately told Cameron to leave. "Cameron,


    whatever Nathalie has be


    none of your disgusting family''s business. Get lost. Nathalie doesn''t want to see you."


    Cameron wasn''t ready to give up. "Mr. Nathan, if you help my mom stay out of prison, I''ll make sure you climb thedder of sess. Why do you throw away your future for a woman?"  en


    Nathan''s face turned to stone.


    on''t think so highly c


    everything I want without your help."


    I can achi" et


    Cameron was stuck, feeling frustrated and helpless.


    Nathan''s words cut deep. "Cameron, even your dad wants nothing to do with you. Ever wonder why no one likes you?"


    Those words hit Cameron hard.


    Nathan kept going. "Luckily, Nathalie ditched a loser like you, and now she''s thriving."


    Nathalie couldn''t help but smile, nudging Nathan away. "Nathan, stop wasting your breath. Why bother with this jerk?"


    To Nathalie, Cameron was like some monster. Just the mention of him made her feel sick.


    With no one to turn to, Cameron was feeling down and ended up at a bar to drown his sorrows.


    The bar was almost empty because it was a weekday. The owner recognized Cameron and decided to chat him up.

 Chapter 308

    "Hey there, it''s been ages since youst stopped by my bar! Why didn''t you bring your girlfriend with you today?" Cameron had a bit too much to drink, found himself more chatty than usual and started a conversation with the bar owner. "She''s not feeling well. She''s been under the weather. That''s why I haven''t been taking her out muchtely."


    The owner nodded sympathetically. "That''s a real shame. She''s such a lovely girl. Why does fate have to be so harsh on her?" Cameron looked a bit puzzled. "You know her?"


    The owner gave a gentle smile. "Oh, definitely. A few years ago, my husband''s business was going through a rough patch, and the stress got to him. He''de home and take it out on me and our son. One day, he nearly hit our boy, and your girlfriend bravely stepped in. She handed him a wad of cash and told him to toughen up and face the world instead of picking on his family. After that, things turned around for him, and the business started doing well. He''s be a much kinder person now. He always says that he wouldn''t be where he is today without your girlfriend''s intervention. He often envies you for finding such a well-spoken and knowledgeable girl."


    Cameron''s face lit up with a happy grin. "She''s my wife now. We got married. Thank you for recognizing her for who she truly is."


    Cameron was more convinced than ever that Greta, whom many doubted, was genuinely an amazing person. He resolved to cherish her even more.


    The owner encouraged him further, "You''ve got to treat her right. She''s a gem. If you let her down, you''d be asking for trouble."


    To back up her story, the owner added, "That day, when you werepletely out of it, she borrowed my kitchen to whip up a hangover breakfast for you. It''s clear she loves you deeply. It''s wonderful that you two found each other."


    Cameron was taken aback by how much Greta had done for him behind the scenes, and his love for her grew even stronger. "I''ll never let her down. Ever."


    Right then, Greta''s call came through.


    Cameron answered cheerfully, "Hey, Greta." His voice was unusually tender, perhaps due to his good mood.


    "Cameron, where are you?"


    "I''m at Destiny Bar."


    "Can Ie pick you up?"


    "Of course! The owner here knows you. Come by and say hi."


    Greta was excited. "I''ll be there in a sh."


    The


    her


    to herself, "Greta... Is the "Something felt offel


    When Greta pushed open the bar''s ss door, Cameron stood up warmly to greet her. He helped her in and introduced her, "The owner still remembers the kindness yo@used to show me."


    Greta looked a bit confused but quietly soaked in the praise that wasn''t hers to im.


    However, as the owner got a clearer look at her face, her expression turned stormy. "She''s your wife?" Her tone was anything but friendly.


    Cameron was stunned for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah."


    The owner scoffed, "You''ve switched girlfriends, haven''t you?"Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    It was like a thunderbolt for Cameron, leaving him speechless. "You mean Na... Nellie?"


    The owner snapped out of her thoughts. "Right, that''s the name I remember."

 Chapter 309

    The boss'' gaze towards Cameron shifted from admiration to clear disdain. Her attitude turned sour, and her words dripped with cold indifference. "A heart that betrays true love is worthless," she muttered, making sure Cameron could hear. His face darkened. Greta found the boss'' passive-aggressive vibe unbearable and muttered under her breath, "What''s her problem?"


    Though she didn''t speak loudly, the boss heard her. She ignored Greta, but her look at Cameron was full of pity. "I thought you had snagged a real catch, but it turns out it''s just... this? And you left such a wonderful woman for her?"Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    If she knew that Nathalie and Cameron had once been married, she might have sighed even more for him. Cameron''s once vibrant heart felt like a snowstorm had hit it.


    He drowned his sorrows, ss after ss. He was usually a decent drinker but got drunk much quicker than usual. Greta tried to reason with him. "Cameron, please stop. This stuff isn''t cheap, and we need to save money. Plus, it''s not great for your health." The boss, bringing over more drinks, overheard and mocked Cameron. "You''re drunk, and all she cares about is the cost. She doesn''t even think to make you hangover breakfast. Were you out of your mind to leave the girl who''d do that for you?" Cameron kept his head down, silent, as his mind spun and his stomach burned. Yet, amidst the haze, memories of Nathalie''s kindness flowed through his thoughts.


    "Cameron, I know work can be tough. A drink to unwind is fine, but don''t overdo it. Alcohol''s bad for you."


    "I made you some hangover breakfast. Please have some. Trust me."


    Tears welled up in Cameron''s eyes and then began to fall. Meanwhile, Greta was busy arguing with the boss. "What did you say to my husband to upset him so much?"


    The boss just casually wiped the bar, "He''s upset because he lost someone precious. What''s that got to do with me?"


    "I''ve never seen a boss like you. My


    husband is a customer, and


    customers are supposed to be


    treated well. You should be


    Greta tried to drag Cameron out. Cameron shrugged her off, causing Greta to stumble to the ground. She looked up with hurt in her eyes. "Cameron, did you push me?"


    For the first time, Cameron showed his fierce side. "Can you stop being so money-obsessed? You''re selling your dignity for a few bucks. Aren''t you ashamed?"


    Greta got up, tears still on her face.


    Her hands were on her hips as she yelled back,. "You think I''m embarrassing? You''re an embarrassing husband. You can''t earm enough and are making me scrimp and save. Now you''re calling me embarrassing?"


    Cameron stared at Greta. The once gentle and kind girl he knew now seemed to have lost her shine. With his illusions shattered, he began to question everything he believed in. Was he wrong all along?

 Chapter 310

    He suddenly lost all patience with her and stormed off. Greta hurried after him.


    The bar owner followed them out, loudly griping, "Hey, you haven''t paid for the drinks yet! Who does that? Just go up and leave without settling the tab. Unbelievable! You two are quite the pair. No wonder Nellie dumped you. A character like you doesn''t deserve her." Cameron was mortified, feeling like he wanted to crawl into a hole. In frustration, he turned on Greta, saying, "Go pay for the drinks." Greta watched him squirm rather than square up. She had finally lost his respect.


    Tears welled up in Greta''s eyes. "Cameron, I don''t have any money."


    Cameron just stood there, speechless. The struggles of a broke couple were endless and exhausting. In the end, they both left, heads hung low.


    At the hospital, Nathalie was busy taking care of Nathan,pletely unaware of the chaos brewing outside.


    Just as Nathan drifted into sleep, Mason barged into the room with Ashley in tow. Nathalie caught Mason''s fierce re, and, a bit taken aback, she obliged by stepping outside with him.


    Mason followed her out, leaving Ashley to watch over Nathan.


    "Mr. Mason," Nathalie hesitated.


    Mason''s stormy demeanor softened a touch. She knew how to navigate the situation.


    "Ms. Nathalie, I hear my son Nathan got hurt because of you?"


    Nathalie looked genuinely remorseful. "I''m so sorry. I didn''t mean to drag him down."


    Mason cut straight to the chase. "Well, at least you know you''re a burden. To be frank, Nathan''s marriage isn''t his choice to make.


    I''ve already picked out a bride et


    for


    him-Miss Ashley Stewart. She fell for Nathan at first sight. If all goes well, our families will unite through their marriage. Do you get what I''m saying?" Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Nathalie nodded. "I get it, Chairman. Don''t worry, I have no intentions with Nathan..."


    Buteaket


    But Mason wasn''t interested in her exnation. "I''ve seen this retreat-to-advance tactic before. Ms. Nathalie, know you''ve got some skills, and you''ve been somewhat helpful to Nathan''s career.pared to Miss Ashley''s status, your contributions are just a drop in the bucket. So, the Rond family chooses Ashley. Please step out of Nathan''s life to prevent her from getting jealous."


    Nathalie went pale. She''d never thought about having a romantic link with Nathan, but she also never considered cutting him offpletely. Nathan felt like family to her.


    To Mason, her hesitation seemed like lingering affection, only making him more determined to break them apart and end Nathalie''s wishful thinking.


    "Ms. Nathalie, I don''t want to be harsh. Maybe Nathan did show some fondness for you and even casually called you his girlfriend here and there. But please understand, he''s young and doesn''t really know what he wants in a rtionship."


    Mason looked her in the eye, his


    words cold and cutting. "When faced


    with the choice between a Stewart girl and a divorced woman with health issues, any sensible man would know who to choose. Nathan will grow up, and his feelings will be reced by logic. You wouldn''t want things between you two to end in mutual resentment, would you?"

 Chapter 311

    Nathalie''s face was ghostly pale, and all the color drained away. It had been ages since anyone dared to humiliate her like this. Yet, when Mason did it, his tone was so calm, as if he were discussing the weather.


    Was she really supposed to be seen as lesser because of her health issues, her divorce, and her struggles with fertility? Feeling shaky but resolute, she bit her lip and stood even taller, defiantly telling Mason, "Mr. Mason, you may see me as someone whoes from nothing and has had a rough ride, which makes me unworthy. But as I see it, I''ve always been independent and strong." She held up her slender but strong hands. "Everything I have today is a result of my own hard work. I''ve never tried to cozy up to anyone for personal gain. So, isn''t your criticism a bit unfair?"


    Mason was used to being on a pedestal and surrounded by yes-men. He wasn''t ustomed to such boldness from someone younger. His temper red at Nathalie''s audacity. "Don''t act so high and mighty. If you were really above it all, why do you hang onto Nathan so tightly? And why do you pick a name that''s bound to raise eyebrows?"Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie''s face went even paler, her body trembling. But she found the strength to reply, "Mr. Mason, you''ve got it wrong. My name, Nathalie, has nothing to do with Nathan. It''s a tribute to a homeless kid I once helped."


    She hated talking about her connection to Nathan with strangers, but under Mason''s relentless questioning, she decided toy it out. "Nathan and I crossed paths by chance in Mn. He was in trouble, and I lent him a hand. He''s a grateful guy, so he looked out for me. I''m sorry if that made you misunderstand our rtionship."


    Mason felt ufortable learning the truth. "So, you''re the one who saved him?"


    "You honestly have no romantic feelings for him?" he asked, still uneasy.


    Nathalie was upfront. "In myst marriage, I nearly lost my life. I barely made it out and have no ns to marry again. Mr. Mason, trust me, I''m not interested in Mr. Nathan like that."


    Mason''s frown deepened. "Ms.


    Nathalie, you''re sensible. You don''t have feelings for Nathan, but he sees you differently. I can''t risk his future on this. So, I''m asking you to step away from Nathan. If you do, I''ll make sure you''repensated for any setbacks in your career."


    Nathalie paused, then looked up with determination. "I can leave Nathan''s world."


    Mason was surprised she agreed so easily, a hint of gratitude in his eyes.


    But Nathalie continued, "I don''t want anypensation. As long as Nathan is treated well, I''ll step aside. However..."


    Mason''s brow furrowed again, his expression turning cold. He suspected Nathalie wasn''t going to let go of Nathan so easily.


    Nathalie''s face turned sad. "I can''t


    leave the Capital just yet. I have unfinished business here. So please, give me three months. Once I''ve done what I need to, you won''t have to push me out. I''ll leave on my


    own."


    Mason was caught off guard. "If you just disappear, Nathan will definitely get suspicious. Three months will give you time to slowly distance yourself. I''ll also help redirect his attention to other women. By the time you go, he won''t try to stop you."

 Chapter 312

    Nathalie shed a gentle smile. "Mr. Mason, you''re overthinking this. All good thingse to an end. Whatever brief moments Mr. Nathan and I shared weren''t enough to make him long for me." Mason let out a sigh of relief. "I hope that''s just my imagination running wild."


    He eyed Nathalie with a hint of curiosity. "Is there anything you''re still wishing for? If there''s something I can do to help, just say the word."


    Nathalie''s eyes gleamed with determination. "Thank you. I can handle my business myself."


    Mason paused, recognizing her stubborn streak.


    "Alright then."


    After a quick chat with Ashley about Nathan''s care instructions, Nathalie left the hospital without a backward nce.


    Mason was satisfied with how things were shaping up. He advised Ashley, "You need to use this time while Nathan''s under the weather to get close to him. He might seem like a tough nut to crack, but he''s got a warm heart underneath that armor. He''ll surely be moved by your efforts. You''re one of the few in the city with both brains and beauty. Give it some time, and Nathan will definitely fall for you."


    Ashley was brimming with confidence. "Don''t worry, Mason. I''ll win Nathan over."


    Mason walked away with a smile.


    Now, only Ashley and Nathan were in the spacious hospital room. Nathan was out like a light, probably because of the meds. Ashley sat by his bedside, resting her chin on her hand, soaking in Nathan''s stunning features. She thought to herself, ''He has such a cute face. Using a bit of trickery against Nathalie was totally worth it.''


    "Nathan, you''re so good. Only someone like me deserves you," she whispered to herself.


    "Now that she''s gone, you''ll see how great I am. I know you''ll fall for me. I''m just as good as she is," Ashley said confidently.


    But she didn''t see the twisting.


    When Nathan woke up, his groggy eyes opened to see "Nathalie" leaning over his bed. Her hair was perfectly styled, the curls just fight, and she''d changed outfits. Her effort made Nathan''s heart flutter.


    They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Nathalie putting in so much effort meant she cared, right?


    He reached out slowly, gently stroking her hair, but the feel of the hair was all wrong.


    Nathan''s realization hit him like a ton of bricks, and his anger red. "Who let you in?"


    Ashley jolted awake, confused by Nathan''s angry face. "Nathan, what''s up?"


    Nathan tried to keep his cool. "Why are you here? Where''s Nathalie?"


    Ashley replied, "Oh, she had something to handle and left. She asked me to take care of you."


    Nathan''s demeanor turned frosty. "Why would she leave without saying a word?"


    That wasn''t like her at all. He knew that Nathalie was always someone who kept others informed.


    Ashley added, "She said she had some unfinished business."


    Nathan partly believed her. With Nathalie gone, Nathan felt a wave of gloom.


    Ashley noticed his mood and tried to cheer up. "Nathan, are you upset


    about Nathalie leaving withoutset


    word?" Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    swho


    Nathan looked at her, baffled as tox why she thought he''d be angry at Nathalie. She was so wonderfut; he probably couldn''t be mad at her for anything.


    "I''m just worried about her."

 Chapter 313

    Ashley''s expression fell visibly. But her pride wouldn''t let Nathalie outshine her. With a bold move, she grabbed Nathan''s hand, pressing his chilly palm against her cheek. She blinked her innocent eyes at him. "Nathan, I really like you. I want to marry you. Can you not be


    so nice to other women? It makes me jealous."


    Nathan gently pulled his hand back, his voice distant and cool. "Ashley, you should find someone else. Don''t waste your time on me. It won''t lead anywhere."


    Ashley''s eyes widened, tears threatening to spill. "Nathan, is it because you love Nathalie?"


    Nathan didn''t reply. He was lost in a heavy silence.


    Ashley, eager to make her point, continued, "What does she have that I don''t? Everyone says she''s been married, had a miscarriage, and might not be able to have kids in the future. The Rond family would never approve of your marriage."


    Nathan''s face turned pale. "Who told you this?" He thought about how strong Nathalie was and how hurtful it would be for her to hear these words.


    Ashley, blunt as ever, said, "Mason told Nathalie himself. I overheard it."? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Nathan''s face turned white. His fist clenched tightly, and he gritted his teeth. "Why did he meddle in my stuff?"


    Ashley pleaded, "Nathan, stop chasing after Nathalie. She doesn''t even like you."


    Nathan''s heart felt like it was being pierced by shards of painfully cold ice.


    After his grandfather''s hurtful words, Nathalie must have retreated into her shell, losing the courage to pursue aplicated romance.


    Nathan said weakly, "You don''t need to go after her. I''m not in the mood for romance anyway."


    Ashley exhaled in relief. She beamed, "I knew you couldn''t possibly like Nathalie. She''s not right for you."


    Nathan''s fingers curled. He looked out the window silently, his worry shadowing his eyes.


    A storm was brewing. The sky was filled with dark clouds. Every now and then, lightning sliced through, followed by thunderps like bombs falling to earth.


    Nathalie packed her bags and, dragging her suitcase, entered the living room. Lizzy was curled up on the sofa, her doe-like eyes fixed on her. "Nathalie, it''s pouring down heavily. Do you have to leave tonight?"


    Nathalie replied, "Mr. Mason didn''t


    give me much time. I need to settle my issues with Cameron quickly. Lizzy, I''ll respect your choice whether you decide to leave the Capital with me or stay with Mr. Nathan."


    Lizzy''s eyes were teary. "Wherever you go, I''ll go."


    Nathalie nodded. "Then stay here for now. In three months, I''lle get you."


    Lizzy nodded obediently. "Okay."


    Nathalie left the house without looking back.


    The night was as dark as ink. Rain cascaded from the sky under the lightning, appearing like countless bead curtains, setting the stage for a grand revenge drama.


    Sitting in the car, Nathalie couldn''t shake the thought. "Greta, Cameron, it''s time to end our feud."


    In the dead of night, Nathalie arrived at the Brown family''s doorstep.


    Since Patrick''s incident, the Browns had let go of all their staff. The once lively house nowy eerily silent.


    Nathalie knocked on the iron gate but got no answer. Taking matters into her own hands, she climbed over the wall and jumped into the vi.

 Chapter 314

    Fortunately, the mansion''s front door had been left unlocked. Nathalie stood at the threshold, dragging her oversized suitcase.


    As lightning lit up the sky, Nathalie''s silhouette appeared ghostly, startling Miranda, who had just gotten up for ate-night bathroom trip, into a terrified scream. "Ah!"


    "It''s just me," Nathalie said calmly.


    Miranda''s scream was cut short. Nathalie flipped on the wall light, revealing Miranda''s shocked expression. "What are you doing here?" Miranda stammered.


    "I''m here to settle a score," Nathalie replied.


    Miranda''s face went pale. She wheeled herself after Nathalie. "I heard Nathan got seriously hurt trying to save you. Mason must be livid and probably kicked you out. So now you''re back here trying to stay with us?" "But Nathalie, you know you''re not really a Brown. This isn''t your home. You shouldn''t be here. So, could you please leave?"


    Nathalie ignored Miranda and continued up the spiral staircase, suitcase in tow.


    Unable to follow her up the stairs, Miranda had to use the elevator to reach the second floor.


    When Nathalie stepped off the staircase, Miranda was waiting. "Why won''t you answer me?" she pressed.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Nathalie walked straight to the room she used to stay in. She opened her suitcase and slowly hung her clothes in the wardrobe. Only then did shezily reply, "True, I''m not a Brown. But are you brave enough to announce that to the world?"


    Miranda was taken aback. Her mind struggled toprehend Nathalie''s implication.


    Nathalie continued, "You wouldn''t dare admit I''m not a Brown because it would reveal how you tricked a minor into donating a kidney." Miranda''s face turned ghostly white, her lips trembling, unable to utter a word.


    "Since you''ve enjoyed the perks of me being a Brown, I should get the same treatment, don''t you think?" Nathalie added with a smirk. Miranda dryly responded, "If you don''t cause any trouble, there''s room for you here."


    Nathalie shed her a mischievous smile. "Off you go. I need my beauty sleep."


    Miranda left, flustered.


    Once the door clicked shut, Nathalie slid to the floor, overwhelmed by the memories this ce held.


    Patrick had lured her in with fake kindness, making her starved for love and fall for his false fatherly affection Un the end, she had willingly agreed to donate a kidney to Greta. This room was the bell where her trust had been shattered.


    Nathalie was back for one reason: to dismantle the very thing that once broke her.


    Miranda returned to the master bedroom, where bedridden Patrick sensed something wrong. "Is our daughter home?" he asked, hope shining in his eyes.


    Miranda looked at him and nodded. "Yes, our daughter is back." But it wasn''t the daughter he was hoping for.


    Worried about Patrick''s reaction, Miranda kept the truth from him. Patrick drifted into a peaceful sleep, holding onto this illusion.


    In the early hours, a nervous Miranda finally called Greta for help.


    "What is it?" Greta''s voice wasced with impatience.


    Miranda hesitated, her eyes showing


    a hint of disappointment. However, her love for Greta, spoiled by years of indulgence, made her try to please Greta timidly. "She''s back."


    "Who?"


    "Nathalie."


    Greta was stunned.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 315

    "Cameron, I need to head home." Greta hung up the phone and immediately set out to find Cameron, hoping he''d drive her back.


    Cameron was sprawled out on a deck chair on the balcony, idly scrolling through his phone. "Head back for what? You know how swamped I''ve beentely, and my mom really needs me right now."


    Greta approached him, almost kneeling, resting her head on hisp. She had a knack for sweet-talking anding across as vulnerable. "Cameron, Nathalie''s back home. I need to see if things are okay. I have this gut feeling her return isn''t all sunshine and rainbows." Cameron''s hand paused over his phone, the coldness in his eyes softening a bit. "If you''re that uneasy about it, then we should head back."


    Greta nted a light kiss on his cheek. "Thanks, babe."


    All Cameron felt was the dampness on his face. He wiped away the mark Greta left, frowning slightly.


    Noticing his reaction, Greta felt her face flush and then pale. When had Cameron started finding her affection so off-putting?


    She distractedly tossed some clothes into her suitcase and dragged Cameron to the car.


    Before long, Greta and Cameron pulled up in front of the Brown family mansion.


    Nathalie stood on the second-floor balcony, elegantly sipping her coffee. Her gaze was calm as she watched the front door.


    Stepping out of the car, Greta looked up and locked eyes with Nathalie. A wave of panic and insecurity hit Greta while Nathalie just smiled serenely.


    "Wee home, Greta," Nathalie greeted warmly.


    Only then did Cameron look toward Nathalie. His expression shifted slightly upon seeing the pajamas she wore. Those pajamas were the only piece of clothing he had bought Nathalie during their marriage, and she used to wear them often.


    Cameron''s expression cracked like an old painting. Nathalie''s return was anything but normal.


    Nathalie waved at Cameron with a sweet smile. "Hey there, Cameron."


    However, Cameron found it deeply unsettling.


    Greta red at Nathalie, her voice sharp. "Nathalie, what are you ying at?"


    Nathalie replied, "Oh, I''m just here to reim what''s mine."


    "There''s nothing here that belongs to you. I''m Dad''s only daughter," Greta snapped.


    lips,


    Nathalie ced a finger over her motioning for Greta to hush. Her demeanor was all grace and ss. "Greta, think about it-is there really nothing here that''s mine?"


    "Of course not..." Greta retorted before catching herself.


    Cameron, however, was growing paler by the second. He told Greta, "She''s probably talking about the kidney inside you."


    Greta gasped, a chill running through her.


    If Nathalie was here to reim her kidney...


    A cold sweat broke out on Greta''s brow.


    Nathalie''sughter was wild and unconstrained.


    "She won''t be staying long," Greta reassured herself quietly. There was no way Greta could give the kidney back to Nathalie. With nervous anticipation, Greta and Cameron entered the house.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Greta started by putting her suitcase


    in the bedroom, only to find all belongings missing. Nathalie''s personal items had taken over her room.


    QUM


    Fuming, Greta shouted, "Nathalie, get your stuff out of here!"


    Nathalie leaned against the


    ????


    doorframe, amused. "Oh, sorry, Greta, ''ve got a lot of stuff. I was just borrowing your space for a bit."

 Chapter 316

    Greta felt a strange sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu when she heard those words. It took her a moment to piece it together. She remembered it was from the first time Nathalie came home and imed her space by moving her belongings into the room. Greta had been territorial back then and forbade Nathalie from using her wardrobe. Nathalie, being the amodating one, had actually given up most of the space for Greta.


    But who would''ve thought the tables would turn? Now, it was Nathalie''s turn to push Greta around. Greta wasn''t going to take it lying down. She spun around to Cameron, her voice firm. "Cameron, get rid of these things."


    Cameron thought Nathalie had gone too far, and grabbed a box from the table, ready to toss it. But Nathalie stopped him in his tracks. "Cameron, take a good look at what you''re holding. Do you really want to throw it away?"


    Cameron pulled back the ck cloth wrapping the box, revealing the corner of an urn. Greta let out a scream. "Oh my God! Get it out of here."


    Seeing Greta so distressed, Cameron didn''t think twice before heading out with the urn. Nathalie''s voice cut through the air, stopping him. "If you throw it away, aren''t you afraid that your daughter''s spirit wille back at night and demand justice?" Cameron felt his blood run cold, his face turning pale. His hands shook as he clutched the urn. "What did you say is in here?"


    Nathalie''s voice was cold. "Your daughter''s ashes. The priest said she needs to be here for forty-nine days to find peace and reincarnate."


    Nathalie was like a demon,ying out Cameron''s sins bare. "Cameron, she wasn''t supposed to suffer here, but you tried to save your sweetheart, lied to me, and brought our daughter into this world unexpectedly. That was the first time you hurt her." "And then you made me donate a kidney while pregnant. You sapped my strength and caused her death before she was born. That was the second time you hurt her.


    "You had control over her life and death. How can you not feel guilty?"


    Cameron''s strong frame shook slightly. "She was just an embryo, Nathalie," he said, trying to ease his guilt.


    Nathalie''s anger surged at his


    words.


    And if she hadn''t died? I


    girth to her? Do you t


    she


    belongs to en. act


    would''ve been healthy?"


    Cameron replied, "You took too much medication while pregnant The side effects were too severe. Ending the pregnancy was a wise choice."


    ton


    Nathalie was furious. She stepped up to Cameron and pped him hard. "You made me kill our child with my own hands because of your sins. Did you ever wonder what would happen if I hadn''t?"


    Cameron could only imagine such a child being weak and frail. Even if she had been born, raising her would have been a struggle. "That''s not a realistic scenario, Nathalie." He refused to dwell on the suffering their daughter might have faced.


    Nathalie pped him again. "You sacrificed our daughter for your sad, pathetic love. Cameron, you deserve to be alone."This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    A storm brewed in Cameron''s eyes, and he suddenly grabbed Nathalie''s wrist with force. "So, did you set my dad against me?"


    Nathalie gave him a wicked grin, her eyes drifting to the urn. "Maybe it''s our daughter getting her revenge on you."


    A shiver ran down Cameron''s spine.

 Chapter 317

    Greta and Cameron made their way back to the Brown family estate, and Patrick and Miranda couldn''t have been more thrilled. Miranda even went the extra mile to freshen up Patrick, who was bedridden, making him look as lively as possible before settling him into his wheelchair and rolling him down to the grand hall.


    When Patrickid eyes on Greta, a strange smile spread across his gaunt face. With his muscles wasted away, his smile had taken on a sinister edge. Rather than showing the expected surprise, Greta wore a look of sheer awe. She even took a step back. Nathalie voiced what Greta was likely thinking. "Oh, Dad, what happened to you? Even Greta jumped when she saw you."


    Patrick, hearing Nathalie''s voice, turned to her with a look of horror. "What are you doing here?"


    Nathalie had imed the center spot on the sofa, a ce Patrick had always reserved for himself. It was where he would lecture Nathalie with all the authority of a family patriarch. Nathalie imitated him, crossed her legs, and eyed Patrick sideways. "Dad, the doctor said you''re in pretty bad shape. You have high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. One wrong move, and you''re in serious trouble. I didn''t want to miss my chance to be the dutiful daughter, so I decided to move back and keep youpany."


    Patrick''s face was a mask of terror. Memories of his time in prison flooded back, where he was tormented by the top dog, who said Nathalie had specifically asked him to ''look after'' Patrick.


    Look after him he did. Patrick became paralyzed in the end.


    Nathalie was a devil incarnate.


    "I don''t need your care. Get out," Patrick bellowed, his voice echoing through the hall.


    Nathalie, unruffled, replied, "I''m not going anywhere. This family owes me too much. Until I''m repaid, I''m staying put."


    Greta turned white as a sheet.


    Patrick erupted, "What does this family owe you?"


    "Oh, where do I start?"


    As realization hit, Patrick''s face turned beet red. He barked at Miranda, "Just pretend she''s not here. Don''t make her any food. Let her fend for herself."


    Nathalie chuckled. "I''ve always been self-sufficient. I don''t need anyone waiting on me. Besides, this family has a mix of paralysis and ipetence. Who should be the one being taken care of?" Patrick could barely breathe, his anger suffocating him.


    After she had said her piece,


    Nathalie strolled into the kitchen. She whipped up a simple dish of


    spaghettaglio e olio, picking the et


    finest seafood and eggs from the fridge. She then crafted a sauce that sat atop her pasta, making it look absolutely irresistible.


    Meanwhile, Greta and the others exchanged awkward nces.


    Patrick was paralyzed and obviously couldn''t handle any housework.


    Miranda was partially paralyzed and could maneuver her wheelchair, but Nathalie had pampered her, so her kitchen skills had withered away. Asking her to cook for the whole family was indeed a stretch. Greta was delicate andzy. She had never cooked a meal in her life.


    Cameron was the typical idle rich kid who probably couldn''t tell soy sauce from vinegar.


    Finally, Patrick decreed, "Miranda, go make somethingt."


    Miranda hesitated, her eyes betraying a hint of hurt and reluctance. But with no one to back her up, she trudged to the kitchen alone.


    Nathalie watched Miranda and


    smirked. "I used to treat you like royalty. I never let you do any housework. Now look at you. You''re less than a servant without me You''re half-paralyzed and can''t even enjoy a meal cooked by your precious daughter."


    Though Miranda''s face remained stoic, inside, she felt the sting of disparity. "Greta''s always been fragile..." she muttered in defense.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    However, Nathalie joined this family with a sharp eye, and she wasn''t going to let her get away with it.


    "Oh, she''s fragile, is she? We both


    get by with just one healthy kidney. Yet I''m the one working and building a business while she spends her days doing nothing, unting her wealth and basking in her status as Mrs. Dawson. She''s got the energy to show off but not to cook a meal for the parents who raised her?"

 Chapter 318

    "It seems like she''s okay with letting her parents do all the hard work but can''t handle any herself." Nathalie, having sessfully stirred the pot, carried a bowl the size of a basin out of the kitchen. Once Miranda snapped out of her gloomy mood and opened the fridge, she realized it was nearly empty. She wanted to give Nathalie a piece of her mind, but Nathalie had already vanished.


    Nathalie waltzed into the dining room with the massive bowl, filling the air with a mouth-watering aroma. Cameron and Greta, seeing the huge bowl of spaghetti, thought Nathalie had decided to be generous and made some for them too. They walked over, only to watch her set the bowl on the coffee table and, like a magician, whip out a fork and start eating.


    Greta was dumbfounded. "Can you really eat all that?"


    Nathalie shrugged. "Whatever I can''t finish, I''ll give to the dog."


    Greta and Cameron immediately lost their appetite. They turned away, avoiding the sight of the spaghetti Nathalie was devouring.


    Their stomachs eventually started growling, and that was when Miranda awkwardly emerged with a tray carrying a few tes and bowls. The dishes were nd. She had made overcooked vegetables with a few bowls of in white rice. "Mom, is this all you made after all that time?" Greta sneered at Miranda''s cooking.


    Already worn out, Miranda replied, weary-eyed, "If you don''t like what I''ve made, you can cook the next meal yourself."


    Greta pouted but kept quiet. The meal was dull and uneventful.


    Not only were they still hungry, but to make matters worse, Greta ended up with an unexpected bout of diarrhea afterward. She turned to Miranda and said, "Mom, what did you put in the food? Why am I the only one with an upset stomach?" Miranda, feeling wronged, said, "It''s probably your delicate stomach. We all ate the same thing and are fine. How is this my fault?"


    Tears rolled down Greta''s face. "My weak stomach... Didn''t you make me like this?"


    Nathalie sat nearby, watching the argument unfold with a sly smile.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Greta finally noticed Nathalie looking a bit too pleased and grew suspicious. "Did you mess with the food?"


    Nathalie had a look that said. "Yep, it was me. What are you gonna do about it?"


    "Got any proof? Be careful, or I might sue you for nder."


    Nathalie''s mocking tone convinced Greta that she was definitely behind the prank. It dawned on Greta that Nathalie''s return was all about settling scores. A chill ran down her spine.


    en


    Finding the drama boring, Nathalie got up to leave for her room. Cameron suddenly blocked her path. "Hey, can we talk?"


    Nathalie looked at him steadily. "Sure, what''s up?"


    "Could you cook for us from now on? I''ll pay you," Cameron suggested.


    Nathalie had to hand it to Cameron for being crafty. If Greta got sick again, he could easily pin it on her. Plus, he clearly saw her as cheapbor. .


    Still, despite all his plotting, Cameron missed one crucial thing.


    Cameron put on his businessman hat and said, "I''ll give you the going rate." It was as if he was doing her a favor.


    Nathalie asked, "How much are you paying me?"


    Nathalie couldn''t help butugh. Did


    Cameron still see her as some poor beggar? Did he get his logic from a gym teacher? Didn''t he realize people''s situations can change?


    "How about I pay you double the going rate to cook for me, Cameron? What do you say?"

 Chapter 319

    Cameron''s lips quivered, and his face went as pale as a ghost. Nathalie''s words hit him like a cold ssh of water, bringing him back to his senses. Here he was, struggling financially, while Nathalie was living it up in luxury. The stark contrast between their lives left Cameron feeling a bitter sting. He had opened the can of worms by trying to humiliate Nathalie first, and she wasn''t about to let him off the hook easily.


    "Hiring a cook or nanny usually costs about two grand a month, tops. I''m offering you five grand, plus you''ll handle the cleaning, mopping, andundry. What do you say?" Nathalie proposed, her tone dripping with mockery. Cameron swallowed hard, ring daggers at her. "You..."


    Nathalie shrugged, unfazed. "What? Do you think the pay''s beneath you? Cameron, you don''t have the skills of a professional chef or any training in housekeeping. The sry I''m offering is actually more than you''re worth. But given our past and seeing your current situation, I thought I''d throw you a bone. If your pride can''t handle it, then forget it."


    She twisted the knife further. "Soon enough, you might struggle to even find a job that pays five grand a month. Don''te crawling back to me because I won''t give a damn about the old days."


    The humiliation was raw and unfiltered. Cameron was seething, but he had started this mess, so he couldn''t reallyin.


    With the pantry bare, Nathalie ordered a spread of gourmet ingredients and exotic fruits online. Her choices, like the pricey king crab, only made the Browns'' dwindling lifestyle look even more pitiful.


    Greta, was the typicalpetitive and vain woman. She couldn''t stand being one-upped. She splurged on some fancy seafood herself, even though her wallet took a hit.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie reveled in watching Greta try to keep up with her.


    The next day, Nathalie went on a spree. She bought herself a limited edition designer bag even if it was just a knockoff. As she strutted around with her faux luxury, she yed the part of a queen among mere mortals. She caught the envy in Greta''s eyes and, fueled by it, kept shopping.


    Greta couldn''t hold back any longer and decided to strike back by unting her rtionship with Cameron.


    One day, she clung to him, whining, "Cameron, it''s been ages since you''ve gotten me a gift."


    She probably assumed Cameron would jump at her demands like he


    used to. But times had changed. Cameron, once flush with cash, was


    now pinching pennies to save Kristina. He wasn''t in a position to indulge Greta''s greed.


    Feigning confusion, Cameron asked, "What''s the asion?"


    Greta froze in awkwardness.


    Nathalie added insult to injury, "Greta, your hubby''s broke now and even freeloading at our ce. Maybe buy what you want yourself?"


    Greta shot her a re, maintaining her fa?ade of happiness. "I''m not like you. I have a loving husband. So why should I bother?"


    Nathalie kept quiet but wasn''t about to let Greta off easy. Turning to Cameron, she said coolly, "Since sister''s not in the best health, you need to fulfill her wishes. You''re her husband, after all. You should shower her with all the love you have."


    Cameron used to throw this line at Nathalie during their arguments. Now, she was giving him a taste of his own medicine, trapping him in a moral bind.


    Caught in a bind, Cameron hesitantly asked Greta, "What do you want?"


    Greta, determined to outdo Nathalie, set her sights high, "I want a diamond ne."


    A diamond ne was indeed the height of luxury. It could instantly turn Nathalie''s shy disys into nothing more than hollow showmanship.

 Chapter 320

    Cameron agreed with a frown, not entirely thrilled.


    Greta''s mood shot up like a rocket. She finally had a small victory.


    Taking the chance to boost Greta''s spirits, Miranda chimed in, "Look, Greta, see how much Cameron cares about you."


    But the universe had other ns.


    When Cameron came back with a diamond ne for Greta, she made sure to unbox it right in front of Nathalie. As the tinum chain and its tiny, rice-sized diamond pendant were revealed, Nathalie couldn''t help but burst intoughter.


    "Greta, your husband really knows how to pamper you. You asked for a diamond ne, and he got you one. But with his taste, I might as well have given you some of my freebies. The diamonds on those are bigger than yours." Greta''s face soured instantly.


    Greta went back into the room, threw the ne at Cameron, and buried her face in the pillow, sobbing. "Is this how you''re treating me now? Didn''t you see Nathalie practically spitting her insults at me? I wanted you to back me up, and instead, you let herugh at me. Cameron, do you even love me anymore?"T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron was worn out. "I do love you. It''s just that I''ve had so many expensestely, and I can''t just splurge."


    Greta was taken aback. She slowly raised her head, seeing Cameron without his usual aura of wealth. Suddenly, he seemed just like any other guy. She scoffed, "You swore you''d never let me suffer. And now, not even long after the wedding, here we are..."


    Cameron mmed his phone onto the table. He couldn''t endure Nathalie''s mockery because of his guilt towards her, but could he endure Greta''s too? "I went through hell and back to marry you. I even faced everyone who turned against me. And now you me me? If you think I''m holding you back from your dream life, then let''s get a divorce."


    Greta turned white as a sheet. She wasn''t ready to face a divorce.


    She clung to Cameron, admitting her fault, "Cameron, I''m sorry. I didn''t want to outdo Nathalie, but she got under my skin, and I just wanted to keep my dignity."


    Her talent for acting vulnerable was unmatched, and her tears softened Cameron''s resolve.


    At the door, Nathalie, having overheard their spat, wore a wicked grin.


    Once upon a time, it was her and Cameron behind these walls, bickering because of Greta. Now, it was Greta and Cameron shing, with her stirring the pot. "Greta, I''m here to give you back everything you dealt me," Nathalie whispered as she slipped away.


    The Brown family was on edge, perhaps because of Nathalie''s constant meddling. Patrick was already frail and suddenly had a severe hypertension episode one


    night, triggering a heart attack that


    left him in critical condition.


    In a panic, Miranda rushed to get Greta and Cameron. "Greta, your dad''s unconscious. We need to get him to the hospital, fast."


    Greta, however, grumbled, "Why is he sick again?"


    Miranda felt a coldness seep into her heart, remembering how she and Patrick neverined about Greta''s constant illnesses. And now, Greta was the oneining about Patrick? Had Miranda been wrong to pamper such an ungrateful person?


    Sensing Miranda''s displeasure, Greta quickly shifted from irritation to concern. "I''ll fetch Nathalie. She''s strong and healthy - the perfect person to stay up all night with Dad."


    "Greta, you''re so calcting. It''s almost like a p to my face," Nathalie said. She had been awakened by the chaos and leaned against the wall in her pajamas, watching the spectacle unfold.

 Chapter 321

    Greta''s cheeks turned a shade of red, feeling the weight of embarrassment. But with her father''s staggering medical bills looming over her and the burden of caring for Griffin, she didn''t hesitate to pull Nathalie into what she saw as a shared duty.


    "If you''re back with us and iming to be our parent''s daughter, then you ought to help out with Dad''s care," she insisted.


    Nathalie shed a disarming smile. "I haven''t seen any perks from being a Brown, but when things go south, suddenly, I''m the one you think of. No worries, though. I''m pretty generous by nature. I can help out at the hospital with Dad, but you''ll cover the medical and care fees, right?"


    Greta shot back, "Why should I? You should cover half."


    Nathalie shrugged, "If you''re going to split hairs, then let''s split the care too-one day on, one day off."


    "Well..." Greta hesitated.


    Turning to Miranda, Nathalie said, "Mom, take a look. This is the daughter you raised. You better look after yourself, or else when you''re older and your darling daughter doesn''t want to spend a dime or lift a finger, you''ll have no one but yourself to rely on." Miranda''s gaze was heavy with disappointment as she stared at Greta, who reluctantly caved. "Fine, we''ll take turns and do one day each."


    With a yful arch of her brow, Nathalie asked, "So, who''s on duty today? You or me?"


    Always one to dodge responsibility, Greta replied, "You go."


    Nathalie beamed, "Alright. Don''t regret itter."


    She called over the building''s security team to help get Patrick into her car and drove him to the priciest hospital town. There was no diagnosis yet so no treatment n in ce. Nathalie handed over a thousand dors to the hospital.


    Patrick spent the day in the emergency room while Nathalie lounged outside, music keeping herpany. She hadn''t expected to run into Cameron, though. There he was, sneaking off with Ashley to the end of a hallway. Intrigued, Nathalie quietly followed.


    Up close, she saw Cameron look worn out and plead with Ashley in hushed tones. "Ashley, I''ve been like a brother to you all these years. For old times'' sake, you''ve got to help me now."


    en


    "Cameron, rx. I''ll make sure Nathan signs that forgiveness letter," Ashley assured him.


    Cameron sighed, "It''s not so simple. Nathan holds Nathalie in high regard, and Nathalie can''t stand me or my mom. She''ll do everything she can to keep Nathan from forgiving my mom."


    Ashley, full of confidence, said,


    "Don''t worry. Nathan''s interest in Nathalie is purely business. She''s useful to him, so he protects her. But things are different now. I can offer Nathan more than Nathalie can, and I n to be his wife. He''ll listen to me."


    Nathalie felt a knot tighten in her chest when she heard Ashley''s words. If Ashley supported Cameron, would Nathan stand by her or Ashley?


    Probably Ashley. In their past life, they were a real couple. They had be a family, and Nathan''s feelings naturally leaned towards Ashley.


    If Nathan sided with Ashley against her, Nathalie''s path to revenge would hit a major roadblock.


    Feeling weighed down, Nathalie turned away.


    Later that afternoon, around four, Patrick was finally wheeled out of the emergency room.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 322

    Natalie had set him up in the swankiest VIP suite at the hospital and even lined up a couple of caregivers to look after him. Of course, she wasn''t footing the bill.


    When Patrick came to, the first person heid eyes on was Natalie, and a flicker of fear crossed his face. "Where''s your mom?" he asked. "And your sister?" He was desperately seeking someone to back him up. With a sly grin, Natalie replied, "Your precious daughter doesn''t want to deal with you. So she sent me instead."


    She poured herself a ss of water and sipped it with an air of elegance.


    Parched and tongue-tied, Patrick croaked, "I need water."


    Natalie acted as if she hadn''t heard him and carried on, "Do you know why I decided to look after you?"


    Patrick realized he was at her mercy and tried a rare moment of ttery. "I know you have a sharp tongue but a soft heart. Deep down, you''re kind and can''t bear to see your old man in trouble."


    Natalieughed so hard she nearly toppled over. When herughter faded, her expression turned icy, and she leaned in to whisper, "But you''re not my dad. And as a stepfather, you never did a thing for me. So, I owe you nothing." Patrick turned ghostly pale.


    With a wicked smile, Natalie added, "But don''t worry, I''ve put you in the best hospital and hired top-notch caregivers. You won''t be suffering."


    Patrick looked puzzled.


    Natalie continued, "However, your darling daughter will have to foot the bill. Do you think she''ll dip into her savings to cover your treatment?"


    Patrick''s face fell instantly. Greta was frail, and her career had never really taken off. She relied on the Brown family and Cameron for support. How could she possibly afford his medical expenses?


    "I don''t want treatment anymore," Patrick muttered, trying to get out of bed.


    Natalie ignored his protest. "What happens when she runs out of money and falls ill, with nothing to her name? I''ve heardte-stage kidney disease is excruciating..."


    Patrick red at her. "She has Cameron. He won''t abandon her. As for you, you''re all alone. You better worry about yourself. Don''t end up without anyone to im your body."


    Natalie paled at his words. She


    remembered her past life when she


    was desperately calling Cameron, Patrick, and Miranda as shey dying but they never answered They got tired of her pleas and even blocked her.


    Thankfully, she''d met Nathan.


    Fortunately, the fearsome Nathan had a moment of kindness and ensured she and her daughter were properlyid to rest.


    Natalie''s dark eyes locked onto Patrick''s, and she suddenly smiled. "Thanks for the reminder. Looks like I''ll need to make sure Cameron cuts ties with your beloved daughterpletely." Patrick scoffed, "Ha, you think you can do that? When you were married to Cameron, he didn''t even touch you. Natalie, don''t waste your breath. Cameron never loved you."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Natalie rolled her eyes. "Who said I want to get back with Cameron? Trash belongs in the bin. I don''t recycle garbage."


    Patrick was left speechless.


    Natalie drummed her fingers on the coffee table. "It''s a bit of a pickle, but where there''s a will, there''s a way." Patrick felt a chill run through him.


    Natalie was supposed to be taking care of Patrick, but he didn''t get a single sip of water or a bite to eat the whole day. Even when he had an ident, Natalie didn''t lift a finger to help.


    Bright and early the next morning, Greta showed up. Catching a whiff of the unpleasant odoring from Patrick, she scrunched up her nose and snapped at Natalie, "Natalie, why didn''t you clean him up?

 Chapter 323

    All the doctors and nurses gave Nathalie a disapproving look.


    Nathalie, calm as ever, faced them and said, "Greta, even though he''s my stepdad, he never took care of me for a single day, and I never spent a dime of his money. Instead, he used his power as my dad to swindle me for my kidney. He gave you a free organ. I''ve gone above and beyond just to visit him now."


    "And you, his own daughter, whom he cherishes so much, were at home sleeping while he fell ill yesterday. You strolled into the hospital today without a care to ask about his condition. All you''ve done isin about his smell. What right do you have to lecture me, you ungrateful thing?"


    As if hearing something out of a fairy tale, the medical staff turned their gaze to Greta. This time, it wasn''t disapproval but pure disdain.


    Nathalie stood up, a smile ying on her lips, and handed Greta a stack of bills. "Greta, these are your dad''s medical bills, the caregiver fees, and the VIP room charges. You better make sure they''re all settled."


    To prevent Greta from ying any tricks and dying payment, Nathalie added, "Oh, by the way, I''m heading out on a business trip tomorrow, so you''ll need to take care of your dad from now on." Greta, looking at the bills, felt her heart clench. "How is it so expensive?"


    Nathalie replied, "Well, Dad always gave you the best, so I figured you should show him some respect now that he''s sick. So I picked the best room, the top-notch caregivers, and the priciest imported meds for him." Greta was seething. If everything were imported, the medical bills would be through the roof.


    Nathalie''s moral high ground felt like a mountain pressing down on her, leaving her with no excuse to argue. She could only swallow her anger and ept it.


    "As long as it''s for Dad''s good, I''ll ept it," Greta said, forcing a smile that didn''t reach her eyes.


    After handing over Patrick''s care to Greta, Nathalie walked away without a backward nce. But, as luck would have it, she stepped into the elevator and came face-to-face with thest people she wanted to see. Nathan and Ashley stood side by side, their eyes locked on her with resentment.


    Nathalie paused at the elevator doors, one foot hanging mid-air, then pulled back. "I can take the next one."


    Ashley, pleased with Nathalie''s understanding, gave a satisfied smile.


    As the elevator doors slowly closed,


    a


    patted her chest, breathin relief. Still, there was &


    nagging feeling in her heart


    "Content


    Nathan had clearly seen her, yet he didn''t say hello. Was he choosing love over friendship? Unbelievable!


    Just as the elevator doors were


    about


    pressed against them,


    Nathalie catch her being


    making


    Was he crazy?


    In the next moment, the hands pried the doors open with determination. Nathan, full of resentment, stepped out. Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ashley was left to descend with the elevator.


    Nathalie stared at Nathan, and suddenly, her heart was racing.


    "That was dangerous!" She couldn''t help but scold him.


    Nathan replied, "My life isn''t worth much, anyway. No one really cares whether I live or die."


    His words were unexpectedly heart-wrenching.


    Nathalie, feeling a pang of guilt, said softly, "Don''t say that. Your granddad does care about you."

 Chapter 324

    "Have you seen him yet?" Nathan asked with a knowing grin.


    "Oh, thanks to you, I''ve crossed paths with him a few times," Nathalie replied, keeping her tone deliberately vague. She didn''t want to stir the pot between Mason and Nathan, so she kept her emotions tightly under wraps. "Hmph." Nathan''s grunt of discontent left it unclear whether it was aimed at Nathalie or Mason.


    Nathalie awkwardly fiddled with her nose. She felt Nathan had put her on the spot.


    Right then, Greta showed up, aiming to catch the elevator down. She ended up waiting by the elevator doors with Nathalie and Nathan.


    The chill Nathan exuded was hard to miss, and Greta picked up on the tension between him and Nathalie. It oddly delighted her. She watched them with sharp attention.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Trying to ease the tension, Nathalie said, "Mr. Nathan, I''m sorry for leaving without a word. Please forgive me."


    Nathan''s anger red at the formal address. "Mr. Nathan? Really? You''re going with Mr. Nathan now?" He chuckled sarcastically.


    Greta jumped in to add fuel to the fire. "Nathalie, even if Mr. Nathan is younger, he''s way out of your league in status and wealth. You should stick to hisst name." Nathan and Nathalie shot her a look that needed no words.


    Nathan retorted, "Greta, my business is none of yours." His disdain for Greta was palpable.


    Greta''s face flushed, and she held her tongue.


    The elevator doors slid open, but Nathan and Nathalie stayed put.


    Greta was tempted to stay for the drama and lingered. But Nathan abruptly asked, "Aren''t you leaving?"


    With no excuse to linger, Greta shuffled away, albeit slowly, hoping to overhear more.


    Nathalie nced at Nathan apologetically and turned to leave. However, Nathan pulled her back and shut the elevator door behind them As the elevator descended to the basement, Nathalie looked at Nathan, stunned.


    bet


    After venting, Nathan''s demeanor softened into a pout. He rested his chin on Nathalie''s head, murmuring, "Nathalie, where''d you go? Don''t want me anymore?"


    His forlorn expression made Nathalie''s heart melt. She felt guilty and exined, "Nathan, I''ve been living with the Brown familytely..."


    Nathan''s head jerked up, his earlier pout vanishing. "Nathalie, if they give you trouble, you''ve got to tell me. I''ll have your back." Nathalie smiled warmly. "Don''t worry. I''ve got it covered."


    She turned her concern to him. "Your


    granddad''s trying to match you with Ashley. I think you two could be a great fit. She''s smart, gorgeous, and straightforward. Plus, shees from a family just like yours. You''d have loads inmon. And it seems she really cares about you. Nathan, good matches aren''t easy to find. Why not give her a shot? She might be your perfect match."


    Nathan''s eyes dimmed a bit. "Nathalie, I''m only 19. Isn''t it too soon to dive into all that romance stuff?"


    Nathalie chuckled. "I get it. You''re all about the hustle right now. Just mull over what I''ve said. And be kind to Ashley, okay?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 325

    After letting those words spill out, Nathalie felt like she''d just ticked off a major to-do on life''s list, finally breathing a sigh of relief. But, out of nowhere, this weird emptiness started creeping back in.


    She clutched her chest and couldn''t shake the odd feeling. Lately, whenever she was around Nathan, her heart was getting squeezed, leaving her feeling sour and tense.


    She felt reluctant to cut ties with him and figured it was because she''d always seen Nathan as family. This thought was herfort, and slowly, she started to feel a bit calmer.


    Nathan''s eyes were noticeably bloodshot, as dark and intense as a hawk''s. He looked like a lion, ready to pounce in anger.


    Nathalie instinctively shrank back, a bit scared. This version of Nathan was just like the one she remembered from before - the fierce leader of the Capital.


    She was at a loss about how to calm him down. Honestly, she had no clue what had set him off in the first ce.


    With a tiny, pitiful voice, she whispered, "I did it all thinking it was for your own good..."


    Nathan let out a deep, heavy sigh. "Nathalie, vanishing without a word is a pretty lousy move," he said, his voice as cold as ice.


    Nathalie watched him, confused. Having grown up without much love, she figured no one would bat an eye if she ran away for a week. She couldn''t wrap her head around how disappearing had impacted Nathan so much. The elevator doors slid open, revealing Ashley, who was visibly fuming. "Nathan, why''d you leave me in there?"


    Nathan stepped into the elevator, took Ashley by the arm, and led her away.


    Nathalie stood there, bewildered.


    Back at the Brown family home, Nathalie flopped down on her bed. Her mind was a total mess, probably because she''d been up all night looking after sick Patrick. She was exhausted and fell asleep as soon as she hit the mattress. Some timeter, she was vaguely aware of raised voices outside.


    "Cameron, get out here."


    "This family is like cursed. You''re a bunch of invatids. He is stuck in bed, and she is half-paralyzed, and their two daughters have their own issues Cameron, are you so blinded by love that you''d fall for this sickly lot?


    "Greta, if you had any decency or conscience, you''d leave my son Cameron alone and let him live his life."


    ...


    "Mom, Greta and I are already


    married. I''ve been through a divorce,


    and it was a nightmare. I don''t want


    to go through that again. Please respect my choice, okay?"


    Cameron''s voice was full of


    overn


    helplessness. Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie''s eyes snapped open. Following the sounds, she made her way downstairs to the vi''s garden door.


    Kristina stood there, looking vibrant and full of life, which made Nathalie''s face go pale and sullen.


    It didn''t take much to figure out that Kristina''s quick release was thanks to Nathan. So, he had indeed helped Ashley, granting her what she wanted.


    Kristina, struggling to catch her breath, held her chest and gasped. "Now that you have a girl, you forget about your mother."


    Cameron rushed to support her.


    "Mom, you wouldn''t be out of jail if I hadn''t stepped in. You have no idea how much I had to beg Nathan..


    and even went to Ashley in the ne


    It was only because of Ashley that Nathan agreed to write that letter of forgiveness."


    Greta saw Nathalie and walked over, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Nathalie, I heard you and Mr. Nathan had a falling out. Did you manage to get him riled up today?" "Who told you that?" Nathalie felt that a spat with Nathan was far from a full-on fallout.


    Greta tilted her chin toward Kristina and added fuel to the fire, "Don''t you see Kristina? She''s the proof."


    She added with malice, "Nathan knew you and the Dawson family were like oil and water, yet he still gave Ashley that letter of forgiveness."

 Chapter 326

    Nathalie shivered, feeling her heart sink as her worst fears were confirmed. She realized she''d lost to Ashley once again. Looking ahead, she saw countless showdowns between her and Ashley, with Nathan always siding with Ashley. Nathalie didn''t want to fight for


    Nathan, and honestly, she didn''t even have the ability to do so.


    Her battle with Cameron seemed destined for failure. Why was it that she was always the one left standing alone?


    Out of nowhere, Kristina''s face twisted with anger, her eyes shooting daggers at Cameron as sheid down thew. "You idiot. Greta''s a curse. She''s bad news for you. Stick with her, and you''ll end up dead sooner orter."


    "Son, I have to keep you safe, even if it means splitting you two up. If you keep being blind to the truth, I''ll have no choice but to die to prove my point." Suddenly, Kristina whipped out a dagger and pressed it against her own throat. Cameron went pale, fear gripping him. "Mom, don''t do anything crazy."


    His gaze then shifted darkly towards Nathalie as though ming her for Kristina''s dramatic outburst.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie was suddenly filled with doubt.


    Cameron fell to his knees with a thud, pleading, "Mom, please, stop pushing me."


    Greta rushed to his side, hugging him tight and sobbing. "Cameron, don''t do this. It''s tearing me apart. If we have to part, that''s fine. I''ll leave. Just live your life." Hearing this, Cameron snapped, "Are you both trying to pressure me? My mom''s threatening to die, and now you''re also threatening me? Can you both just chill?" Then he started frantically pping his face, muttering, "It''s all my fault." His actions were wild and fierce, leaving his face swollen in no time.


    Kristina''s heart ached for Cameron.


    She rushed over and shoved Greta aside. She hugged Cameron, crying "Son, please, don''t be like this. Everything I''m doing is for you. Think about it. Since you started seeing Greta, nothing''s gone right. She''s really bad luck for you."


    Cameron''s eyes turned cold as he stared at Nathalie, who felt a chill run down her spine.


    Suddenly, Cameron shoved Kristina aside and stormed over to Nathalie, grabbing her by the throat. "This is all your doing. Your revenge made my mom misunderstand Greta." Nathalie managed a smirk and taunted him. "Seeing you in pain? That makes my day."


    Cameron tightened his grip, snarling, "Nathalie, you''re heartless. You tore my family apart over a kidney. I''ve been too soft. I let you hurt my mom and my wife. You should be the one topay."  en


    Nathalie''s eye''s shed with a cold, desperateugh. "Cameron, every time Greta''s in trouble, you throw me under the bus. I owe you nothing You, on the other hand, owe me big time. How do you n to pay up?"


    Cameron''s eyes were bloodshot as he roared, "Your life''s worthless, but I''ll make it worth your while for putting Greta first. You should be grateful."


    Nathalie seethed, "Cameron, everything you''re facing now is your own karma. But let me tell you, this is just the beginning."


    "Even thew hands down sentences, Nathalie. I only took one kidney. How long are you going to haunt me for it?" Cameron raged, "I won''t let you have another chance to hurt my mom and my wife." Then, he dragged Nathalie upstairs.

 Chapter 327

    Cameron locked Nathalie away.


    He thought that by keeping Nathalie locked away, he''d finally find some peace. But when he looked into her eyes, eyes that seemed like they belonged to vengeful spirits from long-forgotten tales, he lost his nerve.


    He couldn''t bring himself to meet Nathalie''s gaze. His head bowed, and his body was trembling. "Nathalie, why do you push me to hurt you? I don''t want to hurt you anymore."


    Nathalie''s were bloodshot, and her expression danced between augh and a sob. "Cameron, do you know why I loathe you so?"


    With trembling resolve, Cameron lifted his head. His eyes were red as he searched for answers on Nathalie''s face. Why had the kind, loving Nathalie turned into this vengeful spirit? "Why?" he asked, a flicker of hope in his voice.


    Nathalie looked up, tears glistening as they fell. "You love Greta, and I respected and blessed your love. But if she was your true love, why did you get involved with me? If you didn''t love me, why did you marry me? Do you even understand what you did? I grew up without my parents'' love, but I had faith in love itself. I thought it was okay if my dad didn''t love me or my mom didn''t care because I didn''t choose them. But romantic love? That I could choose. My husband would be the one who loved me most because that would be my choice..."


    Nathalie''s voice cracked with grief. "But you, you shattered my belief in this world. You''ve made every day a new kind of hell."


    Cameron sank to his knees, his eyes brimming with regret. "I''m sorry, Nathalie. If I could go back, I''d never have been with you."


    Nathalie''sugh was cold. "Your apologies are worthless. If I make Greta sad, my existence is just a mistake to you. Cameron, you might as well kill me. Without me, you and Greta could have your happy ending. If you don''t, I''ll make sure your lives are a living hell." Cameron, utterly broken, pleaded with Nathalie, "What can I do to make you let go?"


    Nathalie coolly replied, "Unless... our daughter coulde back."


    Cameron shook, his mouth unable to form words. This was the second time Nathalie mentioned their daughter, but she lost the baby early on, and they never knew its gender. Why did she keep insisting it was a girl?


    "Nathalie, you must be ill. Let me get you to a therapist," Cameron said, clinging to the only exnation he could muster.


    Nathalie just sneered. "Cameron, I''m


    I''m


    not the sick one. You are stupidly blind for blindly loving a murderer who took your daughter''s life. You''re the real fool here."


    Cameron slumped to the floor. "No, Greta isn''t the wicked girl you say she is."


    He paused, realization dawning. "Nathalie, are you trying to mess with my mind? Don''t bother. I won''t believe you."


    Nathalie scoffed. "Cameron, where''s Timeless Cycle? You haven''t touched it in ages, have you?"


    Cameron was startled. "How do you know?"Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    "Because if you had, you''d have seen the truth by now," Nathalie said, shutting her eyes and turning away.


    A heavy unease settled over Cameron. It felt like some truths were creeping closer, ready to swallow him whole. Downstairs, chaos erupted with the sound of a scuffle.


    Kristina screamed at Greta. Her


    voice was sharp and furious. "You bitch, killyou! How dare you mess with my son? You''ll ruin him. You shameless bitch, go to hell

 Chapter 328

    "Ah..." Greta''s gut-wrenching scream echoed through the air.


    Cameron''s eyes shed with panic, and his face drained of color instantly. He stumbled to his feet and frantically rushed downstairs.


    Nathalie saw him in such a state and felt a pang of sadness at first. She and Cameron had shared two lifetimes as husband and wife, but she had never seen Cameron this anxious over her.


    Their daughter from another life could not match how much Greta meant to Cameron.


    However, soon enough, Nathalie''s sorrow shifted toughter. "Ha, Cameron, when Greta and I sh, you never hesitate to take her side. Now that your mom and Greta are locked in a feud, I''m curious to see which side you''ll pick." Cameron turned to her. "This is my mom''s doing. I''ll stand by what''s right. I won''t just side with her because we''re blood rtives."


    Nathalie shook her head. "Cameron, you''re such a jerk. You betray your mother for the one you love. Kristina has given you everything. You deserve to be stay in hell."


    A shadow of doubt crossed Cameron''s once-determined face. Yes, he loved Greta and wanted to give her the best. But his mom was the one who held his world together, the only one who never gave up on him when times were tough. He couldn''t abandon Greta, yet he couldn''t let his mom down either.


    Cameron''s internal struggle gnawed at him like a venomous snake, leaving him torn and in agony.


    Cameron''s heartache finally gave Nathalie a small sense of relief from her own resentment.


    "Cameron, help me. Please, save me." Greta''s desperate voice rang out again. Without a second thought, Cameron shot down the stairs like an arrow.


    In the garden, Kristina had Greta''s hair in her grip. She was pinning ber against the wall and pping her again and again. Greta''s face was swollen. A trickle of blood was at the corner of her mouth.


    The scene shook Cameron to his core. He stood there, paralyzed.


    It was Miranda, in her wheelchair, who finally shouted him back to his senses. "Cameron, if your mom keeps this up, it could be deadly. If something happens to Greta, your mom could be charged, and you''d lose both of them."


    Cameron snapped back to reality. He dashed over, shoved Kristina to the ground, and wrapped Greta in his arms. "Greta, are you okay?" Greta pointed at Kristina. "She tried to kill me, Cameron. You have to help me."


    Cameron red at Kristina, only to find her re even more terrifying. "Did you push me for this bad luck charm? Cameron, so she means more to you than anyone else? Fine, let''s cut our mother-son bond... I don''t need a son who can''t see right from wrong."


    Cameron dropped to his knees in front of Kristina, pping his own face repeatedly. "Mom, I messed up. Please forgive me."


    But Kristina was beyond despair. "Don''t call me Mom. I no longer need a son like you."


    With a heavy heart, Kristina turned and walked away, muttering, "My son is useless. What''s the point of my life now?"Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Cameron''s face went a ghostly white as he ran after her, holding Kristina tightly. "Mom, please, don''t do anything rash. I''ll listen to you from now on. I promise."

 Chapter 329

    Greta felt her world crumble when Cameron said he was giving up on her, her face turning ghostly pale. Tears brimmed in her eyes as she pleaded, "Cameron, are you really leaving me? How can I possibly go on without you?" Her tear-streaked face was so heartbreaking that Cameron was left speechless.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    "Cameron!" Greta cried out, stumbling as she rushed to his side. Meanwhile, Kristina was clearly hurt and disillusioned by Cameron. She only paused briefly before resolutely walking away without a backward nce.


    Overwhelmed by a storm of emotions, he suddenly coughed up blood and copsed.


    It took both Greta and Miranda to struggle and haul Cameron back to his room. That night was destined to be one filled with anxiety and unrest.


    Nathalie was tied to a chair and couldn''t see the chaos outside, but Greta''s desperate cries were enough to clue her in on the unfolding disaster. Their troubles gave her a twisted satisfaction.


    Still, she couldn''t shake off the worry for her own safety. If something dire happened to Greta, Cameron wouldn''t spare her. It had been the same in the past - any problem Greta faced, Cameron would vent his wrath on her. Nathalie knew she had to escape, but the ropes were tied so tightly they left deep, purplish marks on her arms - a painful testament to her captivity.


    She was exhausted and eventually drifted into a restless sleep, only to wake up with a gnawing hunger that left her dizzy and weak. She called out, but the house echoed with silence - no one was there.


    Despair settled over Nathalie as the hours ticked by, worsening her hunger. She had no idea how long she''d gone without food, only that day turned to night and back again, leaving her starving for two days straight. Was she about to starve to death here? Cameron was such a jerk. Was he really going to let her die like this?


    Were they all gone?


    With every passing moment, her hatred for Cameron deepened.


    Just as her vision blurred and her


    mind began to fade, she heard a loud bang as someone kicked the door downstairs. A flurry of footsteps thundered up the stairs.


    en


    "Nathalie." A familiar voice grew louder, closer.


    IMS


    Nathalie fought to open her eyes, but the overwhelming weakness from low blood sugar was too much, and her eyelids fluttered shut again.


    In her final moments of consciousness, she vaguely saw a figure rushing in and felt herself being lifted into a strong embrace.


    "Nathalie..."


    Who could say her name with such tenderness?


    She thought it was a hallucination. But then, she felt a warm kiss pressed against her forehead, filled with a deep, restrained longing.


    Her remaining sliver of awareness told her that the person holding her had a fierce protectiveness over her. She was both shocked and scared. Who would want to kiss someone as broken as her? It must have been a figment of her starved imagination, desperately craving love. Nathalie slipped into unconsciousness.


    1.n


    When she finally came to, she found herself in a hospital with an IV drip in her hand, slowly reviving her strength. The room was spacious and luxurious, far beyond anything she had ever experienced.


    A nurse was swapping out her IV bag, and Nathalie seized the moment to ask, "Who brought me here?"


    The nurse looking a bit envious,


    replied, "Your boyfriend brought you


    in. He''s incredibly handsome and


    seems to care about you a lot. He was so worried when you passed out"


    en

 Chapter 330

    Natalie was totally baffled. Since when did she have such a great boyfriend?


    "Where''d he go then?"


    "He stayed by your side all night and just took off a bit ago."


    Instantly, Natalie thought of Cameron, the one guy who made her life feel like a mess.


    "He''s awful to me." Her eyes red with anger. She wanted to ruin his reputation and expose his fake nice-guy act. "He locks me up, kidnaps me, and starves me? He''s a monster." The nurse was bbergasted. "What? But... he doesn''t seem like that kind of person at all."


    "Looks can be deceiving," Natalie snapped back. "Don''t be fooled by his nice-guy act. His action wasn''t out of kindness. He''s a total hypocrite, a real monster..."


    Nathan, carrying a steaming container of food, had just reached the door when he overheard Natalie badmouthing "him." His face went from pale to flushed in an instant.


    He remembered how he''d seen her yesterday, with her ghostly face and sad eyes. It stirred up all his feelings, leading him to kiss her fiercely.


    The kiss was meant to teach her a lesson. Did he reallye across as such a jerk to her?


    The nurse noticed Nathan and awkwardly slipped away. "I''ll leave you two to chat. I''ve got other patients to tend to."


    Nathan walked up to Natalie with a serious expression, setting the food container on the bedside table, and stared at her nervously.


    "Am I a monster? A hypocrite?" he asked, sounding genuinely hurt. "If it weren''t for me, this so-called ''hypocrite monster,'' you might not be here." Natalie was confused. "Nathan, what are you talking about?"


    Then it hit her. "Oh, was it you who saved me yesterday?"


    Nathan was shocked. So, she wasn''t talking about him?


    "Who did you think it was?"


    "I thought it was that jerk Cameron."


    Nathan felt hurt. "Great, now the nurses probably think I''m a monster. There goes my chance of ever dating a nurse."


    Natalie felt guilty. "Nathan, I''ll clear things up for you."


    Nathan''s anger finally eased. "You better say some nice things about me."


    Natalie nodded eagerly. "Don''t worry."


    Nathan''s eyes crinkled in a smile. He picked up the insted containerdled some chicken soup, and started feeding Natalie spoon by spoon. The mood between them turned surprisingly warm.


    This left Natalie, usually so guarded feeling a bit puzzled. "Nathan, I heard you convinced the bigwigs to issue a letter of forgiveness to let Kristina out of jail?" Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan nodded calmly. "Yep."


    Natalie was taken aback. Why was Nathan, who''d once opposed her for Ashley''s sake, now acting so friendly?


    Nathan suddenly looked up and asked her, "Aren''t you d Kristina''s back?"


    After thinking it over and recalling


    how Kristina''s return had nearly


    made Cameron explode from anger,


    Natalie realized Nathan''s real


    intention wasn''t what it seemed. She


    broke into a grin. "I''m over the moon."


    Nathan''s face, however, turned cloudy. "I''m having second thoughts now."


    "Why?" Natalie asked, puzzled.


    "If I''d known this would be a Pyrrhic victory, I wouldn''t have let her free."


    Natalie was thrilled, though. "Nathan, a little hardship is worth it. You have no idea how Kristina''s return has driven Cameron up the wall." Nathan shook his head a bit helplessly. "But then he just took it out on you."

 Chapter 331

    Nathalie said, "As long as he''s suffering, I''m happy. I''m used to dealing with hardships, so I''ll be alright."


    Nathan mmed the insted sk onto the nightstand, his face dark with frustration.


    Nathalie asked carefully, "What''s up?"


    He replied, his voice heavy, "This thing you''ve got going with him is tearing you apart both physically and emotionally. It''s really bothering me."


    Nathalie paused as a wave of shame washed over her. Maybe it was ack of love growing up,bined with a string of tough experiences, that left her emotionally closed off and unable to trust people. She even worried that Nathan might leave her for Ashley when Nathan always put her first. His deep affection and loyalty were something she felt she couldn''t match.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Suddenly, she reached out, trying to smooth the lines on Nathan''s forehead. "Nathan, thank you."


    Nathan grabbed her hand, his voice filled with suppressed emotion. "Nathalie, let go of Cameron. Start fresh. He''s not worth your pain and energy."


    Nathalie drifted into thought for a moment. Nathan''s words felt like a refreshing breeze, clearing away her dark thoughts. But soon, she made her decision. "Wouldn''t letting him off easy be too generous?" Despair clouded Nathan''s eyes. The deeper the love, the deeper the hate. Nathalie must have loved Cameron intensely and struggled with letting him go.


    Nathan was consumed with jealousy. All he could do was let out a weary sigh.


    Cameron finally woke up two dayster. Greta was in the hospital room, but Kristina was nowhere in sight.


    Still thinking about Kristina, he struggled to sit up, pulling out his IV in an attempt to go find her. "Where''s my mom?"


    Greta was worried. "Cameron, stay calm. The doctor said you need to rest and recover. Once you''re better, you can apologize to your mom. You''re her son. She won''t stay mad at you forever."


    Feeling drained, Camerony back down. He believed Greta''s words and was convinced Kristina would eventually forgive him. After all, every time he''d annoyed Kristina,


    she always came back


    Cameron asked, "Greta, has my mom cooled down yet?"


    .n


    Greta hesitated, "Cameron, I''ve been with you since you got sick. I haven''t had a chance to find your mom."


    Cameron pressed on, "Did she visit me while I was out?"


    Greta looked away, hesitant to respond.


    "Tell me," Cameron insisted.


    "She hasn''t," Greta admitted.


    Cameron clenched his fists. Despite his condition, his mother hadn''t visited him. It was proof that Kristina hadn''t forgiven him.


    Cameron felt that he needed to do something, "Greta, hand me my phone."


    Greta gave him the phone. Cameron called Kristina, but she hung up after a couple of rings. He tried texting, only to realize he''d been blocked.


    Panic set in as he felt Kristina''s anger even through the phone screen. He was devastated and buried his face in his hands. "What did I do? Why''s everyone treating me like I''m toxic?"


    Greta was deeply unsettled. She


    knew better than anyone that


    Cameron''s current predicament was mostly her doing. She had taken


    Nathalie''s kidney, causing a rift ne


    between Nathalie and Cameron. And she was the one who had wrecked Cameron''s career, driving Kristina to lose all hope in him.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 332

    "Cameron, it''s all my fault. If only I were healthier, maybe your mom wouldn''t be so against having me as her daughter-inw," she sobbed, tears streaming down her face.


    In the past, Cameron would have been in a frenzy at the sight of Greta''s tears, ready to do whatever it took to make her feel better. But today, he was unmoved by Greta''s crying. He snapped, "What''s the point of crying? We need to figure out how to get my mom back. I


    can''t let anything happen to her."


    Greta''s face went pale. It took her a moment before she muttered softly, "Oh, okay."


    Around noon, Nathalie caught a quick nap. When she came to, Nathan was nowhere in sight.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    A nurse came by to remove her IV, shaking her head at Nathalie''s earlierments about Nathan. "Your boyfriend really cares about you. While you were out, he was holding your hand the whole time, and his eyes were all red like he''d been crying."


    "He doesn''t seem like the jerk you made him out to be. The way he looks at you is so full of love... it''s just that he''s a bit standoffish and hard to get close to."


    Nathalie nearly choked on her own surprise. "No, I got it wrong. I woke up this morning and thought my ex-husband brought me here, so I said those silly things..."


    "It was actually my friend who looked after me. He''s nothing like my lousy ex. He''s kind, gentle, and really knows how to take care of people. Not to mention, he''s handsome and really good at what he does. There isn''t a w on him."


    The nurse''s face lit up with admiration. "Nathalie, if your friend is that amazing, can I try to win him over?"


    Nathalie studied the young nurse, whose eyes shone like stars. Given her profession, she''d definitely be able to look after Nathan well. So, Nathalie nodded. "Sure."


    She was eager to y matchmaker


    for Nathan. "But let me warn you,


    Nathan can be pretty reserved. He''s not really into dating. If you want to win him over, you''ll need to put n


    some effort. He''s not easy to catch."


    Suddenly, a few coughs came from the doorway. Nathalie turned to see Nathan leaning casually against the doorframe, giving her a look that was half annoyed, half amused. "When have I ever been reserved?" he asked, eyebrows raised.


    He was always so affectionate around her, and yet she still thought of him as distant and hard to approach.


    Nathalie''s face lit up at the sight of him. "Nathan,e here. This girl wants to try her luck with you."


    All her life, Nathalie had longed for someone to truly love her, but Cameron had wrecked that dream Now, she pinned her hopes on Nathan, wishing he could find a girl who would love and cherish him.


    Nathan walked over and pulled up a chair. "Sorry, I''ve decided to focus on my studies for a while. After I finish college, I''m nning to go for a Master''s and then a Ph.D.," he said. Nathalie was taken aback, reaching out to feel his forehead. "Are you feeling okay? What''s with the sudden decision?"


    To her, education was a way for kids


    from modest backgrounds to get


    vel


    ahead. For someone like Nathan, with a family business waiting, diving into the real world after college seemed far more practical than chasing more degrees.

 Chapter 333

    With her cheeks flushed and eyes sparkling, the nurse gushed, "Wow, so you''re actually a genius with a degree! I''m so impressed!"


    Nathan turned, his gaze cool andmanding. "Could you give us a moment?" he asked in a tone that was more of a directive than a request.


    Blushing even harder, the nurse quickly left the room.


    Nathan then turned to Nathalie, a hint of frustration in his voice. "First, you tell me to give Ashley a shot, and then you''re pushing the nurse to make a move on me. Have you ever stopped to ask what woman I actually want?"


    Nathalie suddenly felt as if she''d been jolted awake. She had once chosen a man she adored, only to suffer through his cold indifference. Now, she just wanted Nathan to find someone who would love him fiercely, but she hadn''t considered whether Nathan would love such a girl back.


    Feeling a bit sheepish, she admitted, "I thought a girl like Ashley was every guy''s dream."


    Nathan shook his head. "Sure, her wealth, beauty, and talent match well with mine. But Nathalie, I have all those things, and they don''t really matter to me."


    Curious, Nathalie asked, "Then what do you want? You''re not telling me you want someone broke, unattractive, and uneducated, are you?"


    Nathan looked directly into her eyes.


    Nathalie, with her slightly rounded cheeks, eyes as lively as polished gems, and wless skin, looked younger than her years. She was a timeless beauty.


    Even with the wisdom of two lifetimes, her eyes held pure rity. She wasn''t naive but had a unique charm that set her apart.


    Nathan spoke earnestly, "I would like a girl with a strong moralpass, a brave heart, and apassionate soul. Most importantly, someone who''s really, really good to me." Nathalie let out a deep breath. "Nathan, I''m sorry."


    "I was stuck in old clich¨¦s, thinkingContent ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    love among the wealthy was all about matching social status and destiny. I didn''t realize you were looking for someone with such a


    beautiful spirit."


    A faint smile appeared on Nathan''s face, and his expression softened. "Nathalie, if youe across someone like that, introduce her to me. I''d be thrilled."


    Nathalie patted Nathan''s hand. "I promise I won''t meddle in your love life anymore."


    Nathan smiled, letting the silence speak for him.


    Three days after Cameron came to, he finally remembered Nathalie, who he had left tied up at home. The realization that she hadn''t eaten for three days and might be in serious trouble sent a chill down his spine. He immediately arranged to teave the hospital and rushed home with urgency.


    Greta was beside herself with worry, talking nonstop on the way. "This is terrible! No one''s been home, and Nathalie hasn''t had anything to eat or drink in three days. What if she''s...?" Despite the potentially dire situation, Cameron, who had always been indifferent to Nathalie, brushed it off. "It''s just three days. She won''t starve. Rx."


    Unconsciously, Cameron sped up, and soon they arrived home.


    "Nathalie!" Cameron called out as he climbed the stairs.


    Silence greeted him.


    Cameron and Greta exchanged nervous nces, anxiety clear on their faces. They hurried to Nathalie''s room on the second floor.


    When they opened the door, they


    found it empty. On the floory a pocket knife that certainly didn''t belong to anyone in the Brown family. The ropes had been sliced cleanly by the sharp de.


    Puzzled, Greta said, "Did someone rescue her? She doesn''t have any family in this city. Who would care enough to help her?"

 Chapter 334

    "Whoever swooped in and saved her that quickly must have their eye on her all the time."


    Cameron''s face was shadowed with frustration. The woman he didn''t love was being treated like a treasure by someone else. It was like a p, hinting he mightck taste. "Who on earth helped her?" Greta wondered aloud, puzzled.


    "Let''s check the surveince," Cameron suggested.


    They headed to the surveince room and pulled up the footage. There was Nathan, striding in with amanding presence, his face etched with unmistakable anxiety.


    With a hint of jealousy, Greta remarked, "Why is it always Nathan? Why does he show up every time Nathalie''s in a bind? Cameron, do you think he has a thing for her?"


    Cameron replied confidently, "Nathan''s got such a high status; he can have any woman he wants. Why would he go for a divorced woman?"


    But in the blink of an eye, Cameron was proven wrong.


    On the screen, Nathan found Nathalie unconscious, and sheer panic washed over his usually carefree face.


    "Nathalie," he breathed, scooping her into his arms and nting a fervent kiss on her forehead. His eyes brimmed with tenderness and love, holding her as if she might slip away like a butterfly.


    ...


    Cameron''s scowl deepened, irritation bubbling up inside him. Without warning, he mmed his fist on the desk.


    Greta stared at him, concerned. "Cameron, what''s going on?"


    Cameron was at a loss. Why did seeing Nathan kiss Nathalie stir such a storm inside him?


    Greta asked nervously, "Cameron, we''ve hurt Nathalie. Will Nathan help her get back at us?"


    "He always teases me for being lovesick. I doubt he''d go off the rails for Nathalie," Cameron said, though his confidence wavered.


    Just then, Nathan lifted his head on


    the screen, his eyes zing. His sharp gaze pierced straight through SO


    to Cameron. Nathan''s aura was intense that Cameron and Greta found themselves stepping back involuntarily.


    Then Nathan''s voice cut through, "Cameron, you''ve caused Nathalie pain, and I will return it a hundred or a thousand times over."


    Cameron''s eyes widened before he burst into a manicugh. "Nathan, never pegged you as a lovesick fool, too. Too bad the woman you fell for is a vengeful bitch. I can''t wait to see yout unravel just like me."


    Greta sensed something was off with Cameron today. She quickly turned off the screen. As Nathan''s handsome face disappeared into darkness, Cameron''s demeanor slowly settled.  en


    He sank into a troubling silence, lost in thought.


    He reflected on Kristina''s release, and his sharp mind pieced together who had stirred up his recent troubles.


    "Nathan," Cameron growled, clenching his teeth. "I underestimated you."


    Greta turned pale. "Cameron, what do you mean?"Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    "Nathan first convinced my mother you''re a bad omen, then pretended to rescue her. He''s turned her against us," Cameron exined.


    Greta was shaken. "He''s so young but so sneaky. It''s terrifying."


    Cameron could only feel relieved. "Good thing I caught on to his tricks. He won''t hurt us any further."


    But some things, once set in motion, are like dominoes. When one falls, they all do.


    Kristina was dead.

 Chapter 335

    Cameron had been on an exhausting quest to find Kristina for days, but his efforts were in vain. Greta couldn''t help but voice her frustration. "She''s not some little kid, Cameron. She can take care of herself. If she''s gone into hiding on purpose, we could search every


    corner of the earth and stille up empty-handed."


    With limited resources and his socialwork in shambles, Cameron''s initial fervor waned, and he was left with no option but to give up.


    Then, a weekter, he got a call from the police.


    "Cameron?" The voice on the other end was firm and no-nonsense.


    Annoyed, Cameron replied, "Yeah, it''s me. Who''s calling?"


    "This is Officer Jenkins from the local precinct. We need you toe to the East Bridge over the river right away."


    Cameron sighed, "I''m swamped right now. If it''s not urgent, I''d appreciate it if you could call backter."


    "We need you to identify a body-does that qualify as urgent enough for you?" The officer''s patience was clearly wearing thin.


    A chill ran down Cameron''s spine. "What did you say? Identify a body? Whose body?" His calm demeanor finally shattered.


    "Come here, and we''ll discuss it," the officer said before abruptly hanging up.


    Cameron stumbled down the stairs, his mind racing.


    Greta hurried after him. "Cameron, I''ming with you."


    As Cameron slid into the driver''s seat, Greta quickly climbed in beside him, her eyes full of worry. "Cameron, I''m really worried about you."


    Cameron tried to reassure both Greta and himself and said, "It''s probably just a mix-up. The police could have it wrong."


    Greta nodded. "Yeah, that must be it. Your mom''s always been tough and optimistic. She''s always facing challenges head-on and never backs down. I just can''t see her taking such a drastic step."


    Greta''s blunt words had a ring of


    truth to them. Cameron found somefort in them as he drove steadily to the East Bridge. When they


    1.n


    arrived, they saw a crowd gathered and police tape cordoning off the area.


    Cameron overheard snippets of conversation from the bystanders, "A woman''s body was found... it bloated from the water... it looks like she''s in her fifties. I heard she used to be a wealthydy. What a tragedy."


    Cameron''s heart nearly stopped; he went pale and rushed forward. "Officer," he addressed the officer on the scene.


    He couldn''t bring himself to look at the body lying there.


    The officer gave him a stern look. "Took you long enough to get here. Take a look. Is this the mother you''ve been searching for all this time?"


    Cameron summoned every ounce of courage he had and nced at the body. Once he did, he couldn''t tear his eyes away. He swayed slightly, then copsed to his knees beside her.


    "Mom!" His voice cracked, unable to cry, but his face was contorted with grief.


    "Why, Mom? Why would you leave me like this?" Cameron sobbed, his whole body shaking.


    The officer let out a heavy sigh. "Your mom''s been in the water for days, meaning she''s been missing for quite a while. Didn''t you notice she was gone?"N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Cameron turned to Greta, his expression nk with shock. Greta looked back, terrified and pale. She had been the one to discourage Cameron from searching for Kristina.


    "Officer, we did try to find her. We


    just... didn''t seed. I thought she was strong. She was always so optimistic. I didn''t think she''d do anything drastic. I assumed she was just hiding out. Officer, please, you have to find out what really happened. My mother-inw would never take her own life," Greta pleaded, tears streaming down her face.


    The officer replied, "There were no signs of violence on her body. The medical examiner confirmed she drowned. She had water in her lungs. It''s been ruled a suicide."

 Chapter 336

    Greta shivered slightly, feeling the icy chill in Cameron''s gaze. It was colder than she had ever seen before. Just then, Griffin stormed onto the scene, clearly having been tipped off by the police about his ex-wife''s tragic fate. Without a second thought, he marched straightN?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    up to Cameron and pped him hard across the face.


    "You monster! Why couldn''t it have been you?"


    Not satisfied with just a p, Griffin kicked Cameron, but Cameron didn''t even flinch. The officer had to step in, trying to restrain the furious Griffin.


    Greta wrapped her arms around Cameron, and fired back at Griffin, "Why did you me Cameron? It was your abandonment of your wife and child that drove her to despair."


    Griffin, his face twisted with anger, jabbed a finger at Cameron. "Your mother died because of your actions. She begged you not to marry her, but you wouldn''t listen. She lived her whole life for you and called you her greatest achievement. But you threw it all away for a woman. She lost all hope, and that''s why she took her life."


    Cameron''s lips trembled as Griffin''s words cut deep. The officer tried to calm Griffin down, "Mr. Dawson, please, take a breath."


    Griffin, clutching his chest in fury, red at Cameron like he was the viin of the story. "When I left your mother, I thought you were lost cause. She insisted you''d prove me wrong. She stuck by you against my advice. And what did it lead to? Her death. All because she spent herst dime on you. Cameron, you''re a murderer."


    The crowd around them murmured in agreement, their eyes full of disdain toward Cameron. Some even threw stones, muttering, "Did she raise a son like this? How pathetic."


    Greta clung to Cameron, tears streaming down her face. "Please, don''t insult him. He did it all for me. He just loved a woman who was unwell. He Didn''t do naything wrong."


    Griffin''s rage boiled over. "Loving someone isn''t the crime, but deceiving Nathalie and taking her kidney? That''s where he crossed the


    line Now look at you, paying for your deceit."


    The crowd''s outrage grew with every word Griffin spoke. "No wonder his father disowned him. He''s such a heartless monster."


    Greta held onto Cameron, sobbing. "He''s a good person. Don''t say that."


    "How can someone who drove his own mother to death be a good person?"


    Cameron seemed oblivious to the chaos around him and was kneeling in front of Kristina''s body like a statue. Finally, the officer stepped in, breaking the tension. "You both are family to the deceased. Who will take responsibility for the funeral arrangements?"


    Griffin sighed, "We split over how to raise our child, but I still cared for her. I''ll handle the funeral."


    Cameron''s eyes were like ice. "My mom wouldn''t have wanted your fake sympathy. If you hadn''t left, she wouldn''t have broken down. You''re just as guilty for her death. Even


    now, she wouldn''t want you near her.

 Chapter 337

    The father and son, locked in a bitter feud, were finally brought to the police station for some much-needed mediation.


    "We''re in a bit of a pickle here, trying to figure out who should have the rights to the deceased''s remains. If either of you can show us any indication of herst wishes, we''ll do our best to honor those," the officer said.


    Griffin and Cameron exchanged confused nces. Deep down, they knew they''d both let Kristina down, and neither was exactly the person she''d trust with her final wishes. But they were her closest family, and whether driven by love or their own egos, they couldn''t help but fight over her remains.


    Just when things seemed to be at a standstill, an unexpected pair walked in. Nathan, looking somber in a ck suit, and Nathalie, wearing a dignified ck dress and holding onto Nathan''s arm, stepped into the station.


    Seeing Nathan, Cameron''s face twisted with rage, as if he''d justid eyes on a sworn enemy. "What are you doing here, Nathan? Did you have something to do with my mother''s death?" he shouted.


    Nathan turned to the officer. "Officer, does that count as nder?"


    The officer cautioned Cameron, "Cameron, unless you''ve got evidence, please don''t go throwing around usations like that."Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Cameron''s re at Nathan was a


    clear challenge. Nathan approached


    him, taking in Cameron''s t


    appearance before letting out a bemused chuckle. "Cameron,


    did you let yourself fall apart like


    this? Tsk, tsk," he said, shaking his head with mock sympathy.


    Cameron fired back, "This is all your fault. Nathan, how do you even have the nerve to show up here?"


    The officer exined why Nathan and Nathalie had been called in. "Cameron, your mom''sst call was to Ms. Nathalie, so we brought her in to help us understand what happened." Cameron looked at Nathalie, stunned. "No way. My mom hated her."


    Nathalie handed a small recorder to the officer. "Officer, when Kristina called, I could tell something was off with her. So, I recorded the whole thing."


    She nced at Cameron and said,


    "Kristina regretted marrying into the Dawson family and having a son who turned out to be a


    disappointment. She spent her life living for others and ended up alone. If she could do it all over, she''d stay single and be her parents little princess forever."


    As the recording yed, Kristina''s voice was filled with remorse. "Nathalie, I was wrong about you. You were a great wife and daughter-inw, but I kept looking down on you because of your background. I drove you and Cameron apart. Now I''m paying for it. Karma has given me a daughter-inw with no morals, who''s turned Cameron against his own family. Nathalie, I can''t ask you to forgive Cameron or get back with him. But if there''s another life, I''d want you to be my daughter-inw again..."


    When the recording ended, the officer looked at Cameron. "Cameron, your mom''sst words are pretty much her final wishes. She wanted to cut ties with youpletely. You don''t have any right to her remains."

 Chapter 338

    The officer turned to Griffin. "Mr. Dawson, it''s on you to handle your ex-wife''s funeral arrangements. It is now your responsibility."


    Cameronpletely lost it. With anger boiling over, he shouted at Nathalie, "Nathalie, you''re doing this just to mess with me, aren''t you? How heartless can you be? You might as well kill me! My mom''s gone, and you won''t even let me honor her."


    His words dissolved into a flood of tears. He thought his sorrow might stir some guilt in Nathalie, but when he caught a glimpse of a smug smile ying on her lips, a cold dread washed over him. The Nathalie who couldn''t stand to see him suffer was no more. Griffin sneered, "Cameron, cut the crocodile tears. What were you doing for your mom when she was alive? If you hadn''t been so set on marrying someone who couldn''t have kids, would she have died in such despair?" Cameron clutched his head, crying out, "Mom, I''m sorry."


    With that, Griffin took Kristina''s body and left.


    Cameron stumbled after him, his voice shaking. "Dad, when will Mom be cremated? When''s the funeral?"


    Griffin shot back coldly, "You don''t have the right to ask," and sped off.


    Cameron was left in the dust as he fell to the ground, choking on the luxury car''s exhaust. "Dad, please, give Mom back to me. I''m begging you..."N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Nathan and Nathalie approached Cameron, who crouched at the roadside, his dignity in tatters as he wept.


    Nathalie watched, memories shing back to a time when she, swollen from kidney disease, was heartlessly tossed out by Cameron. She, too, had cried on the street.


    Sheter learned that Greta had found a mysterious pair of men''s shoes in her hotel room and suspected an intruder. Cameron was worried about Greta, but he had left a sick Nathalie alone on the street. Nathalie had confronted him, "Why do you worry about Greta''s safety but not my illness?"


    His cold reply was, "Kidney disease won''t kill you. You''ll just suffer more pain."


    Back then, Nathalie felt as hopeless and abandoned as Cameron did now. Recalling it all, she couldn''t muster any sympathy for him.


    Nathan approached Cameron, calm and rational. "Cameron, what''s it like


    to be betrayed and abandoned


    the one you love most? Hurts doesn''t it?"


    Cameron red at him. "I never thought you would go for my leftovers." Nathan''s face flickered with unease.


    Cameron quickly brushed off Nathan''s hidden feelings and changed the subject. "When you were getting back at me for Nathalie, did you ever think that if you upset her even a little, she might turn on you, too? Your end might be just as messy as mine."


    UT


    Nathan shook his head. "Cameron, you''re a lost cause. Your mom tried to break you and Greta apart, even at the cost of her life. Yet you ignored her wishes and now me others. Even in death, she wouldn''t find peace."


    Something in Cameron''s eyes seemed to break.


    Nathalie stepped in, pulling Nathan away. "Don''t bother with him."


    Nathan teased, "Nathalie, he thinks you''ll betray me."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 339

    Nathalieforted him, "Only those who betray their true feelings get let down. Nathan, you''ve been so wonderful to me, and I''ll spend my life being just as wonderful to you." Nathan grinned. "So, we''re both on the same page?"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Nathalie sensed something wasn''t quite right but brushed it off. "Of course."


    Meanwhile, Cameron felt like his heart was being eaten alive by a thousand ants. He stumbled back home, feeling utterly defeated. Sensing his gloom, Greta started fussing over him, making tea and cooking dinner. Her eagerness came from a ce of insecurity. Kristina''s actions, in a way, were an attempt to keep Cameron from being with Greta, and she feared he might leave her to honor Kristina''s wishes. "Greta," Cameron suddenly called out.


    Startled, Greta dropped to her knees in front of him. "Cameron, I beg you, don''t break up with me. I know your parents aren''t fond of me, but I really love you. I''ll change and be a good wife. I''ll cook and clean for you."


    Cameron reached out, gently stroking her cheek. "People say you''re the source of all my troubles, but you''ve been the kindest soul to me. No matter how dire things got, you never left. Greta, don''t worry. I won''t ever give up on you. Even if the world turns against me, I''ll stand by you. I trust my heart; you''re a good woman and deserve all the love I can give."


    Greta''s eyes welled up with tears. "Cameron, thank you for believing in me. It''s my fault for not being able to give you a child, and that''s why your mom was disappointed."


    A revtion hit her. "Cameron, let''s have a child. Maybe it will bring peace to your mom''s spirit. I believe if she could see how genuine I am, she''d forgive me."


    Cameron gently wiped her tears, moved by her words. "Greta, you''re so amazing, how can they not see it? They call me blind and clueless, but they are the ones who are really blind."


    He kissed her hand tenderly, his voice choked with emotion. "Greta, the doctors warned it''s not safe for you to get pregnant. You''re my only family left, and I won''t let anything harm you. Let''s not talk about kids anymore."


    Kristina''s cremation was set for three dayster. Griffin only invited a few close friends, and Cameron


    left out of the loop. Eventually, Benjamin secretly texted him: [Cameron, your mom''s cremation is


    today. Why aren''t you here?


    When Cameron got the message, he drove like a man possessed to the crematorium, running several red lights in his haste. But he was toote. He missed saying goodbye to Kristina and only saw Griffin holding his mom''s urn.


    Fueled by anger, Cameron confronted Griffin. "Dad, you went through all that trouble to take Mom''s body. I thought you''d give her a grand goodbye. But instead, you just quietly cremated her? How could you do that to Mom?"


    Griffin''s face was dark as he faced the furious Cameron. "Your mom didn''t die from illness or a natural cause. Do you think her death is something to broadcast to the world?"


    Cameron stared at Griffin in


    disbelief. "Why did she choose to die? Don''t you see it? Sure, I wasn''t


    the best son, but were you a good


    husband? You cheated, had a mistress and an illegitimate child. To elevate your mistress, you med Mom for my mistakes, and pushed her to divorce you."

 Chapter 340

    In a final, anguished cry, Cameron shouted, "If you didn''t love Mom anymore, why did you fight me over her remains? I could''ve given her a proper farewell, not this humiliating exit from the world." Cameron hadid bare Griffin''s scandal, leaving him humiliated and furious. In a fit of anger, he barked at his men, "Get this troublemaker out of here."


    The bodyguards closed in on Cameron, and despite his furious struggle, they hoisted him up, trying to drag him away. Cameron was fueled by desperation, and fought back fiercely. The bodyguards were wary of his status, and hesitated to harm him. Against the odds, Cameron broke free. He dashed to Griffin, fell to his knees and pleaded, "Dad, please, give me Mom''s urn. Let me honor her properly."This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He hadn''t meant to hurt Griffin, but Griffin, caught off guard, stumbled backward, and the urn slipped from his grasp, crashing to the ground.


    A sudden gust of wind swept in, sending the ashes swirling into the air.


    Cameron was shattered. He stood frozen, tears streaming as he watched the ashes dance away on the breeze. In a blind rage, he lunged at Griffin, knocking him down.


    "You owe me my mother''s ashes! You owe me!"


    Griffin was terrified. His body mmed against a wall, and his head struck a stone pir. Blood flowed instantly.


    The unexpected chaos enraged Griffin. He shouted at the bodyguards, "What are you waiting for? Beat him and throw him out!"


    Reluctantly, the bodyguards moved to drag Cameron away. But Cameron was like a man possessed, untouchable.


    In his fury, Griffin grabbed a nearby stick and struck Cameron. "You jinx! You married that cursed woman and tore our family apart!" Following Griffin''s lead, the bodyguards ignored Cameron''s identity, picked up sticks and ruthlessly beat him, eventually casting him out. After the whirlwind of chaos, the sky opened up, pouring rain.


    Cameron, bloodied and battered,y at the funeralhome''s entrance. Passersby stared. Some even spat at him. "Your mother is dead, and you scattered her ashes, denying her peace. What kind of son are you?


    She must regret ever having you."


    A fury burned in Cameron''s eyes.


    How could Griffin nder him like this?


    He was his own flesh and blood, after all.


    The rain, mixed with the storm, continued relentlessly all day. It wasn''t untilte at night, when the funeral home''s lights dimmed, and the rain finally eased.


    Cameron realized Griffin might have


    slipped away through another exit.


    Dragging his injured body, he crawled back towards the funeral home. He was desperate to find Kristina''s ashes but discovered that the downpour had washed


    everything clean.


    Cameron pounded the ground with his fists, his heart breaking. "Mom, I''m so sorry. I wasn''t there for you in life, and I failed to protect your urn in death. You must be so disappointed in me now."


    Covered in wounds, Cameron wept, tears mingling with rain as they streamed down his face, washing over his injuries. The pain in his heart and body felt like they were tearing him apart. Suddenly, he spotted two familiar figures emerging from the funeral home-his father and stepmother.


    Stumbling towards them, he caught Griffin''s voice. "She''s finally gone, my dear. I''ve scattered her ashes to the wind. I even found someone to seal her soul''s journey. Are you happy now?"

 Chapter 341

    Cameron knew he wasn''t wee, so he stayed hidden, paying his respects to Kristina''s temporary memorial from afar. "Mom, I have failed you," he whispered.


    When Nathalie suddenly thought of Cameron, she asked Nathan, "Have you heard about Cameron and Greta?"


    Nathan handed her his phone. "Cameron''s in the headlines again."


    Nathalie eagerly grabbed the phone, seeing Cameron''s name stered all over the screen.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    [Cameron drove his own mother to despair for his wife...]


    [Is Cameron a hopeless romantic or just a fool? Why does he stick by Greta despite all the bad luck?]


    [Kristina''s love for her son ends in betrayal!]


    The news included Griffin''s


    confession. In it, Griffin spilled the beans about Cameron''s foolish acts for Greta, including how he tricked Nathalie into marriage to steal her kidney and then emotionally neglected her after their wedding. After painting Cameron as a


    veer


    love-struck fool, Griffin tried to justify abandoning his family.


    Cameron not only hurt his first wife, Nathalie, for his first love but


    blew through Kristina''s saving sole


    , who was locked up.


    Realizing Cameron was beyond saving, Griffin chose to walk away.


    vel


    Nathalie scrolled through thements. Nearly all were condemning Cameron for choosing his wife over his mother and calling him heartless.


    She felt a wave of relief, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous smile.

 Chapter 342

    Nathalie was quick on her feet, and it didn''t take long for her to sort out Patrick''s discharge papers. Before they knew it, the medical staff were in the room, ready to detach all the equipment hooked up to Patrick. Miranda tried to intervene, tears streaming down her face, "He''s in so much pain. How''s he supposed to manage without the pain medication infusion pump?"


    The staff had heard bits and pieces of their family''s chaotic history. They couldn''t help but voice their frustration, "You''re sick and in the hospital, yet you don''t expect your own daughter to take care of you. Instead, you burden your adopted daughter with this duty. You never even raised her! Isn''t it a bit heartless to guilt-trip her like this?"


    Patrick felt the weight of shame crash down on him. Miranda silently wept.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Without the pain medication infusion pump, Patrick''s difort soon escted. His soft groans turned into piercing cries. "Ah, the pain! It''s unbearable! Doctor, I''m not leaving. Put the pain meds back on, please."


    Nathalie stood at the doorway, arms crossed, watching Patrick with a frosty gaze.


    Desperate, Miranda turned to Nathalie. "Please, Nathalie, let bygones be bygones. You gotta help him."


    "Help him? Haven''t I done enough?" Nathalie shot back. "I''ve already given up a kidney for his daughter. What more do you want? For me to lose money, too?"


    Realizing her mistake, Miranda pleaded, "Please, don''t worry. I won''t let you lose any more money. I''ll figure something out. Just make sure he can stay in the hospital."


    Nathalie cast a nce at Miranda''s legs. "He''s livingfortably with you still around. But have you thought about what happens when you''re bedridden like him? Then what?"


    "I still have you. You''re my daughter. I raised you, so it''s your duty to take care of me," Miranda insisted, her voice firm.


    Nathalie scoffed, "How can you say that with a straight face?"


    Miranda fell silent.


    Nathalie shattered her illusion. "I won''t be around in the Capital much longer."


    Miranda''s expression faltered. "What do you mean?"


    "I''m moving abroad soon, and I probably won''t be back," Nathalie said.


    Panic shed in Miranda''s eyes. "Are you abandoning me?"


    Nathalie chuckled. "Go ahead and sue me. I''ll tell the judge exactly how you treated me."


    Miranda turned pale. "Nathalie, you''ve changed."


    "Yeah, I''ve be less of a pushover, haven''t I?" Nathalie replied, reading Miranda''s unspoken admission. Nathalie had no patience for further argument and told Patrick, "You''re all set to leave. Get up, let''s go home."


    Despite the pain, Patrick struggled to sit up. He turned to Miranda. "Honey, help me out of bed."


    Miranda maneuvered the wheelchair closer, and Patrick leaned on her shoulder for support. The two of them moved awkwardly forward, inching along.


    Nathalie led the way, ncing back asionally with a faint smirk on her lips.


    For Patrick, it might have felt like an eternity, but in reality, he''d barely moved a meter from the bed. Eventually, he couldn''t take it anymore and copsed, pleading with Nathalie, "Nathalie, if you''re gonna put me through this, just let me die quickly."


    Nathalie gave him a sharp look. "Still trying to y games with me? You think I''d let you die easily only to have your daughter use me of murder?"


    Patrick''s intentions were exposed, and he hung his head in defeat.

 Chapter 343

    Nathalie said, "I''m not gonna let you die. Nope, I''m gonna keep you hanging on, making every single day feel worse than death."


    Patrick, wracked with pain and despair,y miserably on the floor, tears streaming down his face. "Please, give me a break and forgive my mistakes. Let me hold onto a shred of dignity..." Nathalie red at him coldly and tossed a phone his way. "Go on, let your darling daughter give you that dignity."


    With trembling hands, Patrick dialed Greta''s number. When she answered, Patrick pleaded with tears in his eyes. "Greta, could youe to the hospital to see me?"


    Greta brushed off Patrick''s voice full of despair, using a tactic of feigned indifference. "Dad, I''m really sorry, but I''ve been swamped. Cameron''s been feeling down, and I''ve got to be there for him. You just take care of yourself, okay? I''ll have Nathaliee by to look after you."


    Without giving Patrick a chance to respond, Greta hung up decisively. Patrick stared at the phone, his eyes filled with an indescribable loneliness.


    Nathalie, ruthless as ever, remarked, "Trying to win her sympathy won''t work. Your daughter is selfish; she only invests in people who can offer her something. To her, you''re no longer useful."


    Patrick''s face went pale. Feeling utterly let down by Greta, he suddenly made a bold decision, lifting his head with a look of resolve. "If I hand over the house to you, will you promise to take care of me?" Nathalie replied, "I won''t take your house for nothing. You can stay in the hospital, and I''ll deduct the medical and care costs from the sale of the house."


    Patrick, with determination, said, "Alright, I agree to give you thest house I own."


    Nathalie''s face lit up with satisfaction. "I''ll go sort out your hospital admission."


    It felt like nothing had changed. Yet everything felt different.


    Half a monthter, Cameron finally wed his way out of the depths.


    He stood before the mirror, gazing at his worn-out reflection-unkempt beard, sunken eyes-and felt a bit of self-loathing.


    He gave himself a pep talk. "Starting today, Cameron, you gotta gear up. Either take back Dawson International or bring it to its knees, for Mom''s sake."


    Cameron''s attempt to rise was way tougher than he expected. He had no cash or assets to leverage. That was when Greta thought of the Brown family''s only vacant property.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Breaking her usual aloofness, she unexpectedly showed up at the hospital, showering Patrick with warmth like never before. "Dad, it''s been ages since Ist visited. You''re not mad at me, right?"


    Seeing his beloved daughter, Patrick


    teared up on the spot. He held


    Greta''s hand and said with a child-like grievance, "Greta, I''m not upset with you. I know you''ve been busy. Just visit more often, alright?"


    BUMS


    Greta squeezed out a few tears. "Of course, Dad."


    Nathalie watched this scene unfold and couldn''t help but find it ironic She bluntly called out Greta''s true motives. "Greta, are you here just to see Dad, or is there something else on your mind?"


    Greta looked a bit guilty, but since Patrick always spoiled her, she believed he wouldn''t hold anything against her. So, she cut to the chase, "Dad, could you transfer the


    swn yel


    ownership of the house to me?"


    Patrick was taken aback, shocked, and then panicked. He looked between Nathalie and Greta, his face drained of color.


    Nathalie had already schemed to snag his house, revealing just how deep her ns ran.

 Chapter 344

    "Greta, the house is gone," Patrick said, his voice trembling.


    Greta immediately lost it, shouting, "Dad, did you actually sell the house?" She quickly zeroed in on the main issue. "And what about the money from the sale?"


    Patrick shot a nce at Nathalie.


    Greta caught on fast and turned her anger towards Nathalie. "Was it you? Did you talk Dad into selling the house while I was away? So, you''ve got the money, right? Hand it over now! I''m his real daughter, the only heir." Nathalie calmly turned on her phone''s recording app and calmly led Greta on, "Greta, what are you doing? Dad''s still alive. The house and money are his."


    Greta fired back, "I''m his guardian. I have the right to manage his affairs."


    Nathalie smirked, "Oh, now you remember you''re his guardian? Where were you when he was sick? You left me to handle everything for him, so doesn''t that make me his guardian?"


    "You''re not even his biological daughter," Greta shot back.


    "So what? Thew doesn''t say an adopted daughter can''t inherit anything," Nathalie replied.


    Panic spread across Greta''s face as she knelt by the bed. "Dad, you didn''t really give her the house, did you?"


    Patrick nodded.


    "You never showed up. I waited and waited for you. I needed a daughter to sign my surgery consent forms and handle the bills. Since you weren''t around, I had to ask Nathalie. I''ve never treated her well, so why would she do all this for me for free? So, I gave her the house as payment for taking care of me."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Greta broke down, screaming, "I could''ve taken care of you too! I''m your daughter, aren''t I? Dad, by giving her the house, you''ve left me without a home."


    Patrick replied, exasperated, "Where have you been? You never answer calls or texts. Do you even care about me?"


    Greta expected Patrick tofort her like he always did. She sobbed, "Dad, I''m sorry, I really am. I''ll do better from now on..."


    "It''s toote. The house is already sold," Patrick said, tears streaming down his face.


    "Greta, I''ve taken care of you your


    whole


    pleason


    Now that I''m old and have some pity on


    let


    me live for myself for once"


    ek,


    Greta red at Nathalie with venom in her eyes. "Since you''ve got Dad''s estate, you''re responsible for him now."


    Nathalie smiled, "Does that include his funeral arrangements? I''m fine with it if you''re not afraid of what people might say."


    Greta was always worried about appearances and knew how much Patrick loved her. Everyone else knew this, too. If she abandoned Patrick now, the bacsh would be overwhelming.


    She thought about it, felt it was unfair to leave without the house, and snapped, "I''ll make sure you give back what you took." Nathalie shot back, "And I''ll make sure you repay what you owe me."


    Greta, with her hand on her hip, stormed out.


    Back home, Greta copsed into


    Cameron''s arms, crying, "Cameron, I was busy taking care of you and didn''t pay attention to my dad, so he got mad and gave the house


    Nathalie. Now I''m ho


    Cameron, feeling guilty, gently held her face. "Greta, don''t worry, I''ll make it big someday. Then, I''ll buy you plenty of houses."


    Feeling a bit better, Greta asked, "But you don''t have any capital. What now?"

 Chapter 345

    Cameron said, "Benjamin and I have been friends since we were kids. Gavin has always treated me like family and wouldn''t turn his back on me when I''m in trouble. I''ll go to him and ask for a shot at partnering up. If I can promise him a big win, he''ll definitely be on


    board."


    Greta replied, "But isn''t he also Nathan''s dad?"


    Having gone through this ordeal, Cameron seemed to gain some rity. "Hmph, blood ties don''t hold a candle to profit, especially to a cheater."


    Greta''s face clouded over. The cheater, Nathan''s dad, was also Benjamin''s dad. But wasn''t Cameron following down the same path? Sensing Cameron''s shift towards being profit-driven made Greta uneasy.


    Cameron showed up at the Rond family mansion to visit Benjamin and Gavin but unexpectedly bumped into Nathan.


    Both stopped in their tracks, quietly sizing each other up. There was a mix of scrutiny, doubt, and a bit of unspoken anger in the air.


    "Cameron, if you''re banking on my dad or my worthless brother to help you out, you''re in for a letdown," Nathan said.


    Cameron stepped closer, ring at Nathan. "Nathan, the Rond family isn''t your personal fiefdom. You can''t call the shots for them."


    Despite the tant disdain, Nathan remained remarkably calm. "Cameron, not everything is what it seems on the surface."


    Cameron''s eyes narrowed. He fancied himself a good judge of character with a sharp eye. Yet, here he was, feeling unexpectedly rattled by Nathan''s mysterious vibe.


    How could someone have such a clean-cut face and yet be so unreadable? Nathan clearly had moreyers underneath his youthful appearance.


    "Can''t know until you try, right?" Cameron shrugged.


    Nathan stepped aside. "True. You don''t stop hitting some walls until you''ve got nothing left."


    Cameron brushed past Nathan and moved on. Nathan''s words, though, lingered like ripples in a pond, unsettling him.


    Was he really banging his head against a wall? His mind was in turmoil.


    He reached Gavin''s room and saw that Gavin and Benjamin had been waiting for him. Gavin greeted him warmly. "Cameron, we heard you wereing, so I pushed back a few meetings just for you."


    "Thanks, Gavin, for the hospitality."


    The small talk was as polite as ever, but Gavin''s attitude towards the fallen prince, Cameron, was subtly different He stayed put in his swivel chair, unlike before when he''d stand up to greet him, and after a brief exchange of pleasantries, Gavin got right to business.


    "Cameron, you mentioned having something important to discuss, so let''s not beat around the bush."


    In the past, Cameron would usually steer the conversation. Now, with Gavin''s evidentck of respect, Cameron felt uneasy.


    With nothing left to his name, he now had learned to humble himself. "Gavin, I''d like to apply for the Vice President position at Rond Corporation."


    Gavin was taken aback. Even among the friendliest families, hiring someone from another family was often seen as risky-like nting a hidden time bomb in the family business.


    Cameron dangled an enticing offer.


    "Gavin, I can help you snatch major


    clients from Dawson International.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Plus, with me backing Ben, his achievements will shine, forcing Mason to recognize Ben''s talents, which would make him a more likely choice over Nathan as the


    sessor."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 346

    The offer was just too good to pass up.


    Cameron had been at the top of his game before, a real powerhouse whose skills were unmatched. Gavin hesitated for just a moment before giving in to Cameron''s proposal. "Alright, Cameron. I''ll put my faith in you this time. You''re starting at Rond Corporation tomorrow." Cameron kept his cool demeanor but wisely switched to calling Gavin, Mr. Rond. "Mr. Rond, you know my situation. Dawson International has tossed me aside, and things have been rough. Do you think I could get an advance on my sry for a year?" Gavin grinned warmly. "We can sort that out."


    He then turned to Benjamin and said, "Ben, set Cameron''s sry to match yours. Work out the numbers and give him a bit extra upfront. Also, let him crash at your Riverside apartment for a while."


    Benjamin, bubbling with excitement, gave Cameron a hearty pat on the back. "Dad, I''ll handle it right away."


    Nathan stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, his expression dark as he watched Benjamin and Cameron walk out of his father''s study, arms around each other''s shoulders.


    As the saying goes, "The centipede never stops moving, even when it''s dead."


    Cameron now teamed up with his father. He was sure to shake things up again.


    Nathan''s biggest worry was for Nathalie. She''d put her heart and soul into trying to bring Cameron down, hoping to move away from the Capital and start fresh. But life had thrown her a curveball-Cameron was back on his feet.


    Nathan could see it already; Cameron''s new sess was bound to be just as impressive as before. The Rond family had his back and were way more powerful than the Dawsons ever were.


    When Greta waltzed into the room at the hospital, dripping in gold and jewels, Nathalie was left speechless.


    Patrick and Miranda were over the moon seeing their daughter looking so vibrant and full of life, a clear testament to the saying that good fortune brings good spirits.


    "Greta, have you hit the jackpot?" Miranda asked, nearly bursting into tears of joy.


    Greta strutted over to Nathalie, unting her new status with pride. "Nathalie, I won''t make a fuss over you swindling Dad for his house. It''s just a few million for a shabby ce, anyway."


    She raised her hand, showing off a giant diamond, flicking her hair on purpose. "Cameron''s doing great now. He''s the vice president at the Rond family''spany, which is way richer than the Dawsons ever were. He''s finally seeing the light after all the tough times. Mr. Gavin thinks highly of him, and his


    childhood buddy Benjamin dotes on him. Cameron''s earning even more than he used to."


    Hearing this, Nathalie''s frail frame shook slightly. Had all her efforts been for nothing?


    Gretaughed even harder at Nathalie''s reaction. "I should thank you. All the hurdles you put in Cameron''s path only pushed him to fight back harder and seed." Nathalie''s lips trembled, unable to find any words.


    Greta didn''t hold back. "Thanks for looking after Dad all this time. That house? Consider it a thank you for your hard work. From now on, I''ll hire someone else to care for him. You can leave. We don''t need you here anymore."


    Nathalie had no idea how she managed to walk out of the hospital. As she wandered, dazed and heartbroken, the sound of Patrick and Greta''sughter echoed in her ears.


    Outside the hospital, a Rolls-Royce


    was parked, Nathalie found herself


    eN?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    staring at the man in the driver''s seat. Cameron looked sharp in a perfectly tailored suit, his hair


    slicked back, a cigar in hand. He was more polished and lively than ever before.

 Chapter 347

    Nathalie strolled over, catching Cameron''s gaze in the rearview mirror. He turned slightly, a smirk ying on his lips. "Well, now that you see me thriving, do you regret crossing me? Or are you thinking of rekindling old mes?" A storm of anger brewed in Nathalie''s dark eyes as she faced him head-on. "How did you manage to turn everything around?"


    They say, ''Know your enemy as you know yourself, and you''ll win every battle.'' Cameron was curious. Nathalie wasn''t trying to win him over. He casually rested his hand on the steering wheel, the luxury of itplementing his long fingers, both showcasing an air of opulence.


    Cameron continued, "Nathalie, I was born with a silver spoon. This life of luxury is my natural habitat. Even if I hit a rough patch, I can bounce back easily with my connections and skills."


    He sneered at Nathalie, "That''s why I put so much stock in family background. You, with your poor upbringing, were marked as a beggar from day one-a stain you can''t scrub off. Don''t think sticking with Nathan gives you a ticket to happiness. He''ll get tired of you eventually. Being left behind is your reality."


    He added, "Harsh, but true."


    Nathalie''s fists clenched. Her blood was boiling. A fire in her chest threatened to consume her if it was not unleashed.


    "Cameron, you''re a disgrace. Your father abandoned you, and you are talking about superior backgrounds? What a joke," she shot back.


    In a rage, Cameron kicked open the car door and mmed Nathalie against it, his hands mping around her throat.


    Nathalie smiled defiantly, her grin both dazzling and dangerous. If she couldn''t make Cameron pay, she was ready to risk everything, even her life, to avenge her daughter.


    "Cameron, am wrong? You''re a


    killer. You drove your mother to


    despair. She loved you and gave you everything. You squandered her life savings and pushed her to death. You''re the ungrateful one," Nathalie gasped.


    Cameron''s eyes zed red with fury, and he tightened his grip. "Shut up. Just shut up!"


    bet


    Nathalie struggled for air, her face turning a shade of purple from theck of oxygen. But she kept her smirk, her contempt for him evident.


    Just as Nathalie thought she''d meet her end, a figure dashed in like a bolt of lightning.


    "Let her go, you bastard!" Nathan''s fist connected with Cameron''s head. With all his might, he sent Cameron stumbling to the side. Nathalie gasped for air, coughing violently as oxygen rushed back in.


    Nathan asked, worried, "Are you okay, Nathalie?"


    Nathalie watched Nathan, tears of helplessness glistening in her eyes. She longed to copse in his arms and weep. In this world, Nathan was her only rock.


    However, Nathan''s intervention had wrecked her n, and a surge of anger welled up inside her.


    "Why did you save me?" Her frustration morphed into anger, her fists pounding against his chest.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Nathan understood her turmoil and simply pulled her close and held her tight. He stayed silent, letting her vent, without saying a word.

 Chapter 348

    "Nathalie, risking your life for someone like him just isn''t worth it. Trust me, his glory days are numbered. Guys who climb to the top by stepping over their own family always end up crashing hard," Nathan reassured her. Cameron couldn''t believe what he was hearing. Nathalie was willing to risk everything, even her life, to take him down. It sent shivers down his spine.


    "Nathalie, did you provoke me on purpose? Were you trying to make me kill you so I''d face the consequences?" he asked, incredulous.


    Tears glistened in Nathalie''s eyes, but when she red at Cameron, she looked like a warrior ready to sacrifice for a cause. She didn''t hold back her intentions, sighing, "Yeah, why didn''t you just strangle me? Then you''d have been a murderer, and I''d get my revenge." Cameron shook his head, horrified. "You''re insane. I only took your kidney, and now you''re out to ruin my life and take it, too? That''s just crazy."


    Nathalie trembled with anger. "You deserve the harshest punishment."


    Sensing how worked up Nathalie was, Nathan stepped in between them. He turned to Cameron with anger. "Cameron, this hate doesn''te without a reason. You''ve wronged Nathalie in ways you can''t even imagine. If you want to know why she despises you so much, look into Timeless Cycle." Then, he took Nathalie and left.


    As Nathan walked away, Cameron mulled over his words. He sensed there was more to his story with Nathalie than he knew.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Cameron rushed home and drove


    like a madman. Once there, he tore through every inch of his penthouse closet, searching for Timeless Cycle, but found nothing. Desperate, Ke checked Greta''s closet and finally found it in her jewelry box


    He stood there, stunned.


    Why was Timeless Cycle in Greta''s jewelry box? Had she been using it without telling him? Why hadn''t shee clean? Cameron felt like things weren''t going the way he''d nned.


    With Timeless Cycle in hand, he left for hispany-provided apartment. To avoid interruptions, he put his phone on airne mode and locked the door tight.


    Sprawled on the couch, he absent-mindedly traced his fingers over Timeless Cycle, reying scenes with Nathalie in his mind like a fast-forwarded movie.


    When he first brought Nathalie home, she used to watched him with such admiration. When had that changed to coldness and distance?


    He had ignored her for so long that he didn''t even know what had sparked her hatred.


    He gripped Timeless Cycle tightly and wondered if it held the answers he needed. He thought and thought but found no answers, eventually drifting off into sleep.


    As soon as he closed his eyes,


    dreams took over. In the dream, despite Nellie''s resistance and the


    emotional whirlwind of meeting her father and sister, Cameron had still brought Greta to her.


    Greta seemed happy, chatting away and holding Nellie''s hand. Her voice was soft and gentle, and she appeared unusually kind to Nellie Cameron thought reuniting the sisters was a good idea, believing it wouldn''t hurt Nellie.

 Chapter 349

    However, he missed the lost look in Nellie''s eyes.


    Her voice wavered, "You don''t have to be nice to me. We''re not meant to be close in this lifetime. You can live your life as the rich heiress, and I''ll continue as the wildflower. That suits me just fine."


    Greta, however, burst into tears. "Nellie, do you really not like me? It hurts to feel your rejection. I''ve missed you for so many years and have always thought about you."


    Nellie coolly brushed off her hand. "This town isn''t that big. If you truly missed me, you would''vee to see me by now."


    Feeling ufortable, Greta turned to Cameron with a pleading look. "Cameron, it feels like my sister doesn''t like me."


    Seeing Greta on the verge of tears, Cameron immediately chastised Nellie. "Your sister isn''t well. Don''t upset her. Whatever she says, just listen and don''t argue."


    She lowered her head and obediently replied, "Okay."


    ...


    Cameron broke out in a cold sweat, wide awake.


    Nathalie''s words echoed in his mind: If you truly missed me, you would''vee by now.


    It hit Cameron like a ton of bricks, realizing that Greta''s affection was mostly an act. She needed something from Nellie, so of course, she put on a show. At the time, he was too busy doting on Greta, ignoring Nellie''s feelings and forcing her toply with his ns. After a brief wakefulness, Cameron drifted back into a fitful sleep.


    This time, the dream felt all too real. Greta''s illness worsened quickly, and seeing her swollen and in pain only strengthened Cameron''s resolve. He was determined to speed up Nellie''s kidney donation.


    To do this, he enlisted Patrick, hoping that some fatherly love might sway Nellie. Patrick, sly as ever, knew that to get Nellie to willingly donate her kidney, he''d have to make up for the years of absent fatherly love. So, he started bombarding her with tokens of care, sending gift after gift.


    However, he snagged many of these


    gifts as freebies while buying luxury items for Greta. Patrick thought Nellie didn''t deserve the real deal. In his mind, she had to be grateful for the leftovers.  en


    But...


    Nellie wasn''t fooled by these empty gestures. She tossed all the gifts into an old cardboard box and didn''t even bother to unwrap them.


    In the dream, Cameron was stunned by this sight.


    It was true that Nellie never wore


    any jewelry from Patrick or Greta. It


    was ridiculous. They expected her to owe them something afterN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    swnover


    showering her with fake affection.


    They even had the nerve to confront Nellie outright.


    Patrick arranged for Nellie toe home and told the housekeeper to cook up a feast. When everyone was rxed during dinner, Patrick casually mentioned Greta''s illness.


    "The doctors say Greta needs a transnt now. But finding a kidney is hard," he said, sneaking nces at Nellie.


    But Nellie just focused on her food, ignoring him.


    Patrick continued, "The doctors also said a family member''s kidney would be best. Greta''s body is less likely to reject it..."


    Nellie shot back, "Are you nning to donate your kidney?"


    Patrick''s face flushed. "I''m too old; it wouldn''t work."


    She replied, "Life and death are beyond our control."


    Patrick''s face immediately turned sour.

 Chapter 350

    Patrick''s start wasn''t exactly smooth sailing, so the pressure quicklynded on Cameron''s shoulders.


    Cameron, being the savvy businessman he was, knew that Nellie and Greta''s bond wasn''t quite strong enough for her to willingly donate a kidney. So, he decided to bite the bullet and sacrifice his own significant interests.


    He went straight to Nellie with a bold confession. "Nel, I think I might have caught feelings for you. I''m willing to marry you. But-"N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    He was about toy out the terms of their marriage when Nellie, stunned by his sudden admission, touched his forehead and shook her head, puzzled. "You don''t have a fever, so why are you talking crazy? Cam, is Griffin pushing you to tie the knot quickly? If that''s the case, I can marry you, but it''ll have to be a fake marriage. We''ll split after a year. That way, you can keep my dad off your back..."


    Cameron was taken aback. He had always thought of himself as a hotmodity; any woman he fancied shoulde running at the mere wag of his finger. Yet, Nellie kept a polite distance, giving him a wake-up call.


    This girl had brains. Without true love, she wasn''t about to settle for anything less. So, he switched tactics from trying to entice her to genuinely winning her over.


    He started spending more time with her and even had his secretary pick out gifts. However, Nellie just tucked his gifts away in a drawer.


    Amid Cameron''s persistent pursuit, she finally asked, "Cam, why have you been unusually freetely?"


    Feeling a bit sheepish, Cameron replied, "No, I''ve been busy."


    "Then why do you have so much time for me?"


    "Isn''t it obvious? I''m trying to win you over." Cameron said, his ears turning red.


    It wasn''t hormones causing this reaction-it was the shame of his own scheming. Still, when Nellie saw his red ears, she couldn''t help but believe him. His approach was so


    intense that his sweet talk came off


    naturally.


    This led people to misunderstand their rtionship, with the media spinning tales of a prince charming nurturing his love. He adored the girl he saved and supported.


    Despite Nellie''s sharp mind and awareness, she''d always been starved for affection. The slightest bit of attention from someone as impressive as Cameron caused her to lose her bearings.


    She eventually fell for Cameron, and


    so, their roles flipped. Cameron used to pick her up, but now she was the one chauffeuring him. His gestures used to bring her to tears, but now she was the one doingundry and cooking soup for him.


    Cameron and Nellie''s mutual devotion finally took a toll on Greta.


    As his official girlfriend, Greta confronted Cameron, "Cameron, I''m not happy. You''re way too attentive to Nellie. I''m getting jealous." Cameron felt a deep pang of guilt. He couldn''t stand seeing Greta upset, and so he was unwilling to keep the charade with Nellie going.


    He came clean with Nellie, "Nel, your sister and I go way back, though our fates never really aligned. Seeing her suffer now breaks my heart."


    "Patrick mentioned that you two


    share a blood type, and since you''re rted, the chances of a sessful kidney donation are high. Nel, I know it''s a big ask, and while donating a kidney won''t threaten your life, it might affect your health." He made a solemn promise, "But rest assured, l''bmarry you and treat you well for the rest of your life. You won''t have to worry about a thing. I''ll make sure you live a carefree life and ensure a peaceful end."


    "Do you love her?" Nellie asked, straight to the point. Her eyes were clear and sincere, without a hint of doubt.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 351

    Cameron was unexpectedly thrown off, his voice a shaky mix of sincerity and fear. "What are you talking about? I love you. Your sister once saved my life, and I owe her. I thought marrying you would somehow repay that debt." Nellie sat quietly for what felt like an eternity.


    Cameron felt his nerves tightening. His gut told him Nellie wasn''t convinced.


    But finally, Nellie exhaled, "Cameron, I trust you. We''re in this together. Lovers should trust and be loyal to each other. Whatever you owe her, I''ll help you make it right." Cameron was taken aback. Nellie''s unwavering belief in trust and loyalty made his heart skip a beat.


    The next day, he tried to keep his word, ease his guilt, and fast-track Greta''s surgery. He turned to Nellie. "Nel, it''s such a lovely day. How about we go get hitched?" Nellie was thrilled.


    After grabbing their marriage certificate and stepping out of the registry office, Cameron''s phone buzzed. Patrick was on the line, "Cameron, Greta found out about the marriage. She''s gone on a hunger strike. I can''t talk any sense into her." Cameron''s face tightened. "I''m on my way."


    The rain was relentless that day.


    Cameron turned to Nellie. "Nel, there''s an emergency at work. I need to sort it out."


    Nellie was surprisingly cool about it. "You better get going then."


    Without checking how she''d get home, Cameron drove off.


    Nellie waited in the pouring rain for half an hour before snagging a cab.


    At the hospital, Greta flung herself into Cameron''s arms, sobbing, "Cameron, have you forgotten about me?"


    Cameron seemed to forget all about his marital status as heforted her. "Greta, marrying Nellie was all for you. Don''t hurt yourself over this. Otherwise, my efforts are for nothing."


    Greta settled down after Cameron''s soothing reassurances.


    Meanwhile, Nellie got home,


    watching the rain from the window with a soft smile. Then, she suddenly gave herself a little pep talk. "Nellie, don''t rely on Cameron to create the life you want. You''re better than that. Work hard, be your best, and stand by his side."


    Nellie was never the delicate type.


    That night, she sat on her bed, her cheeks flushed like red roses, but as sleep took over, she realized Cameron hadn''te home.


    The next morning, Cameron


    returned. He acted like his absence


    was nothing and didn''t apologize or


    exin. He just joined Nellie forContent provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    breakfast as if nothing was amiss.


    en


    Halfway through his meal, he noticed Nellie hadn''t touched her te. She was just watching him quietly, her eyes steady.


    "What''s up?" Cameron asked casually.


    "Cameron, did you forget we''re married now?"


    Cameron nearly choked, only then realizing that being married meant being a husband with responsibilities. He couldn''t just do whatever he pleased.


    He felt a twinge of dissatisfaction. "How could I forget something like that?" Cameron forced a smile, but his guilt was nowhere in sight.


    Nellie said, "Cameron, if you''re not ready for this, maybe we should..."


    Cameron immediately felt a wave of panic.

 Chapter 352

    He''d been in the game for so long, and there was no way he was going to let all his efforts just fizzle out now. Still, the hurt look in Nellie''s eyes was like a wake-up call. Maybe she wasn''t as easy to fool as he thought.


    After that, Cameron turned into the perfect husband. He''d leave early and alwayse backte with a little gift for Nellie. He even nted her favorite flowers in the garden to win her over.


    When she saw the garden full of roses, she was so overwhelmed that tears of joy started streaming down her face. She hugged Cameron tightly, her voice catching in her throat. "No one''s ever done something like this for me. Cam, thank you." At that moment, Cameron felt he had her right where he wanted.


    He amped up the romance and, that night, he held her close, whispering again and again how much he loved her. It seemed like he was trying to prove his sincerity by making her his.


    All of Nellie''s defenses crumbled under the weight of his intense confessions of "love."


    So, when Cameron casually mentioned, "I heard your sister''s condition is pretty serious now," it was actually a carefully disguised maniption.


    Nellie cupped his face. "If I give her my kidney, she might have more time."


    In hiding his excitement, Cameron reassured her, "Nel, you''re such a good person. If you save your sister, your dad and she will be forever grateful."


    "But surgeries have risks. What if something goes wrong?" Nellie worried.


    Cameron cut her off, "It won''t, Nel. I talked to the doctor. The procedure is top-notch and done by the best specialist. You''ll be fine."


    Nellie was slightly confused, but Cameron''s convincing words made her believe the surgery was safe and wouldn''t have major consequences. So, in a daze, she went through with it.


    On the day of the surgery, Cameron was a bundle of nerves, pacing outside the operating room, worried sick about his first love, Greta.


    Nellie was the first to be wheeled


    out after the operation. She was weak but smiled at Cameron''s anxious face, thinking his worry was for hen She felt so touched that she reached out her hand to offer him somefort.


    Cameron held her hand gently. Her hand dropped weakly, but her fingers clung to his, like they were a loving couple.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Just then, Greta emerged, looking worse for wear, pale and barely conscious. She feebly called out, "Cameron."


    Cameron instantly released Nellie''s hand and rushed to Greta''s side. "Greta, are you okay?"


    Nellie watched, full of doubt and disappointment but, most of all, resignation. Even when she was taken back to her room, she didn''t see Cameron again.


    Nellie felt a gnawing unease and


    couldn''t help but question


    el?


    Cameron''s intentions. Still, deep down, she wanted to believe in the goodness of people; surely,


    Cameron couldn''t be that heartless. She just couldn''t let herself think the worst of him.


    Late that night, after getting Greta settled, Cameron finally remembered Nellie. Like checking off a to-do list, he came to see her.


    "Nel, the surgery went really well," he


    told her with a hint of detachment. "The doctor said your kidney is in great shape. With the right care, your sister might even enjoy a normal lifespan."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 353

    Nellie stared at him, her disappointment clear in her eyes. "Cameron, I thought the first thing you''d ask about was how I''m doing."


    Instead of concern for her, all his words were centered around her sister.


    Cameron looked sheepish. Holding Nellie''s hand, he tried to soothe her. "Nel, I was actuallyplimenting you. You''re a hero. I''m proud of you."


    Nellie forced a smile.


    Cameron stayed a little longer, then decided it was time to head home for some rest. "Nel, it''s gettingte. You should get some rest. I''ll head home now." With that, Cameron stood up and left.


    In the stillness of the night, Nellie let out a sigh full of self-pity. Maybe that sigh was what pricked Cameron''s conscience. He came back to her bedside, asking, "Hey... Are you feeling okay?" Nellie took his hand and ced it over her heart.


    Cameron''s face clouded over.


    Nellie asked, "Cameron, do you really love me? Why can''t I feel it?"


    As he watched Nellie''s pale face, guilt washed over Cameron. "Nel, I was just going home to grab a few things for you. I''ll be right back."


    Nellie felt a bit more at ease.


    During her hospital stay, Cameron spent most of his time with Greta, only squeezing in brief visits to Nellie, ut Nellie thought he was just swamped with work and was forgiving.


    She started feeling a little better and, out of boredom, began scrolling through her phone.


    That day, Greta''stest social media post popped up. Nellie identally opened it, and what she saw shattered her.


    Cameron was in Greta''s hospital room, feeding her. They were gazing into each other''s eyes, their love evident.


    Fuming, Nellie yanked out her IV drip


    and broke down in tears. Her blood pressure dropped quickly, and soon, Nellie started showing signs of. distress. By the time a nurse noticed something was wrong, she was


    already unconscious.


    As the closest family member, Cameron was summoned by the doctor, who questioned, "Why was no one with her during her IV?" Cameron stood silent.


    "How can you call yourself her husband?" the doctor pressed on.


    With a look of disdain, the doctor subtly took Nellie''s side. "Who will ever donate an organ again if a


    donor suffers while is


    fine?"


    This hit Cameron like a ton of bricks. He realized he couldn''t treat Nellie so poorly.


    Filled with regret, he stayed outside the emergency room, making a tough decision. He had given Greta a second chance at life. He had done right by her. Now, he owed it to his wife Nellie for the rest of his life.


    Driven by this realization, he spent nearly every moment at Nellie''s side. When Nellie woke up, she heard the nurses talking with a mix of envy and admiration, ¡°You''re so lucky. Your husband was so worried when you were out. He didn''t leave your side for a second." N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Nellie was someone who foundfort in the simplest things. She thought maybe she had blown things out of proportion.


    So, she decided to let it go and tucked her doubts away deep in her heart.

 Chapter 354

    Cameron''s obvious pulling away sent rm bells ringing for the sensitive and fragile Greta. So, she started to pop up around Nellie and Cameron more often, always finding a way to be part of their scene. During these encounters, Greta made sure to show extra care towards her brother-inw in subtle ways. One time at dinner, for instance - she''d serve him food like it was the most natural thing in the world. Cameron, oblivious to Nellie''s shocked and questioning nces, epted her gestures without a second thought. Even when Cameron was about to head out, Greta would grab his tie and insist on tying it for him, leaving Nellie absolutely bbergasted.


    Greta and Cameron were lost in the thrill of their affair, too wrapped up in their own world to notice or care about Nellie''s feelings. It wasn''t until Cameron eventually picked up on Nellie''s skepticism that he casually brushed it off, saying, "Don''t overthink it. Your sister''s a fashion blogger, so she''s just really into picking out ties for me."


    Nellie nodded, though a bit awkwardly, and couldn''t help but add, "I just think, as a married man, you should keep a respectable distance from other women. Cameron, staying true in both action and thought is for your good and hers too." Then, she turned and walked away. Cameron felt the sting of shame on his cheeks; Nellie''s words gnawed at his conscience.


    Once Greta was back on her feet health-wise, Cameron approached her, speaking with calm honesty, "Greta, maybe we should keep our distance from now on. I married Nellie, and I owe it to her to be responsible."


    Tears rolled down Greta''s cheeks as she said, "If I had known that epting her kidney would mean losing your love, I would rather not have lived at all."


    Cameron was torn. "Greta, we made this choice. We can''t have it all without facing the consequences, right?"


    Greta seemed to agree with


    Cameron''s decision, but once he was out the door, her eyes turned cold. Furious, she smashed a teacup on the floor, yelling, "Nellie! Nellie, you took my boyfriend. I won''t let


    you get away with this "tent


    Determined, she trawled through Nellie''s social media, even crafting a fake profile to slyly get close to her She changed her socialwork settings so only Nellie could see daily posts of her and Cameron during their lovey-dovey days.


    Seeing these pictures, Nellie went from shock to anger over being lied to and finally let out a heartbroken, gut-wrenching cry. "Cameron, you lied to me. You''ve always loved her and not me. Why did you deceive me?"


    That night, hit hard by the brutal


    truth, Nellie found herself running a


    fever. The high temperature wreaked havoc on her body as she was still recovering from surgery. It caused her lone kidney to react badly, leading to blood in her urine.


    Panicking at the sight of the blood-red urine, she called Cameron in desperation. "Cameron, I think I''m really sick. Can you take me to the hospital?"


    However, it was Greta who picked up. "Oh, Nellie, Cameron''s really busy right now. I''ll have him call you back."


    Feeling weak and feverish, Nellie pleaded, "Please, I''m really not feeling well. Can you let Camerone to the phone?"


    "Nel, you need to understand. I told you, Cameron''s busy," Greta said, then hung up the phone.N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.

 Chapter 355

    Nellie felt like each monent was dragging on forever as she waited. Instead of hearing back from Cameron, she stumbled upon Greta''s smug social media post. [He peeled shrimp for me. I''m so lucky.] The post included a photo showing Cameron''s hand still sporting his wedding ring. Nellie''s tears came rushing out like a dam breaking.


    With her body trembling, Nellie took some fever meds, even though she knew she shouldn''t because of her condition. That day, she copsed on the floor, and it wasn''t until the wee hours that she finally came to. Oddly enough, while her fever had broken and she felt stronger, the pain in her back and stomach only got worse.


    "Cameron, how could you be so heartless?"


    She hadn''t even made it to the doctor before Cameron waltzed in during the early morning hours. By then, Nellie had pulled herself together and was perched on the couch.


    Cameron nced at her with a voice full of irritation. "Your sister said you were trying to reach me? What''s up?"


    Nellie replied with a cold, "Nothing." She hadpletely lost any faith she had in him.


    Cameron could sense the annoyance in her voice. Frustrated, he tossed his coat onto the couch. "What''s your deal? Why have you been up all night, acting like a lunatic? Did I ask you to wait for me? No, I didn''t. So if you''re not getting any sleep and just sitting here hoping I''lle home, that''s on you."


    Nellie shot him a sorrowful nce. Her eyes were filled with such deep disappointment that it felt like a nuclear meltdown.


    She remained silent, seemingly too drained to argue, and slowly headed upstairs to the bedroom. There, she packed up her belongings, moved them to the guest room, and thus began her stint of living apart from Cameron.


    Cameron thought she was beingpletely irrational. "What kind of behavior is this?" he fumed, struggling to keep from cursing.


    Once a crack forms, trust starts crumbling. From that point on, every time Cameron didn''te home, Nellie would catch glimpses of him and Greta unting their affection on social media.


    On Nellie''s birthday, Cameron and Greta jetted off to Malta. When Nellie was sick, Cameron and Greta were busy attending some fancy event. When Nellie was short on cash, Cameron was busy showering Greta with luxury gifts.


    Nellie finally made up her mind to let


    go of this heartbreaking ne


    rtionship. One day, she Cameron''s office. Content to


    ¦¯¦«¦¯


    There, she found Cameron and Greta,ughing and chatting as they walked out. Cameron spotted Nellie and asked, irritated, "What are you doing here?"


    Nellie said, "I need to talk to you, but since you won''te home, I had no choice but toe here."


    Cameron replied, "I''ve got a meeting soon. Can we talkter at home?"


    Nellie blocked his path. "This won''t take long."


    She handed him the divorce papers. "Just sign here."


    Cameron opened them and was dumbfounded by the divorce


    agreement. "What''s this all abor


    He couldn''t believe Nellie was really ready to leave him.


    "I''m not making a scene. I genuinely want a divorce. I''m stepping aside for Greta."


    Cameron snapped at that. "I''ve been nothing but honest with you. Are you out of your mind?"


    "Really?" Nellie stepped forward and yanked Greta''s diamond ne off. "Is this the birthday gift you got her?"


    Cameron said, "It was her birthday. What''s wrong with gifting her something as her friend?"


    Nellie then pulled off her own ne. "And this is the birthday gift you gave me?"N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Hers was just a mini version of Greta''s, made with cheaper materials.

 Chapter 356

    As a passerby caught sight of the situation, her eyebrows shot up in surprise. Cameron felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment and turned to re at his assistant standing beside him.


    After all, Cameron had tasked his assistant with picking out a gift for Nellie. Little did he realize his assistant would be so careless about it.


    Keeping her cool, Nellie voiced her disappointment, "So, you didn''t choose the gift yourself, did you?"


    Feeling ashamed, Cameron reached for Nellie''s hand, but she pulled away. Cameron collected himself and gently pulled her aside. "Nel, I admit I messed up. I promise to make it right with a gift you''ll truly love." Nellie replied, "Cameron, let''s not kid ourselves. You don''t love me. You loved something inside me."


    Her words sliced through Cameron''s pretense like a razor-sharp de.


    Cameron was always worried about his image. He feared Nellie might reveal his unsavory motives. Yet, a part of him, still holding onto some semnce of conscience, knew he shouldn''t betray Nellie, especially after vowing to take care of her for life if she saved Greta. He tried to patiently soothe Nellie, "Nel, things are over between your sister and me. From now on, you''re my wife, and that won''t change. Let''s go home. I''m not divorcing you."


    Cameron thought not divorcing her was the greatest kindness he could offer. Little did he know, his stubbornness only made Nellie feel more trapped. She felt like there was no way out. Anxiety gripped her, and suddenly, everything went dark as she fainted.


    When she came to, Cameron was by her bedside, his eyes twinkling with a smile. "Nel, the doctor says you''re pregnant. You''re going to be a mom."


    Nellie''s hand slowly moved to her belly, realizing the timing couldn''t be worse. Yet, her love for children made her decide. "Cameron, are you not gonna divorce me?"


    Cameron nodded. "Nel, I promised to take care of you forever. I won''t break that promise."


    Nellie, feeling a pang of sadness, said, "This child is the only gift in this world that''s truly mine. So, I will have this baby."


    Her eyes locked with Cameron''s, a warning clear in her gaze. "If you don''t divorce me, then I want you to swear you''ll treat our baby right. If you don''t, may you lose everything and meet a grim fate."


    Without a moment''s pause, Cameron raised his hand and vowed, will treat this child well. If I ever harm our child, I deserve to lose everything and meet a grim fate."


    After swearing, he added, "Nel, this is my child too. How could I ever hurt them? You''re overthinking this."


    Nellie turned away, simply saying, "I need to rest now. Please, leave."


    With the baby on the way, Nellie found a sense of calm for a while.


    Greta hadn''t stopped stirring trouble, but Nellie chose to ignore it, unwilling to fight or argue about Cameron anymore. Her heart was set on her child alone. Cameron''s love was so superficial and something she decided she no longer needed.


    Nellie''s newfound peace left Greta in a panic. She threw a fit at home. If Nellie has Cameron''s baby, her ce as Mrs. Dawson is secure. And my chances of moving up be slim!"


    Patrick tried tofort her and said, "Greta, calm down. It pains me to see you upset. Just tell me what you want me to do to make things better."


    "I want Nellie''s baby not to make it," Greta said, her eyes cold with malice.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

 Chapter 357

    Patrick rubbed his hands together, feeling the weight of the situation. "The baby''s on the way, and Nellie''s been cooped up at home. This is a bit of a sticky wicket."


    Greta leaned in. "Dad, she''s heading to the hospital for her monthly check-up. You''re pretty chummy with the head of the maternity ward, right? Just have them slip her some meds that could, you know, interfere with the baby''s growth. Nature might just take its course." Patrick was taken aback. "Isn''t that a bit too harsh?"N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    Greta coaxed, "Dad, think about it. If I be Mrs. Dawson, you''d be the father-inw of someone big in business. With his backing, ourpany would be unstoppable."


    People took risks for wealth just as birds faced danger for food.


    Patrick decided to ignore any lingering doubts. "Alright, for your sake, I''ll do it this once," he said, a determined glint in his eyes.


    At Nellie''s next appointment, her doctor mentioned some concerns about the ultrasound and prescribed medication to stabilize the pregnancy.


    After taking the medication, sge started experiencing signs of a possible miscarriage.


    However, perhaps it was destiny''s intervention, as Nellie managed to carry the pregnancy to term.


    Soon enough, Nellie gave birth. She had a baby girl, but the little one had a congenital heart defect.


    Greta, still dissatisfied, snapped at Patrick, "Why didn''t you make her take something stronger?"


    Patrick, looking sheepish, replied, "We couldn''t make it too obvious; she''d get suspicious."


    Greta retorted, "Cameron loves daughters. What if he falls for Nellie''s daughter and starts loving her more deeply?"


    Patrick sighed, "Cameron is too soft-hearted. He loves you, yet he ditched you for some misguided sense of morality and chose Nellie."


    Greta clenched her fists and said determinedly, "I can''t let Cameron be attached to this child."


    ...


    At the hospital, Nellie was cradling her tiny child, tears streaming down her face.


    The doctor exined the cause of her daughter''s heart defect, "Ms. Nellie, did you take any questionable medications during your pregnancy? The child might have been affected by them."


    Nellie red at Cameron, her eyes filled with silent usation. She wrongly assumed the


    post-transnt meds might have caused the defect. After all,


    Cameron, in his hurry to sec


    surgery time, hadn''t thought about the possibility of her getting pregnant and had rushed her into a transnt operation.


    His focus was all on Greta, ignoring the safety of their own child.


    Cameron hung his head, silent. Guilt overwhelmed him as he stared at his wife and child.


    "Nel, don''t worry. As long as we shower her with love, she''ll grow up happy, even if she''s a bit frail."


    "Get out," Nellie''s voice was icy.


    Cameron was stunned; no one had ever dared to order him around like that before. He felt a twinge of displeasure.


    Then, a nurse reminded him, "New moms have hormonal swings that can mess with their mood. It sometimes leads to depression. Be patient." Reluctantly, he left.


    Once he was gone, Nellie listed all the medications she''d taken during her pregnancy to the doctor.


    The doctor''s expression grew


    increasingly serious. "These medications, on their own, are meant to support the pregnancy. But mixing these two can lead to


    §Ý§Ö§ä


    miscarriage or serious birth defects."


    Nellie felt her face go pale. Those were the meds her doctor had given her to support her during pregnancy. No wonder she''d had a scare after switching to them.


    "I see," Nellie said, her expression darkening.

 Chapter 358

    Nellie had always been a gentle woman, but for her daughter, she was ready to bare her ws and fight for justice. When she marched into the doctor''s office, the steely determination in her eyes made the doctor squirm. "Nellie, what brings you here all of a sudden?" The doctor tried to y it cool while subtly eyeing the nearest exit.


    "I''m almostte for work-can''t this wait until after my shift?" she added, hoping to dodge the confrontation.


    Nellie shot back with a frosty re. "No need to rush. With your hical actions, I doubt you''ll be working here much longer."


    The doctor went pale, trying to keep herposure. "What are you talking about? I don''t follow."


    Nellie pped down the evidence-her medical tests and empty pill bottles. The doctor''s hands visibly shook. "Nellie, these prescriptions were based on your health needs. There''s nothing wrong with them." "Nothing wrong?" Nellie fired back. "My child was born with a heart defect, and the meds you prescribed could cause birth defects. You''re a professional. Don''t tell me you didn''t know!"


    Themotion drew a crowd. People started whispering and pointing, "That doctor''s got no morals. She shouldn''t even have a license."


    Some folks began snapping photos, and the doctor''s cool facade crumbled. She pleaded with Nellie, "Let''s discuss this somewhere private. This could really damage the hospital''s reputation."


    Nellie''s anger was unyielding. "Did you care about the hospital''s reputation when you did this? If you didn''t, why should I?"


    She was all in. "I''m willing to stake my whole life on this fight. I won''t back down."


    The doctor was visibly shaken and finally begged, "Come with me, and I''ll exin."


    Nellie followed her to a quiet spot, where the doctor dropped her act. "Ms. Nellie, it was your father who pressured me."


    Nellie''s eyes widened in shock. "Do you have proof?"


    After a moment''s hesitation, the doctor nodded. "I''ll give it to you."


    As Nellie left the hospital, she was a storm of emotions. Part of her was shattered, realizing the fatherly affection she''d known had been the start of her downfall.


    When she burst into the Brown family home, Patrick''s face twisted with disdain. "What do you want?"


    Nellie confronted him head-on. "Why did you hurt my daughter?"


    Patrick hadn''t expected Nellie to uncover his secret so soon. His mug slipped from his hand, spilling water all over the table. "Nel, calm down," Patrick wheedled, his sly nature kicking in. "Why would I harm my own grandchild? I have no reason to."


    Nellie''s gaze snapped to Greta, who was smirking. "You have plenty of reason If I can''t produce a healthy heir for the Dawson family, your precious daughter will get a shot at bearing Cameron''s child."


    Greta jumped up, feigningC¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    innocence. "Nellie, what nonsense are your spouting? It''s your body''s fault for not having healthy kids. Why are you ming us? Cameron and I are meless!"

 Chapter 359

    Seething with anger, Nellie swung her hand and pped Greta across the face. "Why can''t I have healthy kids? Greta, if I hadn''t given you a kidney, do you think my health would be this bad? You are so ungrateful. Does Cameron know what a schemer you are?" Greta copsed onto the floor, crying dramatically. "Dad, look at her! I knew it. I just took her kidney, and she''ll hold it over my head forever."


    Patrick was livid. "Nellie, if you''re here to stir up trouble, you''re not wee."


    Nellie shot Patrick a fierce look. "I don''t care if I''m not wee here. The court will hear me out. Just wait until we meet there."


    After Nellie stormed out, Patrick and Greta huddled to n their next move. "What do we do, Dad? If Cameron finds out I was the one who hurt his kids, he''ll never forgive me."


    Patrick visibly paled.


    Patrick gritted his teeth. "Greta, just act clueless. I''ll take all the me."


    Greta''s eyes lit up with relief. "Dad, you''re amazing. Don''t worry. Cameron adores me so much, and as long as he doesn''t me me, he won''t ever let you go to jail."


    Greta''s prediction hit the nail on the head. When Nellie spilled the beans to Cameron about Patrick''s actions, Cameron was initially furious. "This is just ridiculous."


    He stormed over to the Brown family''s ce to confront Patrick. When he got there, Patrick dropped to his knees in front of Cameron, confessing, "Cameron, I won''t hide it from you. It was me."


    He tried to justify himself. "I had selfish reasons. Nel just had surgery, and I thought she needed to recuperate and shouldn''t be pregnant."


    "I meant well, but Nellie resents me. Cameron, I''m sorry, I..." He put on a pitiful show, pping his own face.


    Greta saw Patrick hurt himself and was so shocked that she fainted. Even though Cameron was upset with Patrick''s actions, his concern for Greta''s feelings overshadowed his anger. He took Greta to the hospital.


    When he got back home, Nellie hurried to meet him. "Cameron, did you handle it?"


    vel.


    Cameron looked serious. "Nel, let''s just drop it. Your dad might''ve messed up, but he was looking out for you. He thought you were not fit for pregnancy because of your fragile health. To keep your rtionship intact, he quietly hoped for a natural miscarriage. #t just didn''t go as nned..."


    Nellie felt a chill down her spine. She couldn''t believe Cameron was so blinded by love.


    "You believe his story?"N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    "Why wouldn''t I?" Cameron frowned.


    Nellie trembled with disbelief. "You don''t deserve to be a dad." She ran upstairs, tears streaming down her face.


    "I won''t let this go."


    Cameron raised his voice. "Your


    sister had a rpse and is


    hospitalized because of this. Let''s end this here. No more nonsense."


    Nellie turned pale. She knew it. When it came to Greta, Cameron would bend any rule.


    "What if I refuse to drop it?"


    Cameron, losing patience, said, "Nellie, it''s no use. What good will it do?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 360

    Stubborn and headstrong, Nellie found herself up against the odds. She had gathered evidence of Patrick and the doctor''s wrongdoings but never imagined Cameron would be the one to thwart her efforts.


    It all stemmed from Greta''s tearful plea to Cameron. "Cameron, you know my dad better than anyone. He''s always been a loving father and doted on his daughters. He adores me, and he''d do even more for Nellie. He feels he owes her so much and wants to make things right with her."


    "My dad''s intentions were for Nellie''s well-being. He thought she wasn''t ready for a pregnancy after her kidney transnt. He feared she''d reject his advice and discreetly contacted the doctor to handle it quietly, hoping she''d miscarry. Why does Nellie have to hold onto his mistake? He was only trying to protect her."


    Cameron felt his heart shatter at Greta''s tears. He helped her up and promised, "Greta, don''t worry. I won''t hold your dad ountable. But to calm things with your sister, he needs to apologize to her personally." Greta, overwhelmed with relief, cried even more. "Okay."


    Cameron organized a family dinner to mend the rift between Nellie and Patrick. Greta arrived in a dazzling evening gown, while Nellie, who had just given birth, showed signs of weariness. Her figure had changed, her face was a bit swollen, and the emotional toll was evident in her pale, worn-out appearance.


    Greta cornered Nellie in the bathroom, mocking her, "Look at you, Nel. You''re so in. How could Cameron or my dad ever choose you over me?"


    Nellie, seething, grabbed Greta''s cor. "What do you mean by that?"


    Greta smirked, "What do I mean? Even if I were to harm your daughter, Dad and Cameron would still side with me without a second thought."


    Nellie''s eyes burned with anger. "I knew you pushed Dad to hurt my daughter. Greta, I''m your sister, and I''ve even saved your life. How can you be so heartless?"


    Just then, someone walked in.


    Spotting him, Greta quickly turned


    on the waterworks, "Nel, I''m apologizing for Dad. Don''t be mad; you''re still recovering, and stressCopyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    isn''t good for you."


    Cameron saw Nellie gripping Greta tightly and rushed over, pushing her aside. "Nellie, have you lost it? She''s your sister, and you know she''s not well. How could you hurt her?"


    Feigning weakness, Greta nestled


    into Cameron''s embrace. "Cameron,


    don''t me her. She''s just upset.


    When she realized I was pleading on Dad''s behalf, she couldn''t hold


    back..."


    Nellie was pushed to the floor, hit her head, and felt a sharp pain, but Greta''s theatrics enraged her more. She pointed at Greta, fuming, "You should''ve been an actress." Greta clung to Cameron. "Cameron, I''m feeling dizzy and unwell."


    Cameron supported Greta and left


    the room. Before leaving, he threw a parting shot at Nellie, "Nellie, your dad and sister have gone to great lengths to apologize. Isn''t that enough for you?"

 Chapter 361

    Cameron left. A shaken Nellie picked herself up off the floor. She made her way back to the bedroom, quickly tended to her wounds, and opened the drawer, ready to hand over the evidence she had gathered against Patrick to the court. But the drawer was empty. Nothing was there anymore. She panicked and searched for clues in the security footage, only to discover that today''s recordings were missing. That''s when she realized this was a calcted move to destroy the evidence. And who else could have done it but Cameron, who knew their home inside out?


    She sat on the floor, hugging her knees, tears streaming down her face. How could she have trusted Cameron so easily? But as her tears dried up, she steeled herself for whaty ahead.


    Nellie returned to the hospital to get her medical records printed, only to find them altered. The tampered documents made her feel like her world had turned pitch ck. People with wealth and power really could bend the world to their will. "Cameron, why did you do this? You lied to me, and I hate you," she cried, her heart breaking.


    Later that night, Nellie dragged her weary self back home. Cameron was there, his expression icy. "Where have you been? The baby''s been crying her eyes out, and you were nowhere to be found. If you''re not up for being a mom, I''ll hire a nanny." Nellie, too exhausted to fight, replied weakly, "She''s my daughter. I can take care of her."


    Little did she know, the scheme against her child was far from over.


    The next day, Greta waltzed into the Dawson household as if nothing had happened. She put on her sweetest act for Cameron. "Cameron, I owe Nellie a lot, and now that she''s recovering, I can''t just stand by. I''ll help with the baby. I love kids, and she''s my niece, after all." Cameron quickly agreed. "Greta, you''re so generous."


    Nellie put up a fierce fight against Greta''s involvement. "Cameron, tell her to leave. I won''t let her near my daughter; she''ll hurt her."


    Cameron red at Nellie, his eyes wide with frustration. Compared to Greta''s supposed kindness, Nellie seemed frrational and stifling. snapped, "Enough, Nellie.


    yourself. You''re being me


    Nellie felt crushed, her husband''sck of trust cutting deep. Perhaps it was the stress, but soon, she found herself feverish on and off. This only


    Cameron more reason to leave


    in Greta''s care.


    At first, Greta seemed to be doing a good job. But every time Nellie


    asked to see her daughter, the child would fall ill the next day,ing down with either diarrhea or


    allergies. Cameron took this


    proof that Nellie was too young and unfit to care for their child, further solidifying his decision to let Greta


    continue.


    By the time the baby was three months old, Nellie had recovered enough to suggest she take over caring for her child. Cameron, with little interest, asked, "Are you sure you can handle it?" Nellie promised, "I''m going to learn and be a good mother."N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Cameron shut her down immediately. "Greta''s doing just fine. Let''s keep it as it is for now."


    Nellie stood her ground. "Cameron, I carried her for ten months. You can''t take away my right to be her mom."

 Chapter 362

    Cameron paused for a moment, then finally nodded in agreement.


    When he showed up at Greta''s ce to break the news that the child had to return to her birth mother, he wasn''t prepared for Greta''s heart-wrenching reaction.


    She watched him with teary eyes and said, "Cameron, I''ve been looking after her for so long, and I''ve really grown fond of her. How can you just take her away from me like this? I can''t imagine letting her go." "What am I supposed to do? I can''t bear to part with her," shemented.


    Cameron''s face tightened with confusion. Why did women have such a natural, fierce attachment to children? And why, as her biological father, did he feel like the child was just... optional?


    As he nced at the baby in the cradle, he was taken aback. This child, once so in, had turned into something special. Her big, round eyes were so much like Nellie''s. A warm feeling crept into his steely heart. He approached, gently picking her up, and thought to himself, ''Is this truly my daughter?''


    ''This is my own flesh and blood.''


    In that moment, a father''s love had sparked in him.


    Seeing Cameron''s affectionate expression, Greta felt a pit form in her stomach. She knew it-Cameron was smitten by the child. She couldn''t let Nellie take her away.


    "How about Ie over and work as a nanny?" Greta suggested.


    Cameron looked at her, pondering the idea.


    Greta continued, "This way, Nellie can still see the child, and I can make sure she''s well cared for. It''ll give you peace of mind."


    Cameron nodded. "That might be for the best."


    So, Cameron brought his daughter home with an unexpected tag-along-Greta.


    Nellie''s eyes hardened when she saw Greta. "Why is she here?"


    Before Cameron could exin, Greta warmly took Nellie''s hand and said, "You''re new to this whole mom thing can help you adjust. Once you''re up to speed with taking care of her, I''ll step back."


    Nellie shot her a skeptical look. "Have you had kids before?"


    Greta blushed and stammered, "Nel, I''m your sister. How could you question my honor like that?"


    Nellie retorted, "If you haven''t had kids, where do you get off iming you''re experienced?"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Tears welled up in Greta''s eyes. "Cameron, look at how she''s treating me..."


    Cameron fumed, "Nellie, how can you be so ungrateful? And watch your mouth. We can''t have this kind of negativity around our child." Nellie took the baby from Cameron''s arms and headed upstairs. She was done with their nonsense.


    In frustration, Cameron kicked over a chair.


    That night, while Nellie was upstairs soothing the baby, Cameron and Greta were downstairs, having a quiet drink and chatting.


    Nellie understood Greta''s motive clearly. Her visit wasn''t just about the child but about getting closer to Cameron.


    1.n


    Nellie wasn''t interested in vying for Cameron''s attention anyway. A loveless marriage was just a prison. She was focused on using the Dawson family''s resources to give her daughter the best upbringing.


    The n was simple: once her daughter no longer needed the Dawson family, Nellie would leave.


    Little did she know that this decision would have unintended consequences.


    She stuck it out with the Dawsons for three more years. By the third birthday, her daughter had blossomed into a lively little sprite.


    She wasn''t just beautiful; she had a


    charm about her. At her birthday party, she yed the violin so well


    that it left everyone speechless.

 Chapter 363

    Nellie''s daughter instantly won over the hearts of the Dawson family elders. Cameron, who had been distant at first, found himself growing more attached to his daughter. After the party, Cameron approached Nellie, clearly unhappy about their daughter''s name. "Nina''s too in. How about we change it?"


    Nellie just brushed him off. She had chosen that name, hoping it would bring her strength and resilience.


    Cameron, clueless about her reasoning, dismissed her choice as unsophisticated. "Greta''se up with a chic name, Norah. What do you think?"


    Nellie was instantly repulsed. "I disagree. Why should someone else name my daughter? Her parents are very much alive."


    Cameron, red-faced with frustration, shot back, "You''re beingpletely unreasonable."


    He then authoritatively dered, "Norah will be her new name," and left before Nellie could argue.


    That night, holding Nina close, Nellie asked, "Your aunt suggested we name you Norah. Do you like it?"


    Nina, eyes teary, shook her head vehemently. "Mommy, I like Nina, not Norah."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Why?"


    "I love you, Mommy, not my mean aunt."


    Nellie was taken aback. "Nina, who told you to say that?"


    "She pinched and hit me when no one was looking. It really hurt."


    Nina even rolled up her pant leg to show her mom the bruises Greta had left.


    Seeing the dark bruises, Nellie was heartbroken and hugged her daughter tightly. "It''s my fault. I should have protected you. Nina, I won''t let her near you again."


    Nina wiped her tears, burst into a smile, and even rolled around on the bed in glee.


    Afterward, whenever Greta tried to visit the Dawson family, Nellie found excuses to keep her away.


    Eventually, Gretained to Cameron, "Cameron, does my sister not like me? Why won''t she let me see Norah? I''ve been there for her. It hurts not to see her." Cameron was irate. "Nellie''s bing impossible."


    He went home to confront Nellie. "Your pettiness is rubbing off on the child. She''ll end up just as narrow-minded."


    Nellie said nothing, having grown


    used to ignoring Cameron''s remarks. But little Nina, seeing her dad berating her mom, stood up angrily, "Dad, you can''t talk to Mom like that. I don''t want to see Auntie because I don''t like her."


    Cameron assumed Nina''s opinion was all Nellie''s doing. He grew more resentful. "Our child will end up ruined if she stays with you. Greta should continue raising her.


    OUMS


    He didn''t finish before Nellie stormed into the kitchen. She grabbed a kitchen knife and mmed it onto the coffee table. "Anyone who tries to take Ni?a away will have to deal with me."


    "You''re crazy," Cameron muttered, thinking Nellie was beyond reason.


    Nina rushed into her mother''s arms, sobbing, "Mommy, I don''t want to be apart from you."


    Nellie put down the knife and crouched to hug Nina. "Don''t worry. No one will separate us as long as I''m here."


    Cameron despaired, "You will ruin this child."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 364

    Nellie watched as Cameron flew into a rage but stayed surprisingly calm. "Cameron, I''m not looking for a divorce because I want Nina to grow up with a father''s love. I don''t want her to end up emotionally scarred like I did." After a moment, she added, "But if having a father around has be a burden, I won''t hesitate to cut you off. This is yourst chance, Cameron. If you keep siding with Greta and not see the truth, then let''s just end this." Cameron''s handsome face turned dark as storm clouds. "Divorce? Are you serious?"


    He thought she was bluffing and stormed out, fuming with anger.


    This marked the first time Greta lost to Nellie. Cameron defied Greta''s wishes and didn''t fight for her right to visit Nina. Unwilling to ept defeat, Greta hatched a devious n.


    That day, she drank mango juice, knowing it would trigger her severe allergies. Then she showed up at the Dawsons'', trying to charm Nellie with shameless ttery.


    "Nel, I know you love Norah, so I won''t fight you for custody. I brought lots of gifts for her today and would love to give them to her myself. Can I?"


    Nellie stood firm at the door, her tone icy. "There''s nobody called Norah here. You''ve got the wrong ce. Leave."


    Greta''s face flushed with anger. "Norah is the name I picked for your daughter, and Cameron agreed. He even registered it on her ID."


    Hearing this, Nellie was livid. "My daughter''s name is my choice. How dare you, someone who''s hurt her before, think you can name her?"


    Greta leaned in with a sinister grin on her face and whispered, "Nellie, Cameron doesn''t love you, much less your daughter. If it wasn''t for me, she wouldn''t even have a name. Your daughter''s just like you, someone nobody cares about. Born into the wrong family." Nellie, seething with rage, pped Greta hard.


    Greta slumped to the floor, sobbing dramatically. "Nel, I came with good intentions to see you and Norah, and this is how you treat me?"


    Nellie frowned, baffled by Greta''s quick change in demeanor, when suddenly someone burst in, shoving her aside. "Nellie, I gave you the title of Mrs Dawson, not so you could bully others." Cameron yelled at Nellie, his tone harsh.


    Nellie found it absurd. "Mrs. Dawson?"


    That title couldn''t feed her or protect her daughter. What good was it to her?N?velDrama.Org content.


    "If you''re worried I''ll use that title against you, take it back. I don''t need it," Nellie dered with resolve.


    Cameron was beside himself with rage.


    Then, out of nowhere, Greta clutched her stomach, and her face contorted in pain. "Cameron, it hurts."


    Even in agony, Greta didn''t forget


    why she was there. She pointed usingly at Nellie. "Nellie, what did you give me to drink? Was there mango in it? You know I''m allergic, right?"


    Nellie was taken aback.


    But Cameron had already pped her hard. "Nellie, I can''t believe you''d be so cruel. If anything


    anything at


    your sister, you''ll pay for it.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 365

    Greta was rushed to the hospital. The doctor exined that she had a bad allergic reaction to mango, which caused her kidney infection to re up again. Sneakily, Greta slipped the doctor an envelope, asking him to make her condition sound worse whenever Cameron was around.


    Each time Cameron heard about Greta''s suffering, his frustration with Nellie grew. But that wasn''t enough for Greta. She aimed to eliminate any obstacles between her and Cameron for good. She faked a sudden severe worsening of her condition and even got the doctor to forge a blood test report showing a critical telet shortage. The doctor imed an urgent need for a transfusion.


    In a panic, Cameron dragged Nellie to the hospital, whe had just picked up their child from school. Unfortunately, she had always been frail and was dealing with a fungal infection that made her unsuitable for blood donation. A nurse, who Greta had influenced, suddenly suggested, "This child is rted to the patient; their blood types should match well."


    Desperate to save Greta, Cameron didn''t question how the nurse knew about Greta and Nina''s rtion without an investigation; her statement clearly smelled fishy. He was solely focused on rescuing Greta, so he immediately had the nurse take Nina for blood typing. Nellie trembled with anger. "Cameron, she''s so young! You can''t let her donate blood!"


    "It''s just a donation. There''s no risk," Cameron replied, unfazed.


    Nellie felt weak. "Cameron, you''ve lost it. How could you do this to our daughter..."


    She sounded like a broken record, and Cameron got furious and suddenly grabbed her throat, demanding, "This is your debt to Greta. Nellie, it''s your fault Greta''s life is on the line; you should pay with your life. If not you, then your daughter. The world''s always fair." Nellie was speechless, her eyes flooded with tears. She regretted everything, especially getting caught up with Cameron. She decided right then to divorce him.


    But then, a disaster struck. During


    the transfusion, their daughter, Nina, contracted a bacterial infection and started running fevers over and over. Nellie desperately called and texted Cameron for help, but he never


    replied. He was glued to Greta''s


    side.


    When the doctor issued a critical condition notice for Nina, Nellie fainted from sheer fear. Nina was in the hospital and kept calling for her dad, while Nellie could only hold her and cry her heart out. Eventually, Nina seemed to understand that her dad wasn''ting back. She wiped the tears from her mom''s face and said with unexpected maturity, "Mom, we don''t need Dad anymore." "He''s a bad dad."


    In Nina''sst moments, Nellie carried her to a church. She knelt down and prayed devoutly, climbing three thousand steps on her knees.


    "Dear Lord have been faithful and


    willing to bear the burden and suffer


    in the next life. I''m not asking for Nina in this life, but praying that in her next life, she may find a happy and loving family."


    Nina passed away in Nellie''s arms. Before she died, she spoke herst words. "Mom, in the next life, I''ll find you again and have you as my mom. But promise me you won''t take Dad back. Let Dad stay with Aunt Greta."


    Nellie''s tears dried up; she couldn''t cry anymore. Her expression was twisted, eerily haunting, yet heartbreakingly painful to see. She was in unbearable pain.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 366

    Feeling for Nellie, the priest kindly performed a simple ceremony for Nina for free. He advised Nellie, "You need to bury her at East Woods, where the sun rises, exactly at midnight tonight. It''ll help her soul find peace and reincarnate." Desperate to do right by her daughter, Nellie swallowed her pride and tried calling Cameron again. She hoped he, as the father, would help their daughter onest time by taking her to East Woods. However, she just couldn''t get through to him.


    As Nellie left the church, she hadn''t noticed when the sky started dumping thick snowkes. The ground was alreadyyered with snow and ice.


    Heartbroken, Nellie carried her daughter, struggling through the snowyndscape. She''s already frail and exhausted from everything she had been through with her daughter, and now each step was a battle.


    Eventually, she copsed by the roadside, pounding the ground in despair. "Nellie, you''re so useless. You couldn''t protect her when she was alive, and now you can''t even help her in death. No wonder Cameron looks down on you." She curled up, sobbing as her tears melted into the snow.


    Just then, her phone buzzed with a gut-wrenching notification. A picture showed Cameron and Greta unting their European vacation online.


    Nellie felt a sharp pain and spat out blood.


    It was like all her strength had vanished, leaving her crumpled on the ground. Only her eyes still held a flicker of life.


    At that moment, a luxury car roared in like a tornado and stopped in front of Nellie. The driver, a man with an air of nobility, kicked open the door. His handsome face was etched with urgency.


    He almost knelt down. His tall figure and ck trench coat made him look like a guardian angel watching over her. Compassion filled his eyes.


    "Mr. Rond..." Nellie recognized


    him. He was Cameron''s rival, Nathan Though younger, Nathan was known for his bold and ruthless ways, having climbed to a high position at a young age.


    Nellie believed in the saying: the enemy of my enemy is my friend. Even though Nathan was way out of her league, she hoped he might do her a favor. "Speak," Nathan''s voice was surprisingly gentle, not at all what she expected.


    "Could you give me and my daughter a ride?"


    Nathan, maybe worn out from traveling in the snow, spoke with a slightly raspy voice. "Of course."


    He carefully took Nina from Nellie''s arms and gently ced her in the car. Then he returned, lifting Nellie and setting her beside her daughter.


    "Thank you, Mr. Rond." Nellie thought Nathan probably didn''t realize he was holding a dead body; otherwise, why would he be so eager to help? After all, having a dead body in such a fancy car might be seen as bad luck.


    Nellie was in turmoil the whole ride.


    Nathan was trying to help, but she was hiding the truth about her


    rel


    daughter''s death. If he found out, he


    would probably be angry.


    Nathan delivered Nellie to East Woods. He turned to see Nellie, who was tearfully apologizing, looking at him with shame. "Mr. Nathan, I''m sorry... I..."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "I had no other choice. I had to bring


    my daughter here. Thank you for helping me fulfill myst wish. Mr. Nathan, I wish you a bright future and a smooth journey through life."

 Chapter 367

    Nathan stayed quiet, stepping out of the car gently as he opened the door for Nellie. "I heard this ce has special magic," he said, his voice soft andforting. "If there''s an afterlife, maybe you and your daughter can find each other again here. What do you think?" It dawned on Nellie then that Nathan knew about her daughter''s death. She felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. "Thank you," she whispered.


    As soon as the words left her lips, she copsed backward. The air was thick with the metallic scent of blood.


    Nathan reached for her wrist, the horror settling in as he realized she had taken her own life.


    His scream of despair pierced the air. "No-Nellie-how could you leave this world behind?"


    "You still had me," he choked out. "I''m your Nathan."


    Nathanid Nellie to rest beside Nina, marking their graves with a headstone.


    The energy that once fueled Timeless Cycle seemed to flicker out, leaving only darkness where there had been light.


    Cameron jolted awake, a violent cough bringing up blood. His face looked as though it had been smeared with something vile, shadowed, and grim. He sat there, unmoving, his eyes as empty as a forgotten well.


    It was hard to say how long it took before his voice, barely a whisper, broke the quiet. "This can''t be real... This can''t be real... Greta can''t be so heartless..."


    Then came the flood of emotions, crashing through him as he yelled, "Ah..."


    He pped himself over and over until his face was a patchwork of bruises. But he couldn''t feel the pain; his nerves were deadened to it.


    Images from his dream reyed in his mind like a haunting reel. He wanted to believe it was all a lie, but every detail felt as real as a memory as if long-buried truths had surfaced for him to witness again. It was like a light bulb went off, illuminating all the things that had puzzled him before.


    Why had Nellie vanished overseas without a word after donating a kidney? Why did her warmth towards him turn so cold?


    Why did she change her name to Nathalie, and why was Nathan so devoted to her?


    Why did she harbor such hatred for him, wishing him to the depths of hell?


    ...


    Now, he was beginning to see.


    Was it possible Nellie had been reborn?


    With the bitterness of her past life and the sorrow of losing their daughter, had she returned seeking vengeance?


    If it was all true-


    Then, he was the punchline of a cruel joke. He had mistaken a heartless, two-faced, venomous wolf for a wise, kind, gentle, and yful soul, who understood him deeply.


    How could Cameron have ever fallen for someone as toxic as Greta?


    Suddenly, his phone rang. The once-beloved ringtone now stirred a sickness in him. He dashed to the


    AO.UMS


    bathroom, retching vio


    Once the ringing stopped, Cameron dragged himself back to his room.


    He flung himself onto the bed, eyes shut tight, lost in deep thought about his life.


    He may have wandered in a fog


    the


    before but vowed to live with rity from now on. He had to uncover


    y was.


    truth about who Greta reallyContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 368

    Cameron had been AWOL for two days, which was totally out of character for him, and he wasn''t picking up Greta''s calls either. This had her spiraling into worry. Unable to sit still, Greta marched over to Cameron''s office, hoping to catch him on his way out. "Cameron," she called out, standing there all alone outside the building, tears threatening to spill over. She was the picture of a distressed and devoted wife. "You haven''t been home, and I''ve been losing my mind with worry," she said. Cameron gazed at her, not rushing to her side like he once would have. As he took in her appearance, he noted her sallowplexion and t features, untouched even by makeup. She wasn''t exactly a beauty queen. Inparison to Nellie''s glowing skin and fierce resilience, Greta seemed as in as a toad.


    A mix of emotions churned inside him. He wondered how he ever got swept up in affection for someone he now viewed as unattractive and deceitful. Still, he wasn''t ready to jump to conclusions without solid proof against Greta.


    Keeping his cool, Cameron stepped forward and said, "I''ve been swamped thesest few days. Sorry for making you worry." His words seemed to ease Greta''s anxiety as she copsed into his arms, sobbing, "Cameron, I thought you''d left me." Cameron hesitated briefly before gently patting her head. "Of course not. Let''s head home."


    Back at their ce, while Greta was napping, Cameron discreetly returned Timeless Cycle to its hidden spot in her jewelry box. He then set up a newly purchased security camera in a concealed corner of the living room. With everything in ce, he sank into the sofa, exhausted.


    When Greta woke up, she whispered, "Cameron, I''m thirsty." He didn''t respond. Greta, now makeup-free, stood before him, pouting. "Cameron, why won''t you answer me?"


    Cameron finally looked up, seemingly lost in his thoughts. "Greta, I''ve got to go on a business trip for a few days."


    Her face fell, a mix of shock and reluctance. "Cameron, I want to go with you. I''m scared of being alone," she pleaded.


    For once, Cameron didn''t give in. "Greta, you know my job is just taking off. Working for the Rond family means I can''t just do as I please."Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Hearing his firm refusal, Greta had


    no choice but to relent. But as Cameron left, she spotted a pink stuffed toy strapped to his suitcase. Her heart sank with suspicion. A guy like him, heading out with a plush toy was definitely not normal.


    Greta couldn''t shake the feeling that Cameron''s trip wasn''t just business. She feared he might be cheating. She let him go without a fuss, but doubt had taken root, and she doubt had


    wasn''t about to let it slide. She''s determined to find out who the other woman might be.


    Her thoughts immediately went to Nathalie. So, after Cameron left, Greta made a beeline for Nathalie''s ce. But when she got there, the dook was shut tight, and Nathalie was nowhere in sight.

 Chapter 369

    Nathalie left a note on the door. [Out for a couple of days. Don''t worry about me.]


    Greta, always quick to jump to conclusions, immediately linked Cameron''s business trip with Nathalie''s little getaway. She was convinced that Cameron was cheating on her and Nathalie was the other woman. In a fury, she marched up to Nathalie''s door, kicking it repeatedly and shouting, "You homewrecker!"


    After letting off some steam, Greta turned to leave, only to bump into Nathan, who was looking for Nathalie.


    Nathan red at Greta, his eyes cold enough to send shivers down her spine. "Who said you coulde looking for Nathalie?"


    Greta, ever the drama queen, took a step forward, stirring the pot. "If I hadn''t shown up, how else would I have caught Nathalie trying to steal my man?"


    Nathan frowned, calling her out. "Stop making stuff up, Greta. Don''t drag everyone down to your level."


    Greta, desperate to prove her point, cobbled together her supposed evidence. "I''m not making this up. Cameron left for his trip today, and I saw a pink teddy bear in his suitcase. Nathalie has the same one. It''s their love token."


    She tore the note off the door and shoved it into Nathan''s hand. "Look at this! Cameron''s gone for two days, and so is your precious Nathalie. Coincidence? I think not. They''re obviously off together. Nathan, open your eyes." Nathan studied the note, his gaze lingering on a little sketched N in the corner, and he couldn''t help but smile.


    So, Nathalie knew he didn''t like it when she left without a word. At least this time, she left him a note.


    Finally, she was treating him like family.


    Nathan tucked the note away,Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    looked at Greta, whose jealousy was practically oozing out of her, and


    chuckled "Even if Nathalie and Cameron are rekindling something, isn''t that normal? They were married once, and you''re just giving back what you took. Why are you so mad?"


    Greta was so angry she could hardly breathe.


    "The way you brush Nathalie off makes it obvious you don''t love her. Was your whole rtionship just an


    act? knew Nathalie couldn


    someone like you."


    Nathan felt a pang of sadness. "You''re wrong. I''m the one not good enough for her."


    With that, he walked away, not wanting to waste another second arguing.


    But as he turned, his facade cracked. Greta''s words about Nathalie and Cameron having matching pink teddy bears as their love token hit him hard. He felt adrift, his steps uncertain.


    He was sure Nathalie wouldn''t run back to Cameron, but he wasn''t sure if she could ever truly let him go.


    No matter how hard he tried, he


    couldn''t pull Nathalie out of the shadows of her past with Cameron A therapist told Nathan that


    ??


    Nathalie''s deep-seated hatred was as strong as the love she once felt for Cameron that was buried deep Within her.


    Nathan wasn''t confident that he could pull Nathalie away from Cameron''s world.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 370

    In the eastern outskirts, there was a mountain that towered nearly four thousand meters high. In the thick of summer, the base of the mountain simmered in the heat while the summit remained cool and refreshing. Nathalie trudged along the mountain path with her trusty backpack. Whenever exhaustion hit, she paused to take in the view from above.


    She gazed at the winding road, snaking tightly around the steep mountain like a dragon gripping its prey. The path was not only steep but dangerously narrow. Driving on this road was a risky endeavor.


    Out of nowhere, memories of Nathalie''s past life flooded her mind-she remembered carrying her daughter''s body along a snow-covered road at the mountain''s base. Those were her darkest days, a peak of helplessness spanning both lives. Thankfully, Nathan had appeared like a guardian angel, lifting her exhausted form from the ground.


    Back then, she waspletely drained, overwhelmed not just by her daughter''s death but by her own physical weakness. As shey in Nathan''s car, she felt every bump in the road, but she remained oblivious to the incredible effort it took for Nathan to navigate this treacherous path with her and her daughter.


    Nathalie''s gratitude for Nathan was immeasurable. How could the world see such a gentle and kind man as a formidable tyrant?


    After a brief rest, Nathalie got back on her feet and continued her climb to the summit. When she finally reached her destination, tears welled up in her eyes.


    Due to the shifts in time and space, the spot where she hadid her daughter to rest had no grave, but a beautiful sapling stood in its ce. Nathalie ced a plush doll under the tree, then sat down on the ground, chatting with Nina.


    "Nina, Mommy''s here to see you. How are you doing over there?" she murmured. "I miss you so much. Do you miss me?"


    Tears streamed down her face as she whispered, "If you''ve forgiven me, could you visit me in my dreams? Just to see me?"


    "I''ve always wanted to say I''m sorry.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    In my past life, I loved the wrong person, trusted him blindly, and never found the courage to leave, she confessed. "It''s my fault for leaving you in a den of wolves, for letting you get hurt."


    Behind a nearby tree, a startled face emerged. Cameron was floored. He couldn''t believe that the gravesite he had dreamt about actually existed.


    Even more surprising was the


    realization that in his past life, Nathalie, who always seemed distant and frequently talked about divorce, had loved him so deeply in secret. Was it her faith and love for him that held her back from leaving the Dawson family?


    Cameron''s emotions were a tangled mess. Greta had a hold on his heart first, but he also realized Nathalie wasn''t any lesspared to Greta. She was more beautiful and empathetic, and her selfless dedication to her family was inspiring. And Greta? Well, she seemed to be all about herself.


    Yet, he had hurt Nathalie so deeply.


    As Cameron debated approaching Nathalie and catching up, her phone rang suddenly. Nathalie answered, and an anxious voice came through. "Is this Nathalie?" "Yes, it''s me," Nathalie replied.


    "Oh, thank goodness! I''ve been trying to reach you could youe to the bar and pick up Nathan? He''s drunk and keeps calling for ''Nathalie,'' and no one can calm him down. I''m really@orried he might end up with bleeding stomach if he keeps drinking like this." The voice on the other end sounded echoey and broken up.

 Chapter 371

    Nathalie''s face tightened visibly. "Can you pass the phone to Nathan? I need to have a word with him alone."


    "Sure thing."


    After a brief silence, Nathan''s voice came through,ced with guilt as though he''d been caught red-handed. "Where are you, Nathalie?"


    Nathalie shot back, "Why have you been drinking? And how much have you drunk? Get home, now."


    Her voice carried a mix of authority and concern, trembling just a bit.


    No one knew the deep regret Nathalie felt for failing to protect her daughter in a past life. In this life, Nathalie embraced Nathan as family and was fiercely determined to shield him from harm.


    Like a hurt puppy, Nathan whined and said, "Nathalie, you haven''t answered my question."


    Nathalie stayed silent. The long pause made Nathan really uneasy.


    "I''m at East Woods," Nathalie finally admitted.


    Now, it was Nathan''s turn to go quiet for a while.


    "Nathalie, don''t worry about me, uh-" he started, only to be interrupted by the unmistakable sound of vomiting.


    Nathalie went pale. "How much did you drink? What on earth are you doing? You better not be lying to me. Get home now."This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Nathan''s spirits lifted like a kid getting a treat. "Nathalie,e get me from the bar!" He was like a child pleading for candy.


    Nathalie hung up, a small smile forming as she looked at the sapling in front of her. "Nina, did you hear that? That was Nathan. You must really like him because he''s our savior. I didn''t protect you before, but this time, I promise to protect him." "Nina, I''ve got to go now. I''ll visit you another time."


    Nathalie hurried down the mountain before sunset without looking back. Had she turned, she would have seen Cameron standing there, panic etched on his face.


    Even Cameron didn''t quite understand why Nathalie''s concern for Nathan and the story behind it made him so anxious. It felt like a precious treasure he hadn''t valued was slipping away forever.


    As Nathalie waited at the bus stop to head back to town, she saw Cameron pull up in his fancy car.


    The window rolled down, and Cameron, feigning coincidence, asked, "Nathalie, need a ride?"


    "No, thanks," Nathalie replied firmly.


    Cameron added, "Buses are scarce at this hour. You might be waiting a while."


    After a moment of indecision, Nathalie gave in and got in the back seat.


    Cameron''s lips curled into a slight smile as he drove off.


    Silence filled the car. Cameron tried to break the ice. "You weren''t always this quiet."


    Nathalie snapped back, "I''ve got nothing to say to you."


    Cameron offered a bitter smile.


    Once, Nathalie was a bright and cheerful girl. But since meeting him, she''d grown more withdrawn. Cameron cautiously asked, "Nathalie, do you think we can make things better between us?"


    Nathalie looked at him without a word. "What do you think?"


    Cameron said, "Nathalie, we were married, after all..."


    The word married'' hit Nathalie like a


    sting. She wrapped her arms around


    herself visibly recoiling. were


    the most humiliating days of my life.

 Chapter 372

    Cameron felt a bit embarrassed and decided to steer the conversation elsewhere. "Where are you headed?" Nathalie didn''t beat around the bush. "If it''s not too much trouble, could you drop me off at the Sunlight Bar?" Cameron''s good-looking face fell slightly.


    It was clear Nathalie was worried about Nathan. As a fellow guy, Cameron knew all too well about Nathan''s little schemes-he was using the excuse of being drunk to cozy up to Nathalie.


    How


    hameless.


    Even though Cameron looked down on Nathan for it, he still drove Nathalie to the bar.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    The car had barelye to a stop when Nathalie flung the door open and rushed inside. She was clearly in a hurry.


    Cameron watched her dash off and couldn''t shake off a feeling of emptiness. There was a time when she had been just as concerned about him.


    Inside the bar, Nathan was really out of it, slumped over the table. Nathalie could smell the strong scent of alcohol wafting from him even before she got close.


    Nathan''s friends started ribbing her. "Nathalie, what took you so long? This dude''s downed a few more bottles, and we couldn''t hold him back. He was puking all over the ce a bit ago, and now he''s totally smashed. Now that you''re here, we''re leaving him to you and heading home."


    One friend couldn''t help but add, "We should be celebrating your arrival. It looks like Nathan''s going to be out a ton of cash tonight."


    Right on cue, Nathan slurred out, "Nobody''s leaving! We''re all drinking tonight, and no one''s going home sober."


    His voice was a thick slur, heavy with alcohol.


    Nathalie reached out, lifting Nathan''s chin. "Nathan, how''d you get this wasted? Do you even know who I am?" Nathan''s eyes were bleary and unfocused as they locked onto Nathalie. Suddenly, he seemed to sober up a bit.


    "Nathalie?" He cupped Nathalie''s face, trying to confirm.


    "You''re back?" He shot up to his feet.


    When Nathalie found out Nathan calling her here was part of some bet, she was not amused. "How much did you lose?" Nathan yed dumb. "Lose what? Nathalie, you know I don''t gamble. I keep my nose clean..."


    His friends all turned away, avoiding his gaze.


    When he realized his pals had sold him out, Nathan''s face turned beet red, and he hung his head, looking like a kid caught doing something naughty.


    One guy quickly exined, "Nathalie, Nathan said you were far away, and even if he got stered, you wouldn''te back for him tonight. So, we all bet that if you did show up, he''d owe each of us $100,000."


    Nathalie counted the heads and smacked her forehead. "I should''ve just stayed away."


    Nathan stood to lose nearly a million.


    He grinned sheepishly. "Nathalie, I''m just d you came to get me."


    Nathalie shot back, "Save it for when you''re sober. You really made a fool of yourself tonight. Big-time loss." The friends scattered.


    Supporting Nathan with one arm


    and gripping his jacket with the


    other, Nathalie helped him out of


    bar. They both wobbled a bit as they walked.


    Nathan, spotting Cameron''s car, plopped his head onto Nathalie''s shoulder. "Nathalie, I feel awful." "Just hang on."


    Nathalie walked up to Cameron. "Could you give us a lift home?"


    Cameron''s face turned icy. "Oh great, now I''m just a chauffeur?"

 Chapter 373

    Nathalie said, "I can pay you for the ride," and, boldly, she hopped into the car.


    Feeling utterly insulted, Cameron mmed the gas pedal, and the car took off like a rocket. Nathan was caught off guard and was flung forward but bounced back,nding right on Nathalie''sp. With his eyes shut tight, he groaned, "Nathalie, I''m feeling awful." Instead of pushing him away, Nathalie gently brushed his bangs from his forehead, her face brimming with affection. "Nathan, you''ve got to cut back on the drinking. It''s not good for you."


    Cameron sneered, "He''s grown enough to decide for himself. Does he really need you telling him what to do?"


    Nathalie shot back, "I care about him."


    Cameron challenged her, "You care about him? But does he even recognize that you do? Do you think he''s easy to handle? Let me tell you, appearances can be deceiving, and you can''t judge a book by its cover. With his McCoy and Rond family ties, he could surprise everyone. Nathalie, you think you can keep him in check?"


    A flicker of doubt crossed Nathalie''s eyes. Deep down, she knew Nathan was destined for great things. Rumors about his ambition and ruthless drive were all over the ce.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She realized her simple nature might not be enough to steer this powerhouse. But at that moment, she only wanted to protect and keep him safe while he was still just a young, innocent guy. She had to repay the help he''d given her and her daughter. Just moments ago, Nathan seemedpletely out of it, but Cameron''s divisivements snapped him back to life.


    "Nathalie, don''t listen to him. He''s just trying toe between us. Cameron, listen up. No matter what happens to me, I''d still want my Nathalie by my side, even if I end up as ashes."


    Nathalie wasn''t a fan of this talk. She was six years older than Nathan, and has only one kidney. She didn''t want to outlive him. She got so worked up that she started coughing. "Nathan Rond..." Using his full name was rare and only when she was upset. Nathan was on pins and needles, unsure of what he''d done wrong.


    Nathalie said, "You''re in charge of my ashes. You have to outlive me."


    Nathan was taken aback.


    Cameron felt a lump in his throat. Nathalie''s love for Nathan was straightforward yet deeply touching.


    Nathan said, "Nathalie, how about we leave this world together on the same day, same month, same year?"


    Nathalie snapped again, "That would


    mean you''d live fewer years than


    me. I don''t want that. Nathan, you''ve


    sw now!?


    got to live a long, healthy life


    Cameron, feeling awkward from their intense bond, wanted to jump out of the car. "Nathan, ou''re nning to die with another woman ?Ashley found out you were making such promises to another woman, don''t you think she''d toss you into the Pacific?"


    Nathalie countered, "Cameron, stop stirring up trouble. My rtionship with Mr. Nathan is pure. To me, h


    he''s


    just a kid. Just because your mind is a


    in the gutter doesn''t mean everyone else''s is."


    Cameron retorted, "Nathalie, can''t you see he''s not as innocent as he seems?"


    Nathan was at a loss for words.


    Nathalie wouldn''t let anyone badmouth Nathan. She angrily snapped back at Cameron, "I haven''t noticed." And she muttered under her breath, "Even if he''s notpletely innocent, he''s still better than you." Cameron was left speechless.

 Chapter 374

    Cameron wore a stern expression as he dropped Nathalie and Nathan back at their ce. Nathalie was living in a stylish single-family townhouse in the heart of the city, thanks to Nathan.


    Seeing the expensive vi, Cameron couldn''t help but feel a twinge of envy. He had once been the high-flying prince of the Capital, while Nathalie was just a stray he had taken in. He always believed she should remain less fortunate than him forever. But here was Nathalie, having wed her way to a better life through sheer hard work. Meanwhile, he had lost everything he once held dear.


    This role reversal and the widening gap between them left Cameron with a bitter taste in his mouth.


    Cameron attempted to salvage his pride and downyed Nathalie''s sess. "Is this the ce you''re renting? It''s in a great location but a bit on the small side, isn''t it?" Nathan shot back without missing a beat, "This is Nathalie''s ce, and she bought it with her own money. No matter the size, it''s better than mooching off someone else." Cameron was taken aback; he hadn''t imagined Nathalie could afford such a nice ce on her own.


    Having used Cameron for what she needed, Nathalie was ready to cut ties. She helped the tipsy Nathan inside and casually tossed a quick "Goodbye" over her shoulder. As Nathalie and Nathan leaned on each other and walked away, Cameron''s eyes darkened.


    Just then, Nathan turned back, shing Cameron a smug grin. He was a pro at rubbing salt in the wound.


    Inside, Nathalie settled Nathan on the couch. He gazed up at her with a puppy-dog look, scrutinizing her face. "Nathalie, why were you with him?"


    Nathalie brewed him a cup of lemon-ginger tea to help sober him up, then sat beside him, exining, "I just bumped into him on my way home." Nathan cautioned, "Nathalie, he''s bad news. Stay away from him."


    Nathalie muttered, "If I wasn''t worried about you and rushed home, I wouldn''t have gotten in his car."


    The worry lines on Nathan''s face eased. "Nathalie, just call me wherever you are, and I''lle get you."


    Nathalie replied, "You''ve been drinking. How can you drive?"


    Nathan lifted his hand. "Starting today, I''m quitting."


    Nathalie chuckled. "Good."Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    The air was light, but there were undercurrents beneath the surface. Nathan always felt a niggle of unease. Every time Nathalie spoke of Cameron, it was with a hint of anger.


    When would she be able to mention Cameron without a fuss? That would mean she had truly moved on.


    Meanwhile, Cameron returned


    home, feeling downcast. He parked his car switched off the and sat there, chain-smoking, without motivation to head inside.


    For the first time, life seemed directionless.


    He had spent his life fighting for Greta. He had gone against his


    world. And in the end, he lost


    family, his marriage, and the entire


    He had never asked himself if it was all worth it. But now, that question lingered in his mind.


    Was it worth it?


    Greta''s calls kepting, and he finally picked up on thest one.


    On the other end, she sobbed like a child. "Cameron, why won''t you answer my calls? Why aren''t youing home? Where have you been?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 375

    "I''m noting home tonight," Cameron blurted out, his heart sinking into a bottomless pit. He couldn''t believe he was feeling so distant and resistant towards the woman he''d cherished his whole life. How did ite to this? "Cameron, my stomach hurts so much. Can youe home right now?" Greta sobbed, sounding as helpless as a lost child.


    But now, even though he was worried about Greta''s health, he managed to keep his wits about him. He opened the surveince app on his phone, and as the screen came to life, he saw the scene in their living room. Greta was draped in a silk nightgown, lounging elegantly on the sofa. She was holding a wine ss, savoring what appeared to be some fancy juice.


    Cameron used to be terrified of her tears; whenever she cried, it felt like his world was crumbling.


    With her other hand, she was mindlessly scrolling through her phone, watching all sorts of trashy shows. Her nails were perfectly manicured, glimmering with a devilishly morous shine. There was no hint of her being in distress over stomach pain, no trace of genuine despair.


    However, when she spoke to Cameron, she put on quite the show, contorting her face in a grotesque disy of sorrow, as if every cell in her body was acting out her supposed misery. Still, not a single tear was shed.


    Cameron felt as if he was under a spell. His eyes were locked in ce. Suddenly, Nathalie''s frantic warning shed in his mind. "Cameron, are you blind? Can''t you see through Greta''s terrible acting and her lies? It''s a shame she''s not an actress."


    Cameron felt his body go limp. The


    truth hit him hard. He had to ept that the dreams from Timeless


    Cycle were real and events from his past life. Nathalie''s rebirth was real. Greta''s cruel scheming against Nathalie, leading to his daughter Nina''s death, was all real. And he, the enabler, had pushed a kind and strong Nathalie to the brink of suicide to protect Greta''s fragile ego.


    Cameron ended the call, burying his head in his hands, tears of regret pouring down. "Everyone was right to scold me. I was lovesick and unable to see right from wrong, caused my daughter''s death, drove my wife to despair... and even brought heartache to my own mother."


    "How could I have been so blind? I treated a wolf in sheep''s clothing as my beloved treasure. I''m truly the world''s biggest fool. Nathalie was right to call me out."


    "Nathalie has every reason to


    despise me. She trusted me, loved


    me deeply, protected my pride, and what did do? I sided with Greta, that toxic woman who caused the death of Nathalie''s most cherished daughter. It wouldn''t be too much if Nathalie wanted to stab me a few times..."


    "What''s so special about Greta? Is she really worth all this?"


    Cameron drove off into the night, turning away from everything he once knew.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Greta was stunned and stared at her phone, hearing nothing but the busy signal. This was the first time Cameron had ever hung up on her. Unfazed, she kept calling him back, but he never picked up again.

 Chapter 376

    Cameron parked his car along the riverside on Riverbank Road, then stepped out and leaned against the bridge, letting the cool breeze wash over him. He stood there, quietly reflecting on his years with Greta.


    The miraculous thing was, once Cameron''s love-tinted view of Greta shattered, he saw her in a whole new light. He realized his taste might not have been as sharp as he''d thought. Greta, after years of battling illness and medication, had be thin andcked the curves typically associated with femininity. Her constant use of medication left her with a paleplexion and a frail frame, stripping away the youthful beauty and allure, leaving only a pitiable sight.


    As Cameron looked inward, he understood that his love for Greta was more about a childhood bond that had grown deep within him and turned into an obsessive habit of doting on her. He held onto a promise he''d made when he was young. "I''ll love you forever, treat you well always, and never let go of your hand." But he forgot that everything changes with time.


    After receiving a kidney from Nathalie, the once innocent girl got a new lease on life, which only fueled her greed and desires. Without the strength to chase her ambitions, Greta drew from Cameron''s energy like a parasitic vine. She managed to grab honors and wealth that outweighed her abilities, while Cameron lost his rightful recognition, wealth, and even his family ties.


    Kristina had once called Greta a parasite, and back then, Cameron had been defensive. But as he stood by the river now, tears of regret fell as he whispered, "Mom, I''m sorry. I didn''t listen, and look where it got me."


    The emotional upheaval was like a storm that tossed Cameron from the heights of a wave to the ocean floor. It took him days to steady himself again. He returned to the grind to fight once more. But this time, not for Greta.


    He was out for revenge for his mother''s death. And to turn around the mess his life had be.


    Cameron set up shop in the Rond Corporation, yet used his standing as the eldest Dawson grandson to lure many of Dawson''s clients over. Despite his tarnished reputation, his undeniable talent and the backing of the formidable Rond Corporation allowed him to operate behind the scenes, minimizing the damage to his personal brand. His old clients were eager to work with him again.


    After Cameron snatched yet another


    project from Griffin, Griffin finally noticed something was off. He erupted in a meeting. "What''s going on here? Why is our performance this month so terrible? The worst we''ve ever seen!"


    His assistant filled him in, "Mr. Dawson, all our secured orders this month have been taken by your son."


    "My son? He''s thepany''s biggest beneficiary; why would he steal orders?"


    "Not your younger son, Mr. Dawson. It''s Mr. Cameron."


    Griffin''s eyes widened. "Cameron? What?"


    He never saw Cameron''sebacking. "How did he pull this off?"


    "Mr. Dawson, Mr. Cameron has


    §¿§­


    joined Rond Corporation as their Vice President of Marketing. He''s been working with Benjamin and has taken all our projects."


    Griffin turned pale as his assistant nervously added, "Mr. Dawson, if this keeps up, Dawson Internationat


    might soon be staring downo bankruptcy."


    After a long pause, Griffin sighed heavily. "Get Cameron on the phone. Tell him I want to meet."All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 377

    The assistant let out a relieved sigh.


    "Mr. Dawson, Mr. Cameron is a man who feels deeply. Sure, you two have had your differences, but if you take the first step and talk to him openly, he''ll forgive you and show some mercy toward Dawson International." The assistant picked up the phone and dialed Cameron''s number. It rang several times before someone picked up.


    "Hello." Cameron''s voice was deep and rich, with a chilling edge that made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.


    Griffin was momentarily thrown off. It''d been a while since he''d heard Cameron''s voice, and it was even moremanding and sharp than before.


    "Mr. Cameron, I''m calling on behalf of Dawson International... Our chairman would like to meet with you. When are you free?"


    "And who exactly is your chairman to demand my time? I''m busy." Cameron ended the call.


    Griffin''s expression darkened. He mmed his fist on the desk. "What''s with his arrogance? Dawson International doesn''t need him to hold our ground." Cameron was riding the second wave of his career sess. Under his leadership, the marketing department he managed had doubled its performance.


    The media couldn''t get enough of this business wunderkind. Interviews and posters of Cameron popped up everywhere.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    The Rond family wanted to ride this wave and decided to host a celebration g. As the star of the event, Cameron was reminded by Gavin, "Cameron, you''ll open the g with a dance. Make sure to choose your date wisely." Cameron had matured through life''s challenges, and didn''t rush the decision of picking a partner. He assured Gavin, "Mr. Gavin, don''t worry. I''ll choose my date carefully."


    When posters of the g rolled out on electronic billboards across the city, Greta called Cameron''s assistant to confirm the buzz.


    Witnessing Cameron''s rise made


    Greta burst with pride, almost to the point of vanity. As Mrs. Dawson, she loved being the center of attention and basked in the admiration of others.


    Without asking Cameron, she splurged on a custom evening gown, confident that, as always, Cameron would invite her to the g.


    Little did she know, Cameron''s first stop was Nathalie''s ce.


    When he knocked on Nathalie''s


    door, her eyes widened in surprise at


    the sight of him. The next moment,


    she tried to shut the door. Cameron wedged his hand in and slipped through like a fish.


    Nathalie shot him a cold stare. "What are you doing here?"


    Cameron handed her an invitation. "I''d like you to be my date."


    Nathalie blinked, thinking she must''ve heard wrong. Her face was a picture of disbelief. "Have you lost your mind?"


    Cameron, masking his true


    intentions, exined smoothly, "We''re looking to break into the luxury fashion market. You''re Jasmine''s prot¨¦g¨¦. If you attend as my date, it''ll signal to the world that our brand is aligning with Jasmine''s international prestige."


    Nathalie scoffed, "You want free publicity, huh? Cameron, is this how low you businessmen stoop? Where''s your dignity?"


    Cameron reassured her, "I promise it''ll be worth your while. I''ll pay you an appearance fee."

 Chapter 378

    "An appearance fee?" Nathalie scoffed. "You sure you can afford my rates?"


    Cameron leaned in, unfazed. "Name your price."


    Nathalie was caught off guard and blurted, "Two million."


    "Deal," Cameron replied without missing a beat.


    Nathalie was momentarily speechless. If she''d known he''d agree so quickly, she might''ve asked for more. Although Cameron was basking in the limelight, the Dawson family had cut ties with him, which had dented his fortune. Two million would surely sting. And honestly, Nathalie couldn''t wait to see Greta''s face when she learned Cameron was throwing cash around for her.


    With a smirk, Nathalie held out her hand. "No credit."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    Cameron chuckled, pulling out his phone to make the transfer. He sent two million, just like that, without even a twitch.


    Watching him move so smoothly, Nathalie felt a twinge of irritation. "You''re like a cat with nine lives, Cameron. I didn''t expect you to bounce back like this."


    Cameron, far from upset,ughed. "Did you really think you could drain my bank ount?"


    Nathalie shrugged, not bothering to hide her intentions. "Cameron, it''s only a matter of time before you lose everything-not just your money, but your spirit, too." Cameron red at her, his expression firm. "Nathalie, I''m not that easy to knock down."


    Nathalie snorted, turned on her heel, and mmed the door behind her.


    Cameron, still irked, called after her. "Don''t forget to look dazzling for the banquet."


    Nathalie huffed. "Yeah, yeah, I got it."


    Later, when Cameron made it home, feeling quite pleased with himself Greta was ready to unt her new dress. "Look at this, Cameron! Isn''t it gorgeous? I''ll wear it to your g."


    en


    Cameron raised an eyebrow. "My g?" He eyed Greta, smirking. "You''ve got a way of getting information, don''t you? The date was just set, and yet you already know." Greta shifted ufortably. "I called your assistant."


    Cameron sat down, his expression darkening. "Stop calling my assistant without a reason."


    Greta''s excitement fizzled like a cold shower. "But Cameron, I''m your wife. Didn''t you once say I have the right to meddle in your affairs?"


    Cameron paused. Had he really been


    so smitten before? "Greta, that was then. Now''s. different. I used to be the Dawson family heir and was free to do as I pleased. But now I''m just an employee, and I have constraints. You should understand that."


    Greta''s eyes widened, sensing a growing distance. Her voice trembled. "Cameron, I''m sorry. I promise I won''t do it again."


    Cameron nodded, his gaze serious. "I''ve invited someone else as my date for the g."


    Greta''s dress slipped from her


    hands, her face turning pale. "Cameron? Why can''t I go? I''m your wife. Being with you would show everyone what a family man you are"


    Cameron replied, "Mr. Gavin hinted he wanted me to bring someone more... suitable."


    With that, Cameron stood up. "I''m tired. I need a shower."


    Greta remained frozen, devastated by his words. "Am I not suitable?" she called after his retreating figure, her voice tinged with hurt.

 Chapter 379

    Cameron had already slipped into the bathroom. He heard Greta''s questioning loud and clear but chose to ignore it, turning on the shower to let the sound of water drown everything out.


    Greta, clutching her dress, returned to her room, feeling totally deted. She sat on the bed staring into space for a while but soon managed to pull herself together, reassuring herself, "Cameron''s just working for the Rond family now. You''ve got to cut him some ck. He doesn''t mean to be distant."


    Her phone suddenly lit up with a notification from an app, grabbing her attention. Nathalie had posted an update-something that rarely happened. Curious, Greta opened the app to find Nathalie unting a payment receipt for a whopping two million. Nathalie had captioned it: [Someone paid me an appearance fee for their g. Easiest money ever?]


    Greta''s eyes widened. "A g?" Could it be the same one Cameron was attending? Was Nathalie going to be there too? Being naturally perceptive, Greta connected the dots between Cameron and Nathalie''s simultaneous travels and attendance at the party. It was hard not to suspect that Nathalie was the one apanying Cameron.


    In a rush, Greta headed downstairs, where Cameron''s phoney on the sofa. She picked it up and checked his social media. The chat logs between Cameron and Nathalie were squeaky clean. Greta breathed a small sigh of relief. But then she opened his banking app- Cameron hadn''t changed his password-and quickly found a transaction for two million. The recipient was marked with an asterisk.


    Greta''s heart sank. She''d spent her life meddling in Nathalie''s marriage, never imagining her own would be on the rocks. So this is what being cheated on felt like.


    When Cameron emerged from the bathroom, Greta discreetly watched him. He looked preupied, his brow furrowed with worry. She swallowed the storm of emotions swirling inside her. She was ambitious enough to know that someone in her position-fragile and dependent like a clinging vinecked the confidence to break away from her provider.


    She didn''t dare confront Cameron. But that didn''t mean she could just let it slide.


    The g rotted around as nned. Nathalie showed up in a simple T-shirt and jeans. When she arrived at the Rond family''s clubhouse, Cameron had been waiting at the entrance for a while.


    Seeing her dressed so casually, Cameron felt a knot tighten in his chest. "Nathalie, is this really how you show up as my date?"


    Nathalie nced at him coolly. "You paid me two million to show up. Didn''t say anything about a wardrobe allowance."


    She''d dressed down on purpose, just


    to get under his skin. Back in the


    day, hadn''t he enjoyed watching.her dress like this and embarrass herself in front of high societydies?


    Ever the gentleman, Cameron offered his arm to Nathalie as they entered. But Nathalie ignored him, turning and strutting forward on her own. Cameron trailed behind her.


    Unbeknownst to them, a figureN?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    peeked out from behind a decorative


    panel at the clubhouse entrance,


    eyes filled with malice. They


    watched Nathalie''s every step until she was out of sight.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 380

    ensemble.


    The banquet hall was all decked out in its festive glory. Red carpet, red balloons, and red agate ents set the scene, with red wine sses, bottles, and even red evening gowns amplifying the vibe. But there was Nathalie, standing out boldly in her ck and white "Who shows up dressed like that at an event like this? It''s embarrassing," a nosy woman quickly chimed in.


    Cameron, with a smirk, remarked to Nathalie, "Why would youe wearing that? It''s not my reputation on the line. It''s yours."


    Nathalie, unfazed, shot back, "Cameron, I''ll show you that dignity isn''t about the clothes you wear. It''s about the grace you carry within."


    Leaving Cameron behind, Nathalie made her way toward the meddlesome woman. She remembered the nosy woman well-a notorious gossip who had belittled her countless times in a past life. Nathalie was set on reiming her honor this time around. Facing the woman head-on, Nathalie asked, "What exactly is embarrassing about me?"


    The woman, caught off guard by Nathalie''s boldness, pointed at her outfit. "Showing up in a T-shirt and jeans, and cheap ones at that. Don''t you think that''s humiliating?"


    Nathalie nced at the woman''s gown and jewelry. "I bought my clothes with my own money. They''refortable, so how is that embarrassing?"


    "And let''s look at you. Isn''t that designer gown rented? Is that ne a fake? For someone so vain, isn''t the real embarrassment pretending to be something you''re not?"


    The woman''s face flushed with a mix of spluttering red and green. "You... you... you''re just envious because you can''t afford a designer gown..."


    Nathalie coolly raised her hand, showing off a limited-edition sapphire ring. "Know anything about jewelry? This ring alone could buy ten of your dresses."


    The woman''s face turned crimson with shame.


    As Nathalie walked away, she tossed a final remark over her shoulder. "Don''t judge a book by its cover."


    The onlookers, who had initially sided with the gossip, now distanced themselves from her, wary of being associated.


    Cameron, observing Nathalie''s satisfied smirk,mented, "You were pretty harsh."


    Nathalie replied, "I don''t forget easily. She asked for it."


    Cameron''s expression darkened slightly, realizing their story was far from over. But he was sharp and knew when to steer clear of a showdown.


    He smoothly changed the subject. "Nathalie, join me. I''m meeting some clients."


    Nathalie agreed, "Alright," though her enthusiasm was clearlycking.


    Cameron led her to a group of young, sessful entrepreneurs exchanging pleasantries before saying, "Nathalie, these guys are big shots in fashion. Care to join them for a drink?"


    Nathalie hesitated, but the gentlemen politely offered her a


    ss. She reluctantly ept


    raising her ss... only for it to be swiftly emptied.


    Turning, she saw Nathan with a brooding look.


    Nathalie didn''t want to cause a scene, and simply grabbed another ss from the bar.


    Nathan, however, downed it quickly, remarking, "Not bad." He then grabbed Nathalie''s ss again and drained it.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Nathalie red at him, trying to silently convey her disapproval, but as she reached for yet another ss, Nathan''s hand was there first.

 Chapter 381

    Nathalie figured Nathan might swipe her drink again, so she switched to juice instead. This time, Nathan left her drink alone.


    It clicked for Nathalie this was his way of protesting her drinking. So, she just quietly sipped her juice.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Cameron observed their unspoken exchange, feeling an odd pang of jealousy. He couldn''t believe he was actually envious of Nathan. Nathalie, usually so prickly, seemed to soften around him. "Hey, let''s go check out the front," Cameron suggested, pulling Nathalie along and deliberately creating some distance between her and Nathan.


    Suddenly, Nathan reached for Nathalie''s hand. Cameron tugged on the other, and the pull was so intense that it hurt her a bit.


    Nathan''s hand was warm, enveloping hers with just the right amount of pressure, making her feel safe.


    "Ms. Nathalie, I''m a huge fan of yours. Your fashion designs are incredible. Could I, as your fan, have the honor of a danceter?" Nathan asked with a charming smile.


    Nathalie''s expression froze. Was the future prince charming her biggest fan? If that were true, she''d be over the moon.


    She was sure Nathan was just making excuses; he didn''t like her hanging around Cameron because he knew Cameron was trouble.


    Cameron yanked harder, causing Nathalie to stumble. Worried he might hurt her, Nathan quickly let go, helplessly watching as Cameron took her away.


    Nathalie, annoyed, pulled away from Nathan. "You hurt me," she snapped.


    Cameron nced back, meeting her fiery gaze. He suddenly realized he''d been so focused on winning her over that hepletely ignored her well-being. Feeling a bit guilty, he apologized, "I''m sorry."


    Nathalie, eyes fixed straight ahead, suddenly shed a wicked smile. She looped her arm through Cameron''s. "Save your apology for your wife, not me." In no time, Nathalie had led Cameron right to Greta.


    Greta''s eyes were red with anger as she red at Nathalie. "Nathalie, have you no shame flirting with your own brother-inw?"


    Nathalie grinned widely. "Oh, Nathalie, there''s a saying that what''s stolen will eventually have to be returned."


    That goes for Cameron and my kidneys, too. Ugh, forget it. Cameron was not worth it.


    Greta, furious, raised her hand to p Nathalie, but Cameron caught her wrist. "Greta, there are too many people watching. If you''re going to make a scene, at least know when to hold yourself back."


    Greta''s eyes trembled, her lips quivering. "You''re actually taking her side?"


    Cameron pulled Greta towards the exit.


    In a quiet corner, he let her go, seething with anger. "My career''s finally picking up. Do you want to drag my reputation through the mud and end up homeless together?"


    Tears streaming down her face, Greta pleaded, "Cameron, why did you pick Nathalie as your plus-one? You had so many other choices." Cameron''s expression was stern. "It had to be her. She''s a big deal in the fashion world."


    Greta was overmatched and had noeback.


    Yet, jealousy burned inside her, eating away at her confidence. She copsed into Cameron''s arms, begging, "Cameron, can''t you see? You''ve been so distanttely I''m terrified of losing you."

 Chapter 382

    Cameron''s eyes turned cold as he asked, without a hint of emotion, "If you''re feeling insecure, I can quit my job. Just know that we''ll have to tighten our belts a bit. How does that sound?" Greta''s over-the-top sobbing came to an abrupt halt. If Cameron quit, she''d lose out on the hefty allowance, meaning no more designer bags or pricey imported meds.


    She quickly switched gears, ying the supportive wife. "Cameron, I can''t be selfish and hold you back from your career."


    Cameron waspletely worn out, "Why don''t you head home? I''ve got to get back for the g."


    Greta left but was clearly reluctant to do so. She took a few steps, silently wishing Cameron would call her back. But when she finally turned around, he was already striding away. Her heart sank once more.


    With tears in her eyes, she murmured, "Cameron, please don''t let me down."


    Feeling lost and uneasy, Greta returned home, desperate to know what the future held for her and Cameron.


    She pulled out Timeless Cycle, nervously running her fingers over its surface. Thest time she used it, she dreamt of her own wickedness. She worried whether Cameron would uncover her true nature and, if he did, whether he''d forgive her. Would their story end in separation?


    With these worries, Greta drifted off to sleep.


    In her dream, her maliciousness escted. To get rid of Nathalie and her daughter, she pretended to be ill and even pressured Nathalie to have Nina donate blood.


    She bribed a nurse, who used a dirty needle to draw Nina''s blood. Nina, already in poor health, sumbed to the resulting infection.


    Nathalie was devastated. She lost her will to live and eventually took her own life to be with her daughter.


    Yet, in front of Cameron, Greta shed crocodile tears, feigning sympathy, and he bought it.


    She ended up marrying Cameron, just as she nned.


    The dream abruptly ended. Timeless Cycle slipped from her hands and shattered on the floor.


    Greta hurriedly picked up the pieces, her panic short-lived. She had done so many horrible things in her past life and Cameron still forgave her. She hardened her resolve,


    She was convinced that Cameron was head over heels for her, so no matter her faults, he''d always have her baek. With that belief, she was sure Cameron could never cheat on


    her


    She trusted that fate was on her side.


    That evening, Cameron came home looking in good spirits. The gloom that had been hanging over him seemed to have lifted.


    Greta let her inner diva take over, pouted and teased, "So you do remember where home is."


    Cameron''s face, initially bright at her sight, darkened again.


    Greta waited for his reassurance, and if it wasn''t sincere enough, she had no ns to forgive him easily But Cameron just plopped down on the sofa, crossed his legs, andR¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    started scrolling through his phone.


    Greta''s cheeks burned with embarrassment. He was ignoring herpletely. If he wasn''t going to make a move, she''d have to.


    "Cameron, the hospital called today. Dad''s not doing well. They suggested a new antibiotic, but it''s $10,000 a dose. What do you think? Should we go for it?"

 Chapter 383

    Cameron set his phone down, locking eyes with Greta. "Greta, he''s your dad, and I can''t just make decisions for you without thinking it through."


    Greta clung to his hand, a hint of a pout on her lips. "But Cameron, you know our finances are tight. I''m worried that spending money on my dad will upset you." Cameron lowered his gaze, his voice soft and weary. "Greta, it''s your money. Whatever you choose to do with it, I won''t stand in your way."


    Greta''s eyes widened in surprise. "Cameron, you''re actually letting me use my own money?"


    Cameron squeezed her hand gently. "I''m sorry, things have been a bit tight for metely. I can''t help out this time."


    Greta was incredulous. "How''s that possible? Didn''t you pay two million for Nathalie''s appearance at the celebration?" Cameron rified, "Oh, that was covered by thepany."


    Greta was skeptical. "Cameron, you''re a top executive at Rond Corporation now. Your sry can''t be that low, can it?"


    Cameron walked over to the side table, grabbed his sry contract, and handed it to Greta. "Here''s the contract I signed with Rond Corporation."


    Greta eagerly flipped through it, only to find that Cameron was set to receive just one dor for his first year, with bonuses dependent on his performance.


    The disappointment was clear in her eyes. She had hoped she''d married into wealth, only to find Cameron was nearly broke. She muttered, "Cameron, what are we going to do? I spent all my money on a dress a few days ago. We''re t broke now." Greta often left her problems to Cameron, knowing he couldn''t bear to see her struggle, and would eventually step in to help. "Return the dress," Cameron suggested, his voice cutting through her despair.


    Greta was nearly overwhelmed by the thought. She''d finally bought a luxury item that would impress her friends, and now she had to return it. She would be mortified.


    "No way, Cameron," she said firmly.


    Cameron pressed on, "Do you have any other ideas for raising money?"


    Greta bit her lip, fighting back tears. "Cameron, you know I don''t have many reliable friends..."


    Cameron remained unfazed by her tears. "Your friends on social media are always showing off their designer bags and seem to have


    extra cash lying around, don''t they?"


    en


    Greta couldn''t hold back her tears. "Cameron, can''t you just help me out? I''m just a helpless girl..."


    Cameron sighed, feeling the weight of his own helplessness. "It''s not that I don''t want to help, but after I got together with you, my dad was so disappointed that he kicked me out of Dawson International. My value''s taken a nosedive, and my socalled friends now steer clear of me."


    Greta''s tears flowed even more freely. "Cameron, do you regret marrying me?"


    Cameron''s heart twinged. Regret? Marrying her had once been his dream. But now, that dream seemed more like a nightmare.


    His voice was rough with emotion. "Greta, you need to understand. Things aren''t like they used to be. I can''t shield you from everything anymore." Greta cried softly, feeling lost and alone.


    The couple sat in silence, words failing them both. Finally, Cameron sighed heavily, "Being broke puts a strain on any marriage."


    Greta''s sobs echoed his sentiment, full of heartbreak.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.

 Chapter 384

    The next day, Greta slipped into the stunning gown and spent a good while in front of her vanity, lost in thought. She snapped a few gorgeous selfies and posted them on social media before reluctantly taking off the dress and leaving the house with it draped over her arm. She headed to the boutique where she''d bought the dress and politely exined, "I won''t be needing this dress. I''d like to return it."


    The clerk gave her a once-over with a hint of disdain. "This is a custom-made gown. Once it''s out the door, we don''t do returns or exchanges."


    Greta''s frustration was evident. "I haven''t even worn it. If you insist on not taking it back, I''ll have to take legal action for breaching consumer fair trade rights."


    The clerk''s confidence visibly wavered.


    Just then, Nathalie walked in from the street, and Greta''s demeanor shifted to one of ufortable surprise.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    How could she just stroll into a high-end boutique like this?


    The clerk''s attitude changed entirely upon spotting Nathalie, greeting her warmly with a slight bow. "Ms. Nathalie, wee!"


    Greta''s face turned beet red, and the dress in her arms felt like it was burning her.


    Nathalie nced at Greta andzily asked, "What''s going on here?"


    The clerk, sounding a bit put-out, exined, "This customer bought one of our gowns and now wants to return it. But it''s worth two million-who can say she didn''t wear it after she bought it?"


    With an air of entitlement, Greta approached Nathalie, holding up the dress. "Since you''re in charge, you should process this return."


    Nathalie crossed her arms, replying tly, "No returns."


    Greta was seething. "Nathalie, I''m trying to be civil here, alright? You know I bought this dress for my husband''s g, but he ended up taking you as his date. I couldn''t even attend. Now, I have no use for this dress, and I want to return it. Is that so unreasonable?"


    Her raised voice drew the attention of bystanders.


    Trying to smear Nathalie''s reputation, Greta resorted to making bold usations, "Nathalie, you''re deliberately making things hard for me. Why''re you weighing my heart down with all this hassle!" The crowd began to murmur, theirments mostly unfavorable towards Nathalie.


    Nathalie countered smoothly, "Greta, you''re acting like a total drama queen right now."


    ???


    She pulled out her phone, brought up Greta''s social media, and showed the crowd the photos Greta had posted that morning in the dress "You''ve already worn it and snapped several photos in it. You pretty much drained its value. And now you want a return? Who do you think you are?"


    Greta''s cheeks flushed. "I..."


    Nathalie turned to the onlookers with a calm smile. "Sorry for this spectacle. Just to set the record


    straight, m not the other woman et


    Actually, thisdy is my sister, and her husband was once legally married to me. Now you know who the real homewrecker is, right?"


    The crowd''s opinion shifted immediately.


    Greta, both livid and humiliated, swung her hand towards Nathalie. "Nathalie, you''re spouting nonsense. Cameron has always been my boyfriend..."


    Nathalie refused to back down. She grabbed Greta''s wrist firmly. "If he''s your boyfriend, why did you stand by and let him flirt with me? You even watched him marry me." Greta''s expression faltered.


    Nathalie continued, her voice filled with anger. "Because you were profiting from it. You two were a pair of schemers and conned me out of my inheritance... then divorced me so you two could get back together..."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 385

    The crowd was left in stunned silence.


    "What a nasty woman."


    "What kind of upbringing creates someone like that?"


    Greta ran off, her heart pounding with a mix of shame, humiliation, helplessness, and despair.


    Once she got home, she copsed into Cameron''s arms, sobbing uncontrobly. "Cameron, Nathalie was so cruel. She went out of her way to humiliate me in front of everyone..."


    Cameron felt a sting of pain seeing Greta in such distress. She was the woman he had cherished all his life-how could he stand by and watch her be bullied?


    However, the surveince footage showing Greta''s erratic behavior made him uneasy. This time, he wasn''t going to rush to her defense without question. He asked calmly, "Why did she give you such a hard time?"


    Greta cried, "It''s all because you wanted me to return the dress. And guess what? Nathalie owns the boutique. She waspletely unreasonable, saying once a dress leaves the store, it can''t be returned or exchanged..." Cameron frowned, "That''s really unfair. It vites consumer rights."


    "I argued with her, but she just insulted me, calling us con artists who were trying to scam her... People were staring, and I couldn''t handle it."


    Greta looked up, eyes brimming with tears. "Cameron, you have to stand up for me."


    Cameron paused. In the past, he''d always taken Greta''s side. This time, he decided to hear Nathalie out.


    He took the dress and said, "Alright, I''ll go talk to her."


    As Nathalie was about to close her shop that afternoon, an unexpected visitor showed up. She saw Cameron with the dress box, and her face fell immediately.


    "Oh, Cameron. Are you here to defend yourdy?" Recalling how she had shamed Greta earlier, Nathalie braced for a showdown.


    How could Cameron let his beloved


    be mistreated? He firmly said, "Greta was just trying to raise some money for your dad''s medical care. Plus she didn''t even wear the dress Why won''t you let her return it? Are you detiberately making this difficult for her?"


    Nathalie crossed her arms, eyeing Cameron with a mocking smile. "What, is your family so strapped for cash that you can''t afford the simple luxuries? It''s just a dress worth a million. Keep it as a collectible. Why do you bother returning it?


    Cameron insisted, "Returning goods is a consumer right."


    Nathalie retorted, "If it were anyone else, I might have epted the return. But for her? No way."


    Cameron frowned. Nathalie''s stubbornness made him question if he was in the right ce. Did Greta have a valid point after all? "Nathalie, the dress is still in perfect condition. It hasn''t incurred any depreciation to affect resale. You should let her return it." Nathalie shot back, "You know returns shouldn''t impact resale value."


    She pulled out her phone, opened


    Greta''s social media, and handed it


    to Cameron: "Our dresses are


    ???.]


    mostly for one-time use and are collectibles. Look at your wife. She''sN?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    already unted it. Why should I take


    it back?"


    Cameron''s face turned pale, then flushed with embarrassment. He noticed the timestamp on Greta''s photos-it was from that morning. So, she knew she nned to return it, but wore the dress and took pictures anyway?

 Chapter 386

    Upon learning the truth, Cameron felt like his heart was weighed down with lead. What was once a heart full of trust and love now felt overstuffed and ready to burst. It couldn''t bear the weight of betrayal and the copse of love, shattering into pieces.


    His face was pale, and he seemed unsteady on his feet.


    He finally realized that his rtionship with Greta was nothing but a tapestry of lies.


    It was ridiculous.


    Greta was a master of deception, and he was just the puppet in her show. She had used him to cut down those he cared about most. And he, foolishly, yed the role of her devoted fool.


    He thought, ''You really are a fool.''


    With a shaky resolve, Cameron walked away.


    Nathalie raised an eyebrow. "Just gonna walk away like that?" It didn''t seem like Cameron''s usual style.


    Things changed in the Capital once again.


    With Cameron''s help, Benjamin''s career took off. The pair of childhood friends were unstoppable. One provided the funds, and the other the elbow grease. Saying they were invincible wouldn''t be far off the mark. Soon enough, Benjamin''s sess surpassed Nathan''s.


    On that day, Mason called his grandsons together and, with Gavin as a witness, handed over his shares to Benjamin. In front of awyer, Mason also made a will naming Benjamin as his heir.


    Benjamin couldn''t contain his joy. His rivalry with Nathan was finally over. He hade out on top.


    This seemed like a fairpetition, and Nathan should have taken his loss gracefully. But Benjamin wasn''t content with just winning.


    As they left their grandpa''s study, Benjamin made sure to walk alongside Nathan. He couldn''t resist boasting, "Nathan, now I''m the real head of the Rond family. Do you still think you belong here?


    Nathan''s face turned dark, his hands stuffed coolly into his pockets. His eyes were a mix of frost and disdain. "Benjamin, it''s not over until it''s over."


    Benjaminughed loudly. "People say you''re as cunning as theye, but honestly, I don''t see it. Did you really think Grandpa loved you that much? Does he care for you?" Nathan paused, his expression serious as he looked at Benjamin. He had no real ties to this family and wouldn''t have returned if it weren''t for his feelings toward his grandfather. "What are you getting at?"


    Benjamin''s smirk was infuriating; he had the nerve to pat Nathan''s cheek mockingly. "You fool, Grandpa only brought you back because he got spooked by some rumors. This fortune teller imed you were a once-in-a-lifetime business genius destined to shine as the brightest star in the Capital. Grandpa feared that you''d turn against the Rond family once you made it big, so he grudgingly kept you close. Now that you''ve lost it to me, it''s clear that the fortune teller was full of it. Grandpa doesn''t have to pretend anymore."


    Nathan drifted into thought. "So that''s why."


    That was why his grandfather only took an interest in him once he was grown and ignored him during his difficult early years.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Benjamin was too busy enjoying his


    own words. "Here''s the truth,


    Nathan. Grandpa and Dad have always wanted me as the Rond heir. The fortune teller said you were ruthless and decisive, and Grandpa


    as scared that if I coulda


    measure up, you''d take over and leave me with nothing. So, he yed along with this whole grandfather-grandson charade."


    He leaned in to whisper in Nathan''s ear with wicked glee, "Grandpa kept you close just to know you better and make sure he''d win every time."

 Chapter 387

    Nathan turned around, his eyes dark and mysterious as he nced toward the study. "Benjamin, why should I trust anything you say?"


    With a smug grin, Benjamin replied, "Grandpa''s got this book of business secrets tucked away in his safe. It''s got all the key info about the Rond family''s enterprises. I swing by Grandpa''s study every week for ''lessons.'' The truth is, he''s been grooming me for the business world. Tell me, Nathan, has Grandpa ever mentioned that book to you?" Nathan nodded silently. "Thanks for letting me know," he said quietly. But then he muttered under his breath, "Idiot."


    Back in his room, Nathan slumped onto the couch, feeling utterly drained. Deep down, he''d always known that things with the Rond family would end up like this. But he''d been fooling himself, trying to hang onto the fantasy of family love. He craved it so much. He packed his bags, and as he was about to leave, it hit him how few things he really had. It was like he knew all along he was just a guest.


    As he dragged his suitcase to the door, he bumped into Gavin.


    "Nathan, I hope you don''t hold this against us," Gavin said, pretending to be sincere.


    Nathan stared straight at him, his eyes unreadable. He didn''t say a word, but his presence wasmanding. Gavin felt a twinge of fear.


    "There''s only room for one top dog. Benjamin has the prime investors backing him. He is now the headline act in the Capital. You sticking around would just be a thorn in his side, and soon you''d be at each other''s throats."


    Nathan let out a softugh. "Ha." His chuckle dripped with sarcasm. "He''s a fool. Why are you so sure he would beat me?"Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Gavin was left fuming. "Nathan, don''t say I didn''t warn you. If you want to stay alive, steer clear of your brother. In business, it''s money over feelings."


    Nathan didn''t bother to reply; he just pulled his suitcase and walked away. With a casual wave, he said over his shoulder, "Tell the old man he''s backed the wrong horse."


    As he stepped out, the sky


    unleashed a torrential downpour. By the time Nathan reached Nathalie''s doorstep, he was soaked to the bone. He knocked, but there was no answer, and his hand dropped in defeat.


    He huddled under the eaves, wrapped in loneliness, staring nkly at the rain cascading from the roof. Memories, long buried, flooded his mind. He recalled


    another rainy day like this.


    He was about three when his stepmom took him shopping, only to vanish and leave him stranded in the bustling street.


    Even at that young age, he was sharp enough to remember the day. He waited, but she never came back. Instead, a woman-an abductor-took him.


    He cried and fought her, but she snarled, "Quit it. Your mom sold you to me. Crying won''t bring her back."


    People noticed his cries and suspected the abductor. But she convinced them by showing her ID and pretending to be his stepmom. So they walked away.


    Nathan was locked in a dark room


    by his captor. He was lucky, in a way, being so young and of little value to traffickers. They grudgingly fed him for three years, turning a chubby, cute kid into a skinny little beggar.

 Chapter 388

    When he turned six, his so-called birthday gift was being sent out to beg on the streets. He felt like a caged monkey on disy, tossed into the chaos for tips. Now that he was older and wiser, just thinking back to that day filled him with a deep sense of humiliation-as if it was a fate worse than death. But luck was on his side that day.


    Amidst the bustling crowd, a girl appeared. She was slender and tall, with two neat braids. Her clothes were worn, but she carried herself with a cleanliness and tidiness that was hard to miss. Her delicate face was graced by eyes that sparkled as bright as diamonds, and a sweet smile yed on her slightly chubby cheeks.


    The moment he saw her, his world lit up.


    He''d never seen anyone so captivating before. She was like a brilliant moon piercing through the darkness of his life, illuminating his shadowed path.


    And what she did next was something he''d carry with him forever. Whenever he found himself backed into a corner, he''d think of her courage that day, and it fueled him with boundless bravery to rise above adversity. She boldly wrapped him in a hug, dering to the passing crowd that he was her little brother.


    In her arms, he felt a kind of safety he''d never known. Sure, the traffickers would hold him, too, trying to hush his cries with false kindness. But their arms left him shivering with anxiety and fear. Her embrace, however, was a sanctuary of calm.


    She was a sharp and fearless girl, and with just a few words, she silenced the traffickers lurking among the onlookers. To challenge her, they sneered, "If you''re his sister, then what''s his name?" "Easy," she said, looking him straight in the eye. "Nathan."


    Without missing a beat, he nodded. "She''s my sister..."


    Even though they''d just met, they were perfectly in sync. Everyone around them bought the story, convinced they were siblings. She walked off with him, head held high.


    But she''d made enemies that day. The traffickers were out for revenge. They ambushed her on her way back from school, pped her, kicked her, and beat her. Fortunately, her quick thinking led her to signal her friends to call the cops.


    She came home battered but triumphantly told him, "I got back at them for you today. Those awful people have been arrested."


    He felt nothing but admiration and aching love for her. Here was a girl who could bloom even in adversity. She was truly courageous.


    However, the troubles he brought her were far from over.


    He stayed with her for a few months, which was the happiest time of his life. But happiness was fleeting, and eventually, her wicked mother found out.


    What followed were relentless scorn


    and insults from her mother. He


    feared she''d be unable to bear her mother''s pressure and eventually abandon him. He even dreaded it in his dreams.


    But once again, she proved him wrong, standing tall with her fragile shoulders to shield him.


    She taught him to read, write, and do math, which were his first lessons in life. While she shone light into his life, she herself was battered by storms.N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Her mother, unhappy with the scant


    earnings she brought home, upped


    vel


    the pressure for more money every day. She had to scavenge more bottles and sell more scraps to satisfy her greedy mother''s demands. Each day, she''d returnter than the day before, and her body was marked with new bruises.

 Chapter 389

    He always had a soft spot for her and held her close as she cried her heart out. But, like magic, she''d whip out some brand-new pencils and notebooks. "Nathan, I saved up to get these for you. Don''t waste them. Make sure theyst," she''d say with a wink. He was over the moon.


    But one night, he overheard her momying into her. "Who do you think you are, ying mom? Do you even know where that kides from? Let me tell you, any child abandoned by their parents didn''te from a picture-perfect family. One of his parents must be rotten to the core. Otherwise, why would they ditch their own kid? Your kindness is wasted on him. He''s bound to bite the hand that feeds him."


    His heart sank at the thought of Nathalie abandoning him. He knew his dad was the cold-hearted jerk her mom talked about, but he hated him and refused to be anything like him.


    He wasn''t his dad. Would Nathalie see that?


    Then, he heard Nathalie fire back at her mom. "Mom, I took on the responsibility when I brought him home. I don''t care what his parents were like; I''ll make sure he grows up to be a good person." With that, she mmed the door and stormed out.


    Her mom yelled after her, "Why are you raising him? Are you nning to make him your man when he grows up? You have twisted thoughts for a girl your age. Have you no shame?"


    Nathalie sobbed, catching her breath. "Mom, don''t you know me at all? I''ve always been decent. How can you say that?"


    He sat by the door, tears silently streaming down his face.


    When Nathalie came out and saw him, she paused. Then, she took his hand and whisked him away from that miserable house.


    "Nathalie, will you ever leave me?" he asked, tears in his eyes.


    To him, she was his only family, and he couldn''t bear the thought of losing her. But he also knew staying with her meant she''d face constant ridicule from her mom.


    Despite everything, she smiled at him, full of reassurance. "Nathan, don''t you worry. Ever since I brought you home, I never thought of letting you go."


    He choked out, "But being with you makes you unhappy every day..."


    Sheughed softly. "Who said that? Since you came, I''ve been happier than ever. Nathan, don''t be sad. Things will get better as we grow up."


    In that moment, he made his first wish: to grow up fast so he could protect Nathalie.


    He never imagined their time together would be cut so short. A human trafficker, dodging thew, tipped off his stepmom about his whereabouts, and soon, the Rond family tracked him down. N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    When Gavin and his stepmom appeared in front of him, she probably didn''t realize he


    remembered her abandoning him She put on a show, fake tears and all, and hugged him. "My son, my poor boy. I never thought I''d see you again..."


    Of course, she didn''t because she never expected him toe back.


    He wanted to show his dad what kind of person she really was. But then, Nathalie''s words echoed in his mind. "Nathan, never take people at face value. Be cautious, even with your own parents."


    So, he pretended not to know them.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 390

    After his stepmother''s dramatic scene, it was his dad''s turn to step up. "Oh son. I''m here to take you home."


    His eyes were a bit red, glistening with unshed tears. In his innocence, Nathan believed in the kindness of a father''s love.. Nathan nced back towards the slums, his eyes brimming with reluctance. He truly didn''t want to leave Nathalie behind. But thinking of all the hardships Nathalie had faced because of him, he finally swallowed his longing and let Gavin lead him home.


    In the days that followed, he found himself in a constant game of wits with his wicked stepmother and stepbrother. Yet, he was thankful to Nathalie, whose pure heart had taught him the tough lessons of survival. This helped him navigate the tricky dynamics of the Rond family.


    He kept a low profile, making his stepmother and stepbrother think he was harmless. Meanwhile, he used his Rond family connections to secretly search for his maternal grandparents. It was only after he reunited with them that the Rond family found out he was also the cherished grandson of the McCoy family. He cleverly used his maternal grandparents to keep the Rond family in check, stopping his father from stirring up more trouble.


    Through the years, he held onto Nathalie''s advice: when you''re not strong enough, learn to endure and hide your strengths.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Little did he know, ying the part of the underdog made the Rond family think hecked ambition. So, when Benjamin''s career was soaring, Gavin had no qualms about showing his true colors and kicking Nathan out of the Rond family. How ridiculous.


    Did they really think Nathan was someone they could push around? His inscrutable nature was his shield.


    Over the years, he used his mother''s inheritance and founded apany abroad that had already gone public. Its influence and strength dwarfed Rond Corporation several times over.


    He''d done it under a new name. "Morris."


    The rain kept pouring down.


    A luxury car pulled up at the door. The driver''s side door opened, and Cameron stepped out. He walked around the car, gentlemanly opening the door for Nathalie.


    Holding an umbre, Nathalie looked up to see Nathan huddled at the doorstep with his luggage beside him. Seeing Nathan in such a sorry state almost froze her in ce. In her memory, Nathan had never looked so down and out.


    "Nathalie, I don''t have a home anymore," Nathan said, looking pitiful.


    Nathalie felt a wave of indescribable sadness wash over her. She couldn''t stand to see Nathan treated so poorly.


    But before she could say a word, Cameron mocked Nathan. "Nathan, you''re finally getting what you deserve. This is payback for what you did to my mom."


    Nathan ignored Cameron, focusing his pitiful gaze on Nathalie. "Nathalie, can I stay with you for a few days?"


    Cameron chimed in, "Nathalie, you can''t let him stay. It''s not right for a guy and a woman to be living under the same roof."


    Nathalie shot Cameron a fierce re. "Mind your own business."


    Cameron upped the ante, "Nathalie, Benjamin''s cklisted him. If you hang out with him, Benjamin will cklist you too. Your career will be toast." Nathalie brushed off Cameron''s warnings, walked over to Nathan, and held out her hand. In a soft voice, she said, "Nathan, let''s get inside." A bright smile lit up Nathan''s face. He stood up, shooting Cameron a triumphant look. Cameron''s face fell.


    Nathalie pulled Nathan''s suitcase inside. As Nathan stepped into the house, Nathalie moved to close the door. But before she did, she had onest thing to say to Cameron. never give up on my family.


    108


    ????"


    Cameron, we''re different." And then, she mmed the door shut.

 Chapter 391

    Cameron froze in his tracks.


    Was Nathalie poking fun at him for ditching his first wife? Was she questioning his morals?


    He stumbled out, clearly flustered.


    Inside, Nathan, who rarely let his guard down, sat on the couch. His captivating eyes were locked on Nathalie, a shadow from his thickshes adding a mature edge to his devilishly good looks.


    "Nathalie, you''ve been getting pretty chummy with himtely," he said, his tone as smooth as a seasoned storyteller''s. He sounded devoid of any emotion, yet his inner turmoil was obvious. "Have you forgiven him?"


    Nathalie wandered over to the bar and whipped up two smoothies, handing one to Nathan. "Nathan, you''re still young. You wouldn''t get theplexities between me and Cameron."


    It was a never-ending saga, tangled and messy. She had to avenge her daughter.


    Nathan sipped the smoothie gracefully. It started off bitter, then turned sweet, leaving a rich aroma lingering in his mouth.


    He instantly got what Nathalie was trying to convey with the drink. Life''s full of ups and downs, but you''ve got to believe that there''s always a rainbow after the storm.


    He was genuinely touched. After Gavin booted him from the Rond family home, he got a crash course in life''s harsh realities in just a few short hours. The same rtives who were all over him before now wouldn''t even pick up his calls. They were scared of getting caught up in his mess.


    "This smoothie is amazing, Nathalie," he said, moved.


    Nathalie smiled warmly. "You''ve been out in the rain. You must be chilled to the bone. Have some hot tea and take a nice bath. No stormsts forever."


    Nathan naturally leaned his head on her shoulder. "Nathalie, you''re the best."


    She patted his hand reassuringly. "I believe in you. You''ll make aeback."


    Nathan paused, his Adam''s apple bobbing as he struggled with his words. After a moment, he finally spoke up Nathalie, Benjamin might


    try to wipe me outpletely. nning to head overseas


    noveProperty ? N?velDrama.Org.


    tomorrow toy low for a bit. Will


    youe with me?"


    "Please, Nathalie, stop getting caught up with Cameron. I won''t be at ease knowing you''re alone in the Capital." His voice was thick with emotion by the end of his statement.


    Nathalie squeezed his hand.


    Ket


    "Nathan, I''ll send you most of my savings. Even if you''re on the run, you won''t be struggling. I can''t leave with you. I have unfinished business here I''m sorry, Nathan, I can''t be there with you this time."


    Nathan clutched her hand, clearly upset. "Nathalie, am I not as important to you as Cameron?"


    "It''s different," Nathalie replied.


    Nathan was her savior, and her feelings for him were filled with reverence and admiration. But Cameron was her nemesis, and her feelings for him were intense, fueled by deep-seated hatred.


    "Nathan, you''re all grown up now. I


    have faith in you. With your smarts and cunning, no obstacle can hold you back Still worried about his


    youth, she added some mothe


    advice, "When you''re on your own, try picking up some cooking skills. Eating at home is healthier than takeout. And for everything else, just go with the flow."


    "Nathan, your happiness is what matters most."


    Nathan''s lips curled into a smile. Only Nathalie could be so selflessly kind to him, expecting nothing in return. Her heart always plotted for his well-being.

 Chapter 392

    That evening, Nathan and Nathalie chattedte into the night. To Nathalie, Nathan seemed like a bit of an innocent person, still trying to figure out the world. She worried about the pain he''d face if betrayed by loved ones and all the challenges he might encounter while on the run. She covered everything, from being cautious with friends to managing the basics of everyday life, leaving nothing out.


    Nathan, for his part, waspletely absorbed in her words. Realizing she''d been doing most of the talking, Nathalie gave a shy smile and said, "Nathan, I must sound like an olddy, rambling on like this." Nathan squeezed her hand and replied, "I love hearing you talk. Please, tell me more."


    In this world, Nathalie was the only one who cared enough to guide him like this. How could Nathan not appreciate such a rare moment?


    Many times, Nathan''s eyes flickered with a mix of emotions. It was as if he wanted to interrupt, but he couldn''t bring himself to do it.


    As dawn approached, the sky began to lighten. With his suitcase in tow, Nathan got ready to leave, and Nathalie insisted on seeing him off. For once, Nathan didn''t refuse her offer, letting her apany him.


    Nathalie drove him to the airport. During the ride, Nathan seemed lost in thought. He opened his mouth a few times as if to speak but always stopped short. When they arrived at the airport parking lot, Nathan lingered in the car.


    He looked at Nathalie and finally said, "Nat..."


    Nathalie was caught off guard. Nathan always called her "Nathalie" in private-what was with the sudden switch to a nickname?


    "Mind your manners," she teased, though her voice was soft, filled with affection.


    "What is it?" she asked.


    Nathan looked a bit awkward. "I left a journal in your drawer. Could you keep it safe for me?"


    Nathalie was surprised, "I didn''t know you kept a journal."


    A blush crept up Nathan''s ears as he confessed, "Yeah, it records my journey from when I was little up until now."


    "Can I read it?" she asked yfully.


    "If you want to, go ahead," he said.


    Nathalie smiled. "That''s your private stuff, I won''t peek."


    Nathan checked his watch. "It''s almost time for boarding, so I should get going."


    Nathalie walked with him into the airport as the announcement urging passengers to board echoed in the background.


    "Nathan, it''s time to go." A wave of reluctance washed over Nathalie, and her eyes suddenly misted up.


    She handed him his luggage. "Nathan, take care. I''ll be waiting for you toe back."


    Nathan seemed entranced, gazing at Nathalie. At that moment, his eyes were full of aplex, tangled emotion.


    As he was about to leave, Nathan feared the most that everything


    might change while he was gone. He couldn''t stand the thought of a future where Nathalie wasn''t close to him.


    With that thought, Nathan made a sudden decision: to carve out a future for them both.


    Lost in her own thoughts, Nathalie suddenly felt his tall figure lean down, blocking out the light in front of her. The next thing she knew, she was given a warm and firm kiss.


    en N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "Nathalie, wait for me toe back and marry you," Nathan''s voice was like a spell, almost echoing in her mind.


    Nathalie was stunned, eyes wide with shock. Nathan let go of her, turned, and walked away like aet streaking across the sky.


    She noticed his ears were as red as a ripe tomato. For someone so bold in action, he sure was shy about it.


    Once Nathan was out of sight,


    Nathalie slowly gathered her


    thoughts. She could hardly believe it.


    Nathan''s feelings for her were


    indeed more than just brotherly.

 Chapter 393

    She wondered if he had feelings for her. No, no, no...


    Nathalie shook her head, trying to bring herself back to reality. The kiss must have happened because Nathan had recently hit rock bottom, and she was the only one who stuck by him and believed in him. Her unwavering support probably sparked some fondness and dependence, leading him to make such a bold move.


    Nathalie sighed deeply as she realized Nathan was still just an emotional kid at heart.


    The airport kiss didn''t leave much of a mark on Nathalie. With Nathan gone, she felt this emptiness inside her. But soon enough, her resolve kicked in. She could freely go head-to-head with Cameron.


    When Nathalie got home, she found a bouquet of flowers waiting at her doorstep. She picked them up, reading the card nestled within. [Nathalie, wishing you happiness every day. Cameron.]


    Nathalie''s face twisted into an expression that was hard to describe.


    What was Cameron ying at? What''s with the sudden attempt to butter her up?


    Nathalie wasn''t naive enough to think Cameron actually had feelings for her or wanted to rekindle anything. So, after thinking it over, she figured it out. Cameron was now a puppet of the Rond family. They had driven Nathan away, and Benjamin was now swallowing up the fashion brand she and Nathan had poured their hearts into. Cameron''s sweet gestures were just a ploy to keep her working for Benjamin, right?


    Nathalie pondered this and decided there was no way she was just going to hand over apany she and Nathan had built from scratch. She''d y along with Benjamin for now and wait for Nathan toe back with a n to reim what was rightfully his. This inevitably meant she''d be caught up in a mess with Cameron and Benjamin.


    However, Nathalie wasn''t someone to be messed with. She was determined to make them pay a price.


    She snapped a picture of the flowers Cameron sent and posted it on social media, making sure to share it directly with Greta. After all this, she rxed into a nice, long soak in the bath.


    Meanwhile, over at the Dawson household, Greta saw Nathalie''s post and was fuming, feeling like her lungs were about to burst.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Struggling to breathe, she clutched her chest, ring and shouting, "Nathalie, how dare you mess around with your brother-inw?"


    Seething, she stormed downstairs, flinging her phone at Cameron, and screamed, "Cameron, what on earth are you doing? Why did you send flowers to Nathalie? Do you have thing for her? Are you trying to reignite old mes?"


    a


    Cameron raised an eyebrow, looking at her as though she''d lost her mind. "What''s wrong with sending her flowers?"


    Greta snapped, "You''re married! How can you send flowers to another woman?"


    Cameron put on an innocent face. "Back when I was married to Nathalie, didn''t I shower you with gifts? What did you say to Nathalie when she and I had our issues? You told her that a married man needed his social life and a wife should be


    understanding. Why do yould be


    switch


    sides now?"


    Greta was left speechless. She never thought she''d end up contradicting herself like this.


    Awkwardly sitting in front of Cameron, Greta said, "Cameron, are you serious.or just ying dumb? you send flowers to Nathalie and she gets the wrong idea, she''ll think you still have feelings for her, and if she starts to respond, what then?"


    Cameronughed at himself. "Rx. Nathalie''s not about to revisit old mistakes. In her eyes, I''m just trash she''d love to toss into the Pacific Ocean and never see again." Greta''s face turned sour. "Cameron, why put yourself down? She''s not even in your league."

 Chapter 394

    Cameron inched closer to Greta, his eyes lit with excitement. "Nathalie is an amazing designer. Can you help me figure out a gift that''ll really win her over? Something that''ll make her forgive and forget and stick around as Rond Corporation''s lead designer?" Greta''s face went white. "You want me to help you? To pick out a gift for Nathalie?" she asked incredulously.


    Cameron nodded.


    Greta broke down, sobbing. "Cameron, you must be dreaming. I''m not going to degrade myself by helping my own husband charm another woman."


    A smirk danced in Cameron''s hawkish eyes. "I don''t get where all this anger ising from. When Nathalie was my wife, she was far more understanding. She didn''t mind me giving you gifts or caring for you when you were sick... You''re way more petty than she ever was."


    Greta was so furious she almost choked. "That''s because she didn''t love you. She didn''t care what you did. But I love you."


    She ran off crying.


    Since she couldn''t find any sce with Cameron, Greta took her fight to Nathalie''s social media.


    Greta dered: [Nathalie, you shameless woman. You seduced my husband into buying you flowers.] She branded Nathalie as the other woman with a singlement.


    Friends in thements, unaware of the full picture, rushed to Greta''s side. [Oh wow, Greta. I can''t believe you''re going through this.]


    [I thought Mr. Dawson was all about you. Guess his loyalty was just a show.]


    [Men are only faithful when you hang them on a wall.]


    Greta didn''t expect her friends to turn against Cameron. Afraid of stirring up more trouble, she reluctantly deleted her post.


    Nathalie, watching the drama unfold, shook her head and sighed, "How dull! You backed down before I even got involved."


    Not one to back down, Nathalie posted under a picture on social media: [Too bad they aren''t red roses.]


    She aimed to tick Greta off, wanting her to taste the sting of betrayal.


    Cameron quickly replied to Nathalie: [I will get them for you.]


    Seeing their interaction, Greta was so enraged she nearly fainted.


    Greta ended up in the hospital. The doctor informed her, "You''ve beenThis is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    eline


    carrying around a lot of stress, which led to issues with your and an acute stress reaction, causing your symptoms. Thankfully, it''s nothing too serious. Adjusting your mindset should help


    Thinking back on her recent interactions with Cameron, she realized he had been distant, caught up in his career, even avoiding her


    despite her efforts to be close.


    en


    If it wasn''t for her dream from Timeless Cycle, showing her a happy ending with Cameron, she might have doubted their love.


    She still strongly believed Cameron


    would never betray her. However, his


    swnovel.n


    women, especially when career-driven, always hurt her.


    It truly hurt.


    The doctor added, "Mrs. Dawson, people dealing with depression often need to learn to let things go."


    Taking the doctor''s advice, Greta decided to forgive Cameron, but she couldn''t bring herself to forgive Nathalie.


    Cameron might not see the lines he crossed, but Nathalie knew better.


    The more Greta thought about it, the angrier she got. She needed a n to handle Nathalie.


    Eventually, she came up with one. If pretending to be sick helped her remove Nathalie and Nina in her past life, why not use the same trick this time around?


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 395

    So, Greta went all out on social media, sharing her medical report for everyone to see. A slight abnormality in her urine test was observed, with elevated white blood cells. But instead of worrying about these signs, Greta zeroed in on the doctor''s diagnosis: [The doctor


    says I have depression. How could I have gotten this if it weren''t for my awful sister?]


    Nathalie couldn''t stop going over Greta''s medical report. Her eyes were glued to the urine test results. Those slight abnormalities gave Nathalie a small thrill of satisfaction.


    In a previous life, Greta had gotten Nathalie''s healthy kidney and was pampered by Cameron. She was living it up without a care in the world and staying healthy as a horse. Meanwhile, Nathalie struggled through pregnancy and raised a sick child through long-term emotional neglect from her husband. Nathalie eventually ended up with kidney disease herself. This time around, Nathalie wanted to flip the script on their destinies.


    She confidentlymented under Greta''s post: [Nathalie, you''ve got to lighten up a bit. Cameron sent me flowers just to thank me for designing a hit product for hispany. There''s nothing more to it. Don''t be so quick to think the worst.]


    After Nathalie''sment stirred the pot, Cameron chimed in right away: [Greta, I''ve exined this to you. Why don''t you believe me? How long are you going to keep this up?]


    People eager to stay on Cameron''s good side quickly jumped on the bandwagon, criticizing Greta.


    [Mrs. Dawson, you''re out of line here. Mr. Dawson is out there working hard for the family. Instead of helping him, you''re just making things harder. You''re not exactly the supportive wife, are you?]


    [Exactly, men have it tough too. Mrs. Dawson, as a stay-at-home wife, you only see the spending part but forget that money doesn''t fall from the sky. Mr. Dawson is busting his chops to provide for the family. Cut him some ck, and don''t add to his stress.]


    ...


    Reading through thements,


    Greta felt like her heart was being shredded. She thought ying the victim card on social media would earn her sympathy. She hoped to stand on moral high ground and call out Nathalie for crossing lines,


    making her back off from Cameron.


    But her n blew up in her face. Not only did no one criticize Cameron and Nathalie, but they also turned the me on her for being unreasonable. Was she really the one in the wrong?


    After work that evening, Cameron finally reached out, showing some concern. "What happened? Why did you end up in the hospital?"


    Greta was the master at ying the sympathy card. She wasn''t about to waste this golden opportunity. With tears in her eyes, she said, "Cameron, I''ve always been delicate. It''s been this way for years, so don''t worry too much about me."


    Cameron yed along, "If it''s nothing major, I''lle see you once I''m done with work."


    Greta was taken aback. Her attempt at magnanimity had totally backfired. This wasn''t how she thought things would go; she expected Cameron to drop everything and rush to her side, just like he always did when she was unwell.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    This time, Greta''s tears were


    genuine. She was truly heartbroken.


    "Cameron, miss you so much. You know how vulnerable I get when Km sick. I really need my family around. Can youe see me, please?" Her humble plea tugged at Cameron''s heartstrings.


    "Alright," he agreed.

 Chapter 396

    Cameron ended the call and stared out into the night, the darkness a backdrop to his swirling thoughts. Why did hearing about Greta''s illness hurt so deeply? He knew she was deceitful, not deserving of his unwavering love, yet that love seemed etched into his very soul, an instinct he couldn''t shake.


    At the hospital, Nathalie was parked in her car, watching as Cameron pulled in. A sly grin spread across her face. She rested her perfectly manicured hand on the door handle, her nails glinting under the streetlights. With a graceful motion, she stepped out, her red cocktail dress a fiery testament to her boldness. Nathalie moved like a me dancing in the wind, heading toward the hospital entrance.


    "Nathalie," Cameron called out, catching her by surprise.


    She turned, a slow, knowing smile on her lips, like a hunter eyeing their prey. Cameron was momentarily stunned by her striking appearance. "I''ve never seen you wear something so... captivating," he remarked. Nathalie''s eyes shed with a sarcasm that cut deep. "Cameron, as your wife, I was so broke I could barely afford a decent meal. Dressing up was hardly a priority."


    Cameron''s face fell, and he mumbled an apology.


    Nathalie strode ahead, unfazed. "You have plenty to be sorry for."


    They rode the elevator in silence, only realizing their destination was the same when they reached Greta''s room. "You''re here to see Greta too?" Cameron asked, surprised.


    Nathalie shrugged casually. "She''s my sister, and she''s sick. I''m here to visit her. Got a problem with that?"


    Cameron eyed Nathalie''s elegant outfit, unable to suppress a chuckle. "You seem more interested in the drama than the patient."


    Ignoring hisment, Nathalie


    confidently pushed open the door to Greta''s room. Greta was leaning wearily against her pillows, looking frail and worn. But at the sight of Nathalie and Cameron, she perked up like someone who''d just discovered a hidden treasure.


    "Nathalie, what are you doing here?" Greta demanded, her voice edged with suspicion.


    Nathalie settled gracefully into a chair, her smile bright. "Greta, I''m here to see you, of course."


    Greta''s eyes flicked over Nathalie''s luxurious dress, a twinge of envy tightening her chest. "Dressed like that, anyone would think you''re here for a g and not a hospital visit," Greta retorted,cing her words with venom.


    Nathalie didn''t reply, instead casting a teasing nce at Cameron. He shifted awkwardly, feeling the heat of her gaze. Silence spoke louder than words, leaving Greta simmering with frustration. "Why did youe with her?" Greta''s jealousy red, her tone usatory.


    Cameron sighed, trying to exin. "We just ran into each other downstairs."


    Greta muttered, unconvinced. "What are the odds?"


    Nathalie''s smile widened, saying everything without a word. Of course, it wasn''t a mere coincidence. She''d nned it and waited patiently to cross paths with Cameron. Cameron was irritated by the suspicion, "I''ve told you. It was just a coincidence."Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Greta didn''t want to push Cameron away, and softened her stance. "Cameron, it''s not that I don''t trust you; it''s her I''m wary of. She probably staged this whole thing just to bump into you here."

 Chapter 397

    Cameron was taken aback for a moment, his gaze lingering thoughtfully on Nathalie. She was dressed to the nines today, and Greta''s suspicions weren''t totally off base.


    Nathalie, though, had picked up Greta''s ability to brew up a storm like a pro and defended herself with confidence. "Rx. I''m not the type to go back to old mes. Cameron? He''s just like a pair of worn-out shoes to me, but you treat him like a treasure. Honestly, I''d rather marry a beggar than go back to him. I''m not making the same mistake twice."


    Cameron''s handsome face darkened at her words. It felt like Nathalie was trampling on his pride.


    Still, he chose not to sh with Nathalie. He figured he owed her this much, so he let her vent and get it out of her system.


    But his silence only riled up Greta. She whined, "Cameron, she''s tearing you down like that, and you''re just going to take it?"


    Cameron shrugged. "A real man doesn''t get into it with a woman."


    Greta was left speechless.


    Nathalie''s eyes darted between Cameron and Greta, picking up on the tension simmering there more than ever.


    Greta was fuming inside, her expression anything but pleasant.


    Cameron switched gears. "Greta, I''m going to check with your doctor about your condition."


    Once Cameron left, the room''s atmosphere ignited like a match to gasoline. The showdown between the two women hit its boiling point.


    Greta''s face was icy, her eyes burning with resentment. "Nathalie, drop the innocent act. You might fool Cameron, but not me."


    Nathalie responded smoothly with a gracious smile, "Greta, didn''t I learn my devious scheming skills from you?"


    Greta burst out, "If you don''t want Cameron, why are you so keen on him?"


    Nathalie didn''t hold back. "Greta, you forgetful thing. I''ve always said that I''ll reim what''s mine. That goes for Cameron and my kidney. Sure, using someone else''s leftovers is gross, but I''d rather that thamsee my kidney with you."


    Greta was so


    O angry she couldn''t catch her breath. "Nathalie, you''re giving yourself too much credit. What makes you think Cameron would ever fall for you? He''s never loved you, and he never will.


    AQUMS


    Nathalie chuckled, herugh dripping with sarcasm. "Greta, who needs the love of a loser? That''s your department."Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Then, dropping her voice to a


    whisper meant only for Greta, she added, "Getting close to Cameron was just my way of stripping away everyone you care about, bit by bit. Just a little sweetness, and he''s all over me-driving me home, bringing me flowers, asking me to be his plus-one... Aren''t you worried he might have a change of heart?"


    Greta shook with rage.


    "Oh dear, it almost slipped my mind that you''re like a parasite, Greta. If your host decides to kick you out, what then? You might end up in a cramped slum with your sick, broke parents." The very thought sent shivers down Greta''s spine. She red at Nathalie, her confidence visibly shaken. "You''re wrong. Cameron would never leave me. He loves me too much."

 Chapter 398

    Nathalie chuckled. "Greta, I can''t wait to see how this unfolds."


    Out of nowhere, she pulled out a key and casually tossed it onto the bedside table. "Oh, this is the key to the Brown family estate. Thought I''d give it back to you."Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Greta''s eyes sparkled with surprise. "Are you actually being generous? After all the scheming you did to snatch it from me, why would you just hand it over?"


    Nathalie watched her as if she were a bit dim. "Who said I''m giving the house back? I just upgraded to a smart lock, the kind with a peephole. This old key is pretty much useless now. Consider it a souvenir."


    Greta''s face turned an angry shade of green. "Nathalie, you''re downright cruel. You connived your way into taking Dad''s house, leaving our parents with nowhere to go."


    Nathalieughed, a sound full of amusement. "Greta, you''ve got it all wrong. It was you who refused to care for our sick dad, leaving it all to me. Dad felt guilty since he never treated me well and had to rely on me in hister years. So, he gave me the house aspensation."


    "But you ditched Dad after getting the house..."


    Nathalie looked even more wronged. "Was it me who abandoned Dad? Come on, Greta, it was you. After you married Cameron, you got all high and mighty, thinking bing Mrs. Dawson would always have you in the limelight. You didn''t want the bad rep of being awful to family and insisted on taking Dad back."


    Nathalie fiddled with her nails. "Whether you wanted him or not, it was always about what was convenient for you. You''re selfish to the core. But you forgot, karma''s a real thing. You craved the life of the rich, but you will end up broke. You wanted Cameron''s undivided love, even at the cost of others, but you will only lose it in the end."


    Nathalie stood up, regal andmanding. "Greta, I can see your future abandoned by everyone, dying alone and in poverty. Your body will be left in the wild, unimed."


    Greta''s face turned a ghastly shade of purple. "No, I''m the chosen one. I have parents and a husband who love me. I won''t end up like that. Nathalie, what gives you the right to curse me?"


    Nathalie leaned in, closing the gap between them. "What gives me the right? The simple truth that what goes aroundes around."


    With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Greta curled up and trembling.


    Nathalie had ripped away her facade, revealing her true, ugly self, leaving Greta feeling terrified and uneasy.


    After some time, it hit Greta. The greedy and malicious Greta from Timeless Cycle was her in a In this life, she hadn''t started


    that path yet.


    So, was Nathalie somehow reborn?


    Greta copsed weakly onto the bed.


    life.


    When Cameron came back into the room, he found Greta curled up on the bed, looking pale. Her eyes were red and puffy from crying.


    He paused for a moment, but then


    his phone rang. After the call, he barely acknowledged Greta''s distress. "I''ve got another dinner tonight. Look after yourself. I check in on you tomorrow."


    And with that, Cameron left without a second nce.


    Greta felt like she had plunged into an icy abyss. She could no longer fool herself into thinking Cameron would always adore her like in her dreams. He was clearly starting to pull away.


    Painful tears streamed down Greta''s face.

 Chapter 399

    Nathalie felt as if she were cursed to die alone. Was she really just going to sit back and let that happen?


    At the Grand Hotel, Cameron strode into the private suite, pushing the door open to find Griffin, the CEO of Dawson International, and his assistant already seated.


    Griffin''s face tightened when he saw Cameron, an air of arrogance settling over him. The assistant, however, scrambled to his feet. "Mr. Cameron, you finally decided to meet with us."


    Cameron, exuding confidence, settled into a chair across from them. He lit a cigarette with practiced ease, blowing a perfect smoke ring before raising an eyebrow at the assistant. "So, what''s the urgent matter?"


    The assistant said with a respectful and somewhat anxious tone, "Mr. Cameron, you''re part of the Dawson family. You''re siding against us with Rond Inc. Aren''t you worried that the Rond family might turn on you eventually?" Cameron nced at Griffin, a mocking smile ying on his lips. "Didn''t the Dawson family already turn on me? I''ve worked my fingers to the bone for this empire, and with just a word, it''s been handed over to his illegitimate son, hasn''t it?" The assistant was left speechless.


    Griffin''s arrogant facade finally showed some cracks. With a weary sigh, he softened his approach. "Cameron, I''m not as young as I used to be. Dawson International will eventually be yours and your brother''s. Let''s not hold grudges. A father and son shouldn''t have unresolved issues. If you''re willing toe back, I''ll transfer 15% of thepany''s shares to you."


    "Mr. Cameron, that''s a much sweeter deal than what you''d get at Rond Corporation. Don''t let moneye between family," the assistant chimed in with a forced smile.


    Cameron stubbed out his cigarette, his face full of disdain. "He holds 60% of the shares but offers me just 15%? Sounds like he wants me to work for his illegitimate son, doesn''t it?" The assistant awkwardly nced at Griffin.


    Trying to keep his cool, Griffin said, "We can always discuss the terms if you''re open toing back."


    Cameron got to his feet, his patience clearly wearing thin. "Either give me full control of Dawson International or wait for me to take it over and change its name..."


    Griffin was seething.


    The assistant, visibly nervous, tried to mediate. "Mr. Cameron, does the family drama have to be this ugly? We''re like an embarrassment to outsiders."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Cameron, unfazed, replied, "Aren''t we already aughingstock? What more do we have to lose?"


    The assistant was taken aback. Cameron used to be all about appearances, but now he seemed to care less about that. With no


    .n


    apparent weakness to exploit, the assistant looked helplessly at Griffin.


    BUMS


    Finally losing his temper, Griffin mmed the table. "Cameron, you''re too greedy. Dawson International is our family''s legacy and is meant to be shared. You can''t just im it all. You''re dreaming."


    Cameron, arms crossed, looked calmly at Griffin. "Without my mother''s money and my support, you''d have run Dawson International into the ground. Now, you want my mother and me to set the stage for your illegitimate son? Not a chance. As long as I''m around, Dawson International will never end up in his hands."


    "You teamed up with your mistress and drove my mother to her death. Do you really think you deserve that title?" Cameron shot back, his handsome face twisted in anger.


    "And what about me? Am I not your father?"

 Chapter 400

    After Cameron let out those words, it was like a dam had burst, releasing all the fury and frustration that had been simmering inside him for days. The version of Cameron who once admired his father, hadpletely cut ties after uncovering his father''s affair and abandonment of his devoted wife.


    Griffin stared at Cameron, utterly shocked. Cameron had always been like a leopard, someone whose tempermanded both fear and respect, leading him to be bold and unapologetically open about his moods. But now, as Cameron unleashed his powerful voice in a fierce roar, Griffin realized that the once weak leopard had grown into a full-fledged predator, and he was not getting any younger.


    Griffin stood up, trembling, and pointed at Cameron, but his words were shaky. "You''re being incredibly disrespectful..."


    Cameron shot back, "If being a good son means being exploited and abandoned by my father, I''d rather not be a good son."


    He paused for a moment, his anger subsiding a bit. "You should leave. The bond between us was broken the moment you schemed against my mom and heartlessly scattered her ashes." Griffin''s face turned pale. "So you knew..."


    A menacing smile yed on Cameron''s lips. "Yes, I overheard your conversation at the funeral home on the day Mom was cremated. You had been plotting against her from the beginning. You truly deserve what''sing." Cameron clenched his fist tightly and mmed it down on the table, causing it to shake violently before finally tipping over. The table leg had snapped under the force of Cameron''s punch.


    Griffin was terrified and shrank back like a frightened bird.


    Cameron red at him. "Dawson Internationalis a Dawson family asset, and your legitimate wife, my mom, was part of it. I''m the only rightful heir to Dawson International. If you betray my mom''s wishes and hand it over to your illegitimate child, I will be taking harsh actions against Dawson International."


    Then, Cameron stormed out.


    Griffin slumped into the chair. His attempt to assert his authority over Cameron backfired spectacrly. Cameron had transformed dramatically in a short time. He was no longer blindly loyal and righteous; he had be a force to reckon with, untamed and fierce


    When Griffin returned home, his mood was still unsettled. His new wife massaged his shoulders, asking, "What''s the matter? You just went to see that boy, so why do you look so upset?" Griffin snapped at her. "Don''t you dare speak of Cameron that way again..."


    The new Mrs. Dawson immediately started whining, "Oh dear, I barely got to enjoy a few good days, and now your heart is leaning back towards Cameron? What about me and our son?"


    Griffin sighed heavily, a serious look


    on his face. "Im not siding with


    Cameron I''m doing this for your sake. You don''t understand. Cameron has changedplete He''s be dark andProperty ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    unpredictable, and if you cross him,


    he won''t let it slide."


    Griffin''s wife tried to appear confident. "I''m not scared of him. He''s just someone we''ve beaten before."


    Griffin was deeply worried. "Cameron knows what we''ve done. It seems he won''t let us off the hook."


    Griffin''s wife, once so confident, now trembled, and her words were faltering and confusing. "Our son will protect us. Cameron won''t be a threat."

 Chapter 401

    Griffin sank into the couch, feeling utterly drained, and shut his eyes, hoping for a moment''s peace. But no sooner had he done so than the dark backdrop of his mind was invaded by the image of histe wife.


    She appeared in a white dress, her long hair flowing, and despite the lines of age on her face, she somehow looked youthful. She moved closer, her voice a ghostly whisper that seemed to echo from the underworld. "Dear husband, those who betray true love deserve to feel the pain of a thousand needles."


    He let out a crazedugh. "Oh, you always did have a strange sense of humor."


    He was certain it was just a dream. After all, swallowing a thousand needles was ridiculous.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Suddenly, her youthful face aged rapidly, losing all color, and then began to swell. Griffin jolted awake, recognizing her appearance from when they pulled her lifeless body from the water.


    A chill of panic washed over him. "You''re gone. Why are you haunting me?"


    Histe wife replied, "You scattered my ashes, leaving my soul adrift and nowhere to rest. So, I have no choice but to stay with you..."


    Griffin was at a loss for words. The thought of being haunted by such a terrifying presence every day sent shivers down his spine.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll get a priest tomorrow to help you move on..." he lied, actually pondering on ways to trap her spirit so she''d never trouble him again.


    Thete Mrs. Dawson chuckled eerily. "You would have a service for me? How generous of you. Don''t think I don''t know what you''re really up to? You''re trying to lock my spirit away." Caught out, Griffin felt a bit embarrassed.


    Thete Mrs. Dawson continued, "I thought I was a good wife to you, but you treated me so coldly in the end. Griffin, those who act unjustly will get what''sing to them." Griffin snapped awake, his forehead slick with sweat.


    "Retribution?" he scoffed, "I can''t believe that. As the CEO of Dawson International, I''m blessed with wealth and status. What kind of payback could possiblye my way?" The next day, Griffin called a meeting with the shareholders, trying to rally everyone to outsmart Cameron, who was blocking Dawson International''s moves. "Cameron''s been cutting us off from every angle. Are we just going to sit back and take it?" Griffin dered, trying to stir a fire in everyone against Cameron.


    However, Cameron, once the


    track record and plenty of allies within thepany. Many


    Bel


    shareholders, who had thrived under


    his leadership, couldn''t bring


    themselves to resent him,


    Instead, Griffin faced criticism from many shareholders, especially after he put his illegitimate son in charge, which led to a dip in thepany''s performance.


    Someone pointed out bluntly, "Cameron knew thepany inside and out. Mr. Dawson, you should have foreseen the mess he''d create after being booted out and joining apetitor."


    Griffin''s face darkened. He retorted,


    "Cameron was involved in a scandal-marriage fraud and cheating. His messy divorce was all over the ce, and it was ruining his reputation. I removed him to protect thepany."


    But Griffin''s defense fell t. Someone immediately shot back, "Aren''t you in the same boat now, Mr. Dawson? Your Infidelity pushed your ex-wife to her death, and your reputation is in tatters. Shouldn''t you step down for the good of Dawson International?"

 Chapter 402

    The moment those words left the shareholder''s mouth, even the usually unppable Griffin felt like he had been caught with his pants down. "You" He was so furious he could almost feel his blood pressure skyrocket. But the shareholder wasn''t about to let up. "Mr. Dawson, cat got your tongue?"


    Griffin was barely holding it together and mmed his teacup onto the table with a thud that echoed his frustration. "What are you implying? Are you trying to disgrace me and shove me out of thepany? Let''s not forget that Dawson International is a Dawson family legacy. I still hold the lion''s share, and that makes me the boss around here."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    "Well, isn''t that convenient, Mr. Dawson?" the shareholder shot back. "When you slip up, you pull rank. But why should Cameron get the boot for his mistakes?"


    Griffin shot him a venomous re. "Why are you always on my case? What''s your angle?"


    The shareholder rose to his feet. "It''s simple. Our sess is tied to Dawson International. Ever since Cameron left, we''ve been on a downward slide. Meanwhile, Rond Inc. is booming with him on board. Cameron''s got the Midas touch, and everyone knows it." He paused, then added, "So, I propose we bring Cameron back."


    The room buzzed with murmurs of agreement.


    "I think it''s worth a shot."


    Griffin, however, looked like he''d swallowed a lemon. They didn''t know he''d already tried, behind closed doors, to coax Cameron back, only to be met with a t-out refusal and a dose of humiliation. It made him bristle at the suggestion. "He won''te back," he muttered.


    "He''s a Dawson. Dawson International is his heritage, too. Why wouldn''t he want to return?" The shareholders were skeptical of Griffin''s ims.


    "I''ve already asked him. He said no," Griffin admitted, sounding defeated. "Maybe it''s your approach. Did you approach him with not enough sincerity?" Griffin''s face clouded over, dark as a storm. Did they expect him to grovel?


    "That''s enough. We''re done here. Dawson International can survive without Cameron." Then, Griffin made a decision that would haunt him. "Ihe''s undercutting us, we''ll cut our own margins. We''ll break his hotd, even if it means no profit."


    The shareholders exchanged worried nces and sighed.


    In the corner, one shareholder''s lips curled in a satisfied smirk.


    After the meeting, the shareholders left, their spirits low-except for that one who lingered. He pulled out his phone and dialed a secret number "Boss, you were spot on.


    Everything''s falling into cevel.ife


    won''t be long before both the


    Dawson and Rond empires are yours."


    A deep voice on the other end, full of wisdom and experience, replied, I''ll speed up their downfall. Next, you need to push for a partnership between Dawson International and our firm."


    en


    "Got it."


    Winter''s chill had settled in.


    On the other side of the city, Cameron stood at the floor-to-ceiling window of his office, looking out over the city, feeling alone for the first time in ages.


    His mother, who loved him dearly, and Nellie, who loved him purely, were both gone-victims of his own foolishness.


    And the father he''d tried so hard to support, along with Greta, whom he adored, had turned out to be nothing but leeches, leaving him empty and hollow. He couldn''t help but wonder what his purpose in life was.


    What was the point of his relentless hustle?

 Chapter 403

    Aside from thoughts of revenge, Cameron''s mind was a jumble of confusion.


    Suddenly, Benjamin burst through the door, his face lit up with excitement. "Cameron, you''ve got to help me out. Does this outfit look alright? And my hair, is it okay?" Cameron turned to him, a bit bewildered. "Showing off, are we? Is this for a date?"


    Benjamin practically danced around. "The girl I like actually asked me out to dinner!" His smile was so wide it practically split his face.


    Cameron was taken aback. Benjamin always had women around him, but Cameron had never seen him this keen on one before.


    Curiosity piqued, he asked, "Who''s the luckydy that''s got you this happy?"


    Benjamin wore a mysterious grin. "You''ll find out soon enough. You know her, too."


    He spun around once more. "What do you think? Looking sharp, right?"


    Cameron pped him on the shoulder, genuinely pleased. "Not bad at all. Go get ''em. But remember, some girls can be pretty good at hiding their true colors. Keep your eyes open." With a grin, Benjamin headed out.


    Watching him leave, Cameron couldn''t help but feel a twinge of envy. Benjamin''s vitality, his youthful zest, and his hopeful heart seemed miles away from Cameron''s own reality. Benjamin drove his luxury car to the rendezvous spot, where he was meeting none other than Nathalie.


    Nathalie had pulled out all the stops today, utilizing every trick in the beauty book. Her hair was wlessly styled, her jewelry handpicked with care, and her outfit, from the color to the design to the height of her heels, was perfectly coordinated. She was stunning beyond words.


    When Benjamin saw Nathalie, he was captivated. "Ms. Nathalie, I''m... I''m thrilled. I can''t believe you asked me out," Benjamin stammered, overwhelmed.


    Nathalie gave a soft smile, her dimples adding an extra touch of charm. "Mr. Rond, thank you for epting my invitation."


    Benjamin replied, "You''re too kind. You''re not just beautiful but incredibly talented. I''m over the moon that you took an interest in me."


    Hearing Benjamin''s glowing


    "Mr. Rond, right this way," Nathalie directed Benjamin to a cozy booth in the restaurant.


    Once seated, Nathalie gracefully called over the waiter and ordered their meals with thoughtful care.


    Then, she turned to Benjamin with a polite smile. "To be honest, I invited you here because I need a favor. This meal is my treat."


    Benjamin looked at Nathalie,


    admiration and affection mingling in his eyes. "Ms. Nathalie, you''re not like other girls. No wonder my grandfather is always singing your praises."


    Nathalie was caught off guard. "Oh?"


    Benjamin let slip. "Grandfather says you''re incredibly smart. With you by Nathan''s side, he''d be unstoppable." Nathalie''s smile dimmed a little.


    If Mason saw her as Nathan''s ideal partner, why was he working behind the scenes to split them up?


    It revealed his true duplicity towards Nathan.


    What a cunning old fox. No wonderProperty ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan was outmaneuvered by the fool Benjamin, despite Nathan''s brilliance. It must have been Mason''s crafty schemes, teamed


    with Gavin''s help, that forced Nathan to flee abroad.

 Chapter 404

    Nathalie kept her cool. "Please thank your grandfather for the kind words."


    Benjamin was all fired up, going on and on, "Grandfather also said, when you''re looking for a girlfriend, aim for someone like you, Ms. Nathalie..."


    He paused to swallow before continuing, "He said you would be a blessing to your partner."


    Nathalie chuckled, ying along.


    Dinner was served. They had three dishes and a soup. The spread might have been simple, but the ingredients were top-notch.


    Sticking to her values of avoiding waste, Nathalie also wanted to make sure she didn''te off as tight-fisted in front of the big spender across the table. She handled things smoothly, which clearly won Benjamin over. After all, Benjamin was used to having women around him who were more about showing off than pitching in.


    Nathalie, being thoughtful, served Benjamin some food, and his grin showed just how pleased he was. "Nathalie, you mentioned you needed a favor. Go ahead, tell me. As long as it''s something I can do, I''ll do my best to help." Nathalie replied, "Mr. Rond, to be honest, the fashion brand I started with your brother Nathan is my project, even though it''s in his name. I''d appreciate it if you could give it a chance to flourish."


    Benjamin looked a bit ufortable. "Nathalie, since thepany''s under Nathan''s name, it''s technically his. You see, the Rond family also has a fashion brand. Ideally, we should focus on just one brand to make it stronger." Nathalie yed dumb.


    Benjamin continued, "The RondBelongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    family''s partners go way back with us. If Nathan and I each run a fashion brand, they''d have to choose sides. While surviving isn''t an issue, thriving would be tough."


    Nathalie got what he was hinting at-he was worried she''d step on his turf.


    She yed it humble, "Mr. Rond, you''re giving me too much credit. I''m just trying to make a living. How could I possiblypete with your resourges? Just throw us a bone with the orders you don''t want, and wett be happy."


    Benjamin, ttered, nodded. "True, how could a girl like you pose a threat? How could you rece the Rond family''s brand? My grandfather is probably overthinking things..." Nathalie quickly poured him a drink. "You''re right... Let''s toast."


    She kept clinking sses with him, and Benjamin, never one to refuse a drink, soon found himself stered mumbling, "Nathalie, you know? liked


    you the moment I saw you. But your situation is tricky-you''re divorced, and your ex is Cameron. If Iwere to marry you, I''d be the talk of the town."


    "Nathalie, if you agree to be my lover, I''ll take good care of you. You''ll have plenty of money and plenty of love. Even if you don''t work, you''ll be well taken care of."


    Nathalie looked at him with a cold stare, like a predator eyeing its prey. Yet here he was, boldly suggesting something so indecent.


    In a syrupy, sweet voice, Nathalie asked, "You''re drunk. Should I take you home or to a hotel for the night?"


    Benjamin, drooling a bit, replied, "Hotel? Yeah. Take me to a hotel."


    He reached out to grab Nathalie, but she smoothly dodged, pretending to be shy, "Alright, let''s get you to the hotel first."


    She waved over a waiter, slipping him some cash. "Could you help me get him up to a room?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 405

    The waiter nodded. "Yes."


    In Europe, tucked away in a presidential suite of a fancy hotel,y a man sprawled across a king-size bed. With his long limbs taking up most of the space, his face was like a masterpiece of ancient Greek art-handsome and serene, possessing an innocence that only sleep could bring. But as soon as his phone rang, shattering the silence, he opened his eyes, and the whole room seemed to chill. His sharp, hawk-like gaze swirled with an icy detachment, making it clear he wasn''t someone you''d want to mess with. ncing at the caller ID, he swiftly answered, "Hello." It was the quickest he''d ever reached for his phone.


    "Sir, as you instructed, we''ve been keeping a discreet eye on Ms. Nathalie. Her life''s pretty straightforward. She''s just been at work and home mostly. She does pop by to visit the Browns at the hospital now and then. But tonight..." The caller hesitated. "Go on," the man urged, his voice carrying a weight that could make anyone shiver.


    "Ms. Nathalie had dinner with Benjamin tonight..." The caller faltered, clearly unsettled by the man''s menacing aura.


    "Who made the first move?" The man''s voice was so icy it felt like it could freeze over the entire globe.


    "It seems Ms. Nathalie was the one who invited Benjamin out..."


    "What?" His voice wasced with surprise.


    Silence followed a long, tense silence.


    "I see."


    With newfound determination, he said, "Stir up some trouble for the Ronds. Make sure Benjamin''s too preupied to bother."


    "How much trouble are we talking about, sir?"


    "Enough to keep him busy," he said through clenched teeth. "The bigger, the better." Suddenly, recalling something, he added, "And send some projects Nathalie''s way." "Got it."


    Hanging up, he sighed in frustration, scrolling through his contacts until he found Nathalie''s number. He traced the digits with his fingertips, over and over.


    Finally, he hit the call button.


    Back in the capital, Nathalie was in a hotel suite, watching Benjamin sleep like a rock on the bed. Her mind was a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. Should she plot against Benjamin?


    Inside her head, two voices battled it


    out. One urged her to go ahead, citing Mason and Gavin''s


    generations-long bullying of Nathan. The other resisted, disliking the idea of bing maniptive.


    She paced the room, unable to decide.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Then her phone rang. Seeing an unfamiliar number, she picked up, almost as if in a daze. "Hello?"


    There was a long pause on the other end.


    "Who''s this?" she asked.


    "It''s me, Nathalie."


    She froze, stunned.


    Months had passed since shest saw Nathan, and now, hearing his voice, something seemed different. He sounded more mature, his voice rich with the allure of a seasoned man.


    She nced at Benjamin, who was tossing and turning in his sleep, and whispered, "Nathan, how have you been? Why''s it been so long since Ist heard from you?" "Where are you? And why are you whispering?" Nathan''s voice was cold, authoritative.


    Feeling guilty, Nathalie replied, "Oh, it''s not really a good time to talk..."


    "Why not? I''m video calling you-I need to know you''re safe."


    Nathan ended the call, and secondster, a video call request popped up.

 Chapter 406

    Nathalie couldn''t let him find out she was in the same room as Benjamin, so she had to end his video call abruptly. Nathan shot her a text: [Pick up the video call.]


    Through the screen, Nathalie could almost see Nathan''s anger zing. Knowing how stubborn he could be, she quickly grabbed her phone and dashed out of the hotel. Only when she reached the lobby did she feel safe enough to answer his call.


    As the video connected, Nathalie saw Nathan for the first time in months. Something about him seemed different; his face had lost its youthful roundness. It was now leaner and sharply handsome, with more chiseled features. "Nathan, you''ve gotten even hotter," Nathalie teased with a smile.


    Nathan studied her intently. His eyes were dark and intense. "You''re all dressed up today. Who''s the lucky person?" His jealousy was obvious.


    Nathalie dodged the question. "Oh, I was supposed to meet a business partner, but he got drunk, so the deal didn''t happen." She put on a face of genuine disappointment.


    Nathan''s expression turned icy. "You took a drunk guy to a hotel? Do you know how dangerous that is?"


    Nathalie frowned, "How did you know he was a guy?"


    Nathan''s eyes flickered as he defensively retorted, "How many female business partners do you know who drink heavily?"


    Nathalie nodded, feeling a bit deted. "Ugh, you''re too clever. I can''t hide anything from you."


    Nathan''s voice was firm. "Nathalie, just go home. Don''t make me worry too much."


    Nathalie appreciated his concern and nodded right away. "Alright, I''m heading home now."


    Nathan added, "Keep the call on. I want to make sure you get back safely."


    As Nathalie made her way home, she casually chatted with Nathan, "These international call rates are killing you..."


    Nathan replied, "Your safety is worth any cost."


    His warm words came so naturally.


    Nathalie felt her cheeks flush,


    remembering the day Nathan left the country and kissed her out of the blue. Since that day, he''d been


    different around her, speaking with a


    confident, almost with a


    The call went on until Nathalie got home, and only then did Nathan''s tense demeanor ease slightly.


    Exhausted, Nathalie slipped off her towering heels and copsed onto the sofa, Nathan''s gentle reminders echoed in her ears, but instead offort, they added to her stress.


    en


    He was so protective, yet she felt she couldn''t even protect his onlypany. A wave of self-doubt washed over her, and Nathalie


    sighed, "Nathan, I''m really tired Can


    you stop being so overbearing? Please?"


    Nathan was silent, his eyes betraying a hint of hurt. She was his lifelong obsession; how could he not care?


    "Nathalie, don''t get too close to Benjamin. He''s bad news."


    Nathalie''s temper red. "Are you spying on me? What gives you the right?"


    Nathan fell silent, feeling a mix of guilt and fear. "I''m just...worried about you."


    He didn''t want her to repeat past mistakes. She was drowning in alcohol over unrequited love, damaged her only kidney, and ended up on dialysis.


    And he couldn''t bear the thought of her sumbing to despair.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    But Nathalie didn''t understand. She was just overwhelmed with guilt.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 407

    Nathan''s kindness was something she could never truly repay. Even when the Rond family cast him out, all she could do was stand by, feeling utterly helpless. She loathed her own inability to act.


    She owed him a debt as vast as the sky, one she could never hope to repay. All she wanted was to escape from his side. Perhaps if she did, he could cut his losses, and maybe, just maybe, her burden would feel a little lighter. "Nathan, look after yourself. Don''t worry about me," Nathalie said, ending the call. Then, she curled up on the floor, sobbing uncontrobly.


    "Nathan...


    "I''m sorry.


    "When you were at your lowest, I couldn''t do a thing to help you."


    She cried until sheer exhaustion swept her into sleep.


    Lizzy quietly stepped out of the room, gazing at the tear-stained sleeping beauty. She gently picked Nathalie up andid her on the sofa, covering her with a nket for warmth.


    Lizzy went back into her room and dialed her boss'' number.


    "Sir."


    "How is she?" The voice on the other end was raspy, cloaked in a sense of despair and hopelessness.


    "She''s asleep."


    "Is she angry with me?"


    "No, she''s upset with herself. Upset that she can''t help you." Lizzy wiped away the tears clinging to her eyes. "She reached out to Benjamin because she was just trying to save yourpany. She believes it might be your only hope for aeback." Nathan, on the other end, felt his eyes welling up. "Foolish girl."


    Lizzy added, "Sir, Nathalie hasn''t been eating or sleeping welltely. How much longer are you nning to keep this from her?"


    Silence hung between them.


    "Everything I''ve done was to give her a carefree life. If all my efforts end up harming her health, then what''s the point?


    "Lizzy, take her back to Rainbow Square."


    Themand was too straightforward, leaving Lizzy momentarily stunned. "And then?"


    "She''ll understand my intentions."


    Lizzy, groggy with fatigue, mumbled, "Okay."


    The night was deep and silent. The sky was a canvas of solid ck, devoid of stars.


    Greta sat on her hospital bed, staring nkly out the window. She counted the days since Cameronst visited her.


    So, maybe the dreams from Timeless Cycle weren''t real after all.


    No, they weren''t lies. Those dreams must have been glimpses of another lifetime. But in this life, everything had changed.


    Greta reyed the events of her past and present lives, realizing the shift happened after Nathalie''s kidney transnt.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    In a previous life, after the surgery, Nathalie became pregnant with Cameron''s child. She chose to stay married to Cameron and, in doing so, wrecked her life, leading both her and Nina to tragedy.


    But now, after the transnt, Nathalie had chosen to terminate the pregnancy and move abroad swiftly.


    A chill ran through Greta as


    realization dawned on her. Her


    current misery was because


    vel


    Nathalie was Nellie''s vengeful spirit, back to seek vengeance.


    Greta wondered what she could do. She couldn''t just sit and wait for her fate. She had to find a way out.


    But now, she had felt Cameron''s coldness towards her. It was clear he had also seen the dreams of Timeless Cycle. He knew she was truly wicked.


    In agony, Greta clutched her head like a trapped animal desperately searching for an escape. Until finally, the first light of dawn broke through, bringing with it a spark of inspiration, a glimmer of hope.

 Chapter 408

    Benjamin woke up to find the sun already high in the sky. Anyone with half a brain could tell that something was off with the drinksst night. Yet, Benjamin couldn''t wrap his head around it. If Nathalie had nned to trick him, why did she bail halfway through? Nathalie''s bold and unpredictable nature just made Benjamin fall for her even more. He grabbed his phone and called her up.


    When Nathalie answered, her voice was as cool and distant as ever. "What''s up?"


    Feeling a bit like he''d been yed, Benjamin asked, "Nathalie, what was the deal with leaving me alone at the hotel?"


    Nathalie felt a pang of guilt as she replied, "Mr. Rond, I''m sorry. I got an urgent call and had to leave. But I did arrange for a waiter to look after you."


    Benjamin''s annoyance eased a little. "Alright then. How about we meet up another day?"


    Nathalie was just about to agree when Nathan''s earnest warnings popped into her head. She sighed, opting to y for time. "I''ve got a few orders to handle in the next couple of days. Once I''m free, I''ll definitely reach out."


    Benjamin, a seasoned yer in the game of life, could sense Nathalie''s hesitation. He pressed on, both gently and firmly. "Nathalie, I''ll wait for you. But don''t keep me waiting too long, or yourpany might find itself in a tight spot." It''s a none-too-subtle threat.


    Nathalie hung up and hurled her phone against the wall, shattering it to pieces.


    "What a jerk."


    Lizzy handed Nathalie a calming herbal tea. "Nathalie, take a breather."


    Nathalie took a sip, the sweet and fragrant taste soothing her frayed nerves.


    Lizzy gathered up the phone fragments. "Nathalie, isn''t Benjamin just trying to hold something over you? If you cut those ties..."


    Nathalie shot her a look. "That''s


    Nathan''s legacy, hisst foothold in


    the Capital. Even if I didn''t care about Nathan, I can''t just watch it get swallowed up by the Rond family."  en


    Lizzy sighed, recalling her boss'' advice, and blurted out, "Nathalie, you''ve been stressed out. How about a little getaway?" Nathalie was curled upzily on the sofa as she replied, "I don''t want to go anywhere."


    Persuasion was useless, and Lizzy just sighed.


    Somehow, pictures of Nathalie and Benjamin having dinner surfaced online, and before long, the inte was buzzing with gossip. Netizens split into two camps. Supporters of the couple said: [Mr. Benjamin and Ms. Nathalie make such a cute couple!]


    [With such a stunning partner, maybe Mr. Benjamin will finally settle down. Can''t wait for more sweet updates.]


    Meanwhile, the detractors wereFrom N?velDrama.Org.


    vocal: [MS. Nathalie is Jasmine''s top disciple. A career woman. She''s not


    rushing into marriage. I support her independence!]


    [Besides money, what''s Mr. Benjamin got? He''s not good enough for her. She''s got beauty and brains and doesn''t need any man.] [Mr. Benjamin, let our fashion icon be.]


    The outpouring of support for


    Nathalie was unexpected. She became a symbol for women everywhere, admired for her independence, beauty, and talent.


    en


    Cameron couldn''t help but notice. When he discovered that it was his ex-wife who had invited Benjamin for dinner, his expression turned stormy.


    The buzz was impossible to ignore.


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 409

    Cameron was caught in a tangled mess of emotions. He didn''t love Nathalie, yet the idea of her being with anyone else made him uneasy. His possessiveness gnawed at him, leaving him restless.


    Trying to set aside his emotional chaos, Cameron focused on the real issue-Nathalie getting too cozy with his boss, Benjamin. Nathalie clearly despised Cameron and might try to sabotage his rtionship with Benjamin, which could spell disaster for his career... So, no matter what, Cameron was resolved to keep Nathalie and Benjamin apart.


    He called the PR department at Rond Inc. "Cancel that trending topic, ASAP."


    The PR manager replied, "The CEO wants it up for a whole week."Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Cameron''s jaw tightened. He recalled Benjamin''s glowing expression when he talked about Nathalie and felt a knot in his stomach.


    It was clear-Benjamin had fallen head over heels for her.


    "Cancel it. I''ll exin it to him myself," Cameron said, rushing off.


    Cameron burst into Benjamin''s office and found Benjamin wearing a knowing smile. "Cameron, here to chat about Ms. Nathalie, I presume?"


    Cameron plopped down on the chair across from Benjamin. "Ben, are you into Nathalie?"


    Benjamin, clearly in love, nodded. "Yeah, she had me from the first nce."


    Cameron was taken aback but managed a smirk. "Ben, look what happened to me. Love can make you lose sight of reality."


    Benjamin spun a penzily.


    "Cameron, you''ve got it wrong. Ite depends on who you fall for. Nathalie''s genuine and loyal. If you win her heart, you''ll be the luckiest guy on earth."  en


    "I''m kind of envious of Nathan. Nathalie even swallowed her pride to make peace with me, just to keep


    his affection. Can you believe it? She used to ignore mepletely."


    Cameron felt a sharp sting. Nathalie''s devotion to Nathan reminded him of the love she once had for him. If he couldn''t have her, he''d rather see her downfall. With a spiteful edge, Cameron said, "She''s been starved for love since she was young. Show her a bit of kindness, and she''ll cling to you for life."


    Benjamin''s eyes lit up. "Great. If I treat her right, she''ll surely fall for me."


    Cameron was stunned. "Ben, no woman is worth that much energy."


    Benjamin shot back, "Cameron, you spoil Greta endlessly, but I can''t do the same for Nathalie?"


    Cameron was at a loss for words.


    Trying another angle, he said, "Ben, think about it. Nathalie''s heart is with Nathan. If you help her, you''re really just strengthening Nathan''s team." Benjamin slowly nodded, realizing the truth. "You''re onto something there."


    Cameron continued, "So don''t give herpany a lifeline. If her business crumbles, she won''t have the freedom to leave. Then she''ll be under your thumb and ready to listen."


    "Right, right. To keep her, I''ve got to clip her wings first."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 410

    Benjamin and Cameron teamed up to undermine Nathalie''s business. Rond Inc.''s deep pockets snatched away her resources, and even her signed clients started jumping ship. What was once a buzzingpany now found itself eerily quiet.


    Nathalie reached out to a few loyal clients to get to the bottom of things. They exined, "Ms. Nathalie, we love your work and truly want to keep working with you. But you''ve upset someone powerful who''s now forbidding us from partnering with you. They''re threatening to cut ties with us if we don''tply. We have hundreds of employees to think about; I''m really sorry."


    Nathalie, everposed and understanding, replied, "I get it. Don''t worry. I''ll make the termination process as smooth as possible. A smallpensation for the breach is enough. I won''t make it hard on you."


    Perhaps Nathalie''s poise struck a chord with them because they offered, "Ms. Nathalie, although ourpany can''t officially work with you, I''d love for you to handle my personal wardrobe needs."


    Nathalie smiled warmly. "I promise you won''t be disappointed. I''ll design something perfect for you. When the time''s right, I''d appreciate it if you could spread the word."From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Absolutely."


    Once the client left, a glimmer of determination shone in Nathalie''s eyes. "No matter how tough it gets, I''ll get through this. Time for a fresh start."


    The following day, Nathalie slimmed down herpany, letting some staff go but keeping her core team intact. Thepany shifted to a boutique and focused on custom orders.


    Privatemissions were something Rond Corporation couldn''t touch.


    Benjamin assumed that after such a setback, Nathalie woulde running back to him. He thought it was the perfect chance to have her under his thumb.


    But after waiting for over ten days with no word from her, his patience wore thin. He vented to Cameron, "Cameron, what kind of lousy advice was that? After all this pressure on herpany, she''s ignoring me even more." He sulked in Cameron''s study, clearly annoyed.


    Cameron was careful not to upset Benjamin, and tried to soothe him, "Nathalie is tough; she won''t fold easily. If you really want to win her over, you''ve got to up the ante."


    en


    "To really break Nathalie, you need to leave her with no options. Only when she''spletely cornered will she consider surrendering."


    Without much thought, Benjamin replied, "So, I should push herpany to bankruptcy?"


    Cameron nodded. "Exactly."


    After Benjamin left, a flicker of somethingplex danced in Cameron''s eyes. "Nathalie, I won''t let you take me down."


    Cameron never dreamed Nathalie


    would fight back so fiercely. While he stirred up trouble, Nathalie didn''t just sit back and take it. She quicklyunched her own counterattack.


    Being intuitive and savvy, Nathalie decided to stir things up in Cameron''s own home.


    In a bold move, Nathalie visited the Dawson family home to see her sister, Greta.


    When Greta opened the door, she was so taken aback to see Nathalie that she forgot to turn her away. Nathalie breezed in like she owned the ce, loungingfortably on the sofa.


    Fuming at her sister''s audacity, Greta nearly blew her top. "What are you doing here?"


    "Just dropping by to see my sister," Nathalie said with a confident grin.


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 Chapter 411

    Greta was steaming. "Do you really think you can be so generous?"Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathalie nced around, seizing the moment to make her point. "Cameron''s now a big shot at Rond Corporation, making a pretty penny. So why are you still stuck in a rental?"


    Greta found herself sucked into Nathalie''s narrative. "Cameron doesn''t have money. He only gets paid a dor a month. How could he possibly buy a house?"


    Nathalie reacted like she''d heard the wildest story ever. "A dor a month? And you believe that? That''s just a trick to stash away his assets. Honestly, if Cameron''s hiding his sry, how much could he really care about you? After all these years, where do you stand with him?"


    A chill ran through Greta''s heart. She''d always thought the one-dor sry was bizarre, but Nathalie''s insight hit her hard, making her realize Cameron might be keeping secrets.


    It also exined why he hadn''t been around muchtely. He was keeping his distance on purpose.


    The pain Greta felt was overwhelming when she finally acknowledged this.


    Right then, Cameron called. "Greta, I''ve got a work thing tonight. I won''t be home."


    Greta was already worn out by Cameron''s coldness. She''s not one to hold back her feelings, and erupted, "It''s always something! You didn''t visit when I was in the hospital. I finally get toe home today, and you''re still MIA. Cameron, if you''re done with us, just say it. Stop leading me on..."


    "Are you saying you want a divorce?" Cameron''s voice was eerily calm.


    Greta froze, tears of bitterness rolling down her cheeks. "What''s the difference between what we have now and being divorced?"


    Cameron stayed silent for what felt like forever.


    Fuelled by his emotional detachment, Greta shouted again, "Do you really want a divorce?"


    Cameron didn''t answer.


    "Don''t be ridiculous. I told you, I''m working for someone else now. I''m stuck with obligations. My time isn''t mine anymore..." Greta''s voice cracked. "Cameron, can I trust you?"


    "What do you think?" he shot back.


    "Then exin this one-dor sry thing. Nathalle told me Rond Corporation never had such a policy. So why did they make a special case for you?" Greta cried. "Cameron, what''s going on? Are you hiding something from me?"


    Cameron''s tone turned icy. "Is Nathalie there?"


    "Yes."


    "Put her on the phone."


    Greta handed the phone to Nathalie.


    Cameronshed out, "Nathalie, are you trying to stir up trouble between us?"


    Nathalie chuckled. "Cameron, you took my client, so I''m just giving you a little gift in return. That''s called fair y. I''m not Nellie, the pushover you could trample on without a fight."


    She was Nathalie, with defiance in her spirit.


    Cameron was beside himself. "Nathalie, you''ve outdone yourself. You''re ruthless." Nathalie snorted, "Compared to you, I''m just a rookie."


    "Give the phone back to Greta." Cameron couldn''t help but slip into his usualmanding tone with Nathalie, which only annoyed her.


    "Cameron, if you''re going to order me around, at least try using the word ''please."


    Cameron fell silent.


    Nathalie unapologetically hung up the call.

 Chapter 412

    Nathalie shot Greta a look that was equal parts smug and scornful. "I really thought you two were rock solid. But look at that, your rtionship hit the skids in no time. What a pity. A yer and a drama queen can''t stick together forever. I wonder who''s going to fall victim to your mess next?" Greta''s eyes red with anger. "Are you satisfied, Nathalie? Cameron''s finally given up on me. And it''s all thanks to you. If you hadn''t been so obsessed with revenge, we wouldn''t be here."


    Nathalie just stared at her, lost for words. "Greta, actions have consequences. Why would I want revenge? You know why. Compared to what you both did to me, your current payback doesn''t even scratch the surface." Greta shivered. "What do you really want?"


    Nathalie''s lovely face twisted into something monstrous. "I want my kidney back from you, then I want you to die slowly from kidney failure. I want you to have Cameron''s child while you''re wasting away from a terminal illness, and then I want to take that child''s life myself so you know what it feels like to lose your own flesh and blood. I want our parents to disown you, for everyone to turn their backs on you, and for you to die alone and forgotten. I want Cameron to deceive you, to make you feel the sting of betrayal..."


    Nathalie stepped closer with each word while Greta, ghostly pale, backed away. "You''re crazy, Nathalie. Absolutely crazy."N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Nathalie''s smile grew wild and menacing. "Oh, I''ve lost it, alright. The second you stuck that poisoned needle into my daughter''s vein, I went off the deep end."


    Greta crumpled to the ground. "So, those visions from Timeless Cycle were real? How can that be?"


    It hit Greta like a ton of bricks. She pleaded with Nathalie, "Please, Nathalie, snap out of it. Those Timeless Cycle visions have messed with your head. They''re not real; a lot of it is just make-believe... Nathalie, you don''t have a daughter, and I didn''t harm her. Please,e back to reality. Don''t let the Timeless Cycle get to you."


    Nathalie looked down at Greta, who was a heap on the floor. Her eyes were colder than ever. "I wish it were just a nightmare. But they were real."


    Then, she stumbled away, her spirit shattered.


    At the door, she bumped into Cameron, who had rushed home.


    Cameron froze, taking in Nathalie''s pain and despair. It was like he had traveled through time and finally saw the mother who''d lost her darling daughter.


    "I''m sorry," he said, his voice heavy with sincerity.


    Nathalie suddenly raised her hand and pped him hard. "Cameron, how is it that fate lets you live so carefree through two lifetimes?"


    She broke down, sobbing uncontrobly. "It''s just not fair. You''ve done so much wrong, and yet fate seems to spare you."


    Cameron slumped against the door,


    whispering, "Fate''s punished me too. Nathalie, I''ve lost everything. My mom, who adored me, my


    pure-hearted wife, my dad, anda


    love of my life... I''ve got nothing left. Nathalie, just let me be."


    Nathalie''s voice rose in a hysterical wail. "It''s nowhere near enough. Not by a long shot. You should pay with your life for our daughter."


    Tears streamed down her face as


    she cried out, "Our daughter wasjust a child, and you sacrificed her for your stupid love. Cameron, you''re the biggest fool on earth, a total joke..."

 Chapter 413

    Cameron closed his eyes, tears streaming down his face. Nathalie''s words cut through him like a knife, each usation sharper than thest. She looked utterly spent as if she''d just walked off a battlefield. Her energy waspletely drained. Her gaze was cold and unwavering as she faced Cameron. "Who''s this act for? If you had even an ounce of decency, you wouldn''t have left my mom and me stranded in the past, and you sure wouldn''t be trying to crush me now. Cameron, you might as well kill me because one day, I''ll make sure you wish you were dead." Cameron mumbled, "Nathalie, I''ve given you everything I have, all the money, my life... Can''t you let go?"


    "Not a chance."


    The door creaked open, and Greta stepped out. Nathalie pointed at her, telling Cameron, "Unless you kill her yourself to avenge our daughter, I might think about forgiving you."


    Cameron looked devastated. He trembled as he turned to Greta, who was clearly terrified. She rushed towards Nathalie. "You''re insane! Why are you so cruel? You''ve already torn us apart, and now you want him to kill me? Your heart is poisonous." Nathalie''s long-held rage snapped, and she grabbed Greta by the hair, mming her head against the wall. "Bitch. I''ve wanted to deal with you for ages."


    "Cameron, help me!" Greta cried, but she was no match for Nathalie, who''d been hardened by a tough life.


    Nathalie mmed Greta''s head into the wall again, her eyes burning with the ferocity of a predator on the hunt. Cameron watched, paralyzed with fear, his legs shaking and his eyes wide with terror. Blood quickly stained Greta''s head.


    Greta''s desperate eyes met Cameron''s, seeing only his hesitation. "Cameron, do you really buy into her madness?"


    He stayed silent.


    Greta, defeated, said, "Even if it''s true, those were my past life''s mistakes. Why should I pay for them now?"N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Still, Cameron did nothing.


    With a bitter smile, Greta said, "Fine. Nathalie, go ahead and strangle me. Let me atone for my past."


    At that moment, a slender figure


    dashed in


    and clung to Nathalie.


    "Nathalie, you can''t. If you


    you''ll never escape the


    "Let me go," Nathalie growled. "I want to take these two down with me."


    Lizzy held on tight, tears streaming down her face. "Nathalie, dying might seem easy, but what about those of us left behind?" Nathalie felt consumed by her need for revenge. "I''ve got nothing left in this world. If I can get back at them, I''d die happy."


    Lizzy pleaded, "Nathalie, you''re


    wrong. You don''t know there''s someone who loves you deeply


    more than his own life. If you die, he won''t survive either... Can you bear to break his heart?"


    Nathalie paused, her mind swirling with doubt. She calmed slightly,


    focusing on Lizzy. "Who is he


    asked, her voice filled with disbelief


    and shock.

 Chapter 414

    Lizzy, with tears streaming down her face, said, "Nathalie, let me take you somewhere. It''ll all make sense."


    Nathalie hesitated. She had lived two lifetimes and never felt the warmth of parental love. She grew up cautiously and always on the defensive and knew loneliness all too well. Believing anyone could genuinely care for her seemed impossible. But this message came from Lizzy-sweet, honest Lizzy, who never lied. "Nathalie, please, let''s go," Lizzy pleaded.


    Nathalie shot a final sharp nce at Cameron and Greta. She let go of her hatred, allowing Lizzy to lead her away.


    Greta watched Nathalie''s silhouette fade, suddenly envious. Nathalie had Lizzy, a loyal friend who would cry for her pain. Not to mention, there was some mysterious man who loved Nathalie more than life itself. What made Nathalie worthy of such selfless love? Greta''s thoughts were all jumbled up with jealousy. She turned to Cameron, her heartache surpassing any physical pain. "Did you hear that? Nathalie''s got people who love her. Don''t expect her toe running back to you."


    Cameron snapped back to reality, his emotions a tangled mess. "I never nned on getting back with her. I don''t love her. I never did, and I never will. It''s all in your head."


    Greta was taken aback. "If you don''t love her, why''d you stand by when she hit me?"


    Cameron gave her a cold stare. "I don''t love her, but I owe her. Besides, what''s happening to you today is just karma."


    Greta, who''d always been the


    spoiled center of attention, couldn''t swallow this humiliation. She angrily bit her lip. "I haven''t done anything wrong. I''m calling the cops. I''ve


    sinned, let thew decide."


    She picked up her phone to dial 911, but Cameron lunged forward, knocking it from her hand. "You''ve owed her plenty. Today, she hurt you; consider it payback. Let her vent."


    Greta looked at Cameron, shocked. The man who once adored her was now so resolute. "Cameron, why?"


    "Because you caused the death of our daughter and pushed her to her end. She saved your life," Cameron said, eyes filled with a sorrow that cut deep.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Greta broke down, sobbing. "I''ve paid my dues. Cameron, don''t forget, she made me lose my child, too. She took what was rightfully mine from the Brown family estate. I''m the victim here." Greta lost control and began to beg. "Please, I''m begging you, let me be."


    Her forehead, already marred with scars and now covered in blood, made her look wild, almost like a ghost.


    This made Cameron''s heart soften,


    bit by bit. He moved closer, wrapping her in a tight embrace. His voice was gentle once more. "Greta, just this once, let''s not hold it against her. Consider it repaying a debt. I promise I''ll never let her hurt you again."


    Greta fainted in Cameron''s arms.


    Cameron rushed her to the hospital, where the doctor tended to her wounds and offered advice. "Mrs. Dawson''s injuries are only skin deep. They''re not enough to cause her to faint. We rmend a full checkup for her."

 Chapter 415

    Cameron sat there, staring at Greta, who was knocked out cold. He''d been keeping his distance from hertely, so he hadn''t really taken a good look at her. Now, as he studied her closely, he saw how she had be just skin and bones, lookingpletely worn out. She was the woman he held so dear in his heart, and his feelings were all over the ce. He was mad at her obsession with acting but couldn''t stand seeing her in pain either.


    Finally, he listened to the doctor''s advice and set up a full medical check-up for Greta.


    The news wasn''t good. The doctor, looking all serious, told Cameron, "Mrs. Dawson''s urine test came back abnormal. We strongly suspect kidney disease."


    Cameron was floored. He''d once moved heaven and earth to help Greta get over a kidney disease. But after she got better, he started giving her the cold shoulder, just like he had with Nathalie back in the day, which eventually led to Nathalie suffering from uremia. A shiver ran down Cameron''s spine. Was he about to push Greta down the same path as Nathalie?


    His face went ghostly pale, his eyes filled with bewilderment.


    "We have to get her better," Cameron heard himself say, his voice steady and determined.


    "Okay."


    In the hospital room, Gretay there on the bed. Her eyes were nk like a scared little deer.


    When Cameron walked in, Greta nced at him with tears in her eyes and then, in a huff, turned her head away. She refused to even look at him.


    Cameron quietly sat down, reaching out to take Greta''s hand. "Just focus on getting better. Don''t worry about the money."


    Greta shot back with a mix of yful anger and frustration, "Why would I have any right to use your money? I should be counting my blessings that you don''t see me as your mortal enemy."


    Cameron didn''t say a word. In reality, he was a walking contradiction. Anytime anyone brought up Greta''s past mistakes, his anger red up.


    But deep down, his overwhelming love for Greta was undeniable. The tug-of-war between hate and love was tearing him apart, making his life a living hell. This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Greta turned her head and looked at Cameron, who was clearly struggling. She knew when to push and when to pull back. "Cameron, I messed up."


    "I loved you so much. I wanted you all to myself. That''s why I did those awful things to Nathalie and Nina."


    "If I had known my actions would


    She didn''t try to make excuses, and this honest apology struck a chord with Cameron.


    "Greta, stop. Those were two lives. I can''t just forget about it," Cameron said, his voice filled with agony as he ran his hands through his hair.


    Tears streamed down Greta''s face as she said, "I''m sorry, Cameron. I''m the reason you''re in so much pain."


    Cameron got up and bolted out of the room. Greta watched him leave, a sly smile creeping onto her face.


    Cameron''s soft heart showed her that ying the victim to gain sympathy was definitely working.


    Elsewhere, Nathalie sat in the car, the window down, watching the city blur by, feeling something strange bubbling up inside her. "Lizzy, where are you taking me?" she asked.


    The cold breeze snapped Nathalie


    back to reality. Who in this world would love her so purely and deeply? Lizzy was just crafting a story about someone with deep, undying love to give her a reason to keep going.


    However, surprisingly, Lizzy was taking her somewhere far from home.


    "Nathalie, you''ll find out soon."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 416

    The car cruised away from the bustling heart of the city, heading north and gradually slipping into the chaotic outskirts. The buildings on either side shifted from their quirky designs to old, rundown structures, and Nathalie found the scenery growing more and more familiar. She shot a curious nce at Lizzy. "Lizzy, how do you know this area?"


    Lizzy gave her a bashful smile. "All the mysteries in your heart will soon be unveiled."


    Nathalie sighed, "Always full of secrets, aren''t you?"


    She settled back into her seat, closing her eyes for a little rest. It was strange. The sky had been clear earlier, yet now, after crossing half the city, they were caught in a curtain of rain.


    "It''s raining," Lizzy mentioned as she parked the car at the za near Rainbow Bridge, the spot Nathan had told her about. She peered out at the rain-drenched world, the surroundings melting into a foggy haze. Lizzy felt a knot of worry. It looked like their trip might be for nothing.


    Nathalie opened her eyes, gazing through the car window at the mistyndscape. Through the rain, she could make out the Rainbow Bridge. This ce was all too familiar, tangled with countless sorrowful childhood memories.


    "Why''d you bring me here, Lizzy?" Nathalie''s voice was cool, almost detached.


    She never liked this ce. It was a constant reminder of her unhappy childhood. Every corner seemed to echo that she was an unloved orphan.


    Lizzy blinked her innocent eyes, saying, "I didn''t know it would rain..."


    With the rain, maybe she wouldn''t find that spot...


    Nathalie just sighed internally. What did the rain have to do with anything?


    She leaned against the car window, quietly watching the bridge, the streets, the za. Memories yed out in her mind like an old movie reel.


    She recalled being a little girl, her mom chasing her down the street with a belt, yelling, "Nellie, you''re such a jinx. Why do I have to look after you? Do you know I got divorced because of you?"


    "You owe me your whole life, and you have to repay me. You''ll have to look after me forever.


    "If you can''t beg for food, don''t bothering home."


    Tears welled up in Nathalie''s eyes. She admired her younger self for not crumbling under her mom''s harshness, for blooming into a strong flower despite the storm.


    The scene shifted, showing young


    Nathalie clutching a bowl at


    Rainbow Bridge. She timidly sat next to an old beggar woman, who said to her, "Oh my goodness, you''re so young to be begging. My own family won''t take care of me, but you are such a pretty girl. How could your parents let you do this?"


    Even as a child, Nathalie had a keen, sharp mind. She didn''t want anyone to know she was a forsaken child, so she fibbed with a smile, "Granny, I''m just out here trying to experience life."novelbin


    The old woman bought her story


    and kindly taught her the art of begging. Nathalie picked up the tricks but couldn''t bring herself to loudly ask for money. Instead, she learned a new skill: collecting stic bottles to sell.


    With tangled hair and dirt-smudged clothes, she roamed from street to street, a string of bottles bouncing on her shoulder, her face lit up with a satisfied grin.


    When she earned some money, she eagerly took it home to her mother, "Look, Mom, I can make money now."


    But Miranda only rolled her eyes, never satisfied with what Nathalie brought home. "Is that all? Get back out there."

 Chapter 417

    Nathalie was lost in her thoughts, a tightness gripping her throat. Lizzy had lied to her. Who could possibly love her? It felt like no one ever had.


    She shoved the window open, letting the fresh air p her face. Raindrops soaked through her clothes, chilling her to the bone. Lizzy nced over nervously, "What''s going on?"


    Nathalie lifted a hand to silence her, struggling to catch her breath. She climbed out of the car and staggered forward into the rain, tripping on the steps andnding hard on the ground. What a mess.


    Her mind drifted back to a childhood memory, a tumble she took at Rainbow Bridge. Laden with too many water bottles, she''d often trip and fall. But she''d always pick herself up with augh and keep going.


    She''d once swiped water bottles from other beggars'' spots, sparking chases that honed her long-distance running skills, though she''d taken plenty of spills along the way. Strong as she was, no fall ever made her cry. Except for one. That was the time she found a kindred spirit, a child as unfortunate as she was, snatched by traffickers and starved until he was all skin and bones. They''d dressed him up as a beggar and dumped him there. She knew he wasn''t a real beggar because his eyes were like stars, bright enough to pierce the darkest night. Under the traffickers'' watchful gaze, she whisked him away, sprinting with him on her back. But she was weak and malnourished, and it wasn''t long before she face-nted.


    She knew the traffickers were on her tail, so she dashed through the streets, zigzagging through alleys until she finally lost them...


    A spark of realization lit up Nathalie''s eyes. It was here she had found the boy. She had named him Nathan.


    She raised him for a year-a kid so stunningly beautiful and impossibly smart. But sadly, one day, he vanished.


    Ah, all good things must end.


    Nathalie had always epted the ebb and flow of life, yet deep down, she still wished. How amazing would it be to see him again? Just to know he was doing okay?


    She clumsily got back on her feet...


    Lizzy hurried over with an umbre, looking worried. "You''re not well. You said,


    can''t stay in the rain," she well. You


    covering Nathalie with most of the


    umbre.


    "Thank you," Nathalie murmured, touched by Lizzy''s kindness. Then she added, "Nathan giving me a friend like you is the best gift I''ve ever received..."


    As she spoke, a realization dawned


    on her, her face growing serious. Nathan? Both had those


    indescribably beautiful eyes. Both relied on herpletely, trusted her.


    Could it be they were the same person?


    Suddenly everything clicked for Nathalie. So, the person Lizzy had mentioned, the one who lived for her and valued her life above his own, was Nathan?novelbin


    Nathalie stumbled back to the car, almost in a daze. The tangled memories of her time with Nathan were beginning to fall into ce.

 Chapter 418

    thinking he hadn''t noticed her daughter had passed. How could someone as sharp as Nathan not have known?


    She recalled a past life where she trudged along a mountain path, weighed down by despair and the lifeless body of her daughter. Nathan had shown up out of the blue, unfazed by her daughter''s cold form, lifting her gently in and out of the car. Back then, she was naive, His arrival wasn''t just a twist of fate. It was a deliberate act to be there for her. So, when she attempted to take her own life, the fading echoes of him calling her "Nathalie" and his heartfelt cries weren''t mere hallucinations-he truly grieved for her.


    Lizzy was at the wheel, the car slicing through the rain like a knife. Nathalie stared out the window, but all she could see was Nathan, tirelessly running toward her.


    "Lizzy, step on it." Nathalie was anxious to get home.


    She remembered the diary Nathan handed her before he left, casually saying, "Feel free to read it anytime." For so long, she treated it as his private world, locking it away in a drawer. Now, it seemed, that diary might hold secrets he wanted to share but couldn''t find the words to say.


    Lizzy floored the gas pedal, sending the car racing down the streets.


    At Rond Corporation, Cameron sat uneasily in his office. His phoney on the desk, disying photos of him and Greta-childhood sweethearts, back in their carefree days. Back then, his smile was bright, and Greta''s eyes sparkled with rity. They yed on the grass, studied in the library, and ran on the sports field together. From awkward teens to young adults, they grew up side by side.


    But now, shadows and fatigue clouded his face, and her eyes had turnedplex and distant. Cameron painfully flipped his phone face down, cradling his head in his hands, murmuring, "Greta, what am I supposed to do with you?"


    He felt a twinge of resentment


    towards Nathalie. If she hadn''t


    unexpectedly exposed Greta''s


    secret, he might have continued to avoid the issue. Now he had to face it head on. Should he forgive her, pretend nothing happened, and keep living together? Or should he confront her mistakes, pushing her fragile state to the edge to finally release his pent-up anger?


    Cameron was at a loss. Yet, Greta''s presence haunted him, her call


    breaking his thoughts. He closed his


    eyes, hesitated briefly, then


    decisively picked up the phone.novelbin


    It was Greta, her voice soft, pleading, "Cameron, can youe and take me home?" Her tone was gentle, as if their earlier heated argument had never happened. Cameron was incensed. "Your kidney disease has red up again; you need to be in the hospital. Why are you insisting on going home now?"


    Greta sounded defeated, "I can''t afford the treatment. I might as well go home and wait for the end."


    Cameron clenched his teeth. "Don''t worry, Greta. We''re still married, so I''ll cover your medical bills."


    Greta replied, "When I get better, you''ll divorce me, won''t you? If that''s the case, maybe it''s better if I never recover."


    "Whatever." Cameron snapped, hanging up abruptly.


    Greta stared at the phone, the busy


    signal buzzing in her ear, her face


    turning pale: The Cameron who


    once would have done anything for her now seemed so distant, a. change she struggled to<pprehend.

 Chapter 419

    "Cameron, I hope you don''t regret this," Greta spat out, her voiceced with anger as she gritted her teeth.novelbin


    Turning her back on the hospital, Greta made a bold exit while the doctor''s attention was elsewhere. She was determined, slipping away quietly and unnoticed.


    Her destination was Patrick and Miranda''s small apartment. Patrick was stuck in a wheelchair, only able to move his head. Miranda, on the other hand, managed to shuffle around slowly with the help of a cane. Life hadn''t been easy for these two. They''d been through the wringer. But somehow, all those struggles had left them with a calm eptance. You could see it in the rare sense of peace that seemed to rest on their faces.


    When Greta barged through the door, the elderly couple exchanged wary nces. There was no joyous reunion, no warmth for Greta, just a guarded look. Greta seemed oblivious to their demeanor. She threw herself into Patrick''s arms, sobbing. "Dad, they''re all against me. Everyone''s picking on me."


    Patrick''s voice was muffled, barely more than a whisper. "I''m too old to help you now, Greta. You have to figure things out on your own." Through her tears, Greta looked up at him, feeling like her heart had just dropped into a bottomless pit. "Dad, do you not love me anymore?" Patrick replied, "Of course I love you, but I can''t do anything..."


    Greta broke down, her tears flowing freely. "Dad, my kidney disease is back. Cameron wants a divorce. What am I supposed to do if you turn your back on me? How am I supposed to live?"


    Miranda stepped in, gently trying to pull her away. "Greta, look at your dad. He''s stuck in that wheelchair, can''t move a muscle below his neck. He deserves some peace, don''t you think?"


    Greta shoved Miranda to the floor. "Stay out of it. He''s my dad. He loves me the most... He won''t abandon me."


    Miranda struggled, her frail body making it hard to get back up. Patrick watched her, his eyes misty.


    He red at Greta. "Apologize to your mother."


    Greta was taken aback. "Dad, are you serious? You''ve always said marrying her was your biggest mistake. You said the only good thing she did was giving you a daughter-me."


    Miranda was trembling with anger as she stared at Patrick.


    A flicker of regret crossed Patrick''s face. "Don''t listen to her, love. I didn''t appreciate you before, but now see how you''ve stood by me through everything. You mean the world to me"


    Turning back to Greta, he was stern. "You onlye to me when you''re in trouble, but forget me when life''s good. I see your selfishness now. From this moment on, your issues are yours alone. And I take back what I said. Meeting your mom was the best thing that ever happened to me, while spoiling you was my biggest mistake."


    Greta stared at him, speechless. "Dad, do you hear yourself?"


    Patrick was firm. "It''s time for you to leave. Don''te back."


    Greta broke downpletely, her cries echoing through the room. "Why does everyone keep pushing me away? Why?"


    Patrick closed his eyes, tears slipping down his cheeks. "Greta, it''s my fault. I spoiled you, made you selfish."


    Greta ran out, her face buried in her hands, sobbing.


    Outside, the city was fresh and clean, washed by the recent rain, leaving the streets slick and shiny.


    Nathalie returned home, retreating to her room and locking the door behind her. She sat at her vanity, carefully pulling out the diary Nathan had given her.

 Chapter 420

    Unwrapping the thick velvet cloth, Nathalie found herself staring at ssic parchment paper, covered in signatures. There was Nathan''s, swirling across the page in a flourish like dragons dancing. Alongside were the neat, structured letters from his earlier days. In one corner, she spotted a few awkwardly scrawled letters: Nathan. The handwriting was unmistakably juvenile. Though the letters were tidy, theycked the confident grip of an adult, giving them a soft, tender feel.


    This handwriting was so familiar to Nathalie. It looked so much like hers.


    Tears slipped down her cheeks. "Nathan, it really is you."


    This was the handwriting she had taught Nathan. She was certain now. Nathan was her little brother.


    Gently, she caressed the parchment that held the weight of years, turning the pages slowly. On the first page, bold words caught her eye, "Parting is just a prelude to a better reunion."


    On the second page, she recognized the handwriting, a child''s letter full of innocence:


    "I''vee home. All your wishes for me havee true here. I have a warm, big bed, plenty to eat, and cozy clothes. But none of it makes me happy. I wish I could share it all with you."


    The third page.


    "I met my father and the witch who left me among strangers. They held my hand with ''kindness'', tears streaming as they confessed. They seemed sincere, but I didn''t believe them. You taught me: people''s hearts are unpredictable. You also taught me: it''s easier to change thendscape than to change one''s nature."


    The fourth page.


    "They sent me to the best school, but I never fit in with my ssmates. Every time they looked at me like I was a monster, I wanted to run. But, you said: follow your own path and let others talk." The fifth page.


    "Exam results are out, and I topped the ss Teachers and ssmates now see me differently, whispering about me being a genius. My


    grandfather even asked to meet me.


    en


    "He acted like he loved me, but I knew: giving love when things are good isn''t the same as supporting someone through tough times.


    "Grandfather''s love was because I was useful. It''s not like your love, so simple and pure."


    The sixth page.


    "I secretly went back to Rainbow


    Bridge to find you. But I st


    everywhere we''d been and


    find you. I felt so anxious, please be safe and sound.


    Nathalie read up to here, nced at the date Nathan wrote this letter, and tears flowed again.novelbin


    That was the day she met Cameron.


    It was also the beginning of her life''s darkest chapter.


    No wonder Nathan felt anxious-because from then on, they each took paths that led to nowhere. In their past lives, they only reunited at the very end. Hopefully, in this life, destiny would be kinder to him.


    The seventh page.


    It seemed a long time had passed since thest entry. The handwriting had be sharper, hinting at the maturity of a growing child. The entry read:


    "I had a terrifying dream. In it, a


    terrible


    health suffered greatly..."


    took you away. He


    Sweeted you into giving) kidney to his true love, and health suffered greatly..."

 Chapter 421

    "Your fate was just too tragic. A sweet girl like you didn''t deserve such an ending. Maybe the only kindness fate showed you was letting me find you when you were at your lowest point. "When I woke up, I was in a frenzy, vowing to myself that I had to find you. I couldn''t let you face the ending I saw in my dream.


    "Wwhere are you?" Page eight.


    "I''ve found you.


    "At the Dawson family''s banquet, I saw you standing with that dreadful man. I was terrified; how could my dream match reality so perfectly?


    "I''d rather think of it as a warning dream.


    "I have to stop you from diving headfirst into danger.


    But why don''t you recognize me anymore?"


    Page nine.


    "Lately, I''ve been swamped.


    "There''s so much to learn; my goals have shifted from just having enough food and warm clothes to reaching the top of the pyramid. Only then can I protect the people I care about. Page ten.


    "I''ve found a glitch in this world.


    "I''m ecstatic. Maybe this means I can reunite with you sooner."


    Page eleven.


    "I''ve shot up in height and be a lot stronger.


    "Love letters from girls often find their way into my desk.


    "They say the ss beauty has a thing for me. We''d make a great pair, apparently.


    "But I''ve realized I''m not capable of loving any of them.


    "In this world, the only person who can truly affect my emotions is you."


    Page twelve.


    "Following the clues in my dream, I ended up in Mn.


    "I knew you''d be here tonight.


    "Let me y director for once and stage a scene of my own.


    "I purposely put myself out on the street, letting the old witch''s goons rough me up.


    "My body aches, but inside, I''m thrilled.


    "Because, you brought me home again.


    "This time, I never want to be apart from you."


    Page thirteen.


    "You have changed.


    "It''s like you''ve been reborn.


    "Thankfully, you''re no longer infatuated with that man from the Dawson family.


    "Unfortunately, you are tangled up with him in a hate that burns ten times hotter than love.


    "I''m so upset. I can''t pinpoint where this feeling of loss ising from.


    "Later, my therapist told me, the deeper the love, the deeper the hate. I finally understood why I was upset.


    "Turns out, I was jealous.


    "I''ve fallen in love with my savior."


    Page fourteen.novelbin


    "You are driven by revenge now.


    "I really miss our time in Mn."


    Page fifteen.


    "Watching you drowning in


    yourhatred for Cameron and Greta, I


    felt helpless and heartbroken. If could, I''d trade my life to give her a fresh start.


    "This time, I hope your world is free of Cameron.


    "Living just for yourself.


    "Happy and at peace."


    The final pages of the diary were filled with line drawings by Nathan.


    Each one captured her face. He


    must have etched her imaget


    mind because every drawing.


    SO


    vivid and lifelike.


    Her angry look, herughter, her thoughtful moments... her every expression... Through those lines, both bold and gentle, she felt the weight of love for the first time. She realized she wasn''t alone in this world.


    After flipping through a thick stack of drawings, she saw writing that showed a more mature hand. Every word and sentence carried the authority of someone inmand.


    It was Nathan''s final diary entry, titled "Awakening."

 Chapter 422

    I woke up, and it was like a tidal wave of memories from a past life came crashing into my mind. I realized that the tragic fate of Nellie was not just a nightmare. It was a real story from a time before this one. I could still see her lying lifeless in my arms, her face as pale as snow, as if it had all happened just yesterday. The pain of losing someone I loved so dearly felt like it stretched from that past life right into this one. Just thinking about her death made it hard for me to breathe.


    I remember what happened after. I buried her and Nina on a quiet hill and sought out a priest to pray for their souls. The priest asked, "How do you want me to help her?" I asked about the ways he could pray, and after a while, he said, "I can help her cross over to the next life, but her anger runs deep. Even if she''s reborn, she might not find peace."


    "That can''t be," I begged. "Isn''t there a way to fulfill her life''s regrets, to give her some peace?"


    The priest shook his head. "She''s born under an unlucky star. No matter how many lives she lives, she''ll never find happiness. But, we could change her fate with the help of someone truly blessed..."


    "Do you think I could be that person?" I asked.


    The priest looked at me, surprised. "You have great fortune," he said.


    "Then I''ll give all my fortune to her. Please, change her fate. I want her to have no regrets in her next life, to be truly loved, have a daughter by her side, and live a long, healthy life..."


    The priest looked at me, astonished. "You''re asking for so much for her. Do you know what this means for you?"


    "It doesn''t matter."


    "Are you willing to give up your wealth for her peace?"


    "I am."


    "Are you willing to endure illness and pain so she can live longer?"


    "I am."


    "Are you willing to give up a perfect match so she can find true love?" "I am."


    The priest closed his eyes. "If that''s your wish."novelbin


    After the diary entry, there was a line in anothernguage. Nathalie took a picture and uploaded it online. Soon, it was tranted, "Your deep love and sincerity are truly moving. Lam willing to give you a chance to change your fate: if the one you love


    can return your feelings, will I


    remove all disasters for you."


    When Nathalie read this, she burst into tears. Her emotions were all over the ce, Her rebirth was because Nathan had given up his life offort and wealth for her. He suffered so much, was abandoned by those he loved, all to give her a


    better life. Nathalie cried unt"


    she


    was exhausted. She felt heartbroken for Nathan, more than words could say. She had known he suffered but now realized it was all for her. Her heart was heavy with guilt.


    "Nathan, you fool," she whispered. "Why are you so good to me? Why? I''m not worth it."


    Lizzy heard Nathalie''s cries. When she realized Nathalie had shut herself away for so long, she grew concerned. She went to the door, knocked gently, and said, "He wanted me to tell you: all he ever wanted was for you to be safe. If anything happened to you, he


    wouldn''t be able to bear it. For him, you must take care of yourself."


    Nathalie suddenly opened the door, and Lizzy''s worried face froze.


    Nathalie said, "Tell him if he has something to say, he should say it to me directly."


    Lizzy, defending Nathan, replied, "Hasn''t he said enough? But when have you ever really listened to him, taken his words to heart?"

 Chapter 423

    Nathalie was taken aback. Had she really been ignoring him that much?


    Lizzy couldn''t help but chuckle, "You forgot. Nathan doesn''t drink, he doesn''t eat takeout, and he avoids anything heavily seasoned or pickled... yet when you''re busy, you''re all about the takeout? Do you realize how his eyes go red and teary every time he sees you eating takeout?" Nathalie was lost for words. She had always thought of Nathan as just a kid, his worries nothing more than polite gestures. It was only now she realized he knew about her past life''s struggle with kidney disease. He spent every day silently stressed about her diet and lifestyle, trying to change her fate.


    "He really does care," she said, her voice catching with emotion.novelbin


    At that moment, she understood her peaceful life was because someone was quietly bearing the burden for her.


    Lizzy got more animated, "He also told you not to stay upte, but when haven''t you been burning the midnight oil? And he asked you not to get tangled up with Cameron and Greta, worried it''d bring you down and harm your health. But you''ve been blinded by hate, missing his concern..."


    "Do you know how many times he''s drunk himself silly worrying about you? How many times his eyes have turned red? And how often he''s gone to church to pray for you?


    "For all the love he has for you, I''m begging you to turn back, to see all the good in him. Stop getting involved with Cameron, and stop making him cry time and again."


    "Stop it. Lizzy, just stop," Nathalie slumped into a chair.


    She hadn''t realized how ungrateful she had been. She had such a decent guy by her side, yet she kept getting wrapped up with the wrong people.


    Looking at Nathalie, who seemed as lost as a stray, Lizzy wiped her tears and sighed softly, "In my eyes, you''re the best person in this world. Nathan is also the best. Why can''t the best people be together? I just don''t get it."


    Nathalie weakly said, "Lizzy, let me be alone for a bit."


    Lizzy closed the door and quietly slipped away.


    Nathalie covered her eyes, tears slipping through her fingers.


    "Nathan, I''m so sorry.


    "I''ve been so clueless.


    "You''ve been living in fear because of me.


    "It won''t happen again."


    Greta had nowhere to go, wandering the streets aimlessly.


    As night fell and the streetlights flickered on, her slim figure was cast into shadow under the dim light.


    After roaming for a while, she grew tired and plopped down on a weathered bench by the sidewalk.


    A group of shy-dressed guys, smoking and swaggering, came her way.


    Greta''s body tensed up instantly, like a coiled spring.


    They stopped in front of her, and one of


    asked,


    Nem, with a mocking grimet


    "Miss, are you all aed


    somepany?"


    Greta went pale, shaking like a leaf.


    "Do you know who I am? I''m with Cameron. Messing with me,


    SW resel


    you seared he''ll make you


    it?"


    Her words didn''t scare them off. Instead, they seemed to rile up the tipsy men even more.


    "Who cares about him? Ha, we might''ve let you go if you hadn''t brought him up. Now, you''ve just ticked us off,¡± one man said,


    reaching out to touch Greta''s face.


    en


    Greta didn''t dare move, "Back off. My husband will be here any minute."

 Chapter 424

    The men''s sleazyughter echoed through the air as Greta bolted, but her frail body couldn''t keep up, and the men quickly blocked her escape. Desperate, Greta dropped to her knees, pleading, "Please, don''t hurt me. Cameron really is my husband. If you let me go, I promise you''ll get a lot of money." The men hesitated, momentarily swayed by her words. "Alright, we''ll give you the benefit of the doubt this time."


    Later that night, Cameron walked into his home at ten, greeted by darkness and silence. He sank into the sofa, feeling a wave of loneliness wash over him. His mind drifted back to his childhood at the Dawson family mansion, filled with the warmth of family and bustling with diligent servants. Everywhere he looked back then, life thrived.


    As he grew up, he married Nellie, and they moved out to start their own household. The house wasrge but often felt empty. Yet, Nellie''s presence was aforting constant. While he worked, she''d quietly leave a te of fruit and a ss of water nearby. When he took breaks, she''d eagerly share hertest observations and amusing tales...


    Their home, thoughcking the grandeur of servants, buzzed with Nellie''s thoughtful energy. Unfortunately, Cameron hadn''t appreciated it at the time, unaware that one day all that warmth and life would slip away.


    His phone rang, the familiar ringtone breaking the silence. He nced at the caller ID, "Darling Wife." The words felt jarring. He declined the call and changed the contact name to "Greta."


    The phone rang again, persistent and unyielding. Cameron picked up, irritation evident in his voice. "Can''t you just let me have some peace?"


    Greta''s voice,ced with fear, came through. "Cameron, I''ve been kidnapped. Please,e save me."


    Cameron scoffed, "Really, Greta? Can''t youe up with something more believable?"


    "I''m not lying, Cameron. Please, you have to believe me," Greta''s voice trembled with panic.


    Cameron hesitated for a moment, almost convinced, but then remembered her act caught on surveince. Talking to her felt pointless, so he hung up.


    The chilly night wind seeped into Greta''s bones as she shivered uncontrobly. She stared at her phone, the busy tone mocking her, tears streaming down her face.


    "Cameron, don''t you believe me?" she whispered to herself. "Cameron, have you stopped loving me?"


    Curled up in a corner, she pushed


    herself against the wall. A fist suddenly struck her head, apanied by a harsh voice. "Didn''t you say your husband lovesnovelbin


    you? Didn''t you im he''d pay a


    He doesn''t care aboYou''re lying.


    fortune to ransom you?


    Greta, clutching her head, was terrified beyond words. "He just doesn''t believe I was kidnapped. Maybe if you call him, he''ll take it seriously."


    One of the men picked up her phone and dialed Cameron. After what felt like an eternity, Cameron answered. "I told you not to-"


    His words were cut off by the kidnapper. "Your Highness, your wife''s with us. If you don''t want her dead, you''d better cough up the ransom."


    Cameron, seething, retorted, "How much did she pay you to stage this act?"


    The kidnapper, puzzled, asked, "What?"


    Cameron mmed the phone down, furious.


    Greta sobbed, "Cameron, why won''t you believe me?"


    It took a moment for the kidnapper to piece things together. He kicked Greta hard, sneering, "Do you lie so often that your husband doesn''t believe a word you say anymore?"

 Chapter 425

    Greta felt a stabbing pain in her stomach that made her gasp for air. Curled up into a ball, she pleaded, "I didn''t do anything. Please, don''t hurt me."


    The kidnappers had gone to great lengths to drag Greta to this deste, rundown factory without getting the ransom they were after. They were now seething with anger. They took out their frustration on Greta, wanting to vent all their pent-up rage. Greta cried out in agony, her voice growing weaker until she finally passed out.


    "Wow, she''s really not tough, is she?"


    "Let''s not end up with a body on our hands. We better scram."


    Nathalie awoke from the most restful sleep she''d ever had.


    All her hate, all those bitter feelings from unrequited love, seemed to vanish in an instant. Nathan''s deep and unwavering love had mended her broken heart. She finally understood her purpose: to live for those who cared for her, not for those who hurt her. She felt a newfound sense of ease. But just as she was soaking in the morning''s tranquility, an urgent knock shattered her peace. She walked to the door and opened it.


    Two police officers stood there, looking serious. "Ms. Nathalie, we need you toe with us to the station," one of them said.


    Nathalie was puzzled. "What''s going on?"


    The officer exined, "Someone''s used you of orchestrating a kidnapping. We need you to help us with our investigation."


    Lizzy came rushing out, flustered. "Officer, you must be mistaken. She''s been with me these past few days. There''s no way she could be involved in a kidnapping!"


    Nathalie gave Lizzy a reassuring look. "Lizzy, don''t worry. If you''ve done nothing wrong, there''s nothing to fear."


    But Lizzy was still worried sick.


    At the station.novelbin


    Nathalie was shocked when she saw Greta''s condition. Greta''s clothes were torn and bloodstained, her face streaked with dried tears, and her hair was a tangled mess. It was painfully clear what she''d been through.


    When


    looked


    saw Nathalie, she


    get


    a wild animal ready to


    as if she wouldn''t be


    belongs to en.fied


    until she tore Nathalie apart.


    "Nathalie, it was you! You nned this whole thing. You hate me and want to ruin me!"


    The officers held Greta back. "Ms. Greta, please calm down."


    After a moment of shock, Nathalie regained herposure.


    She looked at Greta calmly. "I don''t know what you''re talking about. I had nothing to do with your kidnapping."


    The officers escorted Nathalie to a


    room to provide her recent


    ie


    whereabouts. Nathalie exined, have surveince cameras at my house. You can check them. I. haven''t left my bedroom in thest forty-eight hours."


    The officers were surprised. "Forty-eight hours?"


    Nathalie nodded. "I was a bit shaken, so I locked myself in my room for two days." "What upset you?"


    Nathalie gave the officer a knowing look. "Do I have to tell you?"


    "Yes, but don''t worry, your secret''s safe with us."


    Nathalie said, "Someone told me he loves me."


    The officer grinned. "Do you have the confession note?"


    "Yes," Nathalie replied.


    "We''ll send someone to collect evidence from your home."


    "Alright. Lizzy will help you out with everything."


    As Nathalie left the room, she bumped into Cameron, who had rushed to the station. He looked exhausted from his hurried journey, and when he saw Greta''s battered appearance, he visibly flinched.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 426

    Greta shot him a look that was as cold as ice, the kind of look that once might have been full of love but was now reced with nothing but bitterness.


    "Do you really hate me so much that you''d rather watch me get hurt by kidnappers than lift a finger to help?" Greta''s voice broke as she sobbed, her body still shivering from the memory of what she''d been through. Cameron shook his head frantically, his voice shaky, "I had no idea, really. I thought you were just pulling another trick on me..."


    "Happy now? Is this what you wanted?" Greta''s anger was palpable, but the physical reminders of her ordeal drained her of the energy to maintain it. Her voice, even when using, was weak.


    Cameron was utterly bewildered, holding his head as if trying to contain his thoughts, "I don''t know what to do, Greta. Please, forgive me. I never meant not to leave you there..."


    Suddenly, a thought seemed to strike him, and he lifted his head, his guilt morphing into defensive anger, "You can''t pin this on me. You''ve lied so many times that when you called for help, I thought it was just another one of your stories. How was I supposed to know you were serious?"


    A flicker of guilt shed in Greta''s eyes. Then she burst into tears, her sobs theatrical, "What''s the use of ming you now?"


    Nathalie watched them tear each other apart and felt a surprising sense of detachment.


    She realized she''d been quite foolish. So much time and energy wasted on this pair. It wasn''t worth it.


    Even if she hadn''t sought revenge, Greta''s selfishness would have inevitablye to light. It was just a matter of time before Cameron saw her true colors.


    Their so-called love was bound to unravel, leading them to go their separate ways. She''d wasted too much energy on them.


    Nathalie, like an outsider now,


    watched her former enemies face their downfall without a hint of emotion. She finally understood she''d let go of her past grudges.


    en


    Nathan, with his love, had healed her. Nathan made her realize she lived for herself, not for anyone else.


    Greta caught sight of Nathalie''s calm demeanor and felt a surge of anger. Why should Nathalie get to be so unbothered while she was in turmoil?


    1.n


    She charged at Nathalie, grabbing her shoulders and shaking her, using her, "Nathalie, it was you wasn''t it? You''re behind this kidnapping. If you wanted revenge, why not just finish me off yourself..." novelbin


    Cameron''s heart ached at Greta''s broken state. He red at Nathalie, "Nathalie, how could you sink so low to get back at Greta?"


    Nathalie rolled her eyes, "Cameron, can you use your brain? You buy into whatever she says, no wonder she''s got you wrapped around her little finger."


    Cameron snapped, "Got any proof you weren''t part of this kidnapping?"


    Nathalie shrugged, "I don''t owe you any exnations."


    Greta ranted, "Nathalie, it had to be you. You''ve always hated me. You told me you wanted me miserable and alone. This is so your style. Cameron, you know how determined she is to get back at us..."


    Cameron hesitated, doubt creeping in.


    Nathalie sighed, exasperated. She crossed her legs casually, "Greta, while I might have had a motive, I didn''t have the chance to pull it off."

 Chapter 427

    Crime Motive?


    Those words knocked Cameron for a loop right away. He and Greta, like they were performing a well-rehearsed act, took turns exining to the officer, "Officer, we''ve got some pretty deep-seated grudges with Ms. Nathalie from way back." Cameronid out the tangled past they shared with her.


    The officer''s eyes widened in disbelief, "So, you''re telling me Ms. Nathalie once donated her kidney to Miss Greta?"


    Cameron nodded.


    "Was it voluntary?"


    "Yes."


    "Then why does she hate you? Why would she want revenge?"


    Cameron had no words.


    Greta jumped in, "No, it''s because she hates me for stealing Cameron away from her."


    The officer, keeping a stern face, said, "So, Nathalie gave you her kidney, and in return, you took her man? That''s why she hates you?" Greta fell silent.


    Cameron''s expression turned defeated. He finally realized that anyone would view what he did to Nathalie as downright wrong. Nathalie couldn''t help but smirk.


    The officer turned to Nathalie, "Do you hate her?"


    Nathalie, full of righteous indignation, replied, "If you got tricked out of a marriage and a kidney, wouldn''t you hate them?"


    The officer looked at Nathalie with sympathy, "So, their usation linking you to this kidnapping doesn''t seem entirely baseless?"


    Nathalie scoffed, "I''ve already lost too much to these two lowlifes. I can''t waste any more of my energy on them. This kidnapping has nothing to do with me." Greta exploded, "Do you swear you had nothing to do with it?"


    Nathalie dered, "I swear, if I ever spend even the tiniest bit of effort on you two ungrateful assholes again, may lightning strike me down."


    Her words hit Cameron like a ton of


    bricks. He was stunned, watching


    Nathalie as the light in his eyes dimmed He once found her persistence annoying, seeing her as petty and unreasonable. Now that she''d let go, he felt a hollow emptiness, as if the world had lost


    all its vibrance.


    Soon enough, the officer returned with evidence. They''d checked Nathalie''s home surveince and confirmed she didn''t have the time tomit the crime.


    "Ms. Nathalie, thank you for your cooperation. You''re free to go."


    Nathalie headed home.


    After filing the report, the officer assured Greta, "We''ll do everything we can to identify the kidnapper and get back to you pronto. For now, go home and wait for our updates." Cameron helped Greta out of the police station, and they headed home.


    Greta wasn''t her usual lively self. Shey on the bed like a ragdoll, silent. Cameron had never seen her so down and it hurt him more than he''d admit. She was the woman he''d


    protected for so long, after all


    "Are you hungry?" Cameron asked, trying to bridge the gap between them.


    Greta took the opening, "I''d like to take a shower."novelbin


    "I''ll run the bath for you."


    Once the bath was ready, Greta struggled to get up, undressing right in front of Cameron before limping into the bathroom. Cameron saw the bruises and scars marking her body, some in delicate, hidden ces, and his heart felt unbearably heavy.

 Chapter 428

    Cameron slumped on the couch, his eyes reflecting an endless abyss of darkness. He couldn''t quite understand his own heart. Even though he knew Greta was deeply wed and didn''t deserve his love, the thought of her being humiliated and hurt was something he just couldn''t shake off.


    Greta had been in the bathroom for quite a while and hadn''te out. By the time Cameron felt something was off, it was already toote.


    When he burst through the bathroom door, he found Greta had tried to end her life by shing her wrists. Her pale, frail handy over the bathtub''s edge, with droplets of bright red blood falling steadily to the floor.


    Cameron''s eyes widened in shock before he sprang into action. Grabbing a towel, he wrapped it around her and carried her to his car, racing to the hospital with his heart in his throat.


    That night, Gretay in the emergency room, while Cameron endured a night of torment outside, reflecting on their once fiery love and how it hade to this heartbreaking point. Despite his anger towards her, he didn''t want her dead.


    Luckily, Greta''s wounds weren''t too deep, and the doctors managed to save her. She came toter on.


    Cameron, exhausted and disheveled, sat by her bed. When she opened her eyes, his were red-rimmed as he asked, "Why would you do something like this?"


    Greta was a picture of utter defeat, "I know you''ve discovered the secret behind Timeless Cycle. You me me for Nellie and Nina''s deaths. Cameron, I can''t imagine you forgiving me in this lifetime. My health has always been fragile, and loving you was my only reason to hold on. Now that your love is gone, there''s no point in me continuing to suffer in this world."


    Her eyshes fluttered as she continued, "Cameron, I know you''re in pain. But do you understand mine? Nathalie was born for revenge. She wants me to die alone, my body left to rot. I had hoped you''d protect me, so I could at least have some peace in myter years. But now, your love is gone and my parents are swayed by Nathalie, they''ve left me too. Is there any reason for me to keep living in this loneliness?"


    Cameron''s gaze softened with a mix


    of emotions. "Greta, we owe this to Nathalie. Let''s spend our lives. making amends. Once we''ve paid our dues in this life, maybe we can find peace in the next."


    Greta''s eyes filled with tears, her voice urgent, "I''m ready to atone, even if it costs me my life. But look at what she''s done! Do you know what those kidnappers did tome?"


    Cameron hesitated, "But the police cleared Nathalie, didn''t they? She didn''t have the chance to do it."


    Greta erupted, "How can you still defend her? Hasn''t she caused us enough pain? She orchestrated the kidnapping and made sure she


    wouldn''t get caught. Ca


    even


    if you don''t love me, can''t you see


    right


    from wrong?"


    Cameron replied, "I''ll wait for the police to finish their investigation."


    Frustrated, Greta said, "Just leave. You don''t need to worry about me anymore."novelbin


    Cameron sighed softly, "Get some rest. I''lle check on you another day."


    He left quietly, trying not to disturb her further.


    Greta''s eyes burned with a fierce determination, "Nathalie, I''m gonna bring you down no matter what."


    Back at home, Nathalie wasted no time in selling off her properties in the Capital. She sold the Brown family''s ancestral home and her own duplex apartment.

 Chapter 429

    Lizzy was taken aback by Nathalie''s decision, "If you sell the house, where are you gonna live?" Nathalie''s tone was calm and collected, "Lizzy, I''m thinking of leaving all this drama behind and spending some time in the countryside. Why don''t you find a cozy little vi with a big yard? We could grow our own veggies, maybe even have some chickens and ducks. That would be just perfect."


    Lizzy was still puzzled, "But, do we really need to sell the house for that? What about when we want toe back? Are you saying you might not return to the Capital?"


    Nathalie chuckled, "We''ve still got Nathan''s ce. Wherever he settles, that''ll be our spot too."


    Lizzy was thrilled, "I''ll get right on it."


    Nathalie didn''t see iting when an unexpected guest showed up at her door.


    Benjamin''s sudden visit caught her off guard. She stood firm at the entrance, blocking his way with a defensive stance. "What brings you here?"


    Benjamin sheepishly rubbed his nose, looking quite bashful, "Nathalie, it''s been ages since you visited. I was worried something happened, so I thought I''d check in."


    Nathalie shot back, "You cut off my livelihood, making it impossible for me to stay in the Capital. Why on earth would Ie to see you?" Her temper was ring. Benjamin assumed a superior air, "Nathalie, just as I can cut off your ie, I can restore it too."


    He watched Nathalie closely, hoping she''d soften.


    But Nathalie held her ground, refusing to ept any handouts, "No thanks. The Capital isn''t all that anyway. I''m not desperate to hang around. The world''s a big ce. I''ll find my own path." Benjamin looked worried, "Nathalie, what are you saying?"


    Nathalie replied, "I''m leaving the Capital to find new opportunities There''s no point in us working. together anymore, and I don''t need to put up with you. Get lost. You''re not wee here."


    With that, Nathalie moved to close the door.


    Benjamin quickly wedged his foot innovelbin


    Get


    the doorway, trying to exin, "Nathalie didn''t mean to cut off your ie. It was Cameron''s idea. He said if I clipped your wings, you''d be more controble, and then you''d follow my lead willingly!"


    Nathalie''s face was a storm of emotions, "How could he do that? Hasn''t he done enough damage already? Now he wants to destroy my means of living too?" Seeing Nathalie so upset made Benjamin even more frantic, "Nathalie, don''t leave. I can hand the contracts back to you. I promise to bring yourpany back to life..." Nathalie dismissed him, "I don''t want the contracts. And I don''t want your friendship either. Benjamin, don''t bother showing up in front of me again." Benjamin was filled with regret, "Nathalie, what can I do to make things right?"


    Nathalie thought for a moment. Cameron had yed her. It was only fair to give him a taste of his own medicine. After all, people value reciprocity.


    "If you can cut off Cameron''s ie, then I''ll consider forgiving you."


    Benjamin hesitated, "But..."


    Nathalie stood firm, "Benjamin, you know Cameron''s my enemy. If you''re helping him, there''s no reason for us to stay friends. If you can''t break ties with him, just leave." Nathalie gave Benjamin a firm push out the door and mmed it shut.


    Benjamin''s backside stung from the kick, but instead of getting mad, he grinned. As he rubbed his sore spot, a sly smile spread across his face, "What a fiery temper. But I like it."


    Then, Benjamin headed straight for Cameron''s ce.

 Chapter 430

    Cameron swung open the door himself, and boy, was he surprised to see Benjamin standing there. "What brings you here at this hour?" he asked, eyebrows shooting up. Benjamin''s eyes were zing red, like a leopard about to pounce. "Cameron, I thought we were like brothers, and you go and stab me in the back?"


    There was a flicker of confusion in Cameron''s eyes, though he had a pretty good idea why Benjamin was fuming. But he wasn''t about to let on. "You''ve been a great help to me over the years. I remember all you''ve done. Why on earth would I want to harm you?" Benjamin thumped his chest with a fist, frustration seeping through his words. "You think chasing after Nathalie is no big deal?"


    Over by the stairs, Greta had been eavesdropping from around the corner. The moment she heard Benjamin mention Nathalie, her face turned stormy.


    Greta was drowning in jealousy, her heart heavy with bitterness. She suddenly stepped out, ring down at Benjamin from her perch on the stairs, ready to tear Nathalie apart with her words.


    What was it about Nathalie that had even Benjamin under her spell?


    "What''s so great about Nathalie? Besides a pretty face, what else does she have? No education, no background. She''s been married to Cameron and even had his kid. She''s what you''d call damaged goods. You could have any woman. Why go for someone who''s been around the block?"


    Benjamin was seething, shooting


    Greta a devilish smirk, but his icy words were aimed at Cameron. "Cameron, this is your wife? I thought she was something special, the way you''re wrapped around her finger. But seeing her now, she''s nothing to write home about."


    His words sliced through the air like a knife. "In looks, she''s dry and frail, not even close to Nathalie. In character, even more


    narrow-minded. Sure, Nathalie


    divorced, but you know why. Anyone might judge her for that, but Greta, not you. You were the oth


    woman."


    He pressed on, "And you say Nathalie''s had a kid. But after your little kidnapping episode, you know exactly what went down. Are you really any better than Nathalie?" Greta was shaking with rage, her eyes pleading with Cameron. "Cameron, are you just going to stand there and let him trash your wife?"novelbin


    Cameron stayed cool as a


    cucumber, seemingly unfazed by


    ve


    ???


    Greta''s distress. Yet, he turned to Benjamin, saying, "Nathalie isn''t some girl you could be with. She''s gorgeous, sure, but she''s no pushover. She''s got a vengeful streak, and you won''t be able to handle her. She''ll be the one calling the shots."


    Benjamin shouted, "Cameron, you''re just stirring the pot because you have issues with her. Stop trying to mess with us."


    Cameron rolled his eyes at Benjamin''s cluelessness, deciding to spell it out. "Nathalie and I are sworn enemies. If you get with her, how do you n on dealing with me?"


    Benjamin snapped back, "Cameron, don''t forget your ce. You''re just an employee of the Rond family. What business do you have meddling in my love life?"


    Cameron''s expression darkened visibly. Once upon a time, Benjamin was nothing more than Cameron''s errand boy. Now, riding high as the heir to the Rond family, he looked down on Cameron.

 Chapter 431

    Cameron was simmering with silent rage. "Benjamin, without me, you''d be nothing more than a backup n for the Rond family."


    Benjamin shot back with a sneer, "Cameron, so that''s what you really think of me? Fine, if you think so little of me, go find somewhere else to work. The Rond family doesn''t have space for someone who thinks they''re a big deal like you."


    The tension in the air was palpable as Cameron and Benjamin locked eyes, resentment brewing between them. The once strong bond of brotherhood between them was slowly crumbling away.


    Eventually, Benjamin stormed off, leaving Cameron to copse onto the floor, drained and defeated. Greta approached him hesitantly, guilt shadowing her every step. "Cameron, get up," she urged softly.


    She attempted to help him to his feet, but Cameron abruptly pped her hand away, his voice rising in anger, "Why are you meddling in men''s matters? Even if Nathalie has her faults, it''s not your ce to speak up. Happy now? You''ve messed up my job, and now we''re both left out in the cold."


    Greta, holding her cheek with tears in her eyes, protested, "Cameron, I was just trying to stand up for you."


    Cameron shot back, "Thanks for your so-called help. How many times have your clever ideas backfired?"novelbin


    That night, a heavy silence hung between Cameron and Greta, worlds apart despite sitting in the same room.


    The next day, Cameron returned to the Rond Corporation. When he reached the vice president''s office, it waspletely empty-his documents gone.


    Looking at the bare chair, Cameron let out a bitterugh. "Benjamin, you''re really doing this?"


    He mmed his fist on the desk, startling the janitor who was tidying up. The janitor, clearly nervous, murmured, "Mr... Mr... Dawson, Mr. Benjamin told me to clear out the office. Could you please step aside?"


    Fuming, Cameron kicked the desk before heading off to confront Benjamin in the CEO''s office. But Benjamin was nowhere to be found, leaving only his secretary to handle Cameron. "Mr. Dawson, are


    here


    to sign your resignation? O


    has already signed it. You just need to add your signature, and you''re free to go."


    Cameron''s tall,manding presence seemed to waver. Benjamin''s determination to cut him loose was undeniable. How dare he.


    Cameron stormed out, and as he


    passed by the break room, overheard employees gossiping. "Did you hear? Mr. Benjamin secured a massive international deal. With that ourpany won''t have to worry about business for years."


    "People used to say Mr. Benjamin only stayed afloat because of vice president Dawson. Now, without him, he''s achieved amazing sess. It''s clear Mr. Benjamin''s got what it takes."


    A voice scoffed, "Who does Dawson think he is? He only got by by betraying Dawson International and riding on their coattails. What''s he done on his own?"


    "Now that he''s drained the Dawson family''s resources, he''s useless. And there he goes, packing up and leaving."


    Cameron''s fists clenched tight. He never imagined his efforts at Rond Corporation would end up being someone else''s stepping stone.


    A bitter pill to swallow, indeed.

 Chapter 432

    Stepping out of Rond Corporation, Cameron noticed the first snowkes of the year drifting down from the sky. It was surprising, given how the weather hadn''t turned that cold yet. For reasons he couldn''t quite put his finger on, a wave of sadness washed over him. Despite his many talents, he felt like a misfit with nowhere to truly shine.


    The Dawson family kept him at arm''s length because his father favored his half-brother. The Rond family was just as wary, fearing he might challenge Benjamin for his spot.


    He''d understood these dynamics for a long time but felt like he had no choice but to walk this path.


    With a sudden, bitterugh, he gazed upward, thinking how tragic it was that he''d ended up like a parasite.


    Gone were the days when he could strike out on his own.


    He wandered the streets aimlessly, the snowkes settling in his hair, turning it white. Eventually, he stumbled upon a bar he''d never been to before. After a brief moment of hesitation, he pushed open the door and stepped inside. The warmth and lively chatter inside were a stark contrast to the chilly outside world.


    A friendly bar owner approached him with a smile, "What can I get you, sir?"


    It was then Cameron remembered he was out of a job, his sry still sitting at Rond Inc., and his wallet nearly empty.


    He asked for the cheapest vodka, "The spicier, the better."


    The owner gave him a look of mild disappointment. Such fine clothes for someone who could only afford the cheapest drink.


    "Take a seat anywhere, sir," the owner said, his initial enthusiasm waning as he moved on to other patrons.


    As he scanned the bar, Cameron''s eyesnded on a familiar figure in the corner. He made his way over.


    There sat his father, Griffin, clutching a vodka bottle, his face a deep shade of purple from drinking, shakily pouring himself another ss.


    Cameron sat down across from him and just watched in silence.


    When Griffin finally looked up and saw Cameron, his face showed a mix of embarrassment and difort.


    Neither of them spoke, but the struggles they faced were reflected in each other''s eyes.


    "Happy now, Cameron? You''ve driven Dawson International to the verge of bankruptcy. Did the Ronds reward you with a promotion or a raise?" Cameron''s expression darkened as he thought back to the past year''s fiercepetition with Dawson International.


    Back then, he was on fire, tracking their every move and crafting detailed strategies to wipe them out.


    In just a year, Dawson International hadn''tnded a single profitable deal. Apany that can''t turn a profit for a whole year would be in a nightmare. They facedyoffs, pay cuts, employee exits... even shareholders bailing, making their situation even worse.


    ¦«¦¯novelbin


    Cameron smirked, feeling a twisted sense of pride. "Seeing you like this means my mission at Rond Inc. was a sess."


    Griffin was livid. "You tore Dawson International apart, and for what Now folks are saying: Cameron''s fallen so low he''s working for someone else. The golden boy is now a parasite."


    Cameron felt the sting of those words, knowing he''d be like a clinging vine in the end.


    But pride still flickered in his eyes, and with a slegrin, he said, "I didn''t join Rond Corporation for personalgrowth. My aim was to bring down Dawson International, to topple those who rose by feeding off me Now that it''s done, I have no regrets."

 Chapter 433

    Griffin''s eyes zed with anger as he confronted Cameron, "Cameron, even if the Dawson family crumbles, it''s like monkeys scattering after a tree falls. Do you really think you can just sit back and protect yourself?" Just then, a waiter approached and ced a bottle of whiskey in front of Cameron. He shot a fierce re at Griffin while yanking the bottle open.


    With the cap removed, Cameron threw his head back and chugged down half the bottle, the fiery alcohol burning his throat and bringing tears to his eyes.


    After gulping it down, he sneered at Griffin, "Do you think I''ve been living the high lifetely? Dad, thanks to you, I''ve been stuck in this mess. Right now, my life feels worse than death. Could it possibly get any worse?"


    "But hey, dragging you down with me, making you taste this life of disrespect, poverty, and struggle there''s a bit of satisfaction in that. I bet my mom would be thrilled to see this."


    Griffin''s eyes red red with fury. "You and your mother are both insufferable."


    Maybe it was the booze talking, but when Griffin insulted his mother, Cameron snapped. He shoved Griffin aside, shouting, "Who do you think you are? You rode on his wife''s coattails to climb the socialdder, living it up on the wealth I brought, only to ditch us like we''re nothing. You thought you''d live in luxury forever because of what my mom and I gave you, but you never expected to hit rock bottom so fast. While you were marrying my mom and having kids, sneaking around with your mistress, did you ever think about what would happen when your secret life came crashing down?"


    Griffin stumbled into a table, splitting his scalp open. The shock jolted him sober. He struggled to his feet, rage boiling over, and started swinging at Cameron, "You ungrateful brat! How dare you hit your own father? Aren''t you afraid of karma?"


    Cameron pushed him back hard, "Karma? With a dad like you, whose morals are in the gutter, carrying


    your tainted blood in my veins, I''ve already faced it. Cheating, ditching your wife for a side piece... Ha, isn''t my life just a rey of yours?"


    The father-son brawl was ugly and, given their high profiles, onlookers in the bar started filming the sh with their phones.


    Hearing the cameras clicking, Griffin snapped back to reality. Scowling, he stumbled out of the bar.


    Cameron, unfazed by the potential


    scandal, sat back down and


    vel:


    drinking, trying to drown his sorrows. Drink after drink, he eventually passed out.


    As the bar was closing, Cameron was still sprawled out on the floor.


    The owner, at a loss, shook Cameron awake, "Sir, we''re closing up. Can you get up and walk out on your own?"


    Determined to save face, Cameron staggered to his feet, "I can manage." But he barely took a few steps before copsing again.


    The owner helped him onto a benchnovelbin


    and, using Cameron''s fingerpne


    unlocked his phone to call the number in his contacts.


    After several rings, a deep, gravelly voice answered, "You little rascal, it''s been ages since you visited me!"

 Chapter 434

    The bar owner exined, "Sir, you''re at a bar. One of our patrons has had one too many and is out of it. I noticed your name was the first on his contacts. You two must be close. Could youe and get him?"


    On the other end, the elderly Will was taken aback, muttering to himself, "He put my contact as his first?"


    Will used to be the life of the party, with countless friends, women, and business folks calling him every day. Even when he wanted to call his famous grandson, he had to pick the right moment.


    Have those bustling, lively days be a thing of the past?


    Will, sharp as ever, seemed to sense that the world outside had changed dramatically. He propped himself up, calling out to his lifelong butler, "John."


    John''s hair had turned white but his spirit was still strong. He came promptly, "Sir, what do you need?"


    Will''s face, small and lined with wrinkles that shifted as he spoke, looked like a marite in motion. "I need to know what exactly happened with the Dawson family."


    John, with a grave expression, replied, "Sir, I just saw on today''s news that Mr. Griffin and his son Cameron have had a falling out."


    Will was shocked. "A falling out? Over what?"


    John hesitated. "I heard that Mr. Griffin forced his wife to divorce to marry someone else. In her despair, she drowned herself. Later, Mr. Dawson even scattered her ashes in front of Cameron. This provoked Cameron to take revenge on Dawson International. Thepany is now on the brink of bankruptcy, far from its former glory."


    Will, having weathered many storms in his life, stayed calm despite the turmoil in his heart. With regret, he said, "I spoiled him."novelbin


    Will closed his eyes, tears escaping his dry eyes.


    When he opened them again, as if having made a hard decision, he said firmly, "John, tell him about the mistress. Better he knows than be kept in the dark."


    John paused for a long moment. Finally, he sighed heavily, "Yes."


    When the former butler showed up at Dawson Estate, the ce buzzed with excitement.


    After all, Butler John and Will had turned Dawson International from shaky to a leading industry giant in the Capital. Their prowess was undeniable. So, John''s arrival


    seemed to the Dawson family like a


    beacon of hope for revival.


    Griffin, tears streaming down his face, felt like a kid again. Whenever he messed up, this kind old man would always fix things.


    He rushed forward, crying, "John, you finally came to see us!"


    Looking at Griffin, who was once young and handsome but now had graying hair and aged features, John sighed, "It''s only been seven or eight years, and you''ve aged so much?"


    Griffin wiped his tears, starting toin, "You don''t know, I''ve raised an ungrateful son. He squandered everything. I''ve let you and Dad down..."


    Butler John didn''t join in hisints but simply looked at Griffin quietly.


    Griffin seemed puzzled by his calmness. He grew anxious. "John, you''vee on Dad''s orders to save Dawson International, right?"

 Chapter 435

    John shook his head, "Not at all."


    Griffin was caught off guard.


    John didn''t seem in a rush to exin himself. Instead, he took a moment to scan the room. There were only a few familiar faces among the Dawson family''s staff; most were new hires. His expression grew serious. Turning to Griffin, he asked, "Where''s Chef Brown?"


    Griffin felt a wave of shame wash over him, though he couldn''t quite pinpoint why, and he lowered his gaze.


    Mrs. Dawson stepped in, her tone defensive, "Chef Brown was always making a mess of things, so I gave him a bit of money to retire peacefully."


    John''s face remained emotionless as he asked, "Really? And just how much did you give him?"


    Mrs. Dawson, brimming with self-satisfaction, replied, "A few thousand. Considering how clumsy and slow he was, that was more than generous."


    No sooner had she finished than John''s hand swiftly connected with Griffin''s cheek. He didn''t have much strength, but the act of a servant striking his master dealt a heavy blow to Griffin''s pride.


    Mrs. Dawson, fuming, stepped protectively in front of Griffin and demanded, "Why did you hit him?"


    John, maintaining his stern demeanor, ignored her and spoke directly to Griffin, "Uncle Brown saved your father''s life. If he hadn''t turned the car around during that ident, your father and I wouldn''t be here today. He chose to risk himself for your father, which left him disabled. Your father vowed that as long as he lived, Uncle Brown would always have a ce with us. And you allowed this woman to mistreat Uncle Brown. You are so ungrateful. You couldn''t even tell right from wrong. This is why the Dawson family has fallen so low." Griffin hung his head in shame.


    Mrs. Dawson, still arguing, retorted, "We''re not ungrateful. Uncle Brown is just foo old now, and he can''t help


    us anymore... giving him money to retire wasn''t wrong!"


    This was precisely the moment John had anticipated. He fixed Mrs. Dawson with a piercing stare, as if his experienced gaze could see right through her.


    "Do you know why I''m here today?" John asked her pointedly.


    A wave of unease washed over Mrs. Dawson.


    Griffin chimed in, "Maybe my father saw the news about Dawson International nearing bankruptcy and sent you to save it?"


    John let out a derisive snort, "Your


    father knew from the moment he fell


    ill that with yourck of foresight, Dawson International was destined to fail. Whether it goes bankrupt or not, he doesn''t care."


    Griffin''s heart sank, "How could he just stand by and watch Dawson International copse?"


    Then, something clicked. "So, what brings you here today?" he asked John.


    John shifted his gaze to Mrs. Dawson, then handed Griffin a leather envelope.


    Puzzled, Griffin took it and opened it. Inside, he found a stack of photos showing a young and attractive Mrs. Dawson in intimate embraces with another man.


    At first, Griffin couldn''t believe his


    eyes and questioned the evidence.novelbin


    But as he flipped through each photo, especially the one showing the man with his illegitimate child and wife, looking like a happy family at an amusement park, his disbelief turned into seething anger.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 436

    He was like a furious panther, his eyes a fiery red as he stared down his new wife. Mrs. Dawson could feel trouble brewing and took a shaky step back.


    As she retreated, Griffin moved closer. He was like a lion, angry and cornering its prey. "Exin these photos to me!" he demanded.


    "He''s just a friend, an old college buddy. We''re from the same hometown, so we were a bit closer. After our son was born, he grew fond of him and offered to be his godfather. While you were away with Cameron, I was on my own, and he helped out with some heavy lifting. I called him a few times, he was always eager to lend a hand, so I invited him over for dinner... That''s all it was."


    Mrs. Dawson''s eyes dropped to the photos, and her face went as white as a sheet. "Honey, please let me exin."


    Griffin''s face said it all-he wasn''t buying it. "A godfather? Really? I never thought my son would have a ''godfather.'' If he didn''t have feelings for you, why would he help out of the blue?"


    Suddenly, Justin barged in, pushing Griffin aside, his eyes zing with anger. "Dad, how can you treat Mom like this? Do you even know how hard it was for her to raise me alone? You missed every moment of my childhood. If it weren''t for my godfather, we wouldn''t have survived." Seeing his son call another man "godfather" so warmly shattered Griffin. Heshed out, pping Justin hard. "Ungrateful! I loved you, built up wealth for you, even at the cost of another brilliant son. Yet, you''re so close to your mom''s so-called lover."


    Mrs. Dawson backed up until she hit the wall, nowhere left to go, and pleaded, "Please, believe me, there''s nothing going on."


    Justin clutched his cheek, ring at


    Griffin with pure hatred. "You call that love?s love making me a bastard? Letting me be theughingstock at school? Is love making me a scandal, leaving me to hang my head in shame?"


    Griffin wasn''t the only one embarrassed; Mrs. Dawson''s expression darkened too.


    UTSA


    Griffin stumbled onto the couch, covering his face as tears poured out. "What did I do to deserve this?! thought if nned everything perfectly for you, I''d earn your respect. But all you remember is being made as a mistress and a bastard. If I''d known it would end like this, I wouldn''t have torn apart my own family."


    John shook his head, walking up to Griffin to deliver yet another blow. "You''repletely wrong."


    He handed Griffin another envelope, this time forcing it into his hands. "Take a look," John said with an air of mystery.


    Griffin, shaking, opened the envelope to find


    hiPaternity test inside, w


    showed no biological link between


    him and the supposed son novelbin


    It felt like lightning had struck him, leaving him stunned inside and out. After what felt like an eternity, he finally came to.


    Like a wild beast, he lunged at Mrs. Dawson, gripping her throat in a rage. "You bitch, you lied to me?"

 Chapter 437

    Mrs. Dawson was relentless, crying out, "Oh honey, I can''t make sense of what you''re saying!" Justin rushed in, trying to pry Griffin off Mrs. Dawson. "Dad, let go of Mom, you''re going to hurt her!" Griffin shot a fierce re at Mr. Cameron and barked at the servants, "Tie up Mr. Cameron for me."


    The servants exchanged uneasy nces, then stepped back in unison. That''s when Griffin realized his household had been taken over by his wife and son. The loyal old staff had been slowly reced by Mrs. Dawson, and the new ones were on her side. Justin shoved Griffin aside. "Dad, let''s talk this out. Don''ty a finger on Mom."


    Griffin couldn''t match the strength of the young and robust Justin, nor could he outwit the smooth-talking Mrs. Dawson. Defeated, he slumped to the ground, railing at the unhelpful servants. "You ungrateful lot, biting the hand that feeds you. The Dawsons have supported you, and yet you serve outsiders."novelbin


    Mrs. Dawson and Justin wore smug smiles.


    Mrs. Dawson, even more brazenly, added, "Honey, you''re getting on in years. Why not just hand the Dawson family to our son and enjoy your golden years?" Her words carried a thinly veiled threat. Griffin was livid, feeling as if his chest might burst.


    John watched the scene unfold, shaking his head at Griffin''s helplessness. Finally, he pped his hands, and in stormed a squad of bodyguards in suits and sunsses, eight in total.


    The room''s tension skyrocketed. With a swift gesture, John''s bodyguards moved in, restraining Justin.


    "Let me go. Let me go!" Justin yelled, his face flushed with rage.


    But the bodyguards heeded only John''s instructions.


    "Lock him up," John ordered the bodyguards. "Don''t let him out without my say-so."


    Justin, now truly afraid, pleaded with Griffin, "Dad, please help me?"


    Griffin, who had once showered this son with affection, now felt only bitterness after discovering he wasn''t his biological child. He


    pointed at Justin and th


    wheel


    "Don''t call me Dad. You''re not my son."


    Justin, likely unaware of his true origins, was stunned by Griffin''s sudden animosity. He looked utterly bewildered.


    Griffin''s voice was icy as he continued, "You don''t deserve to be a Dawson. You''re just the result of your mother''s affair. I gave up my own son for you."


    Justin had long harbored


    resentment towards Griffin, ming him for making him live as a bastard under society''s scornful gaze. But learning he was the product of his mother''s betrayal left him even more shattered.


    His status was just changing from one man''s illegitimate child to another''s. He suddenly erupted into hystericalughter.


    "Ha ha ha..."


    Mrs. Dawson truly panicked, dropping to her knees before Griffin, sobbing, "Darling, I messed up. But the me''s all mine, Justin is innocent, he knows nothing. Please, spare him."


    Griffin jabbed a finger at Mrs.


    Dawson, his anger making both his


    hand and voice shake. "I want a


    divorce. You and your son are getting nothing from me." Mrs. Dawson crumpled to the floor,


    utterly defeated.

 Chapter 438

    In and far from home, the winter had stripped the ne trees bare, leaving only their skeletal trunks.


    Nathan sat on a chilly street corner, d in a ck trench coat. His once youthful bangs were slicked back, exposing a smooth forehead, lending him an air of maturity far beyond his years.


    He stared vacantly at the barren trees, a profound despair settling over him. He remembered leaving the Capital, how he had finally gathered the courage to kiss Nathalie and confess the love he''d harbored for two lifetimes. Yet, for two whole years, Nathalie had remained silent.


    Herck of response was a clear rejection. He''d even heard from Lizzy that Nathalie had left the Capital to live in the countryside. Was she deliberately avoiding him? Nathan''s unease grew.


    A luxury car pulled up, and his secretary bounded out, barely containing his excitement. "Sir!" In his enthusiasm, he stumbled over the curb, sending a document folder flying.


    Nathan facepalmed. His secretary, despite his clumsiness, had a knack for making even the sharpest minds seem dull byparison.


    "Heh, sir," the secretary chuckled awkwardly as he picked himself up.


    Nathan got straight to the point. "What''s in the folder?"


    "Sir, it''s this quarter''s report summary. Dawson International''s two projects with us-one lost 133.578980-"


    Nathan cut him off immediately. "Just round it off, please."


    "Billion," the secretary rified precisely.


    Nathan nodded, feeling a headacheing on. "The second project lost 850 billion."


    Nathan did a quick calction in his head. "Dawson International is already hundreds of billions in debt. They''likely have to consider selling. Get ready to make a lowball offer."


    The secretary nodded. "Yes, sir."novelbin


    Just as he turned to leave, he hesitated, then came back, bubbling with curiosity. "Sir, who''s this Nathalie you were dreaming about?"


    Nathan was taken aback. "How do you know about her?"


    The secretary grinned sheepishly. "Sir, you were calling her name over and over in your sleepst night."


    Nathan chuckled softly. "She''s the one I love."


    The secretary''s eyes widened in disbelief. "If you love her, why not keep her close and ease your longing?"


    Nathan sighed, a hint of


    self-mockery in his voice. "I guess I''m not charming enough for her. She''s just not interested.".


    belongs to en.ent


    The secretary''s jaw dropped. "Someone doesn''t love you? Is she out of her mind?"


    Nathan red yfully. "The only one with a screw loose is you. With an IQ of 240, who can keep up with you?"

 Chapter 439

    The secretary yfully smacked his own cheek and said, "Sir, those women in the business world act all prim and proper, like they''re nuns or something. But when they see you, they can''t take their eyes off you!" Nathan''s expression turned stormy. "Are youplimenting me or making fun of me for relying on my looks?"


    The secretary chuckled nervously, "Even guys find it hard to keep their cool around you. I''m just curious, how could Nathalie not be into you?"novelbin


    Before Nathan could respond, the secretary made a quick getaway.


    Fuming, Nathan hurled a folder at the back of the retreating secretary''s head. "I swear, I''ll send you to deal with those ''nuns'' tonight!"


    The secretary yelped, "My bad. Let''s just have Dominick from PR handle this sort of thing."


    Nathan slumped onto a bench with a heavy sigh. The secretary''s words had struck a chord. Objectively, he had the looks, the money, and was loyal to a fault. There was no logical reason for Nathalie not to be interested. Yet, even though he repeatedly asked Lizzy to find out how Nathalie felt about him, Nathalie always dodged the topic.


    He couldn''t quite grasp what was going on in Nathalie''s mind. He worried that his initial, impulsive confession had scared her off.


    What if she still hadn''t forgiven him for that unnned kiss? How would he face her once he was back?


    Nathan had been away from the Capital for two years, and his longing for Nathalie only intensified over time. With thepany now on solid footing, it was time for him to return.


    But he found himself hesitating.


    "Ugh," Nathan sighed deeply.


    From a distance, the secretary called out, "Benjamin is pushing for us to sign the contract. Have you decided when you''re heading back to the Capital?"


    Nathan blurted out, "Book the first avable flight."


    The words surprised even him. Was he really ready to go back?


    The secretary muttered, "So timid."


    Two dayster, Nathan''s ne touched down at Capital Airport.


    The Dawson family was inplete chaos. Griffin, in his sixties, was battling problems both inside and out.


    His young, beautiful wife had been unfaithful, and the son he''d raised for over twenty years turned out to be the result of her affair. Now, as he was getting a divorce, he found out she had already moved all their assets.


    Meanwhile, Dawson International was struggling because Griffin''s biological son, Cameron, had teamed up with Rond


    Corporation, forcing thepany into overseas markets where they kept losing money due tock of experience. Now, Dawson International was under siege from all sides, leaving Griffin stressed and bedridden.


    Following Will''s guidance, John stepped in to manage Dawson International. His first move was to bring Mr. Cameron back.


    "Mr. Will said Cameron is the future of the Dawson family." John proimed.


    The person sent to bring Cameron home was Aunt Marian, a long-time family elder.


    Aunt Marian had taken care of both Griffin and Cameron over the years. in her seventies, ber


    Despite ?


    lifetime of hard work kept her spry.


    When she arrived at Cameron''s ce, it was Greta who answered the door.


    Aunt Marian gave Greta a once-over. She didn''t particrly like her, so she got straight to the point, "Where''s Cameron?"


    Greta eyed her warily, "Who are you? What do you want with him?"

 Chapter 440

    Marian''s voice was icy as she said, "I''m from the Dawson family, and I''m here to take him back home."


    Greta''s eyes lit up, quickly calcting how Cameron''s value would skyrocket once he returned to the Dawson fold. She was over the moon. Her demeanor shifted to one of warmth, "Please, have a seat. I''ll call him right away and get him home as soon as possible." With an air of aloofness, Marian stepped inside. As Greta dialed Cameron, Marian took a moment to survey the humble home, tears welling up in her eyes. "My dear Cameron," she sighed, "born with every advantage, yet here he is, living in such a modest ce because


    of a poor choice in a partner."


    Greta was taken aback. How could this servant from the Dawson family dare to insult her, thedy of the house?


    Marian''s disdain was clear, and Greta wasn''t about to try to win her over. She sat silently to the side, tension hanging in the air as they awaited Cameron''s return.novelbin


    When Cameron finally stumbled in, smelling of alcohol, his eyes grew misty upon seeing Marian.


    "Marian," he whispered.


    Her frail fists lightly tapped his arm, feigning reproach, "Why haven''t youe to see me? Do you want me to pass with an unsettled heart?"


    Cameron''s voice was thick with emotion, "I wanted to, but I couldn''t go back there."


    Marian seized the moment, "I''vee today to take you back."


    Cameron was firm, "I''m not going back."


    Marian pressed on, "Cameron, your father''s sick. Your stepmother''s been moving the family''s assets. Dawson International is falling apart and needs you to step in and fix


    things."


    en


    A wry smile crossed Cameron''s face, "A man who loses his wife loses his fortune. I''m facing my consequences, just as he is. It''s the Dawson family''s karma." Greta felt a shiver. Cameron, though silent, was clearly burdened with guilt over Nathalie, and he regretted his past actions.


    Marian continued, "If Dawson


    International crumbles, countless


    employees will lose their jobs. You''re not just saving apany by going back you''re saving the livelihoods of innocent people."


    Cameron remained unmoved.


    Marian yed herst card, "Your grandfather is managing things now, but he''s ny and frail, stuck in the hospital. If you take charge, he can finally rest easy." Cameron paused, the mention of his grandfather, Will was perhaps the one person who loved him unconditionally. His name softened his resolve.


    Marian delivered a final blow, "Don''t you want justice for your mother? Your stepmother and brother are imprisoned by your father. Now''s your chance to settle scores."


    Cameron thought of the pain his


    stepmother caused, the scattering of his mother''s ashes. The opportunity for retribution swayed him. He agreed. "Marian, let me pack my things, and I''lle with you."


    Just as he finished speaking, Greta, who had been eavesdropping, rushed out. Clinging to Cameron, she pleaded, "If you''re leaving, take me with you."

 Chapter 441

    Cameron paused for a moment. He and Greta weren''t officially divorced yet, and he still felt a sense of duty towards her. So, he nodded in agreement.


    At Rond Corporation, In Mr. Mason''s office, Gavin wasfortably seated in the luxurious swivel chair reserved for the chairman. Benjamin, standing next to him, was buzzing with excitement as he shared his recent achievements. "Dad, we''ve got a response from our overseas partners. Their CEO is already on a flight to the capital. We''re set to sign the contract with him in the next few days. Once that''s done, our business will be secure for years toe." Gavin beamed with pride at his son''s sess, but he also knew Benjamin''s tendency to act recklessly. He couldn''t resist offering some advice. "This project involves a lot of money, so make sure you go over the contract terms thoroughly." Benjamin was brimming with confidence. "Don''t worry, Dad. You''ve had Mr. Gyle with me every step of the way. If there''s any issue with the project, he will catch it."


    Gavin nodded, reassured. "True enough. Mr. Gyle has been with me since I got married. He''s as loyal as theye. Make sure to consult with him often." Benjamin nodded. "I got it, Dad."


    Gavin suddenly remembered something and paused. "Benjamin, once you nail this project, I''ll officially hand over Rond Corporation to you."


    Benjamin was a bit taken aback. "Dad, you''re in great health. There''s no rush."


    Gavin chuckled. "With Cameron and Nathan-the biggest threats to you-out of the picture, Rond Inc. is in a strong position. It''s better for you to take over sooner, so I can retire early and enjoy traveling with your mom." Benjamin smiled, feeling content. "I''ll follow your lead, Dad."


    Winter had settled in some time ago, and the first big storm of the season had just arrived.


    Nathan parked his car outside the cemetery, grabbed an umbre, and walked to his mother''s gravesite.


    His mother had passed away young. The rain had washed her


    photograph on the tombstone clean, emphasizing her ethereal beauty and making her look even more stunning.  en


    Nathan gazed at his mother''s face. There was a resemnce between them, though Nathan''s features were sharper. Both shared simr traits, yet each exuded their own unique charm.


    After staring at her face for too long, Nathan''s vision blurred. Her once radiant face morphed into


    something grotesque in his mind. Then, the harsh sound of a collision echoed in his memory.


    It was the sound of his mother''s vibrant body hitting the cold, hard floor.


    The scene of his mother''s death, which had haunted Nathan for seventeen years, reyed in his mind.


    That day, she had put on her most beautiful dress, kissed the three-year-old him goodbye, and left him at her best friend''s house.


    She never imagined he would sneak back into her car, hiding in the trunk, and return home with her. He then witnessed his mother jump from the rooftop. That event had made him stop speaking. He became silent.


    Because of this, his father didn''t favor him, and his stepmother liked him even less.


    It wasn''t until his stepmother abandoned him on the streets, and he was taken by human traffickers, that he was finally rescued by Nellie at the age of six. Her kindness, lively spirit, and warmth brought him back from silence.novelbin

 Chapter 442

    Nathan felt a sharp pang in his heart. "Mom."


    His face was etched with pain.


    "Mom, today is the anniversary of your passing. I''m here to see you.


    "It''s been seventeen years since you left me. I''m sorry I haven''t visited more.


    "I''ve had my reasons.


    "Mom, you trusted me to your best friend and then left this world without a second nce. But you never knew the man who took Dad away was actually your best friend. And you certainly didn''t know that she broke her promise and handed me over to traffickers... "Mom, I''m telling you the truth today because tomorrow I''m going to confront them once and for all. I hope you won''t me me for being too harsh."


    The rain poured down harder, the wind ripping Nathan''s umbre away and leaving him exposed to the storm''s wrath.


    He let the umbre go and knelt, defeated, in front of the tombstone.


    ...


    When Cameron returned to the Dawson Estate with his wife Greta, he gazed at the once-grand estate, his eyes heavy with nostalgia and sorrow.


    He could still picture his childhood, surrounded by family and friends at the estate. But now, those greeting him were either old, frail, or strangers.


    Marian stepped up to exin, "Mr. Cameron you must remember these old servants. They''ve been loyal to the Dawson Estate despite their age. The others are new hires from the market, reliable too."


    Cameron sighed, realizing the estate now depended on these aging individuals, a symbol of its fading glory.


    He nodded, his mind shifting to thoughts of his stepmother, the one who drove his mother to despair.


    "Where''s that woman?" he asked, his voice cold.


    "Follow me," Marian replied.novelbin


    She led him to the basement of the Dawson Estate. The old storage room had been cleared to make space for a simple bed and wardrobe for Mrs. Dawson.


    When Cameron saw his stepmother, her eyes burned with hatred. She red at him, defiant. "What are you doing here?"


    "To see your downfall," Cameron said, his tone as cold as ice.


    Mrs. Dawson sneered. "Watching my downfall? You don''t deserve it. Do you think you''re any better? You left Nellie, a good woman, for a jealous and spiteful mistress. You drove your own mother to her grave and made your father cut ties with you. You''re the real joke here. What right do you have tough at me?"


    Fury overtook Cameron as he grabbed Mrs. Dawson by the throat. "It wasn''t me who drove my mother to her death. It was you and my father. How dare you twist the truth?"


    Mrs. Dawson''s face reddened as she


    gasped for air, yet her defiance


    didn''t waver. She looked at Cameron with disdain. "You''re a coward. Your father betrayed your mother, and he''s the one who truly wronged her. But since you can''t face him, you take your anger out on us, the powerless. I despise you, Cameron."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 443

    Cameron snapped, "You all deserve to go to hell."


    Mrs. Dawson chuckled through her tears, "Remember what you said today. I might deserve it, but your father deserves it even more."


    A look of despair, deeper than heartbreak, crossed her still-attractive face. It was as if she was back in her student days, in her prime, when a man willingly stepped into her world of poverty.


    Back then, her mom was in the ICU, and there was no money for medical bills. Her boyfriend was just as broke as she was. Desperate, she cried her heart out at the hospital''s entrance. Griffin saw her, offered a helping hand, and gave her the warmth she so desperately needed, making her addicted to him like a lifeline.


    She fell for him. Hard. But just when their love was at its peak, he dropped the bomb-he was already married.


    She had slept with him. As a small-town girl who valued her purity above all, after wrestling with her feelings, she decided to stay with him.


    He promised that he and his wife were loveless, and they''d eventually divorce. Hanging onto that promise, she waited, day after day. Then her son was born.


    Her kindness and forgiveness turned into greed.


    If she couldn''t have his love, she''d take his wealth. She wanted it all for her child. That''s a mother''s love.


    Thinking about it all, Mrs. Dawson couldn''t stop the tears. She eventually became the person she hated the most.


    That one-night stand with her first love was supposed to be a tribute to their lost love. But from that single encounter, she got pregnant with his child.


    She always thought the child was part of the Dawson legacy.


    Life''s a cruel joke, huh?


    In the end, Cameron didn''t strangle her. His stepmom''s tears felt like fire on his hands, filling him with a deep sense of dread. He released her, issuing a stern warning, "I heard you''ve moved a huge chunk of the Dawson family assets? You''ve got a week to return it all, or else..."


    Cameron knew exactly where to strike. "Or, you might never see your son again."


    Mrs. Dawson was genuinely terrified. She stared at Cameron with wide eyes, "You can''t harm him. If you do, I''ll stop at nothing to ruin everyone in this house with thest name Dawson."  en


    Her eyes were cold and determined.


    Cameron froze. That look in her eyes-it was so much like How could he possibly


    mother who''s lost her ch


    He ended up fleeing in a panic.


    Rel


    His stepmom suddenly pleaded, "Cameron, I can return half of the assets, but I have one request. I want to see Nellie."novelbin


    Cameron stopped dead. "Nellie? Why do you want to see her?"


    His stepmom murmured, "You wouldn''t understand."


    Cameron hesitated for a moment, then walked away.


    Marian walked with Cameron,


    grinning from ear to ear, "It takes Mr. Cameron to get things done. If she''s willing to give back half, that''s a decent chunk of change. Dawson International can survive a bit longer."


    Cameron looked puzzled, "But she wants to see Nellie?"


    The Nellie who used to be so amodating was now Nathalie, who despised him. How could he possibly convince her?


    She''d rather watch Dawson International fall apart.


    Marian smiled, "Just get me Nellie''s contact info. I''ll find a way to bring her around."

 Chapter 444

    Cameron looked a bit taken aback, but didn''t bother digging into why.


    He was the very picture of a confident, grown man.


    Nathan strolled in Rond Corporation, rocking a pair of sunsses and a sleek ck suit with a crisp white shirt underneath. His time abroad had added a few inches to his height, taking him from 5''9" to an impressive 6''2". Even though he was only in his early twenties, his worldly adventures had given him a maturity that set him apart from his peers. The slicked-back pompadour he sported only added to his sharp, almost fierce vibe.


    Trailing behind him were two lines of people, reminiscent of a regal procession. His two standout secretaries led the way: one a tech whiz, the other a social savant, both indispensable in business maneuvers. There were the elite bodyguards, martial arts experts from across the globe, each one tall, poised, and exuding an aura of excellence.


    As soon as Nathan walked into Rond Corporation, he became the center of attention.


    "Way more attractive than any celebrity."


    The female employees couldn''t help but be drawn in by hismanding presence, his perfectly proportioned physique, and a face that seemed like it was carved by the gods themselves. They couldn''t stop themselves from whispering in awe, "Wow, he''s stunning."


    "He''s pure walking charisma."


    "How can someone look that good?"


    Nathan, hands casually tucked in his pockets, could only roll his eyes at their swooning. Keeping his cool, he told his secretary, "I can''t stand it when peoplement on my looks. Make sure it stops. It''s just tacky."


    Dominick''s jaw dropped, taking a moment to process. "Boss, I can handle anything else, but stopping this is harder than climbing Everest."


    Nathan shot him a look, managing tomand respect without raising his voice.


    Dominick looked as if he were grappling with an impossible task, "It''s not that I don''t want to help. Your presence is just too striking. Even I nearly fell for it when we first met."


    Nathan snapped, "Enough. If I hear anything like that again, I''ll personally make sure you regret it."


    Dominick looked genuinely worried. "I''ll never do it again."


    Nathan continued, "Since you love talking so much, make sure you us an extra five percent at the negotiation table. Fail, and consider your bonus gone."


    "Come on. I''ve already secured a 20% margin. Adding another five percent, even Mr. Rond isn''t that naive..." "Hmm?"


    "Oh, Benjamin!" Dominick quickly corrected himself, realizing his slip.


    By then, Nathan and his entourage had reached Benjamin''s office.


    Benjamin stood up to greet them,


    but


    Nathan''s event


    sembled a royal guard, left


    him scratching his head.


    Did they really need all this for a contract signing?


    "Mr. Nathan, please, have a seat," Benjamin said warmly, motioning for Nathan to sit.


    Nathan stood there, quietly sizing up Benjamin. His lips curled into a slight, amused smile. This guy didn''t recognize him?


    Well, with the sunsses and the height boost, not to mention his more refined lookpared to two years ago, it made sense.


    We


    Nathan didn''t hold back and took the lead seat without hesitation.novelbin


    Benjamin hesitated, then with an awkward chuckle, settled into the seat next to him.

 Chapter 445

    Nathan spent the whole time casually toying with a lighter, a cigarette hangingzily from his lips. Meanwhile, Dominick was the one deep in negotiations with Benjamin.


    "Mr. Benjamin, I''ve got the contract all set up just like we discussed, no changes to the terms. Take a look, and if everything''s cool, we can go ahead and sign," Dominick said, practically bending over backward, treating Benjamin like some kind of royalty. Behind his sunsses, Nathan exchanged a knowing look with the other secretary, both unimpressed by Dominick''s behavior.


    But Benjamin was eating it up. "Dominick, no need to rush the contract. I''ll have my team give it another look. If it''s all good, we''ll sign then. In the meantime, why don''t we head over to our Rond Inc. restaurant for lunch? It''ll be a good chance to chat and get to know each other better."


    Dominick, always the social butterfly, nodded eagerly. "Benjamin, you''re too generous. We''ve got a crowd, so let''s not put you out. Next time you''re on my turf, I''ll roll out the red carpet for you."


    The two were soon acting like best buds, almost ready to swear a blood oath. In a show of camaraderie, Benjamin signed the contract on the spot.


    Nathan couldn''t stand the sight, so he turned to Ford. He whispered, "I''d rather hang out with you. At least you''re not one to brown-nose."


    Ford, ever the straight shooter, replied, "Sir, folks often say I look like a bit of a fool."


    Nathan, while he might joke around with his own brothers, wouldn''t let others talk them down. "Well, those folks don''t look half as sharp as you, the supposed fool." Ford beamed, taking it as apliment.


    After a bit of banter, Dominick somehow managed to tter Benjamin into a tizzy, leaving him a bit lost in the conversation.


    Benjamin, full of bravado, imed, "Dominic, in the Capital, I''m the top dog of my generation. Choosing to work with me is your best bet. Right now, in the Capital, I''m the only one who can handle an order this big."


    Dominick''s ttery was next-level. "Benjamin, you''re clearly destined for greatness. This order is a goldmine, and this wealth is yours to grab. Soon, you''ll be the talk of the Capital." Benjaminughed, full of himself.


    Nathan wasn''t about to let it slide. "Isn''t Benjamin getting a bit cocky? I heard you''ve got a half-brother who''s a natural in business. Aren''t you worried he might swoop in and surprise you?"


    Benjamin was caught off guard by the familiar voice, momentarily thinking it sounded like Nathan. But


    then shrugged it off, figuring this guy couldn''t be taller, moreposed,


    or more refined thansed,


    He chuckled, "Haha, Sir, maybe you don''t know my family well. My half-brother, apart from the family name, didn''t inherit much-neither assets nor smarts." Nathan drawled, "Oh, really?"novelbin


    Then, ever so slowly, Nathan took


    off his sunsses, revealing a face that could stop traffic. Time had


    certainly


    been kind to Nathan. In just two years, he''d been polished into a gem rich and full of character.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 446

    Benjamin''s jaw dropped when he saw that familiar face. "Nathan? How is it you?"novelbin


    A surge of unease washed over him as his eyes darted to the contract. Just moments ago, he''d nearly gambled his entire fortune on this project. If it went south, he''d be left with nothing.


    Nathan gazed at him casually. A reunion of brothers should''ve been filled with warmth, but it wasn''t. As business partners, they should''ve been discussing deals, but that wasn''t happening either. The first words out of Nathan''s mouth shook his two closest aides to their cores.


    "Benjamin, I heard that while I was away from London for two years, you''ve been eyeing my girl, Nathalie?"


    Dominick and Ford almost spat out their drinks. Dominick whispered, "Boss, couldn''t you start with something... less explosive?"


    Nathan shot him a sharp look that shut him up instantly, making him shrink behind Ford like a scared kitten. Ford''s slim build did little to hide him.


    "Ford, eat more. You''re too thin."


    Ford shivered under Nathan''s piercing stare and replied, "Even if I bulked up, I couldn''t shield myself from Mr. Nathan''s intense presence."


    Benjamin studied Nathan closely, noting how much he''d changed. The youthful innocence was gone from his face, reced by amanding sharpness that made him seem unapproachable and authoritative. Despite this, Benjamin, having tasted some sess recently, had grown cocky. He wasn''t intimidated by the new Nathan and always tried to knock Nathan down a peg to make himself look better.


    "Nathan, since when did Nathalie be your girl? If she really cared about you, why didn''t she stick by you two years ago? Instead, she left and came to me, asking for my help," Benjamin shot back. Nathan''s face darkened slightly, his long, pale fingers curling beneath his sleeves.


    Sensing the tension rising, Ford and Dominick took a step back.


    Feeling the heat of the moment, Benjamin edged closer to his bodyguards. "Nathan, you''re not thinking of causing trouble here, are you? warn you, this is my turf. Even a dragon can''t overpower the local snake."


    Nathan looked at him with utter contempt. "Is that a fact?"


    He stepped forward. His bodyguards, moving like a well-oiled machine, followed in perfect sync.


    A pang of fear hit Benjamin as he wiped imaginary sweat from his forehead. "Nathan, if you try anything, I''ll call the cops." Nathan closed in, his tall,manding presence towering over the less-than-six-foot Benjamin.


    Looking down with an air of intimidation, he said, "Why would I need to lift a finger?"


    His gazended on the contract. "Benjamin, I enjoy watching my prey get caught in my web, seeing them thrash around like trapped animals, hitting walls, desperately searching for a way out."


    Even in his arrogance, Benjamin picked up on the veiled threat. "Nathan, is there something wrong


    with this contract? No, Mr. Gyle went over it. There can''t be."


    Recovering his nerve, Benjamin red back. "Nathan, even if you''re the big shot and I''m just the agent, you still have to y by the contract." Nathan gave him a look of pity. "Idiot."


    Inside, Benjamin trembled. Nathan''s hint was clear as day. Something was definitely wrong with that contract.

 Chapter 447

    He shook his head in disbelief, "No way. You''re pulling my leg. I''ve gone through the contract. It''s all in order."


    Nathan replied with a teasing smirk, "Oh, the contract''s spotless, alright. I''m not one to dabble in shady dealings. But whether Rond Inc. will actually make a dime? Well, that''s another kettle of fish." Then, like a dagger to the heart, he added, "You might want to chat with your old man about how he got chummy with Mr. Gyle. Trusting him like that? What a fool."


    With that, Nathan casually slipped on his sunsses and walked away with an air of confidence.


    Benjamin almost crumpled to the ground.


    At the entrance of Rond Corporation, Nathan and Gavin unexpectedly crossed paths. Nathan stood inside, Gavin outside, just a stone''s throw apart. Gavin greeted him warmly, "You must be the famous Mr. Morris, right? I''ve heard so much about you. Leaving already? How about staying for dinner?" Nathan just smirked, not bothering to reply. He knew Benjamin, indecisive as ever, would soon spill the beans to Gavin about who he really was. Sure enough, Gavin''s phone buzzed a momentter.


    Gavin shed Nathan an apologetic grin, "Give me a sec, please"


    As he listened to Benjamin''s tearful voice on the line, Gavin''s face darkened with each word, though the details were lost to Nathan.


    By the time Gavin ended the call, the atmosphere had chilled considerably.


    Sensing the tension, Ford and Dominick stepped up like loyal sentries in front of Nathan.


    Nathan gently nudged them aside and faced Gavin.


    Gavin pointed at Nathan, incredulous, "You''re Nathan?"


    Nathan leisurely took off his sses, "I go by Morris now."


    Gavin''s temper red, "You''d scheme against your own brother? You''ve got some nerve, Nathan! This contract? Forget it. It''s off." With that, Gavin barked, "Someone, stop them!"


    A swarm of bodyguards rushed in, encircling Nathan and his crew.


    Nathan remained unfazed, as if the world crumbling around him was just a minor inconvenience, "You really think you can stop me?"


    Gavin chuckled at the uniform look of Nathan''s entourage-their matching height, build, and attire, "Where''d you find these lookalikes? They wouldn''tst a minute against our guy, Mr. Bell."


    Nathan, calm andposed, replied, "My buddy Ford''s got a thing for symmetry. Everything''s gotta look neat, pretty, and useful. Maybe you''d like to see if my bodyguards can hold their own. Would be nice to see them in action for once


    Ford, puzzled, asked Dominick, "Who says good-looking guys are useless?"novelbin


    Dominick nudged his head away, "Don''t block my view. It''s not every day you get front-row seats to an epic showdown. I need to learn some moves." Ford''s head popped back into view, obstructing Dominick again.


    Sighing, Dominick replied, "Whoever thinks handsome men are useless hasn''t met our boss. In New York, he''s the man everyone respects. Who wouldn''t give him a thumbs up?"  en


    Reassured, Ford felt justified in hiring his striking bodyguards, finally rxing.

 Chapter 448

    Nathan''s unflinching demeanor left Gavinpletely taken aback. He couldn''t help but marvel at how, despite Nathan being just in his early twenties, he carried himself with the poise and authority of a seasoned leader-a stark contrast to Benjamin''s spineless nature. For a brief moment, Gavin felt a pang of regret. Why wasn''t it Benjamin, the son of his cherished wife, who had this sharp mind and steadyposure? Instead, it was Nathan, the son he favored less.


    Gavin, his face hard with resolve, warned Nathan, "Nathan, leave the contract here. Otherwise, don''t make me get tough with you."


    Nathan met his gaze calmly, as if he were merely watching clouds drift by-a tranquility more befitting an old sage than a young man.


    Compared to Gavin''s emotional highs and lows, Nathan''s elegance and well-bred demeanor shone even brighter, leaving Gavin feeling a bit ashamed.


    Perhaps embarrassed by his own son''s serene confidence, Gavin, now furious, shouted, "What are you waiting for? Grab the contract from him!"


    The Rond Inc. bodyguards rushed forward.


    But just as they neared Nathan, two figures sprang up behind him, moving with the grace of flowers blossoms in the air,nding swiftly to take down the approaching guards.


    Gavin stood there, speechless. He didn''t even see their moves clearly. All he knew was their speed was blinding, and in a sh, a dozen of his guards were down, groaning on the floor. Gavin gaped at Nathan in disbelief, astounded that in just two years, Nathan had assembled such top-notch talent.


    This only affirmed Nathan''s formidable capabilities.


    With a sly grin, Nathan nced at Gavin, "Looks like yourpany''s muscle need a serious upgrade."


    Gavin, now fully aware, pressed on, "Nathan, you clearly came prepared. Be honest, is there a catch in the contract?"


    Nathan nodded, candidly, "No catch


    in the contract. But the product you need to deliver requires a top-tier chip. That chip is patented by Maple Company, which holds exclusive


    rights."


    en


    Gavin frowned, "Don''t worry, if the contract says our chips have toe from Maple, I''llply. Sure, their chips are pricey, but I''ve got ways to get them..."


    Dominick chuckled, "Mr. Gavin, I forgot to mention, Maple Company is my grandfather''s too."


    Gavin was floored, staring ck-jawed at Nathan. It was hard to wrap his head around the fact that this twenty-year-old was the brain behind the famous Maple Company.


    As the shock wore off, Gavin''s


    anxiety grew. If Nathan, as Maple''s founder, decided to cut off their chip supply, Rond Inc. wouldn''t meet the contract deadlines, leading to hefty penalties...


    Gavin finally felt a chill of fear. "Nathan, you wouldn''t do that to your big brother, right?"


    Nathan''s voice was cold, "Dad, when you kicked me out of the Rond family, I thought you wouldn''t do that to me either."


    Gavin scrambled for excuses,novelbin


    "Nathan, my hands were tied. You


    and Benjamin are both my sons, and I care for you both. But with different mothers your bond is strained. I worried you''d sh over power, even risking harm to each other. That''s why I and your grandfather devised a n: to test both you and Benjamin''s abilities. Whoever seeded would inherit Rond Corporation."

 Chapter 449

    Nathan wasn''t having any of it, "So, letting my stepmom hand me over to traffickers was just another one of your tests, huh?"


    Gavin went pale as a ghost. He never imagined Nathan would remember something like that. He''d always thought Nathan''s silence meant he''d forgotten those childhood memories. Nathan shot Gavin a look of pure contempt, "Save the act. You''re no actor, and this father-son charade you put on is sickening."


    Then, Nathan stormed off without a backward nce.


    Gavin felt like he''d been hit by a truck, suddenly feeling old and worn out.


    Nathan sank into the car, all his tension evaporating as he slumped against the backseat.


    Ford, behind the wheel, turned and asked, "Where to, boss?"


    Nathan gave no answer.novelbin


    Dominick, curious, nced over at Nathan and noticed the unusual flush on his usually pale skin. He touched Nathan''s forehead and found it burning up.


    "Drive him home, quick, so he can get some rest," Dominick instructed urgently.


    Realizing Nathan was sick, Ford asked, "Why don''t we hit the hospital?"


    Dominick, knowing Ford''s stubborn streak, brushed it off, "It''s a heart thing. Hospitals can''t fix that."


    Ford, ever the science enthusiast, wasn''t buying it, "How do you know if you don''t even try?"


    Dominick sighed, frustrated, "Ford, we''ve been through this before. We


    24''s up. He''s just mentally


    wiped. With some rest, he''ll bounce back."


    "What if the fever won''t quit?" Ford pressed on.


    ¦©¦¬


    Dominick, at his wit''s end, shot back, "I swear,


    I knock some sense inte!


    you to see if your brain''s wire straight!"


    Swo


    Luckily, Nathan wasn''t totally out of it. He weakly said, "I''m alright. Ford, just take me home."


    Ford had no choice but to follow Nathan''s orders. All his questions fell silent.


    Dominick felt a brief moment of calm, but then remembered


    Nathan''s condition and started


    worrying all over again. "You Suret


    you don''t need the hospital, boss? If something happens, Ford with nag me to death?"


    Nathan just rolled his eyes. "Enough."


    Finally, Nathan had some peace.


    As soon as they pulled up at the house, Nathan started mumbling deliriously, "Nathalie, Dad doesn''t want me. Do you?" Dominick, startled, nearly fell out of the car. "Ford, something''s not right. Shouldn''t we head to the hospital?"


    Ford, sticking to his guns, replied, "You didn''t want to go before, so now I''m not budging either."


    Dominick shot him a look, "If something happens to him, don''t start bawling, you crybaby." Dominick carried Nathan inside to his room.


    The two of them stood by Nathan''s bedside like loyal guardians, ready to do whatever it took to keep him safe.

 Chapter 450

    Time was ticking away in the tense room.


    Dominick finally realized that just staring nkly at Nathan wasn''t going to solve anything. He started brainstorming, "Ford, we gottae up with a n to help him beat his inner demons." Ford shot him a skeptical nce, "You think you can help?"


    Dominick huffed, "Why not? I might not have pi memorized like you, but I''ve got plenty of ideas."


    Ford raised an eyebrow, "Oh yeah? What have you got?"


    Dominick rubbed his head, "Nothing yet, but I''ll think of something."


    He began pacing around the bedside, making Ford, who had a bit of OCD, dizzy. "Can you stop that?" Ford asked.


    Dominick snapped back, "Mind your own business."


    Ford sighed, "If you have to pace, could you at least do it in a straight line?"


    Dominick stopped in his tracks and quipped, "You really should get that OCD checked out."novelbin


    Ford pulled him over, more serious than usual, "Dominick, I think I''ve got an idea to help him."


    Dominick rolled his eyes, "You? Stick to your numbers, Ford."


    Ford shook his head, "Not me, Nathalie."


    "Nathalie? What''s that? Can you eat it?"


    "You could try, but if you do, Nathan would have your head."


    Dominick gulped, "So, who is Nathalie?"


    "She''s the love of his life."


    Dominick looked at Ford, surprised, "You''re sharper than I thought. How''d you find out? Howe I didn''t know?"


    Forded, "A few days ago, I


    heard him mumbling Nathalie''s name in his sleep after a few drinks.


    I asked him, and he told me she''s


    the love of his life."


    Dominick grinned, "Well, that''s a start. Love could heal the wounds he got from family drama... he''s bound to bounce back."


    But then a thought crossed


    Dominick''s mind, and his face grew serious Hold on. He''s lived two lives. If Nathalie was his love in a past life, what if she didn''te back with him?"


    Ford gave Dominick a yful nudge, "Why don''t you try to find her and see?"


    The two exchanged a knowing look and sneakily grabbed Nathan''s phone, each hatching their own n.


    Dominick suggested, "Search ''I love you'' on social media. Nathalie has to be there somewhere."


    Ford shook his head, "Nathan''s not that cheesy."


    Dominick agreed, "True, true."


    Ford, a bit lost in these matters, looked at Dominick, "Come on, think of something." Dominick almost started pacing again but stopped short as an idea struck him, "Got it."


    With a mischievous grin, he told Ford, "Post a pic of Nathan looking sick on his social media and tag it with ''Got a fever, no one to care for me.'' If Nathalie sees it, maybe she''lle running. Seeing her with perk him right up."


    Ford gave him a thumbs-up, "ssic Dominick."


    Watching Ford carry out the n, Dominick couldn''t help but feel a bit worried. If this backfired, Nathan would definitely not be happy with Ford.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 451

    "I hope Ford doesn''t spill the beans on himter."


    Out in the suburbs of the Capital, Nathalie returned from her little farm with some fresh veggies and fruits she had grown herself. Lizzy came dashing over, phone in hand, clearly in a hurry. "Hey, sis, check this out."


    Nathalie grabbed the phone, spotting Nathan''s post on social media. She let out augh, "Since when did he get the hang of social media?"


    But then she saw the picture of Nathan looking utterly worn out, and it took her aback.


    "Is Nathan really sick?"


    Her face was painted with worry.


    Lizzy hesitated, "Sis, actually, the boss came back to the Capital a few days ago. He asked me to keep it under wraps for now. He said he''s got a tough battle to face and wille see you once it''s all over."


    Lizzy sounded heartbroken, "Seeing him this ill, it seems like he''s going through hell."


    "What battle?" Nathalie asked, concerned.


    Lizzy replied, "His showdown with the Rond Corporation..."


    Before Lizzy could finish, Nathalie went pale. With her sharp intuition, she quickly grasped the gravity of Nathan''s predicament. It wasn''t just about a business sh; it was also about wrestling with the guilt of turning his back on family. Sweet Nathan, the weight of his internal struggles must be immense.


    "Lizzy, let''s pack up. We''re heading back to the Capital."


    "Okay," Lizzy responded, practically bouncing with eagerness.


    The night was as dark as pitch. The car zipped through the ckened streets. Nathalie wished it could go faster, her thoughtspletely consumed by Nathan.


    Meanwhile, back in the Capital, the


    city''s socialites, having caught wind of Nathan''s illness, transformed into detectives, each tracking down Nathan''s address and practically beating down his door.


    Ford and Dominick were initially over the moon, "Miss Nathalie must be here. The boss has a shot now."


    But after weing several waves


    of guests and realizing none were Miss Nathalie, their spirits sank, "Miss Nathalie didn''t show, and instead, the boss has be a ma for a bunch of gold-diggers. If he wakes up and discovers our antics, he''ll definitely give us an earful."


    Just then, Ashley arrived. She was decked out in an exquisite gown, with wless makeup and sparkling jewelry, practically glowing.


    Ford nudged Dominick, "Dominick, check her out. Maybe she''s the one the boss is sweet on?"


    Dominick nodded, "They do seem like a good match."


    Ashley, looking quite worried, came over, "I heard Mr. Cameron''s not well?"


    "Yeah, but who are you?" Dominick asked cautiously.


    Ashley replied, "I''m his fianc¨¦e."


    Dominick lit up as if he''d found a treasure, whispering to Ford, "It''s gotta be her."


    So, they ushered Ashley in with all due respect. "Miss, we''re not exactly nurses. We''ll have to leave the care to you."


    Ashley gave a soft smile, "Leave it to me."


    Then Ford and Dominick found a convenient excuse to make a quick exit, leaving Ashley to tend to Nathan alone.


    As Ashley approached Nathan, even


    in his sickly state, his good looks couldn''t be hidden. His features were as finely chiseled as ever, almost like a perfect doll, yet with the allure of a mature man, making Ashley, utterly smitten, fall even harder for him.

 Chapter 452

    Ford and Dominick thought they''d pinpointed their master''s true love, so they were pretty frosty with thedies who showed up afterward.


    When Nathalie and Lizzy finally arrived, looking like they''d been through the wringer, Ford spotted Nathalie in her country-style getup and turned to Dominick, wide-eyed, "Do we let her in?" Dominick, with his arms crossed, circled Nathalie like a hawk and then gestured for her to leave.


    But Nathalie wasn''t about to back down. She fired off a barrage of questions: "Is your master sick?"


    "Is it serious?"


    "Did you get a doctor?"


    "What did the doctor say?"


    Dominick cut her off, "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Our master doesn''t need your concern."


    Nathalie felt her heart sink. "Why not?"


    Dominick replied, "The woman who actually cares about our master is already here. She might be having a cozy chat with him right now." Nathalie was taken aback...


    Her eyes fell on the fancy car parked out front, and she recognized it as Ashley''s.


    It felt like she could hear the sound of her hopes popping like bubbles.


    So, Nathan''s affection for her had just faded away over time?


    And to think, she hadn''t put much stock in love anyway.


    Feeling embarrassed and proud, Nathalie decided not to stick around since Dominick had made things so crystal clear.


    She turned and walked away, her spirits low.


    Lizzy shot a re at Dominick and Ford, fuming, "You''ve really upset my friend. Just wait till our master hears about this!" She hurried after Nathalie.


    "Sis, are we just gonna leave it like this?" Lizzy was having none of it.


    Nathalie was feeling pretty down: "Lizzy, didn''t you notice? Ashley''s here. They were probably following Nathan''s orders to keep everyone else out."


    "But Sis, you''re not just anyone," Lizzy insisted.


    Nathalie sighed, "Maybe I wasn''t before. But who knows about now? Feelings change, Lizzy."


    She wanted to tell Lizzy that, in


    another life, Nathan and Ashley were the real lovebirds. So any feelings Nathan had for her were justca mirage.


    Lizzy shook her head, determined, "Sis, our master won''t change."


    Nathalie''s past had always left her feeling a bit unworthy, like being unloved was just the way things usually went.


    She climbed into the car, utterly spent, and shut her eyes to rest.


    Lizzy, pouting, drove off at a snail''s pace.


    After a deep sleep, Nathan woke up feeling all sorts of weak. He sat up, only to find Ashley snoozing at the head of his bed.


    Nathan was stunned, his handsome face quickly turning icy.


    "Ford, Dominick."


    Hearing their master''s annoyed tone, they rushed in, practically tripping over themselves.


    "What''s the deal?"


    As Nathan got dressed, making sure he was all covered up, he moved away from Ashley.


    Seeing things go south, Dominick was quick to point fingers.


    "Master, it was Ford. He said you had a special someone, that you were head over heels. That finding her would be the cure, no medicine needed." Nathan frowned, "And then?"


    Dominick Went on, "So he sent out a


    message on your social media. Seeing Nathan''s expression get darker by the second, Dominick, panicked, ducked behind Ford, pulling at his ear nervously.

 Chapter 453

    Ford, you started this whole mess. "You tell me."


    Ford wasn''t about to shoulder the me. "That crazy idea was yours."


    Nathan had a gut feeling things were going sideways, so he grabbed his phone to check his social media. When he saw that melodramatic post, instead of getting mad, he was unexpectedly calm.


    It seemed like things were spiraling out of control.


    Nathan surprisingly let Ford''s antics slide. "Did Nathalie show up?"


    Dominick and Ford exchanged nces, their eyes finallynding on Ashley, who was fast asleep. "Boss, who is she?"


    "Ashley."


    Dominick nearly tripped over himself in shock.


    "Boss, you''ve definitely got a way with thedies. So many girls came byst night-some were sweet and innocent, others were all sultry and morous, and a few were just down-to-earth... But this one, she said she was your fianc¨¦e, so we figured she was the one." Nathan''s expression was icy. "So, did Nathaliee by or not?"


    Ford, with his sharp memory, could recall the names of all the women from the night before. Except for one woman with muddy shoes, whose name he didn''t catch, but she was definitely not Nathan''s type.


    "No," Ford shook his head confidently.


    Nathan looked genuinely disappointed.


    Dominick tried to patch things up. "Boss, it''s possible that Nathalie dide by. There were just so many people; maybe we missed her."


    Ford chimed in, "She didn''te."


    Dominick was exasperated by Ford''s bluntness.


    "You''re mistaken, she dide," Dominick hinted with a wink.


    Nathan snapped at Dominick. "Are your eyes twitching or something?"


    "You really think you can pull the wool over my eyes with that?"


    Dominick was nearly in tears. "Boss, we just thought your issue might be a matter of the heart. Maybe


    Nathalie could help you heal so..."


    Nathan sighed, "You''re right. She could heal my heart. But did shee?"


    Dominick let out a deep sigh.


    Nathan continued, "If she doesn''t show up, it''s only going to make me feel worse."


    Another long sigh from Dominick.


    Nathan gently woke Ashley up. She opened her sleepy eyes.


    "Sophie, it''s time for you to head home."


    Ashley stood up. "Nathan, you''re seriously ill. I should stay with you."


    Nathan replied, "I''ve caught a really nasty contagious virus. It''s risky for you to be around me..."


    Hearing this, Ashley quickly decided to leave. "Alright then. I''lle back when you''re better." Nathan nodded.


    bet


    Once Ashley was gone, Dominick was visibly annoyed. "She''s nice to look at, but she''s not someone who''ll stick around through tough times. Definitely not a keeper."


    Nathan gave a slight smile, seeming to agree with Dominick''s assessment.


    The night dragged on.


    Meanwhile, over at the Yen household, Nathan wasn''t the only one having a rough night. His dad and half-brother were in the thick of it too. Andrew was livid with Benjamin, chewing him out all night. "You''re hopeless, always making things worse."


    "When someone sets a trap, you


    jump right in without thinking. Now, for the next five years, you''ll have to treat Nathan like royalty. If he''s happy, he might toss you a bone some chips, a meal. But if he''s not, he''ll cut off your chip supply, and you''ll be stuck with a massive bill."


    Andrew was beyond frustrated. "I finally got this thorn out of my side, and you''ve gone and brought him back. It''s maddening."

 Chapter 454

    Benjamin slouched with a look that was part innocent, part aggrieved. "Dad, you can''t pin this all on me. Even Mr. Gyle, as sharp as he is, missed the loophole in the contract. If you ask me, Nathan''s just too crafty. Mr. Gyle and I fell right into his trap." Andrew''s eyes darkened. "That doesn''t make sense. Gyle''s always been so careful. How did he miss Nathan''s scheme this time?"


    A thought struck Benjamin. "Dad, could it be that Mr. Gyle''s been bought off by Nathan?"


    Andrew shook his head. "No way. Gyle''s been by my side for decades. We go way back to childhood."


    Benjamin pressed on, "But Nathan spoke about Mr. Gyle in such a weird way..."


    Andrew''s face fell, a sudden thought hitting him hard, turning hisplexion pale. He stormed out, seething, "Gyle, Gyle. If you''ve betrayed me, we''re done." Benjamin hurried after him.


    They headed straight to Gyle''s office.


    Gyle sat calmly at his desk, and when he saw the Ronds, he just nced up with a serene look. The usual respect he showed was gone.


    Instead, he looked at them like they were fools, a slight smirk ying on his lips.


    Even Andrew, no matter how stubborn, should''ve figured out Gyle was up to something.


    Frowning deeply, Andrew pointed an using finger at Gyle. "Gyle, be straight with me. Did you know about the trap in the contract or not?" Gyle, middle-aged and wearing gold-rimmed sses, lookedposed. "The contract''s fine."


    Once suspicion crept into Andrew''s mind, he scrutinized Gyle intensely. "That''s rubbish. The contract specifies chip specs directly from the factory, tying us to using only Maple Company chips. And you know, Maple Company is Nathan''s creation."


    Gyle shrugged. "Mr. Nathan, my project oversight is impable."


    Andrew erupted, "But the main issue is that the contract you signed limits our raw material supplier to Maple Company, and our buyer is also Maple Company. We''re basically their subcontractor. One wrong move, and we''re finished."


    Gyle replied, "Then let''s make sure there are no wrong moves."


    Benjamin started to panic. "Mr. Gyle, can''t you see? It''s not about what we want anymore, it''s about what Nathan wants. If he cuts off our raw materials, we can''t deliver on time and will face massive penalties." Gyle remained unfazed. "Gavin, Nathan''s your son. How much bad blood could there be for him to bankrupt you intentionally?"


    Andrew waved it off. "You just don''t get it."


    Seeing Andrew''s anxious state, Gyle chuckled.


    "There''s nosting grudge between a father and son. Resolve conflicts quickly. As they say, ''like father, like son.'' If Rond Inc can snag this chance to work with Nathan, the future''s prosperity will be Benjamin''s."


    Andrew felt tempted.


    But another voice inside warned him: He won''t forgive you. You''re dreaming.

 Chapter 455

    Andrew''s face clouded over with a familiar gloom.


    Benjamin, captivated by the allure of wealth, earnestly urged Andrew, "Dad, Mr. Gyle has a point. If you just have a heart-to-heart with Nathan, we can put all this behind us. This project could bring a hefty profit to Rond Corporation." Andrew shot Benjamin a resentful look, feeling a pang of disappointment at his son''s willingness to switch sides so easily.


    In the end, he left Gyle''s office, feeling defeated and downtrodden.


    Three dayster, Nathan was on the mend, his health much improved. Even while recuperating, the fame of his Maple Company spread like wildfire throughout the Capital. Nathan''s poprity skyrocketed.


    Tales of his remarkable journey, his almost otherworldly intelligence, and his striking good looks were the talk of the town. Nathan became the number one eligible bachelor for the daughters of high society.


    Every day, a parade of wealthy young women arrived at Nathan''s doorstep with gifts, each morevish than thest. Dominick and Ford were nearly overwhelmed by the sheer volume of presents, most of which were incredibly luxurious. Ford always turned his nose up, "These gifts are so boring and unoriginal."


    Dominick, who had a penchant for wealth, replied, "Who needs originality when these are worth a fortune? We''ll just cash them in and buy whatever we fancy. Isn''t that just perfect?"


    Ford couldn''t wrap his head around Dominick''s logic.


    "Whether it''s gifts or money, I couldn''t care less. My heart only beats for Miss Nathalie."


    Dominick sighed deeply.


    He fished out a few sweet potatoes from the pile of gifts, raising them with disdain, "Now, this is something else. Sweet potatoes for a few bucks a pound. Who thought this was a good idea? Are they treating our master like a charity case?" Nathan, who had been listlessly lounging, perked up at the sight of the sweet potatoes in Dominick''s hands, his eyes lighting up as if he''d struck gold.


    "Dominick," he called, rushing over.


    Grabbing the sweet potatoes, he demanded, "Who sent these?"


    Dominick rummaged through bags of farm produce, "Whoever sent these probably didn''t dare leave their name."


    Nathan, clearly irritated, barked at Dominick, "I''m telling you, track down the woman who sent this gift and bring her here right away."


    Dominick was flummoxed, "Master, that''s impossible. She didn''t leave any name..."


    Nathan hinted, "It''s Nathalie."


    Dominick was taken aback.


    Muttering to himself, "How did Master fall for such a cheapskate?"


    Determined to fulfill Nathan''smand, Dominick pleaded with Ford to use his sharp mind to locate Nathalie''s address.


    Ford, through some clever


    quickly got hold of Nathalie''s address and handed it over to Dominick, "There you go. Go fetch Nathalie."


    Seeking backup, Dominick dragged Ford along, "I was blind to Nathalie''s value before and probably offended her. She might not even want to see me Ford, you have to back me up."


    Ford asked, "What can I possibly do?"


    Dominick, with a serious expression, replied, "You''ve got this naturally sympathetic look. Just pour on the pity, and Nathalie might be moved enough toe back willingly."


    And with that, Ford was pulled along by Dominick.


    SUMS

 Chapter 456

    After Ford and Dominick left, Nathan''s heart was pounding like crazy. It felt like he was going through sheer torture. To distract himself, he fished out a coin and started ying his little game of chance. Heads meant Nathalie woulde home; tails was not an option he wanted to consider.


    Every flip was a calcted move, ensuring it almost alwaysnded on heads. Nathan lost himself in this self-deceptive game,pletely forgetting about the time.


    Out in the countryside, Ford and Dominick found their way to Nathalie''s doorstep. Dominick was visibly jittery. "Ford, if Nathalie gets upset, no matter how harsh her words, we gotta just take it. We can only bring her back if we cheer her up." Ford nodded along, agreeing this time.


    Dominick knocked, but there was no answer for ages. Peeking through the peephole, Dominick whispered to himself, "Maybe Nathalie knows it''s me and is giving me the silent treatment?"


    Ford chimed in, "Well, you did start it by judging her too quickly and shutting her out."


    Dominick sighed, "Who would''ve thought a guy like him would fall for such a down-to-earth girl?"


    After a long wait with no answer, a disappointed Dominick threw in the towel. "Let''s head back. I''ll have to face the music with the boss."


    Ford let out a sigh.


    Just as they turned to leave, they nearly jumped out of their skins when they saw Nathalie standing there with a bunch of bell peppers in her arms.


    "What are you guys doing here?" Nathalie asked, curiosity evident in her voice.


    Dominick scratched his head, looking awkward. "Uh, Miss Nathalie, we came because..." He fumbled for words.


    But Nathalie, ever the friendly type, jumped right into conversation. "How''s your boss doing?"


    Ford answered honestly, "He''s hanging in there."


    Dominick nudged Ford aside and tried his hand at persuasion. "Our boss''s illness is odd-hits like andslide and leaves like a trickle He''s been so downtely... If only you could visit him, Miss Nathalie, I bet he''d bounce back in no time."


    Nathalie looked worried. "Really, howe?"


    l.na


    Then she remembered herst attempt to visit, only to get a cold shoulder. Feeling awkward, she said, "Well, since he and Ashley are childhood friends, I''m sure she can take good care of him. No need for


    me to worry too much..."


    Dominick quickly interjected, "Oh no, Miss Nathalie, it''s only you who can ease his mind. He doesn''t show any interest in other girls; it''s you he''s fond of." Nathalie''s eyes widened in surprise.


    Noticing her confusion, Dominick sheepishly exined, "I messed upst time. I thought Ashley was you, so I showed her in. When the boss woke up, he was furious..."


    Nathalie nodded, understanding. "Got it."


    Ford and Dominick looked hopeful. "So, Miss Nathalie, will youe with us to see him?"


    Nathalie paused to think. These two had dismissed her as just a country girl, and if she went back with them too hastily, they''d probably continue to underestimate her. She needed to change their minds. So she said, "It''s a busy time on the farm right now, and I''ve got loads of work to do."


    Ford and Dominick quickly offered, "We can help you out..."


    Nathalie led them to the garden, pointing at the freshly turned soil. "Alright, you can help by nting these seeds."


    Ford and Dominick rolled up their sleeves and got to work, diving into the farm tasks with earnest effort.

 Chapter 457

    After finally finishing up with the seed sowing, Nathalie added, "There''s water and fertilizer over there. Just follow the rmended concentration when you mix it, and water the nts for me. Remember, if it''s too strong, it''ll burn the sprouts, but if it''s too weak, the nts won''t get enough nutrients." Dominick and Ford wandered over to the bags of fertilizer. Staring at the unmarked stic bags, they were totally stumped.


    "Miss Nathalie, how are we supposed to know how to use this without instructions? How do we get the concentration right?"


    Nathalie was nearby, gathering flower branches to take to Nathan in the city, and casually replied, "Oh, you don''t know how? No worries, I''ll handle it."


    Dominick, scratching his head in frustration, protested, "But there''s so muchnd to cover. If we wait for you to do it all, who knows how long it''ll take?"


    Humbly, he asked, "Miss Nathalie, could you maybe mix the concentration for us?"


    Feigning ignorance, Nathalie asked, "What was that?"


    "Could you help us with the concentration, Miss Nathalie?"


    Nathalie came over, tossed a few handfuls of fertilizer into a watering can, and dusted off her hands. "It''s actually pretty simple. But since you''ve never done this before, it seems tricky."


    She mused, "You know, in life, everything and everyone bes easier to understand once you''re familiar. If you''re not familiar and you jump to conclusions, you might make big mistakes." Dominick, blushing, admitted, "Miss Nathalie, we messed up. We shouldn''t have sent you away without hearing you out... please, forgive us."


    Nathalie smiled warmly, "Get up. Go grab some fruits and veggies for your grandpa. I''ll pack up and head back with you."


    Dominick and Ford were thrilled.


    As Nathalie packed, Ford whispered to Dominick, "Ms. Nathalie is kinda stingy, huh? We just didn''t let her in the house, and now she''s got us working."


    Dominick shook his head, "If she


    were truly stingy, she''d have shown us her anger today, or refused to see us. But she''s been nothing but kind, giving us a little lesson without making it hard for us, and she


    helped us out in the end."


    Ford, not the brightest when it came to reading between the lines, just nodded, "As long as Miss Nathalie isn''t stingy, we''re good."


    If the boss married a stingy woman, things would get rough for them.


    Dominick and Ford, eyeing the garden full of fruits and veggies, picked a bit of this and that, leaving with a load of produce.


    By the time they left the garden, they were both covered in mud.


    Nathalie and Lizzy were already waiting at the door, Lizzy smirking with satisfaction.


    "Sis, the two farmers are back."


    Ford and Dominick froze, realization hitting them. Not everyone working thend is a simple farmer. They''d underestimated Nathalie, assuming she was just a farmwife, and it was a big mistake.  en


    Realizing their error, Dominick and Ford were thoroughly ashamed, "Sis, we were wrong. Please forgive us. We won''t be so arrogant again."


    r


    BUMS


    Nathalie climbed into the carriage, saying, "I haven''t said a thing."


    Lizzy added with a huff, "That''s what you get for looking down on others."


    Ford and Dominick hung their heads even lower.


    Dominick was worried, "This is bad. If Miss Nathalie tells the boss, we''re in real trouble."


    Ford panicked, "What do we do now?"


    Dominick sighed, "Guess we''ll just have to deal with it."


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 Chapter 458

    Two hourster, Ford and Dominick showed up at Nathan''s front door, absolutely covered in mud from head to toe.


    When Nathan, who was a bit of a neat freak, saw them, he took a step back, clearly grossed out. "What on earth happened to you two?"


    Dominick, worried that Nathan''s reaction might upset Nathalie, quickly chimed in, "Boss, Miss Nathalie is waiting in the car. She brought you loads of fresh goodies from the farm."


    Nathan''s demeanor changed instantly, and he shot Dominick a sharp look. "Why didn''t you mention that sooner?"


    Dominick, looking a bit hurt, replied, "You started griping about how dirty I was the second you saw me."


    Nathan red at him, "Enough already... Just zip it."


    Dominick mped his mouth shut, clearly miffed.


    Nathan made his way towards the parking lot in long strides. It was only about thirty feet away, but to Nathan, it felt like a marathon.


    His nerves were through the roof. It had been two whole years since hestid eyes on Nathalie. After his impulsive confession to her, he''d taken off on his overseas adventure. Now, seeing her again felt like a sequel to that bold confession. He couldn''t help but wonder if Nathalie would wee his feelings or turn him away.


    With a mix of anxiety and hope, Nathan approached the car and gently opened the door...


    The steady rhythm of her breathing filled the air, and her peaceful sleeping face was as serene as a baby''s. Nathan couldn''t help but chuckle softly.


    He slid into the car and gently took Nathalie''s hand in his.


    He thought, whether or not Nathalie had feelings for him, he had to express his intentions with honesty.


    When Nathalie stirred awake and saw Nathan, she looked adorably confused.


    "Nathan," she murmured, her voice soft and warm.


    A wave of warmth flooded Nathan''s heart. For two years, he had tormented himself with worries, picturing countless scenarios where Nathalie and he were nothing more than strangers. Each time, he regretted his rashness.


    But here she was, calling his name with the same trust and affection as before, as if nothing had evere between them.


    All his fears seemed so unfounded now.


    "Nathalie," he replied gently.


    Her eyes scanned his face, quickly noticing the changes. "Nathan, you''ve lost weight. And you seem different. Like you''ve finally grown up..."


    Nathan''s face had indeed be leaner, making his features more chiseled, his jawline sharper, and his presence aloof yetpelling, reminiscent of a prince from a bygone era. Nathan spoke, his voice rich and tender, "Nathalie, it''s been two years. Did you miss me at all?"


    Nathalie was caught off guard by his sudden question, looking adorably flustered. "How could I not?" Nathan grinned, satisfied.


    He squeezed her hand, "These past two years have been insanely busy. Plus, if I''d just waltzed back into the Capital, it would''ve drawn too much attention, and I wouldn''t have had any freedom. So, I had to restrain myself from reaching out. These two years felt like twenty to me. Nathalie, I truly missed you more than I can say."


    Nathalie, with a knowing smile, called him out, "You had people keeping tabs on me all the time. You probably know my daily routine better than I do. Why pretend you were pining away?"


    Nathan''s ears turned a deep shade of red.


    He looked sheepish, "Oh, so you figured it out."


    Nathalieughed, "Lizzy''s acting was terrible. You might want to hire someone else next time."

 Chapter 459

    Nathan said, "Who else can I trust?" The atmosphere suddenly became awkward, and Nathan felt he had to do something to lighten the mood. He opened the car door and stepped out. Like a true gentleman, he helped Nathalie out of the car. Trying to break the ice, he said, "Dominick told me you''ve got this huge orchard in the countryside. The fruits and veggies are thriving-I''d love toe by and check it out sometime." Nathalie teased, "With your germophobia, I doubt you''dst a day out there."


    Panic surged through Nathan. Nathalie lived in the countryside, and if he couldn''t get over his germophobia, wouldn''t their get-togethers be few and far between?


    Determined, Nathan dered, "I''ve ovee my germophobia."


    He couldn''t let it stand between him and Nathalie.


    Nathalie was surprised, "Really?"


    Nathan nodded confidently, "Absolutely."


    Nathalie handed him a basket of potatoes, "Then take these home."


    Seeing the dirt on the potatoes, Nathan felt uneasy, but he forced a cheerful smile, "They''re quite charming."


    Nathalie couldn''t help butugh at his struggle, "Nathan, you''re even more charming than they are."


    Nathan realized she saw through his act. Feeling a bit defeated, he said, "Sis, trust me. I''ll get over my germophobia..."


    Nathalie gently advised, "Why are you so set on oveing it?"


    Nathan, full of emotion, replied, "If I don''t beat this darn germophobia, how can I stay by your side in the future?" Stay by her side?


    Nathalie''s mind went nk, and her


    cheeks flushed. She quickly grabbed the potatoes from Nathan and walked ahead with her head down.


    Seeing her brush him off, Nathan felt a pang of disappointment. He followed her with his usual stoic yet handsome expression.


    Ford and Dominick noticed Nathan''s


    poker face and shivered internally.


    He only looked like that when he was seriously upset. They immediately assumed Nathalie hadined about them and, filled


    ir knees


    with dread, dropped to their


    before Nathan. "Boss, we messed up. Please, punish us."


    Nathan, seeing their reaction, knew they''d kept something from him. He coolly asked, "You know what you did wrong?" "Yes, yes."


    "If you know you were wrong, shouldn''t you write a reflection?"


    Ford immediatelyunched into a reflection as if he were defending thesis, "Honorable leader: Since joining you, I''ve always followed the rules and worked hard to help you. But, being only human, I mistakenly treated Miss Nathalie, who visited during your illness, as just another farmer. I rudely turned her away."


    Ford stole a nce at Nathan''s darkening expression, his own face turning pale with fear.


    "Boss, I promise to change and from now on, I''ll show Miss Nathalie the respect and care she deserves, just like you do." Dominick, ever the clever one, added, "What Ford said goes for me too."


    Nathan clenched his teeth, trembling with rage, "So, you two have been treating Nathalie with such disdain behind my back?"

 Chapter 460

    Ford and Dominick were all nerves, their voices shaky as they pleaded, "Boss, please forgive us. We''ll never underestimate Miss Nathalie again." Nathan paused for a moment, his expression serious as he said, "Your written apology was well done, especially the conclusion. It nailed it."


    He added with emphasis, "Make sure you remember this lesson."


    With that, Nathan went off to find Nathalie.


    Dominick, still shaken by Nathan''s intensity, felt his mind go nk. He couldn''t even remember what was written in the apology. He leaned over to Ford and whispered, "Ford, what was thest line of that apology?"


    Ford replied, "From now on, we must respect and cherish Miss Nathalie. We need to follow the boss''s lead."


    Dominick slumped to the ground, "I never thought the boss could be such a romantic."


    Ford helped him up, "The boss is always so level-headed. If he likes Miss Nathalie, there''s got to be a good reason. Don''t ever think his feelings for her are just impulsive. We really have to treat Miss Nathalie well from now on." "Yeah, yeah, I get it," Dominick said.


    He looked up at the sky, hands sped in mock prayer, "I hope we''re blessed with a kind, sweet, genuine, and gentledy of the house."


    Ford nodded enthusiastically, "Absolutely."


    Inside the house, Nathalie was busy cing fruits and veggies on the kitchen counter.


    Nathan leaned against the doorframe, a satisfied smile on his face. "Are we having lunch at home today?" he asked.


    Nathalie responded, "Yep. With all these fruits and veggies, it would be a shame to let them go to waste."


    Nathan stepped into the kitchen, "Let me cook then. You should take it easy."


    Nathalie turned to him, noticing the lingering fatigue from his recent illness. She gently pushed him out of the kitchen, "You''re still recovering. You shouldn''t overdo it. I''ll handle it."


    Nathan scratched his nose, thinking for a moment, "Just make something for the two of us. Ford and Dominick can order takeout."


    That way, Nathalie wouldn''t have to overwork herself.


    Ford and Dominick walked in just as Nathan made his rather thoughtless remark. They exchanged looks a mix of frustration and disbelief on their faces.


    So, had the boss forgotten about them now that he had a girlfriend?


    From the kitchen, Nathalie''s voice floated out, "Your two secretaries see you as more than just their boss. +can tell they genuinely admire and respect you. They see you as family."  en


    After a brief pause, she added, "Since they''re your family, I should treat them well."


    Ford and Dominick were deeply moved by her words.


    Dominick kept dabbing at his eyes. Ford remarked, "That''s our boss. He sure knows how to pick ''em."


    Nathan turned to them, with a hint of jealousy


    ¨¤ his tone, "You two are e


    stay for lunch." Content benef


    lucky Nathalie has invited


    Dominick and Ford felt a bit awkward.


    "Is there anything we can do to help Miss Nathalie?" they asked.


    Nathan replied, "Just sit tight. Who said it was your turn to help?"


    Then Nathan walked into the kitchen and locked the door behind him.


    Nathalie washed and chopped the vegetables with practiced ease.


    Nathan stood beside her, watching intently. "Nathalie, I''d like to give it a try," he said, eager to learn.


    Nathalie ced the vegetables on the chopping board and guided his hand to hold the knife, "Just like this."


    When Nathan attempted to chop, his movements were clumsy, nearly cutting his fingers.


    Nathalie had to ce her hand over his, guiding him gently.


    With her so close, Nathan''s heart raced like crazy. His mind was a blur, and his hands seemed to have a mind of their own.


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 Chapter 461

    After chopping up the veggies, Nathalie turned her focus to the chaos happening at the stove. She''d recently developed a real thing for Sichuan cuisine, especially the spicy zing of chili peppers. So, she''d whipped up a few dishes from the Kung Pao series. But not For Nathan, this was his first taste of genuine Sichuan cooking, and he eyed Nathalie with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. "Sis, when did you start getting into Sichuan food?" he asked.


    everyone loves the heat, so she also made some steamed pork ribs and a sweet and savory chicken dish for those with milder tastes.


    Lizzy, who''d just finished rinsing the potatoes, chimed in before Nathalie could respond, "She''s been on a cooking spree these past couple of years, trying out dishes from everywhere. But I''d say Sichuan''s her top pick."


    Nathalie thought for a moment, then just smiled without a word. She''d heard that the way to a man''s heart is through his stomach, and she had a soft spot for Nathan. Initially, it was just a simple crush, but knowing Nathan''s feelings added a newyer to her emotions. How could she not fall for a guy as amazing as Nathan? Yet, she wasn''t quite ready to ept his confession; she often felt a bit out of his league.


    Nathan turned to Nathalie, "What sparked your sudden interest in cooking?"


    She figured she wasn''t quite the right match for him yet. She wanted to work on herself, be stronger and more confident. And if, by then, he still had feelings for her, she''d embrace him with open arms. So, she was more than willing to dive into cooking just for him. It was her way of humbly reciprocating his deep affection.


    Nathan was still waiting for her answer. Not wanting to dodge the question, Nathalie kept it casual, "Well, you''ve got a sensitive stomach, so I figured if I learn to cook, I can take better care of you."


    Nathan felt like his heart was about to burst. What Nathalie saw as a simple exnation made his heart swell with joy, filling him with happiness. A big smile crept across his face. He asked, "Nathalie, can you take care of me for the rest of my life?"


    Nathalie was caught off guard, "Of course, for a lifetime." She couldn''t quite wrap her head around why he''d ask something so odd.


    Nathan was over the moon, "Then I''m entrusting my health to you."


    "Okay," Nathalie nodded.


    Nathan pulled out a bank card from his pocket and handed it over to Nathalie, "This is for my monthly expenses from now on. I''m counting on you."


    When he handed her his sry card, it felt like he was giving his paycheck to his spouse. Nathalie raised an eyebrow and seriously asked "How much is on here?"


    Nathan replied, "My whole sry''s in there. It''s several tens of..."


    Nathalie''s eyes went wide.


    Nathan quickly corrected himself from millions to thousands. Nathalie looked uneasy, "That''s a lot of money. We don''t need that much just for living. Don''t send any more


    for now. I''ll let you know if I need it."


    "Alright," Nathan agreed without hesitation. After all, the amount was plenty for Nathalie to manage for quite a while.


    The lunch was a spread to remember, everyone gathered around the table relishing the meal Dominick took a bite of his beloved Kung Rao chicken and gave Nathalie a big thumbs-up, "Wow, I didn''t know you were such a fantastic cook, Nathalie."


    Nathalie scrunched up her nose yfully, "From now on, just call me ''sis'' like Nathan does."


    Dominick nced nervously at Nathan, "Is that cool with you, boss?"


    Nathan, though a bit begrudgingly, said, "Yeah, that''s fine."

 Chapter 462

    Nathalie scooped a piece of braised pork onto Nathan''s te, her voice teasing like you''d use with a kid, "Nathan, here''s your favorite braised pork." Nathan felt a weight lift off his shoulders, his mood brightening immediately. Throughout the meal, he wore a constant, subtle smile.


    Though the meal was simple, the atmosphere was warm and lively. Everyone was chatting andughing, truly enjoying each other''spany.


    Dominick and Ford even got a bit teary-eyed. Dominick said, "Sis, Ford and I are orphans. It was Grandpa who got us out of the orphanage and paid for our schooling. Even though he''s just a year older than us, he''s like a father to us. We respect him and rely on him deeply."


    Nathalie was taken by surprise. She nced over at Nathan, a knowing look in her eyes.


    She suspected Nathan, Ford, and Dominick had some sort of deep connection in a past life. After Nathan''s rebirth, he must have feltpelled to help Ford and Dominick out early on.


    Their bond seemed even stronger than she had perceived.


    She felt genuinely happy that Nathan had two brothers who were so sincere with him. It was truly a blessing.


    Dominick went on, "Before today, Ford and I were worried about what kind of girlfriend Grandpa would end up with. Would she ept us? But seeing you today, your kindness has eased all our anxieties. We''re really grateful. This meal didn''t just give Ford and me a family, it also gave us respect."


    Dominick raised his ss and pledged, "From now on, you''re like my sister. I promise to always respect and protect you, just as I promised Grandpa."


    Nathalie was caught off guard.


    She was astonished by how much Nathan truly cherished her, and by how genuine Dominick and Ford were.


    Her eyes welled up with tears, "All it took was cooking a meal to win your heartspletely. I must be having a lucky day."


    Nathan gently wiped her tears away with his thumb.


    In the end, Dominick and Ford, overjoyed, drank a bit too much.


    Ford, usually the quiet type, turned


    into a chatterbox, holding Nathan''s hand, pouring his heart out,


    "Grandpa, thank you for being so et


    good to me. Even though you''re grumpy and a bit scary, we know you''re the one who truly cares for us..."


    He smeared his tears and snot all over Nathan''s hand.


    Nathan looked at him with a mix of annoyance and helplessness.


    Nathalie couldn''t help butugh.


    She exchanged a nce with Lizzy, and they both went to tidy up in the kitchen.


    When they came back, Nathan had already moved Ford and Dominick to the couch, tucking them in with nkets.


    Nathalie watched Nathan''s gentle, thoughtful actions and fell into deep thought.


    Lizzy whispered in her ear, "Sis, if you don''t let him know how you feel and someone else steals him away, you''bhave no one to me but yourself."


    Nathalie pretended to be cross, "You little rascal, are you rooting for him too?"


    Lizzy grinned, seeing right through her, "Sis, isn''t it what you''ve always wanted, to see someone treat him well?"


    Nathalie turned her gaze to the


    window, spotting a figure


    approaching under an umbre. Her


    expression grew serious as she


    muttered, "That might not be as good as it seems."


    With that, she headed upstairs alone.

 Chapter 463

    Nathan turned around and noticed Nathalie heading upstairs without a word. As he stood there puzzled, the doorbell chimed.


    Nathan made his way to the door and opened it to see Ashley standing there, a hint of panic flickering in her eyes. She nced back nervously at Nathalie''s retreating figure. With a bright smile, Ashley said, "Nathan, aren''t you going to invite me in?"


    Reluctantly, Nathan stepped aside, opening the door wider.


    "What brings you here?" he asked.


    "Can''t I drop by without a reason?" Ashley teased, her tone light.


    She was more striking than she had been two years ago, her confidence practically radiating.


    As she strolled over to the couch, she noticed two men sprawled out asleep and frowned slightly.


    "What happened to these two? Why are they this drunk?"


    "If they''re that out of it, why aren''t they in their rooms? Lying around on the couch like this, what kind of impression does that give?"


    This touched a sore spot with Nathan.


    While Nathan was often critical of his own brothers, he never tolerated outsiders doing the same.


    His expression turned stern as he replied, "This is their home, Ashley. They can rx however they like."


    Ashley looked taken aback.


    "But they''re just servants."


    Nathan fixed her with a sharp gaze: "They''re not servants. Ashley, as an outsider, you shouldn''t meddle in my family affairs."


    Ashley''s eyes widened in surprise: "But I''m your fianc¨¦e, an arrangement between our families."


    "Ashley..." Nathan''s voice was filled with frustration, "I''ve worked hard to break free from my family''s expectations, all so I could choose my own partner."


    Tears glistened in Ashley''s eyes:


    "Nathan, I know you''re against


    arranged marriages. But you have to


    ??.


    believe me, I genuinely love you. Marrying you isn''t just about forming an alliance with the Rond family..."


    "I''m sorry. I don''t love you."


    Ashley was taken aback: "But you don''t have anyone else. Why not give us a chance? Spend some time together, maybe you''ll fall for me? Nathan, I''m quite popr, you know, lots of guys at school like me"


    "I already have someone I care about," Nathan dered.


    Ashley shook her head, refusing to believe it: "That can''t be true."


    Nathan''s gaze was unyielding: "I''m not lying."


    Ashley pressed on, "Who is she?"


    Nathan was proud of his love and wanted everyone to know about him and Nathalie. "I love Nathalie."


    Upon hearing it was Nathalie, Ashley let out a breath she didn''t realize she was holding.


    Against Nathalie, she felt confident she could win.


    "Nathan, she''s not right for you. She''s older, has been married, had a miscarriage. Her background and talents don''t match yours."


    Nathan''s voice turned cold: "In my eyes, she''s better than those born with a silver spoon, using their parents'' connections to get ahead."


    Ashley felt the sting of his words,


    and her voice wavered: "I know you


    think no


    onepares to her. But


    Nathan, if you choose her, you''ll regret it."


    "Do you really want to follow the path of tragic love stories?" Before she could continue, Nathan shouted angrily, "Ashley!" "You''re not wee here. Don''te back."


    Ashley, overwhelmed with hurt, covered her face and left crying. From the upstairsnding, Nathalie closed her eyes in pain. Then, she turned and walked away, her heart heavy.

 Chapter 464

    Dawson Enterprises.


    After years away, Cameron found himself back at Dawson Enterprises, only to discover it was just a shadow of its former glory. The once lively office was now hauntingly quiet.


    Massiveyoffs had left behind a team of older and less healthy employees who clung to their jobs for dear life, plunging thepany into a stagnant state. To make matters worse, the heart of Dawson Enterprises had been sold off to Maple Group, leaving just a few managers to handle the transition. The buzz and prosperity of thepany had faded like a distant memory, now just remnants of the past.


    Cameron''s return, however, sparked a glimmer of hope among the loyal staff. They gathered around him, eximing, "Mr. Dawson, it''s so good to have you back."


    "We''ve got faith in you. With you at the helm, Dawson Enterprises will rise again. We''ll soon be back on top."


    Cameron asked, "Where''s the list ofpanies that have taken over our departments?"


    The PR manager replied, "Mr. Dawson, there aren''t many localpanies capable of buying us out. Only Maple Group, from overseas, made an offer, but they really lowballed us."


    "Has the contract been signed?" Cameron inquired.


    "Mr. Griffin couldn''t stand to see Dawson dismantled, so he reorganized the unprofitable divisions. The acquisition was staggered in phases, and thest sale only included parts of the smart tech department." Cameron, clearly disheartened, said, "Smart tech?"


    Everyone knew smart tech was the hot ticket these days. Selling that division would mean stepping back into traditional industries, severely hurting Dawson''s market position.


    "Yes, Mr. Dawson. The second phase of the acquisition signing is tomorrow."


    Cameron frowned, "What time?"


    "Ten in the morning."


    "Do you have the contact for Maple Group''s CEO? I want to cancel this acquisition." "Yes."


    ""Get it to me."


    Without a moment''s pause, Cameron dialed Morris as soon as he had the number. "Hello, Mr. Morris?"


    "This is he."


    Nathan, on the other end, was caught off guard by the familiar voice.


    "Mr. Morris, I''m Cameron, CEO of Dawson Enterprises. I''d like to discuss postponing yourpany''s acquisition of ours."


    WY


    Nathan smirked, "You don''t really think Dawson Enterprises can make aeback, do you?"


    Cameron replied, "Would you be open to doing me a favor?"


    "You want to partner with Maple Group to help Dawson weather this storm, so you don''t have to sell?"


    Cameron said, "Dealing with


    someone sharp like you is


    7? ?


    refreshing. Rest assured, Mr. Morris, you''lDget a sixty-forty profit split."


    In most industries, a forty-sixty deal shows real intent, but Nathan wasn''t biting.


    "Mr. Dawson, I''m more interested in acquiring Dawson Enterprises."


    Cameron said, "Why insist on the acquisition, Mr. Morris? By keeping Dawson Enterprises, you''d get a nice yearly dividend without liftinga finger. Isn''t that better?"


    Nathan chuckled, "If I buy Dawson Enterprises, it''s mine. If not, what''s to stop you from bouncing back and ditching me?"


    Cameron, gritting his teeth, proposed, "How about a seventy-thirty profit split?"


    Nathan, in a leisurely tone, said, "Mr. Dawson, it''s not about the money."


    Cameron paused, then asked, "What do you want?"


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 Chapter 465

    Nathan said, "Ny-one percent. How does that sound?"


    He heard the sound of Cameron crushing a stic cup on the other end.


    "Mr. Morris is enjoying his steak. Maybe he could spare us a sip of the soup?"


    Nathan replied, "If Mr. Dawson doesn''t agree, we should just go ahead with the acquisition n."


    With that, Nathan decisively ended the call. Cameron was left in a daze, feeling that Mr. Morris''s voice was oddly familiar.


    The next morning, Nathan woke up without an rm. When he got up, he noticed Nathalie had already ditched her simple, farm-girl attire. She''d slipped into fresh and elegant emerald green dress. Her curly hair fell casually around her shoulders, adorned with a flower pin, and her bangs were stylishly trimmed. She looked pure, beautiful, and gracefully poised.


    "Why are you all dressed up today?" Nathan asked, walking over, unable to take his eyes off her.


    Nathalie shed him a charming smile. "Now that I''m back in the city, it''s time to kickstart my career again."


    Nathan said, "Sis, you''re not in the best health. You don''t have to push yourself so hard. I can take care of you forever."


    Nathalie nced back at him. "Take care of me? That''s expensive. I doubt you could afford it."


    Nathan chuckled. "Then I''ll just work harder and earn more for you."


    Nathalie tugged on his tie, saying, "I want lots of money, and even more love."


    Without warning, Nathan pulled her into his arms with a confident swagger. "That''s perfect. I''ve got a lifetime''s worth of love and money saved up, just waiting for a ce to spend it. So, do you want it?"


    Blushing and feeling her heart race, Nathalie pushed him away and dashed off. "I... I have a meeting with friends. I should get going."


    Watching her rosy cheeks, Nathan grinned smugly. "Is your skin really that thin?"


    Nathan caught up to her. "Nathalie, let me drive you."


    Nathalie didn''t have a car, so she took Nathan up on his offer for a ride. "Alright."


    Soon, Dominick drove the car out of the garage. Nathalie wordlessly opened the back door and slid in. Seeing the Ford in the front


    he


    passenger seat, Nathalie was taken aback. That meant Nathan would have to sit in the back with her?


    Just as she realized this, the car window rolled down, and Nathan climbed in. The confined space suddenly felt even tighter. Nathalie scooted over, and Nathan sidled close Then, without warning, he grabbed her hand, his long fingers insistently intertwining with hers, holding them firmly together.


    "Where to?" he asked softly.


    Nathalie looked at him with a mix of exasperation and affection, her eyes drifting to their sped hands. She silently conveyed that this wasn''t appropriate.


    Nathan pretended not to notice and smiled. "I''m heading to Dawson International. Would youe with me? I want you to see how he falls, step by step, into the abyss."


    In the past, Nathalie would have relished the thought of Cameron''s downfall. But now, she felt at peace.


    She replied lightly, "What happens to him, I don''t care to know anymore."


    Nathan was taken aback but overjoyed. A smile crept up his handsome face.


    "That''s great." He was bursting with joy inside.


    He had finally reached the day Nathalie let go of Cameron


    him-Nathalie had held onto her


    grudge for a long time. What made


    her suddenly decide to let it go?


    "Why did you suddenly let go of him?" he couldn''t help but ask.


    Nathalie lowered her head. "Maybe someone sweetened the bitterness he left behind with a piece of candy." "Who could that be?" Nathan asked, feigning ignorance.


    His voice was dripping with sweetness.


    Nathalie gave him a shy smile. Nathan then lifted their entwined hands and gently kissed the back of her hand.

 Chapter 466

    Nathalie feltpletely on edge from his flirtations, and as soon as the car rolled to a stop, she threw the door open and practically bolted out in a fluster. Nathan watched her awkward escape, a grin ying at the corners of his eyes. He nced down at the hand that had held hers, feeling a warmth that was as sweet as honey. At the entrance of Dawson International, a swarm of journalists and photographers eagerly awaited the appearance of Maple Company''s elusive founder, Morris. For them, snagging a scoop on the top dog of the Capital was the ultimate trophy.


    As a sleek Rolls-Royce glided to a stop at the entrance, everyone held their breath. The passenger-side door opened first, revealing a young and dashing man exuding confidence and poise. d in a sharply tailored suit, he was the picture of an Ivy League prodigy. The crowd mistook him for Morris, but he gracefully bowed and opened the back door with a touch of elegance to wee the real deal. A pair of polished ck business shoes hit the ground, signaling the arrival of a mature gentleman.


    Then came a pair of long, straight legs, and as he emerged fully from the car, the onlookers were left speechless. Despite his youthful and striking looks, his attire spoke of an age-old sophistication, amplifying hismanding presence and ability to steer the ship. Microphones thrust forward, the media buzzed: "Mr. Morris, word is you''ve built a fortune in the trillions at such a young age. Is that true?"


    Nathan paused, Nathalie''s words ringing in his mind: "I want lots and lots of money, and lots and lots of love." With a serious demeanor, he corrected them: "No, not billions-trillions."


    Ford and Dominick were caught off guard by their boss''s sudden shy revtion, wondering what had gotten into him. "What''s up with the boss? Why the sudden show-off?" Someone asked Nathan, "You''re young and loaded. What drives your sess?"


    Nathan answered without skipping a beat, "I''ve always had one motivation: to give the girl I care about a sense of security."


    The media buzzed with excitement: "Wow, the girl who''s special to Mr. Morris must be incredibly lucky."


    Ford quipped, "Our boss is definitely head over heels. It''s official."


    Dominick added, "No doubt about it, he''s totally smitten."


    The interview dragged on, and Cameron losing patience, decided to step outside to greet the guests. Seeing Nathan being hailed by the media, he was taken aback. "What''s he doing here?"


    His PR manager exined, "Mr. Dawson, he''s Mr. Morris, the one who bought out Dawson International."


    Cameron''s eyes widened, a mix of shock and dread in his gaze: "Nathan is Morris?"


    The PR manager, familiar with Nathan''s reputation but never having met him, was equally stunned to discover Morris was M Cameron from Rond Inc. "Mr. Dawson, aren''t our families old friends? Maybe if you appeal to that old bond, Mr. Nathan might reconsider and invest in Dawson International to help us out of this mess."


    Cameron, deted, said, "Anyone might give Dawson International a lifeline, but not him. Definitely not."


    The manager turned pale. Nathan, spotting Cameron, strode toward him confidently. He didn''t need to confront Cameron himself; his two trusted aides were already closing in on Cameron, ready to handle the situation.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 467

    Dominick said, "Mr. Dawson, we''re here to buy out Dawson International."


    Cameron''s face showed a flicker of struggle. He shot Nathan a cold re, "You''ve been plotting to acquire Dawson International for a while, haven''t you?"


    Nathan nodded, straightforward as ever. "Yep. Ever since I first got into business, taking over Dawson International has been my goal."


    Cameron was taken aback for a moment.


    "Why? Is it because of her?"


    Nathan shook his head. "Nope, not at all. I trust Nathalie. She''ll move on from you soon enough. Since she''s already lost interest, there''s no reason for me to make things tough for you." Cameron''s expression soured. "If it''s not because of her, then why are you so hell-bent on taking me down?"


    Nathan replied, "I want to be at the top. Anything in my way has to be kicked aside."


    Cameron waspletely floored.


    Nathan''s ambition was staggering.


    This young man, nearly a generation younger, was aiming even higher.


    "And what if I refuse to sell?"


    Nathan gave Dominick Ford a nod.


    Ford stepped up, speaking with ir, "Mr. Dawson, Dawson International is drowning in debt-123.5 billion. The only parts still making money are the old-school sectors like clothing factories and construction. Everything else is bleeding cash. Dawson International has already let go of most of the high-paid staff in other departments, leaving only a few folks to handle what''s left."


    Dominick chimed in, "Mr. Dawson, aren''t you curious why the once-buzzing departments suddenly started tanking, while the struggling traditional sectors are still ticking along?"


    A light bulb went off for Cameron: "Did you guys deliberately sabotage Dawson International''s new ventures?"


    Dominick snapped his fingers, "Bingo. You got it."


    Ford continued, "Right now, all of Dawson International''s top tech and elite employees have jumped ship to Maple Company, getting double the pay. Dawson International''s chance to rise again in East Woods is gone. As for your traditional sectors, my granddad ns to set up apany just for the fun of it for Nathalie. Mr. Dawson, having lost to Nathalie before, the road ahead might be even more dicey. Isn''t it better to sell now, pocket a nice chunk of cash, and live the good life?"


    Cameron shivered.


    He had hoped to secure funds to pull Dawson International through the storm, but Nathan had swooped in and taken all his key people. Even with money, he''d have no one left to run the show.


    The dream of aeback in East Woods was just that a dream.


    "Cameron, do you want Dawson International to end up as an empty shell, or would you rather use this chance to secure your retirement? Even a fool can see the clear choice." Cameron was in a bind. "Sorry, I need some time to think this through."


    Dominick coolly said, "Mr. Dawson, if


    you can''t make up your mind, you''ll


    lose the chance to partner with Maple Company forever. We at Maple Company can''t stand folks who aren''t true to their word


    sw nov


    As Dominick finished, Nathan and Ford were already heading out.


    Cameron, being a savvy businessman, knew how to protect his best interests.


    "Hold on, I agree to the original acquisition n." Cameron looked weary, his face marked by time.


    Dominick turned back. "Alright, let''s give you another shot."


    The contract was signed without a hitch.


    Maple Company ended up merging with almost half of Dawson International.


    This bold move sent Maple Company''s reputation through the roof.

 Chapter 468

    Maple Company, with its hefty trillion-dor backing and top-notch tech team, set up shop in the Capital and quickly took over most of Rond Inc.''s operations. They even managed to acquire a big chunk of the struggling Dawson International, bing the talk of the town almost overnight. Morris, the brains and CEO behind Maple Company, suddenly became the guy everyone in high society wanted to befriend. Rumor had it that this young CEO wasn''t just sharp as a tack but also ridiculously good-looking-a real catch for any single woman in the Capital. Now, let''s talk about the Stewart family. Ashley was hanging out, watching TV with Regan and Grace. Unlike other elite families, the Stewarts were more of a second-tier deal, but the happy and harmonious life of Grace and Dustin was something people in the Capital often admired.


    Even though Regan was a big shot in the business world, he cared deeply about the love lives of his younger family members. "Ashley, how are things going with Nathan?" he couldn''t help but ask whenever the chance arose.


    Ashley looked pretty down, with a hint of frustration in her eyes. "Ugh, Nathan''s got no heart. I''ve been chasing him forever, and he''s still as cold as ice."


    Regan stopped fiddling with his stress ball, surprised. "That doesn''t sound right. The psychic said you two were meant to be."


    Ashley buried her face in her mom''s arms, tears streaming. "He said he already has someone special. He''ll never like me. Grandpa, the psychic must''ve been wrong."


    Grace got all riled up. "Nathan''s clueless! Sure, he''s a legit Rond, but everyone knows Mr. Gavin doesn''t care for him. He''s got nothing on Benjamin, the illegitimate son. Without our Stewart family''s support, Nathan''s just putting on airs." She got more and more worked up. "And he thinks he''s too good for our Ashley? Shows how short-sighted he is."


    Dustin hated to see his daughter upset. "If the flower''s keen but the stream''s indifferent, maybe it''s time we have a chat with the Rond family and call off the engagement."


    Regan looked-doubtful. "The


    psychic''s never wrong. Nathan and Ashley are destined for each other. He turned to his son and


    daughter-inw. "Don''t do anything rash You might end up burning bridges you need. Who knows, things might change."


    Dustin sighed. "Dad, we can''t take everything the psychic says as gospel."


    Regan replied, "Let''s see what the psychic says next time before we make any decisions." Just then, Nathan popped up on the TV screen. Ashley''s eyes lit up. "Is that Nathan?"


    Despite trying not to obsess over Nathan, seeing his tall, handsome self, with a face like it was carved from marble and that cool vibe, her heart couldn''t help but skip a beat.


    He was stunning, no doubt about it.


    The TV reporter was singing his praises. "At just twenty, he''s taken over Rond Inc. and Dawson International, amassing a fortune and bing the Capital''s top dog."


    Dustin''s eyes went wide in shock. "Nathan''s the mastermind behind Maple Company?"


    His face was a mix of disbelief and an ''I-can''t-believe-this'' kind of relief. "This is a stroke of luck."


    "Ashley, our Stewart family''s been


    itching to partner up with Maple Company. Now that Nathan''s the man behind it all, you should really go after him and marry into his


    family. It''ll be a huge win for gs."

 Chapter 469

    Ashley was always drawn to good looks, and Nathan''s appearance had herpletely captivated. Learning about Nathan''s prestigious status only made her more obsessed. She nodded eagerly, "Dad, don''t worry. I''ll make sure to win him over." Dustin smiled with assurance, "Ashley, as long as you don''t give up, he''ll eventually be yours. The psychic said you two were married in a past life, and your bond in this life isn''t over yet. You''ll end up together." Ashley''s cheeks flushed with his words.


    At Maple Company, Nathan and Dominick Ford spent the morning wrapped up in the acquisition of Dawson International. They returned to the office in the afternoon for a wrap-up meeting and didn''t finish until six in the evening. Dominick suggested, "Boss, it''s dinner time. Want me to grab something from a nearby restaurant?"


    Nathan stood up with a knowing smile, "I''m a family man now. I''ve got to be home by five to check in with Nathalie."


    With no other choice, Dominick drove Nathan home. On the way, he teased, "Boss, what if Nathalie hasn''t made dinner? Wouldn''t you be assuming too much?"


    Nathan shot him a look, "Then you''d better get ready to cook."


    Dominick was taken aback; he dreaded household chores.


    He quickly crossed his fingers, hoping Nathalie had left some food for them.


    As they walked into the house, the smell of a delicious meal filled the air. The dining table was covered with steaming dishes.


    Nathalie was still bustling around in the kitchen. Nathan kicked off his shoes and headed straight there.


    Dominick, relieved, called out gratefully, "Thanks, Nathalie! You''ve really outdone yourself."


    "Wee home. Wash up and get ready to eat," Nathalie replied.


    Nathan went into the kitchen, taking the spat from Nathalie, "Let me handle this."


    He awkwardly waved the spat, sttering food everywhere, and quickly stepped back, startled.


    Nathalie took over, skillfully ting the food. Nathan hurried to grab a te, "I''ll take this out."


    He yelped as the heat scorched his hands but stubbornly refused to let go, managing to get the te to the table.


    Seeing his red, burned hand,


    Nathalie''s


    heart ached, "Nathan,


    you''re not cut out for kitchen work.


    §Õ§à§Ú§Þ


    Stay out of here from now on"


    "But how can I do that? I need to cook for you someday," Nathan said softly.


    Nathalie froze. Her eyes flickered, and she turned to leave.


    Nathan caught her, gently lifting her chin, his eyes full of hurt, "Why do you keep pushing me away?


    Nathalie, have you never thought about spending your life with me?"


    en


    Nathalie''s eyes welled up, "Nathan, there''s no future for us."


    Nathan was upset, "Why can''t there be a future?"


    Nathalie spoke bluntly, "Nathan, your true match isn''t me. It''s Ashley."


    Nathan chuckled, "I must have missed that. You still remember the past life stuff."


    He pulled her into a hug, sincerely exining, "The past is the


    This life is different


    don''t


    it."


    "Ashley genuinely loves you."


    Nathan stiffened.


    "But her love won''t stand the test of time."


    Nathalie sensed there was more to his words, staring at him in confusion.


    "Tell me, how do we end up?"

 Chapter 470

    Nathan paused for a good while before opening up, "When I was twenty-eight, I got hit with a terminal illness. My hair fell out, my body shriveled up, and I lost control over everything, even my dder. At first, she was there for me, but she left before the end came." "Sis, now that you know the truth, do you still think I should be with her?"


    Nathalie felt like her heart was being scorched by fire. Her eyes were bloodshot, tears spilling over in an instant.


    She couldn''t bear the thought of such a tragic fate for Nathan, her beloved brother. She had always cherished him, and this wasn''t the ending he deserved. Tears streamed down her face.


    Nathan tried to wipe them away, but they just kepting..


    All he could do was hold her tight, "Don''t be sad. At least in this lifetime, we can rewrite our destinies."


    Nathalie buried her face in his chest, soaking his shirt with her tears.


    Once she''d calmed down a bit, she sternly told him, "From now on, you need to quit drinking, smoking, staying upte, and being unhappy."


    Nathan seized the moment, "As long as you''re by my side, I''ll take care of myself for you."


    Nathalie sobbed, "I promise, I''m never leaving you again."


    Dominick walked in and was taken aback by the sight of Nathan and Nathalie clinging to each other, tears flowing.


    Lizzy hurriedly pulled Dominick out, "Come on, let''s give them some space."


    But Dominick couldn''t resist a cheeky grin, "Hey, do you need that... engagement ring you picked up in Malta?"


    His joke lightened the mood, chasing away the sadness.


    Nathalie blushed crimson.


    Nathan shot Dominick a re for interrupting, "Get out."


    Dominick made a swift exit.


    Nathan took Nathalie''s hand and walked out, and seeing them together, Dominick and Lizzy quickly pieced together the truth about Nathan and Nathalie''s rtionship.


    en


    The trio erupted in cheers.


    Right then, the doorbell chimed, breaking the moment.


    Ford dashed to the door and returned with a package.


    Inside was an invitation.


    The Stewart family had invited Nathan to Ashley''s birthday bash.


    The invite included three tickets.


    Nathan held the invitation and looked warmly at Nathalie, "Nathalie, are youing?"


    Nathalie replied, "Ashley might not be thrilled to see me. I could ruin her party. It''s better if I skip it."


    Nathan pouted a bit, "If you''re not going, then why should I?"


    Nathalie spoke sincerely, "Nathan, you have to go. This might be Ashley''s way of announcing your engagement. Since you don''t have feelings for her, it''s best to clear things up and set her free.


    Nathan nodded, "You''re right."


    Friday night rolled around, and Ashley''s birthday party kicked off with a bang.


    The Stewart estate was the backdrop, setting the stage for an intimate family affair, where guests were mostly close-knit rtives and friends.


    Among the crowd were three


    generations of the Rond family,


    the Camerons from the Dawson family, the elder McCoys, and a host of other aristocrats.


    When Nathan arrived at the Stewart ce, the room buzzed with excitement.


    Ashley, dazzling in her elegant gown and surrounded by staff, stepped out to greet Nathan. "Nathan, why are you sote? I''ve been waiting forever!"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 471

    Nathan casually increased the space between them, his face calm but distant, with a polite smile that never quite reached his eyes.


    "Happy Birthday, Ashley," he said smoothly.


    He turned to Dominick, who was standing behind him. "Did you bring the gift I asked you to prepare for Ashley?"


    Dominick promptly handed over the gift. "Ashley, my boss isn''t exactly a pro at picking out gifts for girls, so I chose this on his behalf. Hope you like it."


    Ashley hesitated for a second, slightly irked by Nathan''s deliberate aloofness. But she knew that winning over someone as frosty as Nathan would take patience and persistence.


    She epted the gift with a gracious smile. "Thank you, Nathan. I really like it."


    Then, she looped her arm through his. "Come on, let me show you inside."


    Nathan tensed up, feeling like a wooden puppet. Anxiety flickered across his face. What would Nathalie think if she saw this?


    As soon as they were inside, he gently pulled away from Ashley and quickly instructed Ford, "Make sure any photos of me and Ashley holding hands tonight vanish. I can''t have Nathalie getting the wrong idea." Ford chuckled, seeing his boss so jittery for the first time.


    Meanwhile, the heads of the Stewart family and Mr. Mason were seated prominently in the center of the hall. Regan waved Nathan over. "Nathan,e have a chat with us old-timers."


    For anyone else, this would have been a great honor. But Nathan, having carved out his own sessful path, no longer needed the backing of the older generation, so he felt no obligation to cate them. .


    He approached them with an indifferent expression and took a seat slightly off to the side. "Grandfather, Mr. Stewart," he greeted them formally.


    Mason shifted uneasily. He''d once


    held Nathan in high regard, but after


    choosing Benjamin as his


    sessor, their rtionship was never the same.


    "Nathan, I''m proud of what you''ve aplished," Mason said, trying to smooth things over.


    Nathan paused, then replied bluntly, "Would you still be proud if I took over Rond Inc.? That''s my next move."


    Mason''s face darkened. "You wouldn''t do that. It''s your father''spany. Would you really turn your back on family?"


    Nathan gave a cold smirk. "So, your pride in me is conditional. Shouldn''t you be proud of my ability to lead Rond Inc.? Or is Benjamin the only grandson that matters to you?"


    en


    UM


    Put on the spot, Mason struggled to keep hisposure. "Nathan, must you embarrass me like this?"


    Nathan replied, "Sometimes strangers treat you better than family. At least they don''t stab you in the back."


    Mason''s expression was thunderous, a storm brewing behind his eyes.


    Regan quickly stepped in to calm things down. "Nathan, it''s Ashley''s birthday. For her sake, let''s call a truce with your grandfather." Nathan decided to let it go, at least for now.

 Chapter 472

    Who would''ve thought Regan would switch gears like that: "Nathan, since we''re all together today, why not set a wedding date for you and Ashley? What do you say?" The moment those words were out, friends and family from both the Rond and Stewart ns chimed in with their enthusiastic support.


    "Oh, absolutely! Nathan and Ashley are just perfect for each other, like a match made in heaven," Andrew chimed in warmly.


    "My daughter has been head over heels for Nathan since day one, just waiting for this moment," Dustin added, grinning from ear to ear.


    Nathan, casually fiddling with his nails, shot back with a cool stare: "My wedding to Ashley? Who decided that? And why am I thest to know?"


    The room fell into an awkward silence.


    Everyone exchanged uneasy nces.


    Mason jumped in to smooth things over: "Nathan, Regan and I arranged your marriage to Ashley. We even consulted an expert who said you two are a perfect match."


    Ashley stood blushing nearby. "Nathan, I like you," she said shyly.


    Nathan responded sharply, "I don''t agree to this marriage."


    Faces all around turned sour.


    "Nathan, today is Ashley''s birthday. Do you really want to humiliate her like this? Where''s your sense of chivalry?" Andrew scolded him harshly.


    Nathan''s eyes suddenly shed with a fierce intensity. He wasn''t someone to be messed around with.


    "Trying to guilt-trip me into this?"


    "Marriage is a lifetime deal. You guys decided this behind my back without even asking me. Are we running a dictatorship here in the Rond family?" Regan shot Mason a disapproving look: "Gavin, didn''t you talk this over with Nathan?"


    Mason''s face turned a shade of crimson and white.


    "No need for a discussion. He''s part of the Rond family, so he has to do what I say," Mason snapped. Nathan fired back, "If that''s how it is, then I''m done with the Rond name. From now on, call me Morris." The room buzzed with shock.


    Some couldn''t help but whisper among themselves:


    "Mason''s really done it now, losing such a valuable asset. Without Nathan, the Rond family is in real trouble."


    "Exactly. They''ve got two


    heirs-Nathan, who''s got a bright future, and Benjamin, who''s just hopeless. How could Mason be so blind, choosing Benjamin over Nathan?"  en


    "Mason''s lost his mind."


    ...


    Listening to the whispers, Nathan felt a sudden rity, like pieces of a puzzle falling into ce.


    A wild theory began to nag at him.


    He was dying to know: Why did his grandfather really give up on him?


    Surely, it couldn''t be that simple.


    Mason pointed a finger at Nathan: "You ungrateful brat. If you refuse this marriage, you''re no grandson of mine."


    A deep, hearty voice cut through the tension.


    "Haha, Mason, you said it yourself. You don''t want my grandson, so no take-backs. I''m taking him with me." The voice belonged to Theo.


    A seasoned politician and military man, Theo carried an air of sharp authority.


    Mason snorted but stayed silent.


    bet


    Theo turned to Regan: "Regan, on behalf of my grandson, I apologize to you and Ashley. He''s still young; it''s too early for marriage talks."


    Regan, seeing Theo offering him a graceful exit, quickly agreed, "Yes


    yes, Theo''s right. They''re still young;


    AQUMS


    no rush for an engagement.''

 Chapter 473

    Nathan was determined to set things straight with Nathalie, wanting nothing but rity in their rtionship and steering clear of any messy ties with other women.


    With a promise ring gleaming on his finger, Nathan announced, "I''m engaged. What happened with Ashley was just a misunderstanding; we''re just casual acquaintances." The Stewart family''s entourage looked like they''d just swallowed a lemon.


    Theo shot Nathan a knowing look, trying to lighten the mood, "Nathan, are you using that ring as a ploy to dodge an arranged marriage, pulling one over on us?"


    "Alright, alright, we get it. You''re not into the whole arranged marriage thing. Let''s just drop it, okay?"


    Regan, noticing Nathan''s determination to distance himself from Ashley, looked resigned and silently agreed to call off the engagement.


    Feeling wronged, Ashley burst into tears and dashed off, her face buried in her hands.


    Theo nudged Nathan, "Hey, you stirred up this mess. Aren''t you gonna go talk to Ashley?"


    With a heavy heart, Nathan walked away.


    Regan, feeling utterly embarrassed, unleashed his frustration on Mason. "You owe me an exnation. Pulling something like this with my daughter, the Rond family has really crossed a line." Mason, guilt-ridden, pleaded, "Regan, please, hear me out."


    "I really thought Nathan and your daughter would be a good match. But Nathan is so wrapped up in his business, he barely notices anything else. I figured if Ashley made the first move, with her charm and smarts, Nathan would eventuallye around." Regan, having lost face today, said with displeasure, "Let''s call off this marriage and never bring it up again."


    With the arranged marriage falling apart, the Rond family lost a potential ally.


    Neither the Ronds nor the Stewarts were in high spirits.


    In the Stewart family''s garden, Ashley was sitting on the ground, crying her heart out.


    Nathan walked over and stood quietly beside her.


    "What do you even like about me?" he asked gently.


    Through her tears, Ashley replied, " how good-looking you are, y


    like


    beyond your years,


    uncanny intelligence..."


    Nathan let out a sigh, "Looks fade, Ashley, like a flower that blooms at night. Once they''re gone, will I still hold your gaze? As for being mature, sure, it might seem cool now, but what if it gets tiresome? When you like someone, you see all their good


    sides; when you don''t, all see are


    their ws..."


    "That''s not true!" Ashley shook her head. "No matter how you change, I''ll still care for you."


    Nathan replied, "The future''s uncertain, isn''t it?"


    Ashley countered, "Since we can''t predict the future, why turn me down? Maybe we could grow old together." Nathan sighed again.


    He reached out, helping Ashley to her feet, "I want to show you something." He led her straight to an orphanage.


    The children there looked gloomy, skin and bones, their eyes hauntingly empty.


    Ashley instinctively took a step back.


    "Nathan, why bring me here?"


    Nathan exined, "I want to adopt a child. Would you be willing to help me raise her?"


    Ashley''s face showed resistance.


    "I can give her plenty of money."


    Nathan continued, "It''s not just


    about money. She needs love, like a parent would give-brushing her hair, bathing her, tucking her in at night. Are you ready to do that?"


    en

 Chapter 474

    Ashley gave the question some serious thought. She knew she didn''t have the patience for taking care of a child, especially one that wasn''t her own and, truth be told, one she didn''t find particrly appealing. She confessed, "I don''t think I can do it."


    Nathan nodded, understanding her choice. "I appreciate your honesty, Ashley. You might not know this, but my own childhood was rougher than theirs. At three, I was snatched by traffickers, often going hungry, just skin and bones. Probably even less lovable than they seem. But I got lucky-a guardian angel rescued me, and that''s how I managed to thrive." Ashley''s eyes widened with sympathy. "Nathan, I had no idea you went through something like that. Is that why you''re so determined to help the kids here?"


    Nathan''s gaze drifted to a little girl in the corner. She was quiet, her face thin, but her eyes tugged at his heart.


    She reminded him so much of Nathalie.


    "I felt a connection the minute I saw her," Nathan said, nodding towards the girl. "That''s why I''ve decided to adopt her."


    Ashley struggled to understand, voicing her concerns. "Nathan, you''re not even married. When you are, you could have your own kids who''d inherit your talents and looks. They''d be perfect in every way. Why adopt a girl with no blood ties?"


    Ashley pressed on, "Do you know anything about her parents? Abandoning their child suggests they were heartless. As the saying goes, ''Like mother, like daughter.'' Aren''t you worried she might disappoint you with those genes?" Nathan was unfazed. "She''s a good kid. I''m not worried."


    Ashley was anxious for him. "Nathan, you''re being too idealistic."


    Just then, the orphanage director approached, gently guiding the little girl from the corner and whispering something to her. She nced over at Nathan with a look of surprise. Nathan waved her over, and she walked towards him.


    The director smiled warmly at Nathan. "Mr. Nathan, the adoption papers are all set. You can take Minnie home today."


    Nathan knelt in front of the girl, gently brushing her hair. His usual stern demeanor was reced with a gentle warmth. "Would you like me to be your daddy?" he asked softly.


    The little girl looked at him, her thin frame entuating her porcin skin and eyes darker and brighter than obsidian. Despite her frailty, her beauty was striking,pelling a desire to protect her.


    "Daddy," she said suddenly, reaching out and wrapping her arms around his neck.


    Nathan beamed, standing up and offering her his hand.


    She ced her hand in his, her trust in him seeming as natural as breathing. Nathan gripped her hand gently, his eyes and smile full of kindness.


    Ashley, watching the girl closely, finally realized she was a budding beauty Though thin, her features were delicate, with eyes that lifted at the corners, giving her a fox-like charm.


    "Nathan, I''ve decided I want to help you take care of her," Ashley said, her mind whirring with possibilities If she became the girl''s godmother, she and Nathan would have more reasons to be together. Maybe, over time, Nathan might develop feelings for her.

 Chapter 475

    Nathan decisively cut in, "Sorry, Ashley, she''s got a mom."


    Ashley was taken aback, a wave of unease washing over her.


    Nathan seemed to have an inside track on this girl''s past. She couldn''t figure out if Nathan had this special interest because of some unique connection with the girl''s mom or if he just liked the sweet little girl and that got him curious about her parents. "Nathan, have you been keeping tabs on her for a while?" Ashley asked, her voice tinged with nervousness.


    "Yeah."


    "Do you know her folks?"


    Nathan paused briefly before answering, "You mean her real parents? Nope, don''t know them."


    Ashley exhaled, feeling somewhat relieved.


    Later that day, Nathan brought the girl home. When they showed up at the mansion''s doorstep, Dominick and the crew were all stirred up.


    Especially Dominick, who had a soft spot for anything cute. He was head over heels for the little one.


    "Boss, whose adorable princess is this?" he asked, eyes wide with wonder.


    Nathan cut in sharply, "She''s mine."


    Lizzy, Dominick, and Ford stood there, jaws practically on the floor, like they were hit with a revtion.


    "You''re not even hitched, Boss?" Dominick blurted out in surprise.


    Ford chimed in, "Is she your secret daughter?"


    Lizzy added, "Sir, if Nathalie finds out about a daughter this big, she''ll be really let down."


    The little girl cowered behind Nathan, her eyes welling up with tears. "Daddy, do they not like me?" she asked, looking pitiful.


    Nathan gently tousled her hair, "Minnie, they''lle around."


    He scooped Minnie up in one arm, radiating fatherly love, then turned to


    the trio with a stern look. "You''ve scared Minnie. Go take your punishment."


    Dominick scratched his head awkwardly. "Boss, we can handle the punishment. I''m just worried Nathalie might have something to say about itter." "Where''s Nathalie?" Nathan asked.


    Lizzy leaned in and whispered, "She''s inside."


    Nathan, still holding Minnie, headed in.


    Lizzy tried to stop him, "Sir, no woman wants to deal with an illegitimate child from the guy she likes."


    Dominick was getting flustered.


    "Boss, you''re pushing it. You and Nathalie just made things official, and now you''re springing this on her? She''s bound to get upset."


    Ford stood firm, blocking Nathan''s path. "Boss, maybe keep Minnie out


    of


    cook with it before introducing Minnie."


    Or now. Wait until Nathalie''s


    But Nathan just grinned confidently, "This is my engagement gift to Nathalie. She''ll be thrilled."


    Dominick and Ford nearly toppled over from his confidence as they held their ground, while Lizzy dashed inside.


    "Nathalie!" Lizzy burst into Nathalie''s room, her frantic energy startling Nathalie.


    "What''s all the hurry about?" Nathalie asked, puzzled.


    Lizzy, looking a bit panicked, took hold of her. "Nathalie, I need to tell you something. Brace yourself."


    Nathalie''s expression turned serious. "What is it?"


    "The boss..." Lizzy hesitated, "brought back a kid."


    Nathalie''s face softened. "He does have a thing for pets and kids. That''s not too shocking."


    But Lizzy continued, "The thing is, he said the little girl is his daughter."


    Nathalie''s teacup slipped from her hand, shattering on the floor.

 Chapter 476

    Nathalie was in a bit of a fog for a while.


    "What did you just say? Nathan has a kid?" she asked, caught betweenughter and disbelief, thinking it had to be some kind of mix-up. "How old is the child?"


    Lizzy replied, "About two or three."


    Nathalie quickly did the math in her head and shook her head in disbelief. "That can''t be right. Nathan''s only twenty now. Three or four years ago, he was still underage. With his by-the-book personality, he''d never do something so oundish." People do tend to cling to their first impressions, and Lizzy stuck to her guns. "But he told us himself, this little girl is his daughter."


    Lizzy''s firm stance made Nathalie hesitate.


    "Seriously?"


    Lizzy nodded. "Sis, I''m not pulling your leg. What he did was definitely not ssy, but haven''t you always said he''s been good to you? Maybe cut him some ck this one time?" Nathalie''s face clouded over.


    Lizzy tried to soothe her, "Come on, think about it. He was just a kid himself back then. Consider it a youthful mistake and let it slide this once."


    Nathalie wobbled to her feet, still struggling to wrap her head around it. "I can''t believe he''d do something so ridiculous."


    "If the kid''s got a mom, and he was involved enough to have a child, he should step up. How can he just walk away? That''s heartless."


    Nathan, taking Dominick''s advice, decided toy it all out for Nathalie before introducing her to Minnie.


    He left the little one in Dominick''s capable hands for the moment and went to face Nathalie. But as he reached the door, he overheard her using him.


    In a panic, he barged in, "Nathalie, let me exin."


    Nathalie shot Lizzy a look, "Give us a moment, I want to hear what he has to say."


    Lizzy reluctantly left, looking back with every step.


    Nathan rushed over, but as he reached for Nathalie''s hand, she pulled it away sharply.


    "Hold on, don''t touch me yet. Answer my questions first."


    Nathan nodded, "Alright, shoot."


    "Is the child you brought back really your daughter?"


    Nathan nodded firmly, "Nathalie, I want to be her dad."


    Nathalie shivered, "But I, I don''t want to be her mom."


    Nathan pleaded, "Nathalie, don''t decide so quickly. If you meet her, I''m sure you''ll change your mind."


    Nathalie was adamant, "I don''t want to meet her. Nathan..."


    She struggled to continue, "I''ve


    thought about it, and we''re just not right for each other. You''re tooid-back about rtionships, it


    shows ack ofmitment


    traditional, I want someone to share my life with, someone to grow old with."


    With that, Nathalie left in tears.


    Nathan suddenly wrapped her in a hug from behind, "Nathalie. You''ve got it all wrong. I want the same kind of love you do, just us two, forever. Trust me, our views on love are aligned. Please, just meet the child. One look, and you''ll see."


    Nathalie looked unsure.


    Eventually, she agreed to give Nathan a chance.


    Together, they walked out of the room, down the stairs, and into the garden.


    From a distance, she spotted a little bundle of joy sitting on a wooden chair, with Dominick and Ford keeping her entertained.


    Nathan called out gently, "Minnie."


    The little one turned her head.


    Whether she saw Nathan or Nathalie


    first, she


    theauddenly lit up, leapt off the


    chain and dashed toward them like the wind.

 Chapter 477

    As Nathalie got closer, she finally saw the face she had dreamed about so many times. It was the face that had once been the center of all her emotions-joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness. She just stood there, frozen in ce.


    Out of nowhere, a pair of snow-white arms wrapped around her legs. Nathalie looked down, then up, and saw a bright, beaming smile looking back at her. Her whole body felt like it had turned to ice, and with a tremble in her voice, she asked Nathan, "Nathan, where did you find her?"


    Nathan replied, "Nathalie, it''s a long story. I''ll fill you inter."


    Nathalie bent down, pulling Minnie into her arms. She pressed her face against Minnie''s, and tears began to stream down her cheeks. Dominick and Ford exchanged confused nces.


    Dominick, as if he''d just made a groundbreaking discovery, eximed, "Minnie looks just like Nathalie. She must be her kid!"


    Ford chimed in, "So, Minnie''s the child of Nathan and Nathalie?"


    Dominick chuckled, "That''s just like Nathan-already a dad at such a young age."


    Ford added with a smirk, "If they''ve been together all this time, why didn''t he mention it? We were worried about him staying single!"


    Nathalie held Minnie tightly for what felt like forever. Oddly, Minnie kept calling out, "Mommy. Mommy. I finally found you."


    Tears poured down Nathalie''s face. "You''vee back to me. Thank heavens."


    Suddenly, Minnie stood up straight and reached out to Nathan, calling, "Daddy." Nathan warmly took her hand, and Nathalie, observing their affectionate bond, realized Nathan must have orchestrated their reunion. "Nathan, thank you," she said, her voice full of gratitude.


    Nathan pulled her into a gentle embrace. "Nathalie, I just want you to be happy from now on."


    "Yes," Nathalie replied, feeling a true sense of joy. The regrets of her past life seemed to have been healed in this one. Cameron may have


    betrayed her, but she found a more


    perfect and selfless love with m


    Nathan. Her daughter, who had been lost to her in a past life, was now healthy and back by her side.


    With her past regrets resolved, she decided to let go of her hatred for Cameron and Greta. She wouldn''t waste energy on people who didn''t deserve it. Her focus would be on


    her family-that would be enough.


    "Nathan, thank you," she repeated, overwhelmed with gratitude.


    Nathan, ying it up a bit, said, "Nathalie, when you misunderstood me earlier, was scared out of my mind. You have no idea how carefully I''ve been holding onto my feelings for you, hoping you''d return them. I was so cautious, afraid of making you dislike me and ruining our chances. How could Pever risk it?"


    Nathalie, feeling guilty, admitted, "I was wrong to doubt you."


    Dominick and Ford looked thrilled. "This is fantastic! The little princess has brought the Nathan and Nathalie closer together in love," Lizzy said, buzzing with excitement.


    Dominick, unable to resist, asked, "Brother, can we borrow your little princess for a bit?"


    Nathan red, "She''s mine and Nathalie''s daughter. Don''t even think about it."


    But Nathalie interjected, "Nathan, I want Minnie to feel the love of many rtives. She went through so much to find me."


    Nathan then dered, "From now on, Ford and Dominick, you''re Minnie''s uncles. Lizzy, you''re her aunt."


    Dominick and the others celebrated, jumping with joy. "I''m an uncle now. How awesome is that?"

 Chapter 478

    Minnie''s return had Nathalie running around like a whirlwind.


    First stop was the mall, where she picked out a bunch of cute clothes and essentials for Minnie. Normally, Nathalie was a bit of a control freak, but this shopping spree was the first time she really let loose. Dominick Ford was along for the ride, juggling what seemed like a mountain of clothes, while Lizzy''s hands were so full she couldn''t possibly carry another thing.


    When Nathalie turned around with thest item in hand, she couldn''t help but chuckle at the sight of Ford and Lizzy struggling under their loads. "Alright, let''s head back," she said with a sheepish grin.


    On their way home, though, they ran into thest people Nathalie wanted to see: Cameron and Greta. Greta was lugging shopping bags, while Cameron sauntered along with his hands coolly tucked in his pockets.


    Seeing Nathalie, Greta put on a fake friendly face. "Nathalie, it''s been ages! How''s life treating you?"


    Nathalie was desperate to steer clear of her. "My life''s none of your business," she shot back.


    Greta''s eyes flicked to Nathalie''s empty hands and she found a new way to dig at her. "Why didn''t you buy anything? Is everything too pricey for you? You''ve always been so thrifty, never one to ssh out. But hey, life''s short, Nathalie. You should treat yourself now and then. Look at me, I just snagged two dresses without a second thought..."


    Nathalie''s reply dripped with sarcasm, "Some things never change, huh? Your sharp tongue is as lively as ever."


    Lizzy and Dominick Ford stepped up beside her, forming a united front. Greta looked puzzled by these unfamiliar faces.


    Lizzy chimed in, "Who said Nathalie didn''t buy anything? All this is hers. Maybe you should open your eyes."


    Greta''s expression soured, seeing Nathalie''s shopping haul. It was like Nathalie was stocking up for a feast, while Greta had to meticulously choose, always mindful of not overspending and upsetting Cameron.


    Cameron, ever the detail-oriented one, noticed all the clothes were for kids and got a bit worked up. "Nathalie, why are you buying children''s clothes?"


    Spotting the sizes, he realized they were for a child around three years old, and a troubling thought crossed his mind...


    Nathalie was on edge, terrified Cameron might find out about Minnie. She yed it cool, "They''re for a friend''s kid." Cameron visibly rxed.


    But Greta wasn''t done, her voice full of mockery. "Oh, so that''s why you''re spending like there''s no tomorrow. Helping out a friend, huh? Which friend of yours is sovish?"


    e Shan


    Nathalie just wanted to escape this awkward encounter. "I''ve got things to do. Goodbye," she said tersely.


    But Greta grabbed her arm, "Nathalie, you should reallye see Mom and Dad soon."


    Nathalie''s reluctance was written all over her face.


    Greta, a hint of sadness creeping in, said, "Dad''s not doing well. The doctors say he might not have much time left." Nathalie''s response was icy, "So, you want me to break out the fireworks in celebration?"


    Greta, furious, pped Nathalie.


    With tears in her eyes, Greta scolded, "How can you be so heartless? He''s still your father!"


    Dominick, seething, tossed the clothes at Ford, burying his face in the pile Then he stormed up to Greta and pped her. "You think you can hit Nathalie right in front of me? Am I invisible to you?"


    Greta''s face bore the angry imprint of his hand. She covered her cheek, tears streaming, and snapped at Nathalie, "Since when do you have a brother? I never knew you had one."


    Nathalie stayed silent.


    Dominick spoke up, "Nathalie''s got family, alright. Don''t think she''s out here on her own. With me around, no one''sying a finger on her."

 Chapter 479

    Ford''s voice cut through the air, muffled by the towering stacks of crates. "Dominick, count me in. I''m gonna make sure her parents won''t even recognize her. Hmph, anyone who messes with Nathalie is bad news." Greta was taken aback, seeing Nathalie now the darling of the group, with everyone ready to stand up for her. It made her both angry and jealous, especially since Cameron hadn''t said a word in her defense. Nathalie wasn''t interested in sparring with Greta: "Greta, consider yourself lucky I''m letting this slide. But if you every a hand on me again, it won''t just be a p you''re getting."


    Ford, the quick-witted one, added, "We''ll make sure your whole family goes broke."


    "What will you have to brag about then?" Dominick threw in.


    Lizzy chimed in, "Such a clueless woman."


    With that, Nathalie and her three defenders walked off, heads held high.


    Greta felt like she''d been ganged up on, her energy drained. She turned to Cameron, usingly, "They''re bullying me, and you, my husband, just stand there and do nothing?" Cameron''s eyes were fixed on a shopping bag filled with children''s clothes, lost in thought.


    In response to Greta''s usation, he shrugged it off, "You brought this on yourself by antagonizing her. You know she doesn''t let things slide." Unwilling to drop it, Greta retorted, "She''s just found herself a powerful backer to pick on someone like me, who doesn''t have one."


    In the past, her self-pity would''ve softened Cameron. But now, he seemed unfazed, his patience wearing thin.


    "So, wise up and steer clear of her from now on."


    Greta snapped, "I''m Mrs. Dawson of Dawson International. Why should I be afraid of someone with no money or status?" Cameron felt a wave of disgust.


    He loathed himself for not seeing Greta''s true nature sooner-her tendency to bully and her smugness when she thought she''d won. "Dawson International isn''t what it used to be. Keep a low profile," he warned her through clenched teeth.


    "A skinny camel is still bigger than a horse. Dawson International is still Dawson International," Greta shot back.


    Cameron gave up trying to save her from herself, "Do what you want."


    He didn''t even bother to tell her who Dominick and Ford really were.


    He believed Greta needed to hit a wall before she''d learn.


    With a stern expression, he walked away.


    Greta, juggling her shopping bags, tried to catch up, "Cameron, can''t you help me with these?"


    "Get back on your own. I''ve got


    UT


    things to do Cameron said, making his way to the parking lot, opening his car door, and hopping in. As Greta caught up, the car roared away, leaving her in a cloud of exhaust.


    Cameron''s eagerness to get away from her was obvious.


    Greta watched the car disappear, stomping her foot in frustration,


    h. We''ll see what Grande


    has


    y about this."


    She took a taxi home, looking a bit worse for wear.


    SWI


    Once home, she handed her bags to the maid, ordering, "Put these in my room."


    Then, she made her way to the old man''s quarters.


    Underneath Grandpa''s sycamore loft, Greta was surprised to see Cameron''s car. "Didn''t he say he had urgent matters?"


    He clearly didn''t, yet refused her a ride. Greta''s anger spiked.


    She nned to report this to Grandpa.


    After all, in this family, Grandpa was at least on her side.


    She tiptoed upstairs, approaching


    Grandpa''s bedroom door. She gently nudged it open a crack, just in time


    to hear Cameron mention her name.


    She froze, her hand suspended in mid-air.


    BUMS

 Chapter 480

    "Grandpa, I''ve made up my mind-I want to divorce Greta," Cameron said, his voice a mix of bottled-up sadness and firm resolve.


    Greta wentpletely pale, her eyes wide with shock. She never imagined Cameron would ever consider leaving her.


    Her dream of being Mrs. Dawson had barely begun, and now it seemed like it was all about to shatter.


    She pressed her ear against the door, eavesdropping on the conversation between Cameron and his grandfather.


    Right now, all her hopes rested on the old man, praying he''d take her side. She was convinced she''d won him over in the past, enough so that he''d even given her avish gift when she joined the Dawson family. Sure enough, the grandfather immediately shot down Cameron''s request: "Absolutely not."


    Greta let out a breath she didn''t realize she was holding, feeling a wave of relief.


    But Cameron was done with his marriage to Greta; his resolve to divorce was rock-solid. "Grandpa, my marriage with Greta is just for show."


    "What were you thinking back then?" Will snapped, frustration evident in his voice. "No matter her faults, she was the one you chose."


    Cameron''s voice wavered, thick with tears: "I regret it, Grandpa. I really do."


    After a long pause, Will sighed deeply.


    "Weren''t you head over heels for her once? I remember how you first described her to me. You said she might not be a beauty queen, came from a humble background, and wasn''t the healthiest. But her grit, her optimism, her lively spirit drew you in. You promised you''d love her forever, through thick and thin."


    Cameron seemed lost in his own thoughts. "Yeah, I believed we''d be together forever. That belief kept me from leaving her, even when she messed up."


    "So, what''s changed? Why do you


    want out now?" Will was a man with a wealth of experience and had already guessed most of it. "Is it because she''s not just in and frail, but also vain, overbearing, and controlling?"


    "Is it because she loves your money more than she loves you?"


    "Is it because, as your wife, she only adds to your stress and never gives you any emotional support?"


    "Is it because after a long day, she can''t even whip up a simple bowl of chicken soup?"


    Cameron buried his face in his hands, overwhelmed.


    "No, Grandpa. It''s none of those things. If those were her only issues, I''d still be willing to put up with them."


    Will was taken aback. "Then what on earth did she do to drive you to this?"


    Cameron replied, "What if I told you she''s actually a scheming and dangerous woman, a gold-digger, unfaithful and disrespectful? Would you believe me?"


    Will was stunned. "Do you have any proof?"


    Cameron said, "Grandpa, I have no evidence. But I''m thest person who''d want to see her go bad; it would just show how poor my judgment was."


    Will said, "I believe you. I know how much you sacrificed for Greta, giving up wealth and status."


    Then, shifting to a more


    "But Cameron, the Dawson family is already teetering on the edge. Your influence isn''t what it used to be You divorced Nellie to marry Greta, throwing your future away. Do you understand what might happen if you divorce her now?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 481

    Cameron sighed, "I know, I''ll be the butt of everyone''s jokes. But I''m not scared..."


    Will shook his head, "No, beingughed at is the least of your problems. You''d end up wrecking the Dawson family''s future. If you and Greta split up, the Dawson family will disappear from the Capital in no time. I can''t let that happen." Cameron felt a deep pain, "Grandpa, the Dawson family is beyond saving."


    Will replied, "The Dawson family may not be what it used to be, but even a skinny camel is bigger than a horse. If you put your heart into it, there''s still a chance for Dawson International to make aeback. Remember, I started from scratch. Don''t lose hope, Cameron. With your smarts, bringing Dawson International back is within reach."


    Cameron said, "Grandpa, even if Dawson International gets back on its feet, so what? We have a huge legacy, and no one to pass it on to."


    Will sighed heavily, "That''s on you. With so many women out there, why did you fall for one who can''t have kids?"


    Cameron admitted, "I made a poor choice."


    Standing at the door, Greta felt like her heart was being pierced by a thousand needles hearing those hurtful words.


    Was this how much Cameron despised her now?


    Could he really think of her as a heartless schemer out for money and causing harm?


    Will''s next words cut even deeper, "Cameron, Greta really isn''t the right match for you. But now isn''t the right time for a divorce. The only way out for you is if she''s out of the picture - unless she dies." Cameron stayed silent for a long time.


    Greta felt a chill run through her, her steps unsteady as she stumbled away.


    Back in her room, it felt like her insides were still in turmoil.


    This elite family was terrifying.


    On the outside, they seemed like charitable businesspeople, but behind closed doors, they treated lives like they were worthless.


    She couldn''t help but wonder if


    bleh his grandfather''s


    swnovel


    blessing, might resort to some shady, illegal tactics against her.


    Right now, she knew she had to get away from the Dawson family.


    So that evening, when Cameron returned home, Greta managed to


    keep her cool and said, "Caet


    §Ù§Ú§Þ


    like to visit my family for a few days."


    Cameron studied her face, "Why the sudden urge to go home?"


    I''d


    Greta replied, "The doctor''s been calling, saying my dad''s health is getting worse, and he might not have much time left. I figured, since I''m not busy, I should spend some time with him." She maintained a cat andposed demeanor.


    Since Cameron used her of being disloyal and unfilial, she decided to show him she could be a dutiful daughter.


    Cameron''s expression was hard to read, his eyes filled with skepticism.


    "Alright. Then go," he said.


    Greta gazed out the window, watching the night sky swallow the world like a giant beast.


    She looked at Cameron with a hint of sadness, "Cameron, can you drive me home?"


    Cameron replied, "Sure."


    He obligingly drove the car out of the garage, and once Greta got in, silence settled between them.


    Greta awkwardly turned to look out the window. In that moment, she felt a bit silly for her misced feelings.


    Before, she would''ve thought Cameron''s willingness to help was a sign of his love. Now, she realized it was just a habit. He was slowly cutting ties with her.


    And when he finally let her go, she''d be nothing more than a familiar stranger to him.

 Chapter 482

    Greta felt a wave of sadness wash over her as she thought about everything that had happened. She couldn''t figure out how she had turned such a promising situation into such a mess.


    The car came to a halt at the care home where Patrick and Miranda stayed. Cameron parked but didn''t make any move to get out. He just stared at the facility, one of the top ces in the Capital. "This ce looks fancy," hemented, with a hint of something deeper in his voice.


    Greta spoke up, her pride evident. "I spent ages picking this ce for my parents. The environment is amazing, and all the caregivers are certified pros. Since my folks moved here, they''ve been so much happier." Cameron looked at her without emotion. "How much does this cost each month?"


    Greta''s pride slipped away, her smile turning awkward. "Cameron, it''s not just about money. You know my dad''s health isn''t great. The doctor wasn''t hopeful, so I decided to bring him here. I just want him to befortable in hisst days. It''s pricey, sure, but it''s worth it¡ª around six figures a month."


    Cameron pressed on, "Where''s the moneying from?"


    His penny-pinching attitude was getting on Greta''s nerves. "You know I don''t have a job. I use the credit card you gave me for everything."


    Cameron''s expression darkened. "Greta, taking care of your parents is important, but I want you to be independent. The money I give you is for our household expenses. If you''re going to make big purchases for your parents, let me know beforehand."


    Greta clenched her teeth, feeling embarrassed by his scrutiny. But she understood it was because he no longer felt the same love for her.


    "Cameron, you know I''m not in great health..." she tried her usual tactic of gaining sympathy.


    But Cameron wasn''t buying it this time. "Greta, you''re my wife. You enjoy the benefits I provide, but you also share my burdens. You know Dawson International''s finance are tight. If you keep spending like this, we both have to deal with the consequences."


    Greta bit her lip and whispered, "So, what do you want me to do? Are you saying I should move my dad out of the care home?" Cameron said nothing.


    Greta knew he didn''t want to spend money on Patrick, so she asked a more pressing question. "If we move him out, who''s going to take care of him?" Cameron looked at her, surprised. "He''s your dad. Aren''t you going to take care of him?"


    Greta suddenly remembered her earlier boast about going back to her parents'' ce to care for her dad. She forced herself to say, "I... of course, I''ll look after him." Cameron didn''t say another word.


    Feeling heavy-hearted, Greta made


    her way to Patrick''s room. In the short time apart, he had be so frail. When Miranda saw Greta, tears welled up in her eyes. Her mobility had worsened, and she relied entirely on a wheelchair to move slowly and stiffly.


    "Greta, you''re finally here?" Miranda clung to her like a lifeline, pouring out her grievances. "You wouldn''t believe how.these caregivers behave, They pamper the guy next door, bathing him several times a day, but your dad only gets a bath every other day. And the


    food-others get lobster and steak daily, while your dad and I are stuck with ground beef or chicken, mostly ignored by them..."

 Chapter 483

    Greta was fuming: "They''re mistreating you, and you haven''t called the police?"


    Miranda looked down, tears slipping down her cheeks. "They said the ones who get treated well are those who slip the caregivers extra tips. For folks like us, with no rtives visiting or giving extra, this is the kind of treatment we get." Greta''s anger simmered: "What are you saying? Are you ming me for not visiting enough? For not slipping them extra cash to take better care of you?"


    She thought of Cameron''s recent troubles and felt a rush of frustration: "Don''t take things for granted. Do you even know how much I pay every month to keep you in this ce?"


    Miranda mumbled, still looking down: "Aren''t you Mrs. Dawson now? Surely, this isn''t a big deal for you?"


    Greta shouted, "The Dawson family is nearly broke. Cameron''s not keen on spending money on you anymore."


    Miranda trembled, looking utterly abandoned. "Didn''t Cameron always love you? Isn''t he worried about making you mad by treating us like this?"


    Greta sighed helplessly: "That was back then. Things aren''t good between us anymore. It might not be long before I''m out of the Dawson family."


    Suddenly, Patrick raised his shaky hand, voice raspy: "This... is... our... karma."


    Greta was wide-eyed with shock: "Dad, do you even know what you''re saying?"


    Patrick continued, "We were so cruel to Nellie, and now it''sing back to us." His hand dropped as he ran out of strength.


    Greta looked at her ailing parents, feeling a profound sense of loneliness and alienation from her family. "Dad, I''m sorry, but we can''t afford this nursing home anymore. We have to leave."


    Patrick closed his eyes, despair etched on his face.


    Maybe sensing his end was near, Patrick spoke gently: "Greta, my time''s running out. Look after your mother. Don''t add more burdens to your conscience." Greta''s eyes were red as she reluctantly nodded. "I understand. I''ll go sort out the discharge papers."


    Once Gretapleted the


    discharge, all of Patrick''s special et


    care was abruptly stopped. No more oxygen therapy, blood sugar checks, or respiratory monitoring...


    Seeing Patrick struggle for breath, Miranda couldn''t hold back her tears. "Greta, your dad can''t survive without these machines. Please, I''m begging you, don''t move him"


    Greta''s eyes were red with frustration: "Easy for you to say. If we stay, who''s footing the bill? You?"


    Miranda had nothing to her name; her survival relied entirely on Greta''s generosity. She could only lower her head in humility.


    The sharp sound of high heels echoed through the hall. Miranda looked up and saw Nathalie approaching with grace, and her eyes lit up.


    She wheeled herself quickly towards Nathalie. "Nathalie, please, I''m begging you. You''ve got a kind heart, save your father."


    Greta''s eyes zed: "My father is in this mess because of her, and you''re asking her for help?" She red at Miranda.


    But as her eyes nced over Nathalie, she was struck by the remarkable change in Nathalie''s demeanor.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 484

    Once upon a time, Nathalie was just an ordinary girl, steering clear of anything fancy or extravagant. Her eyes always seemed to carry the weight of the world, revealing a life filled with struggles and a sharp mind that kept everyone guessing. But today, Nathalie was a whole new person. She wore clothes and jewelry that were the cream of the crop, the kind you only see in glossy magazines. Her vibe was fresh and almost otherworldly, untouched by the usual pretenses. The old weariness had vanished from her eyes, reced by a pure and innocent sparkle.


    Greta couldn''t believe her eyes. How had Nathalie pulled off such an incredible transformation in such a short time?


    "How can I help you?" Nathalie asked gently.


    Nathalie turned her attention to Miranda, whose frail appearance tugged at her heartstrings. Once, she had harbored deep resentment towards Miranda, but now, Nathalie was ready to move on. It wasn''t about being noble; it was more about holding onto the happiness she had finally found. She figured, why not spread some kindness, build up some good karma for her and her daughter, and maybe rewrite their story?


    Miranda slid to her knees, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Your dad''s got terminal cancer, and his time''s running out. I just want him to have some peace in his final days. Could you help us out with some money so we can stay at this nursing home a bit longer?"


    Greta, who always cared too much about appearances, was mortified that Miranda had gone to Nathalie for help. She yanked Miranda back into the wheelchair with a harshness that surprised even herself. "Why are you begging her? Have you forgotten who put us in this mess? How could she possibly help you?"


    Nathalie noticed a nasty scratch on Miranda''s arm from the wheelchair''s metal bits but only frowned slightly before focusing back on her.


    Nathalie knew that look all too well. She''d worn it herself, a silent SOS for anyone who might care to notice.


    "Alright. I''ll help you," Nathalie said, her voice steady.


    Miranda let out a sob of relief. "Thank you, Nellie."


    Greta''s eyes widened in disbelief. The whole scene felt like a p in the face.


    "Nathalie, he''s my father. I''m the one who gets to decide what happens to him," Greta asserted.


    Nathalie turned to Patrick, speaking with a calm determination. "If your dad knew that his cherished


    daughter would turn her back on et


    him over some cash when he


    needed her most, do you think he''d regret not giving you away at birth?"


    Greta''s face turned every shade of disbelief.


    Miranda found her voice, her eyes zing. "Greta, now I see who you truly are. I can''t believe I raised someone so cold-hearted."


    Feeling cornered and humiliated, Greta spat back, "Fine, I''m the bad guy. Let Nathalie take care of you then."


    Without missing a beat, Nathalie said, "No problem at all."


    She immediately called the nursing home manager over. "These folks aren''t going anywhere. Also, make sure they have two personal caregivers around the clock. Money''s not an issue."


    The manager quickly calcted the costs. "Miss, considering Mr. Patrick''s condition, with all the medical Checks and constant care, plus your mom''s living expenses, it''ll be $18,000 a month. How many months would you like to cover?¡±

 Chapter 485

    Nathalie said, "I''ll go ahead and pay for three years upfront."


    The administrator paused for a moment, then broke into a wide grin. "Alright, alright."


    Once Nathalie settled all the fees, she headed back to the hospital room. Greta was still there, her eyes brimming with jealousy and anger. "Who are you trying to impress? I know exactly how much you''re worth. Just a small-time designer splurging all this cash-you''ll have to pinch pennies from now on."


    Miranda was moved, tears welling up. "Nathalie, you''re going out of your way for me. You''re so kind-hearted. Good things wille your way."


    Nathalie chuckled. "I like the sound of that."


    Miranda sighed, "But you''ve spent so much on us. How are you going to manage now?"


    Just then, Nathalie''s phone rang. She picked it up with ease, and Nathan''s smooth voice came through. "Nathalie, where are you?" His voice was upbeat, with a sweet lilt that made every word a delight.


    Hearing Nathan''s voice filled Nathalie with a warm, involuntary joy, a smile spreading across her face. "I''m at the Gracewood Rehab Center."


    "The rehab center''s right near my office. How about Ie by and we grab lunch together?"


    Nathalie was confused, "I thought Maple Company was down south and the rehab center is up northeast! That''s not exactly close."


    Nathanughed awkwardly, "Oh, I''m not in the office right now. I''m doing some work nearby."


    Nathalie let it go. "Alright then,e pick me up."


    "You got it!" Nathan''s voice was brimming with happiness.


    After hanging up, Greta eyed Nathalie enviously. "So, you''re dating someone?"


    Nathalie didn''t deny it. Greta sneered, "And here I thought you''d stay loyal to Cameron forever. Guess you didn''t love him that much, huh?"


    Nathalie shot back, "A schemer like him is just right for someone like you, a real maniptor."


    Greta was fuming. "You? A divorced woman like you won''t find a decent man. I''m curious to see what kind of guy you''vetched onto." Nathalie simply ignored her.


    Half an hourter, a high-end sports car zoomed in, executing a wless drift into the parking lot. The car door flew open, and Nathan stepped out, exuding confidence, holding a bouquet crafted from dazzling crystals and gemstones.


    From a nearby car, the driver''s window slid down. Cameron watched Nathan, his brow furrowing in curiosity. What was Nathan doing at the rehab center, and with a gift clearly meant for a young woman?


    Driven by curiosity, Cameron got out and quietly followed Nathan.


    Nathan strode straight to the building entrance, where Nathalie emerged, with Greta trailing behind.


    Nathan caught up, his steps confident, and handed the bouquet to Nathalie. "For you."


    Nathalie''s eyes widened in surprise. "This is way too extravagant."


    Nathan shrugged, "I make good money; you should get used to spending it."


    Nathalie admired the bouquet, each flower a sparkling diamond. Even though they were smaller diamonds and not as pricey individually, the sheer number made it clear they were quitevish.


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 Chapter 486

    Nathalie grew up familiar with the struggles of poverty, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for thrift and simplicity. So, when faced with a gift that could rival the cost of a house, epting it felt utterly against her nature. Yet, her naturally gentle demeanor made it hard for her to turn down someone''s kindness.


    "This time, I''ll reluctantly ept it. But seriously, next time, don''t buy me something this pricey," Nathalie said as she took the gift. The silver-white jewelry gleamed coldly, contrasting beautifully against her wless porcin skin. Nathan, seeing Nathalie''s beauty and genuine simplicity, felt like he had stumbled upon a treasure, overjoyed beyond words.


    "I''ve given you my credit card ages ago, and you haven''t used it once. You really don''t know how to pamper yourself, do you? Looks like I''ll have to do the spoiling for you. If you won''t spend money, I''ll spend it for you," Nathan teased.


    Blushing, Nathalie exined, "The money I earn is enough for me. No need to dip into yours."


    Nathan felt a pang of disappointment and sadness. "Then why am I earning money at all? Nathalie, do you even love me? Why can''t I feel your love?" he said, sounding like a child asking for candy.


    Seeing Nathan''s eyes brimming with unshed tears, Nathalie stood on her tiptoes and gave him a gentle, fleeting kiss on the lips. Afterward, her ears turned a bright, embarrassed red.


    Nathan''s deep, mysterious eyes finally broke into a mischievous smile.


    Meanwhile, not far away, Cameron watched the scene unfold, stunned as if hit by a bomb, his mind nk. Watching Nathalie kiss Nathan left Cameron with an inexplicable emptiness, making him realize Nathalie was never truly his. She wouldn''t be waiting around for him. Away from Cameron''s shadow, Nathalie seemed more breathtakingly beautiful than ever.


    Nathan had spotted Cameron from a distance and, eager to unt his bond with Nathalie, held her hand as they strolled toward Mr. Dawson.


    "Mr. Dawson, it''s been a while," Nathan greeted.


    Cameron''s eyes


    fell on their


    intertwined fingers. He should have thought Nathan was sleazy and conniving, but seeing his hands s impably clean, Cameron


    swallowed any bitter ve met


    "You and Nathalie... together?" Cameron asked, even though he already knew the answer, still needing to hear it from Nathan.


    Nathan raised their joined hands. "Mr. Dawson, isn''t it obvious? Nathalie and I are together."


    Cameron felt an unexinable irritation.


    Greta hadn''t anticipated that


    Nathalie''s boyfriend would be the ever-popr Nathan, nor did she expect him tovish such attention and gifts on Nathalie. Her jealousy soared. She was determined to wreck Nathan and Nathalie''s rtionship, confident she could get what she wanted.


    But when she tried to stir the pot, she realized it wouldn''t be easy.


    Trying to drive a wedge, she said, "Mr. Nathan, are you truly into Nathalie? Just so you know, she''s been married and has a kid, but don''t you dare look down on her."


    She presented herself as the concerned, virtuous sister.


    Nathalie''s face darkened further.


    Nathan pulled Nathalie into his embrace, gently patting her shoulder, his love for her palpable.


    Greta felt a pang of jealousy at the sight.


    Once Nathan hadforted


    Nathalie, he turned his attention to Greta. He nced at Cameron with a mocking smile, their exchange seemingly civil, but his words dripped with sarcasm aimed at Greta: "Mr. Dawson, I heard your wife got her position by being the other woman. To cherish someone with such questionable morals, well, that truly broadens one''s horizons, Mr. Dawson."

 Chapter 487

    Nathan''s words, though meant as apliment, nearly sent Cameron and Greta to an early grave.


    Cameron''s expression was stormy enough to make you think it might rain. "Why the sarcasm, Nathan?"


    Greta, flushed with indignation, snapped back, "Who said I''m the other woman? Cameron and I have been sweethearts since we were kids... It''s Nathalie who''s the real interloper..." Cameron suddenly barked at Greta, "Shut your mouth."


    How could she dare dredge up the past? Their previous actions were practically a con. Cameron had no desire to revisit those foolish days.


    Greta, feeling wronged after Cameron''s outburst, burst into tears.


    Nathan, however, was focused on Nathalie, worried she might get lost in the sadness of old memories.


    Surprisingly, Nathalie''s face remained calm and collected. It was as if the person Greta was talking about wasn''t even her.


    Nathan let out a quiet sigh of relief.


    He turned his sharp gaze to Greta, ready to punish her careless words with biting honesty. "Greta, what''s there to be upset about? A woman like you, living on borrowed time, deceiving your sister and hanging onto your boyfriend just to keep going-shouldn''t you be grateful? You''re so disrespectful to the people who help you, don''t you think karma''s got its eye on you?"


    Greta cried out, "Haven''t I suffered enough? I''ve lost my home, my husband doesn''t love me, I''m broke, can''t even afford my meds... and it''s all Nathalie''s fault."


    Nathan replied, "If life''s so unbearable, why not just end it? Spare us the misery."


    Greta went pale, seething with rage at Nathan.


    She shot back, "Nathan, do you really think the woman you like is any good? She''s just trash. She can''t even give you kids. You''ll die alone."


    Nathalie had had enough and pped Greta hard.


    She wouldn''t let anyone mistreat Nathan, who was so wonderful.


    Her eyes zing with anger, she scolded Greta, "Who gave you the


    right to insult him? Greta, he''s off-limits. If you disrespect him again I''ll charge you with stealing my organs and make sure you rot in


    jail.


    Nathan, surprisingly, said, "Why did you hit her?"


    Nathalie, slightly taken aback, replied, "I was helping you."


    Greta, mistakenly thinking Nathan was on her side,ughed, "Nathan, see? She''s always been rude and unrefined. No wonder, without a mother to teach her."


    Nathan swiftly kicked Greta aside,


    then gently took Nathalie''s hand et deal with things like this. Lete to


    "Does it hurt? You shouldn''t


    handle it."


    Nathalie couldn''t help but smile through her frustration.


    Greta, still on the ground, saw the tenderness Nathan had for Nathalie and was green with envy, her eyes red with jealousy.


    Cameron, meanwhile, didn''t seem interested in defending Greta. He just watched Nathalie.


    Seeing Nathalie stand up for Nathan was like watching a mother hen protect her chick, stirring something deep and unexpected within him.


    Her small stature, yet her fierce determination to shield Nathan, was a testament to her selfless love, which truly moved Nathan.


    Suddenly, Cameron felt a pang of jealousy towards Nathan.

 Chapter 488

    Nathan caught a glimpse of Cameron''s bewildered expression and felt an immediate pang of urgency. With a cheeky grin, he said, "Nathalie, were you just protecting me? You''re so good to me, I might never let you go. What am I gonna do now?" Nathalie gently tousled his hair, her voice soothing and warm, "Then let''s stay together forever."


    Nathan replied, "Even in the next life, I''lle find you, alright?"


    These days, Nathalie was living a carefree life, feeling content and healthy, even gaining a little weight. Her cheeks were softly rounded, giving her a youthful, innocent look. Paired with her yful charm, she was simply irresistible. Cameron had never seen Nathalie look so enchanting before, and something stirred inside him. Maybe it was jealousy or a sense of loss, but he mumbled under his breath, "Show-offs neverst."


    Nathalie blushed, "Alright."


    Nathan turned his gaze from Nathalie, his demeanor shifting dramatically. Moments ago, he was all sweet and affectionate, but as soon as he addressed Cameron, it was as if a cold frost had settled over him.


    "Mr. Dawson, keep your eyes peeled. I want you to see just how great Nathalie and I will be together, how our love willst a lifetime. The so-called curse of show-offs doesn''t apply to us." Nathan suddenly held Nathalie''s hand tightly, as if making a solemn vow, "I''ve had feelings for Nathalie for a long time. Thank you for letting her go. I owe you one for that." Cameron was left speechless...


    Nathalie was overwhelmed with emotion. No one had ever valued her like this. Nathan''s respect and adoration for her shone through clearly. His love was genuine.


    However, Nathalie was naturally shy, especially when it came to love. Nathan''s public derations made her a bit flustered. She squeezed Nathan''s hand, "Nathan, that''s enough. Let''s go." Only then did Nathan dial back his enthusiasm.


    "Alright, let''s head home," Nathan cheered.


    Cameron, who was older and more reserved, found Nathan''s youthful boasting a bit much.


    As Nathan passed by him, he leaned in and whispered, "Cameron, is your wife a bit off? You better keep her in check. If she shows up around my Nathalie again, spouting nonsense, I won''t hesitate to call her out


    With that, Nathan took Nathalie''s hand and they left.


    "Cameron, it hurts," came Greta''s weak voice, and a look of irritation shed in Cameron''s eyes.


    Cameron was simmering inside; all the embarrassment he faced today traced back to Greta.


    He snapped at her, "Get up. Sitting there on the ground, aren''t you embarrassed?"


    Greta''s tears fell, "Cameron, I can''t get up. I think I''m hurt."


    Cameron''s eyes red with anger, "Hurt? What What were you doing before? Now that Nathan''s gone, you say you''re hurt?"


    He yanked Greta up roughly, her leg hanging limp. Only then did he realize her ankle was dislocated.


    Greta whimpered, "Cameron, carry me."


    Cameron, with a sour expression, reluctantly bent down.


    Due to her height and injury, Greta


    to climb onto his


    , can you stoopacket


    With a stiff face, Cameron lowered himself further.


    Greta managed to mber onto his back.


    With a grim expression, Cameron carried Greta to the hospital. Greta sobbed the entire way.


    "Why are you crying?" Cameron''s voice bristled with impatience.

 Chapter 489

    Greta sobbed, "Cameron, how did we end up here? Just a while ago, watching Nathan be so good to Nathalie, I couldn''t help but feel a pang of envy. It reminded me of how things used to be when you always had my back without question." Cameron stayed silent.


    After what felt like forever, he finally asked, "When you were feeling envious of Nathalie, did it ever cross your mind that I might be feeling the same about Nathan?"


    Greta felt a chill run through her. "You... envy Nathan?"


    Greta had always been fiercelypetitive and never considered Nathalie a real contender. To her, Nathalie was just an ordinary girl from a tough background-an orphan raised in the slums, with little education. She never saw Nathalie as a threat. For years, she looked down on Nathalie as if she were insignificant.


    Little did she expect that one day, Nathalie would outshine her. Even Cameron, her own partner, seemed to hold Nathalie in higher regard now.


    Greta burst out in frustration, "You should envy him. So young and already he''s tackled the Rond family''s messes. He''s even taken over Dawson International, apany that used to be your pride."


    She thought she could change the subject, hoping Cameron would dodge the ufortable truth.


    But when someone doesn''t love you anymore, sparing your feelings is thest thing on their mind. Cameron''s words cut through, "It''s not his achievements I envy. It''s his ability to love someonepletely, without holding back."


    "And what''s even more beautiful is that she loves him back with the same intensity. Their love isn''t about what they have materially, but the depth of their connection."


    Greta murmured, "We had that kind of love once."


    "No, we never did," Cameron replied, his voice heavy with regret. "Or maybe I never felt that kind of love. The you I loved would never go all out to protect me like Nathalie does for Nathan."


    Greta''s voice cracked with emotion, "So, you just think less of me now."


    Cameron answered bluntly, "Yeah, I guess I do."


    Tears welled up in Greta''s eyes. "What did I do wrong?"


    Cameron replied coldly, "Do you really want to know?"


    Greta hesitated, unsure.


    But Cameron didn''t hold back, words pouring out like a dam had burst, "Should I fault you for not having a beautiful face, but an ugly heart? Or for being physically weak yet living extravagantly, with vanity and selfishness..."


    "Stop," Greta cried, cutting him off.


    "Cameron, you just don''t love meet


    anymore. It''s not about my ws. It''s because you stopped loving me that everything seems wed."


    Cameron maintained his icy demeanor, "No, it''s that my love for you faded. So did the rose-colored sses. Only then could I see the real you."


    Cameron took Greta to the hospital''s


    orthopedic department. Unlike before, he didn''t handle everything for her. Instead, he sat fiddling with his phone, letting Greta deal with the registration, doctor visits, and prescriptions on her own.


    With one leg barely functioning, Greta was worn out.


    When she returned to Cameron, her eyes were rimmed with red.


    Cameron acted like he didn''t notice. "Let''s go."


    With nowhere else to turn, Greta and Cameron went back to the Dawson family home.


    That night, Cameron grabbed a nket and headed to the guest room. "I''ll be staying here from now on."


    Greta felt her heart freeze over. She didn''t try to stop him, but the tears wouldn''t stop falling.

 Chapter 490

    This was the first time Greta and Cameron found themselves sleeping in separate rooms since they got married. It felt like the final nail in the coffin of their rtionship.


    Greta felt like a driftwood, floating aimlessly without a ce to anchor. Her once vibrant life now seemed like a mirage, an illusion that had vanished.


    Everything felt fake.


    Only the endless struggles seemed real.


    That night, sleep eluded Greta. The night was dark and windy, and the quiet of their vi was suddenly shattered by a low, rumbling sound. Greta sat up abruptly, as if in a trance, mumbling, "Has he gone to her?" Cameron, behind the wheel of the simple car they once used on their wedding day, sped through the empty streets. The cold, lonely night seemed to y tricks on him, as memories of marrying Nellie flooded his mind. On that day, Nellie had been a vision in her white wedding dress, sitting patiently, waiting for him. But he, frustrated because he hadn''t married the woman he truly loved, drowned his disappointment in a drink or two. He didn''t want to leave.


    Especially with Greta''s desperate attempts to stop the wedding-running away and even threatening to end it all. Cameron, drunk and frazzled, had rushed to calm her down. By the time he returned for the ceremony, the auspicious moment had passed.


    The officiant, a fiery young woman, had spoken up for Nellie, "Sir, your bride is kind and beautiful. You should treat her well. With your behavior today, any other girl would have walked away. Your wife''s understanding nature is a blessing, don''t take her love for granted. If she ever realizes her own worth and moves on from you, you''ll have no one to me but yourself."


    Cameron had shrugged it off back then, thinking Nellie was lucky to have him. He couldn''t imagine a scenario where he''d need to win her back.


    Driving without a destination, Cameron found himself retracing the path they took on their wedding day. The once young and reckless Cameron now felt the weight of time.


    He remembered arriving at the bridal


    suite, seeing the hurt and disappointment in Nellie''s eyes. Still, she didn''t me him; instead, she voiced her worry, "Cameron, you had me scared sick. I''m just relieved you''re okay."


    What a naive girl.


    In that moment, Cameron felt a rare pang of guilt, and he had pulled her into his arms, carrying her to their wedding car.


    During the ceremony, he had promised, "For richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health... I will never leave you."


    Cameron never truly intended to leave her. He felt that since Nellie had donated a kidney to Greta, he owed her a lifetime of responsibility. Just responsibility.


    He foolishly believed Nellie should be content with his care.


    He thought he had forever to make it up to her.


    But who could''ve guessed Nellie had


    dreams bigger than he imaginede


    Once she realized she''d been deceived, she orchestrated her escape without hesitation.


    2


    And in his misguided effort to console Greta, Cameron had unwittingly helped Nellie leave sending her abroad, thinking she''d eventually return to him.


    But that was the moment he truly lost her.


    Cameron''s mind spun his life into an endless loop of dramatic scenes, reying over and over.


    Revisiting those old memories only highlighted how foolish he had been.


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 Chapter 491

    Underestimating Nellie turned out to be the biggest blunder of his life. He finally began to see her as an equal.


    Cameron''s car eventually rolled to a stop in front of Nathan''s sprawling mansion. It was that eerie hour just before dawn, when shadows stretch long and the world holds its breath.


    The mansion''s entrance was whimsically decorated with two pink sr-powered bunnymps perched on the columns, looking absolutely adorable. Inside the courtyard, lights twinkled with childlike wonder-globe-shaped sr lights and all sorts of glowing animal figures shimmered in a kaleidoscope of colors, reminiscent of a magical zoo.


    Cameron squinted his hawk-like eyes, bemused by how Nathan, a powerhouse in the business world, could have such a yful side. But something seemed off. Wasn''t it Nathalie who had a soft spot for glowing trinkets? And the person who adored cute animals... Cameron rummaged through his memories, and it hit him. In Timeless Cycle, he had seen simr quirky animal dolls in his daughter Nina''s room. His handsome face hardened at the realization.


    Bits and pieces clicked together-like the time he bumped into Nathalie at the mall, her arms overflowing with children''s clothes. The seamless connection of these memories made his blood boil, as if a hidden truth was about to surface.


    He sat in his car, waiting in silence for the dawn to break. As the first light of day crept in, he heard the electronic lock of the mansion quietly click open. A tall figure stepped out, and Cameron focused intently.


    It was Nathan, dressed in a pristine white tracksuit. His tall,manding presence was maic. But what caught Cameron off guard was the little one perched on Nathan''s shoulder. From a distance, she wore a sweet pink dress and white knee-high socks. Her hair was styled in two cute buns, with perfect bangs framing her face-absolutely adorable.


    The pair radiated an infectious energy, the scene so unexpectedly heartwarming. The little one''s voice was as soft as marshmallows: "Daddy, how manyps are we running today?"


    Nathan''s voice was filled with love, "How about one morep than yesterday?" At his young age, the maturity and warmth in his tone were surprising.


    "Okay!" she cheered, her excitement contagious.


    Nathan made a gentle shushing motion: "Nina, let''s keep it down, mommy''s still asleep. We don''t want to wake her, right?"


    The little one quickly covered her mouth, nodding wisely. "Got it, Daddy."


    Cameron felt a rush of unnamed emotions. This little girl calling Nathalie ''mommy'' and Nathan ''daddy'' clearly, she was their daughter. So, Nathalie and Nathan had been together for years. But back then, wasn''t Nathalie still his wife? What right did she have to


    use him of infidelity?


    As Nathan and Nina ventured further into the morning light, Cameron finally got a good look at the little girl''s face. His own face went pale.


    She was a spitting image of


    Nathalie. This... was unmistakably


    his and Nellie''s daughter, Nina. An overwhelming sense of joy, like finding something precious that was lost, filled his heart.


    He watched Nina with a surge of love and pride. The fatherly affection he had missed out on surged within him.


    Nathan gently set the little munchkin


    down, and the two began jogging


    side by side. The little one wasn''t in the best of health and soon started topant heavily.


    But Nathan was endlessly patient, encouraging her, "Sweetheart, keep going. Once we''re done, Daddy will whip up your favorite piggy buns."


    The little munchkin perked up immediately, her resolve strong: "No quitting, no giving up. I''ll do my best." Her earnest determination was utterly charming.

 Chapter 492

    Cameron''s eyes welled up with tears as he watched the joyful scene between Nathan and Nina, feeling like his heart was being ripped apart. He made a hasty retreat. The roar of a car engine and the shaking ground caught Nathan''s attention. Nathan dashed to the door, just in time to see the car speeding off. The familiar license te sent a shiver down his spine. Memories from six years ago flooded back.


    On that day, he learned from a TV broadcast that Cameron and Nellie were getting married. He felt like he''d lost itpletely, driving his sports car like a maniac to the entrance of the Dawson Estate. He blocked Cameron''s wedding car and got out, pleading with him, "Cameron, you better treat your bride right. If you ever hurt her, I won''t let it slide."


    Back then, he was just a scrawny teenager, skinny and weak, a far cry from who he was now. Cameron probably hadn''t recognized him all these years. But Nathan remembered that day vividly, and the wedding car Cameron drove was the same modest sedan he''d just seen. What was Cameron up to? Getting nostalgic about the past?


    Nathan''s eyes turned icy, and he clenched his fists, a dark and fierce energy radiating from him.


    "Daddy," came the soft, sweet voice of his little girl, pulling Nathan back to reality. The chill vanished as he scooped her up and headed inside. He didn''t notice Nina''s eyes lingering on Cameron''s retreating car.


    "Daddy''s not in the best mood today. I need to see your mommy. Why don''t you go hang out with your uncles, Nina?"


    "Okay!" Nina tumbled off Nathan and dashed downstairs to the bedroom. Dominick and Ford were snoozing away. The little munchkin stood by the bed, looked at Dominick, then at Ford, and finally climbed onto the bed, tickling Dominick''s nose with a strand of hair. "Achoo!" Dominick sneezed awake. Seeing Nina, he happily lifted her up, tossing her into the air. "Nina, what brings you here?"


    Nina giggled, "Uncle, I need your help."


    Dominick set her down, curious. "What do you need, Nina?"


    "Uncle, I want to go out and y."


    Dominick was all in, "Sure thing. No problem."


    He nudged Ford awake, "Wake up, Nina wants us to take her out for some fun."


    Ford quickly got dressed. "Where are we headed?"


    Nina grinned, "Let''s go on a spontaneous trip."


    Ford paused, "Does your mom know?"


    A hint of guilt flickered in Nina''s eyes.


    I


    t


    to chele, mom said I don''t need


    in when I''m with you guys because you''re family."


    t


    Ford, ever the cautious one, asked, "Does your dad know you''re heading out with us?"


    Nina pouted, "Uncle... Daddy''s head over heels for mom. If she doesn''t mind, would he dare to?"


    Dominick yfully smacked Ford on the back of his head, "Aren''t you the


    e? Even Nina gets it. How


    can you not?"


    Ford rubbed his sore head, still feeling uneasy.


    Meanwhile, Nathan slipped into Nathalie''s room. She was sound asleep, and he sat by her bedside, quietly admiring her angelic face. Ovee by emotion, Nathan leaned down and softly kissed her lips. Nathalie''s eyes flew open, meeting his. Nathan shed an awkward smile. Just as be was about to pull away, Nathalie wrapped her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


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 Chapter 493

    After the kiss, Nathalie looked at Nathan, whose ears were turning crimson, and chuckled, "Nathan, that''s how you really kiss. Nathan''s handsome face froze. "Are you saying I''m bad at kissing?"


    Nathalie giggled, "You''re just not experienced in love, it''s understandable."


    Her words drove Nathan a bit wild.


    He confidently lifted her chin and nted a deep, passionate French kiss on her lips.


    Nathalie found herself breathless, and when Nathan finally let her go, she was gasping for air.


    Nathan teased, "Sis, you might wanna work on your cardio. Seems like your lung capacity needs a little help."


    Nathalie shot him a re. This guy, always cheeky after getting what he wants.


    Who kisses for that long anyway?


    "What brings you here so early?" she asked.


    Nathan nodded seriously, "Well, I wanted to ask when you''re gonna make things official with me?"


    Nathalie couldn''t help butugh, "How old are you again? You''re not even old enough to get legally hitched, right?"


    Nathan replied, "Soon enough. We could get engaged first, then tie the knot."


    Nathalie eyed him suspiciously, "Why the sudden rush?" Nathan took her hand gently, kissing it softly, "I''m scared I might lose my chance. I''d regret it forever if I did." Nathalie ruffled his hair, "What are you talking about? Losing your chance? You think I''m that ky?"


    Nathan asked cautiously, "But if... I mean if, Nina''s no-good dad changes his ways and wants to patch things up, would you leave me to give Nina aplete family?" Nathalie confidently replied, "He won''t."


    "He''s always been about Greta. That''s not changing."


    Nathan asked, "And you? Would you go back to him?"


    "I wouldn''t," Nathalie said firmly.


    Seeing the worry in Nathan''s eyes, Nathalie reassured him, "I''m not about to cling to a guy who hurt me."


    "What if Nina needs him?"


    Tears welled up in Nathalie''s eyes, and she said solemnly, "Then I''d send her back to him. But as for you, you''re mine."


    Nathan''s heart soared with joy as he


    pulled her into a tight hug, kissing her eagerly, "I won''t let Nina miss that sorry excuse for a dad. I''ll make sure she only sees me as her real dad. That way, you won''t be sad."


    Nathalie held him close. He was the best thing that had ever happened to her.


    When Nathalie and Nathan headed downstairs, the nanny had already set up breakfast.


    But the dining room was oddly quiet today. Nathan frowned and asked, "Where is everyone?"


    The nanny smiled, "The little one insisted on going out with Dominick and Ford, so they had breakfast early and left about half an hour ago."


    Nathan''s face darkened, "Those two think I''m just decoration? Taking the little miss out without a word to me?"


    He then instructed the nanny, "Call Dominick and Ford right now, and tell them to get back pronto."


    The nanny, a bit shaky, made the call.


    To their surprise, it was their little


    bundle of joy, Nina, who answered her voice sweet as honey, "Daddy, did you miss Nina? Nina missed you too."


    BAUMS


    The nanny passed the phone to Nathan, who swallowed hard. His


    stern tone melted into syrupy sweetness, "Sweetheart, where have you gone? Why aren''t you having breakfast with mommy and daddy?"


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 Chapter 494

    "Daddy, today''s super special, you know. You''ve got to make it count with Mommy. That''s why I got Uncle to take me out, so you two can have some alone time. Make the most of it, Daddy," Nina said with a cheeky grin. Nathan felt a little tug at his heart. "A special day?"


    He racked his brain, thinking through Nathalie''s birthday, their first date anniversary, and even all the major holidays, but nothing clicked.


    It was Nathalie who finally clued him in. "Nathan, Nina''s talking about our past life."


    Suddenly, it hit him, and his face clouded with sorrow. Today, in their past life, was the heart-wrenching day they parted ways.


    Nathan vividly remembered witnessing Nathalie''s tragic end, her life slipping away in his arms.


    The depth of his grief that day was beyond words.


    Since then, his world had been painted in shades of gray.


    Nathalie shook her head, gently scolding Nina. "This child, always knows just how to hit where it hurts."


    But Nathan squeezed Nathalie''s hand, deeply moved. "Nina''s right, today is incredibly special for us. Nathalie, I never want to feel the pain of losing you again. It''s unbearable."


    He leaned into her shoulder, and Nathalie could feel him trembling slightly.


    She sighed, "Nina, that little rascal, really needs a talking-to."


    Meanwhile, Nina, the mastermind, sat in the car headed to Dawson International, her face serious.


    Ford finally noticed something was off. "Nina, where exactly are we going?"


    Nina pointed at a fork in the road. "Uncle, take a left here, then stop at the next intersection."


    When Ford followed her directions and saw Dawson International''s towering skyscraper, he was taken aback.


    Ford eyed Nina suspiciously. "Nina, do you actually know where we''re heading?"


    Nina shrugged, "I was just guessing."


    Dominick chuckled, "You''re way too paranoid, Ford. She''s just a kid; could she remember such a l


    route? It''s gotta be destiny


    et


    Ford shot Dominick a skeptical look. "Are you sure letting Nina out here is a good idea?"


    Dominick whispered, "She''s just a


    kid; she doesn''t know this is her


    dad''s rival''s turf. We can''t breaket


    promise to a kid; that''d set a bad example."


    Ford sighed, "You''ll take the me if anything goes wrong."


    Dominick, ever the optimist, nodded. "Sure, I''ll handle it."


    He hopped out of the car first, lifting Nina down, muttering, "What''s the worst that could happen? Making a fuss over nothing."


    Ford parked and hurried after them,


    holding Nina''s hand tightly. "Nina don''t let go of my hand. There are bad folks around. If you''re not careful, one might snatch you away."


    IMS


    Nina, holding onto both Dominick and Ford, skipped towards Dawson International.


    At the entrance, there was a vibrant little amusement park, full of colors and excitement.


    Nina, bouncing ahead, shouted, "I want to y in the amusement park!"


    Ford and Dominick had no choice but to tag along.


    They joined Nina on the merry-go-round, seesaw, and in the sandpit... until they were utterly worn out.


    Suddenly, Nina, looking a bit anxious, piped up, "Uncle, I need the bathroom."


    Dominick, too tired to argue, let Ford handle it. "Alright, Uncle will take you."


    Nina pointed to the restroom sign on the first floor of Dawson International. "There''s the bathroom. I can go by myself."


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 Chapter 495

    Dominick waved her off, "Alright, you go ahead."


    Ford nudged him, "You''re really gonna let her go alone? What if she gets lost?"


    Dominick rolled his eyes, "Come on, she''s just going to the bathroom, and we''re two grown men. We can''t exactly follow her in there. The restroom''s right here; how could she possibly get lost?" Ford reluctantly agreed with Dominick''s reasoning.


    Nina, hands on her hips, casually strolled towards the restroom. Dominick watched her for a moment before settling down on a seesaw for a quick nap.


    But Ford kept his eyes on the restroom, his concern growing with each passing minute.


    One minute, two minutes... five minutes...


    Ford anxiously nudged Dominick again, "Why isn''t she back yet?"


    Dominick, still half-asleep, mumbled, "She just went in. Girls take longer in the bathroom, right? It''s normal for her to take some time."


    Ford tried to calm his nerves but couldn''t help feeling uneasy.


    Ten minutester, Ford gave Dominick a good kick, "If Nina''s missing, we''re in serious trouble."


    Dominick, now wide awake and annoyed, begrudgingly followed Ford to the restroom entrance.


    They called out for Nina, but got no response.


    Ford, ever observant, noticed a narrow hallway inside the restroom leading deeper into Dawson International. He broke out in a cold sweat.


    "Oh no. Nina''s gone."


    Dominick, shaken by Ford''s discovery, turned pale. They approached a woman who had just exited the restroom, "Ma''am, could you please check inside for a little girl? She''s yay tall and wearing a pink dress..." They gestured to show Nina''s height.


    "Sure, I''ll take a look," the woman said, eager to help.


    After a thorough search, she returned with bad news-Nina was nowhere to be found. Dominick and Ford were nearly beside themselves with panic.


    "This is bad, really bad. The boss is gonna kill us."


    Ford turned to Dominick, "This is all your fault..."


    They ran around like headless chickens, desperately searching for Nina.


    Meanwhile, Nina, already familiar with the ce, navigated Dawson International with ease. She reached the elevator and took it to the executive floor, where the CEO''s


    office was.


    en


    As luck would have it, the president''s secretary was in the elevator too. She kept ncing at Nina before finally speaking up, "Hey there, who are you here to see?" Nina confidently replied, "I''m here to see Cameron."


    The secretary''s eyes widened in surprise.


    This little girl was casually dropping the CEO''s first name. She was about to give her a stern talking-to when she noticed the luxury brandbel on Nina''s dress-this kid was someone important.  en


    Judging the situation, the secretary switched gears, smiling warmly, "I''m the CEO''s secretary. Let me announce your arrival."


    But Nina waved her off, "No need, I''ll find him myself."


    When the elevator doors opened, Nina turned left without hesitation.


    The secretary stood there, stunned; it seemed like Nina knew exactly where she was going.


    Nina marched straight to Cameron''s office and knocked on the door.


    Inside, Cameron was puzzled by the gentle knock. Just as he was about to ask who it was, the secretary peeked in with a bemused look, "Sir, there''s a little girl here insisting on seeing you."


    "A little girl?" Cameron echoed, startled.


    Before he could say more, a charming little figure slipped under the secretary''s arm and into the room.


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 Chapter 496

    Cameron was left speechless when he saw the little girl. The surprise in his eyes was impossible to hide, and he sprang to his feet, eximing, "Is it really you?" His secretary looked on, clearly confused.


    Cameron waved her off, "You can leave us for now."


    Just as she was about to leave, Cameron stopped her, "Oh, and Matt, could you grab some snacks? Something healthy, please."


    The secretary''s eyes widened in astonishment as she nced at Nina. Her gut feeling told her that this little girl''s presence was significant.


    And for a split second, she thought she noticed a resemnce between the CEO and the little one, which made her quickly scurry out.


    Inside the office, Nina waddled over to Cameron, hands tucked in her pockets, like a little penguin. She tilted her head up, her expression a charming mix of cute and sassy, "I saw you this morning." Cameron''s jaw dropped slightly, "And?"


    Nina, with a surprising maturity, questioned, "Why were you there?"


    Cameron answered honestly, "I was looking for you."


    "Why were you looking for me?" Nina''s bright eyes were filled with caution.


    Cameron paused, then locked eyes with Nina, "You don''t like meing to find you?"


    He got up, walked around his desk, and stood in front of her.


    The height difference was obvious, but Nina held her ground with a presence that matched his.


    Cameron studied her for a moment, moved by the determination in her eyes. "It seems you really don''t like me," he muttered softly.


    Nina replied, "It''s not that I don''t like you."


    Cameron''s eyes flickered with hope, "So you do like me?"


    Nina shook her head, "It''s not about liking or disliking. You''re just a stranger to me."


    The hope in Cameron''s eyes faded.


    He nced at Nina, curious, "Do you know why I came looking for you?"


    A spark ignited in Nina''s eyes.


    Cameron pulled up a chair and sat down, trying to meet Nina at eye level.


    "You know, you look a lot like my daughter," he said, his voice thick with emotion.


    Nina asked, "Do you like your daughter?"


    Cameron hesitated, unsure of how to reply.


    He ought to, but his actions told a different story.


    "How could you not like your own daughter?" he murmured, his voice subdued.


    "You like her?" Nina seemed surprised "Then you must have done lots of things for her. Like my dad, who buys me clothes, exercises with me, and cooks delicious meals."


    Cameron''s face turned awkward. What had he truly done for his daughter?


    In his recurring dreams with Timeless Cycle, he saw himself absent whenever his daughter needed him. Because whenever Greta feigned illness, he always chose her over his daughter. He abandoned his daughter time and again.


    First, by skipping her school events.


    Then, by never attending her birthday parties.


    And finally, when Greta pretended to be sick, he heartlessly forced his daughter to donate blood.


    Ultimately, leading her to the brink of death.


    Cameron''s eyes were red with regret; he knew he hadn''t been a good father.


    "I wasn''t a good father before, but if I could, I''d like to make it up to her," he whispered. His hopeful gaze turned to Nina.


    But Nina responded, "The you from before wasn''t a good father, and in the future, your daughter might not need you anymore. Because the time she needed you has already


    passed. She''s learned to live without you."


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 Chapter 497

    "Am I really beyond forgiveness?" Cameron''s voice wavered, filled with raw emotion. "If I''m willing to spend the rest of my life making it up to her, could she forgive me just this once?"


    But Nina wasn''t having it. She turned her back on him, ready to leave. "Please, don''te looking for me anymore. Your presence just upsets my dad."


    Cameron''s handsome features darkened, the sting of betrayal sharp in his chest. "Nina, he''s not your dad. I am your father," he finally shouted, frustration boiling over.


    Nina paused, spun around, and shed a sweet smile. "Oh, Griffin, you''re such a joker. You''ve got your own wife, Greta, and no kids with her. My mom''s Nathalie, my dad''s Nathan. And my full name? Emily Sheridan. How could I possibly be your daughter?" With that, she skipped away, leaving Cameron standing there, her words echoing hauntingly in his mind.


    Something wasn''t right, he felt it deep down. As he mulled it over, realization dawned.


    This kid might only be two, but she talked and acted like someone with years of experience. Was she, like Nathalie, harboring memories from a past life?


    Driven by a sudden desperation, Cameron dashed after her. "Nina!" he called out.


    But Nina kept moving, unfazed, heading straight for the exit.


    Meanwhile, Dominick and Ford had been searching high and low for her, growing increasingly frantic. Then, to their relief, they spotted Nina strolling out of Dawson International on her own.


    Dominick rushed over, practically in tears as he scooped her up. "Nina, where on earth did you go? You almost gave your Uncle Ford a heart attack!"


    Nina wrapped her arms around Dominick. "I''m sorry, Uncle. I got lost. Wandered into that building by mistake. It''s like a maze in there I couldn''t find my way out for ages."


    Dominick, still basking in relief, reassured her. "It''s alright, as long as you''re back safe."


    Ford, still frazzled, shot Dominick a re. "You better hope Grandpa doesn''t catch wind of this. Otherwise, we''re in for one hell of a night."


    Dominick shrugged it off. "As long as the three of us keep quiet, Grandpa won''t know Nina went missing."


    The group, nerves still jangling, decided they''d had enough adventure for one day and headed home.


    By the time they got back, afternoon had settled in, and with it, a brewing storm. Dark clouds crowded the sky, lightning crackled, and thunder rumbled ominously.


    Nathan was already sitting in a porch chair, waiting, when Dominick and Ford walked up with Nina, The sight of him nearly made them trip over their own feet.


    "Where have you been?" Nathan''s voice was as cold as ice.


    Ford was quick to point fingers. "Grandpa, it was all Dominick''s idea. He insisted on taking Nina out."


    Dominick scrambled to defend himself. "Grandpa, Nina rarely asks for anything. We couldn''t say no to just one small wish, could we?" Nathan leaned forward, his gaze sharpening. "Where exactly did you take her?"


    Dominick tried to sidestep the question. "We just went on a little impromptu trip. Nina led the way, we just followed her directions..." Nathan''s voice shot up a notch. "Do you not understand in English?"


    Dominick dropped to his knees, ears in his hands, and spilled the beans. "Grandpa, swear, I don''t know how it happened. One moment we were driving, next thing we knew, we were parked right outside Dawsom International."


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 Chapter 498

    Ford chimed in, "Nina disappeared for quite a while after saying she was headed to the restroom. Dominick and I were about to lose it searching for her. Just as we were about to give you a heads-up, she strolled out of Dawson International." Both of them looked at Nathan, guilt written all over their faces. Nathan turned his attention to Nina.


    Nina, showing maturity beyond her years, held onto Dominick with one hand and Ford with the other, giving them a reassuring look. "Uncle, you two can go downstairs. I''ll exin everything to Dad."


    Dominick and Ford didn''t dare leave without Nathan''s say-so.


    Nina was a bit taken aback and pouted in disappointment.


    Finally, Nathan waved them off, saying, "Alright, get up."


    Dominick and Ford scrambled to their feet, retreating awkwardly. Nathan focused on Nina. "So, you went to see him?"


    Nina didn''t hide it, nodding, "Dad, you''re sharp. Nothing slips past you."


    "Does your mom know about this?" Nathan''s expression turned serious.


    Nina shook her head. "No, Dad, I didn''t tell Mom."


    "Why not?" Nathan''s voice was stern, "Do you think your mom wouldn''t approve of you meeting him? Is that why you went ahead anyway?"


    Nina nodded, understanding the implication.


    Nathan''s tone wasced with sarcasm, "You''re young, but you sure know how to make your own decisions."


    Nina bit her lip, defiant, "I saw him, but I''m not looking to rekindle anything."


    Nathan stood up, his voice cold, "If your mom wouldn''t like it, then you shouldn''t do it." With that, he turned and went inside.


    Nina let out a heavy sigh.


    Inside, Natalie was distractedly picking at the vegetables.


    She''d heard every word of Nina and Nathan''s exchange.


    Her feelings were a jumble of surprise, disappointment, and a bit of worry about Nina''s actions.


    When Nathan entered, she looked at him with concern.


    Nathan asked, "Do you think she''ll resent me for being tough on her?"


    Natalie replied gently, "You''re her father. You have every right to guide her the way you see fit."


    Nathan smiled, "d to hear it."


    Without another word, Nathan headed upstairs.


    Nina shuffled in slowly, while Natalie continued with the vegetables, not acknowledging her. Nina approached, tears welling up, "Mom, did I upset Dad?"


    Natalie asked, "Why did you go see him?"


    "I just wanted to warn him to stay out of our lives," Nina said, looking hurt and teary-eyed.


    Natalie responded, "If you really


    Voet


    didn''t want to see him, why did at excuse might convince


    go?


    but not us."


    Nina clutched Natalie''s hand in desperation, "Mom, please don''t be mad. I just... I just can''t let it go."


    "What''s bothering you?"


    "I can''t believe he could be so


    heartless, choosing a terrible


    woman over me, putting my life


    risk. Does my life mean that little to him?"


    Natalie sighed, "So what are you trying to prove? That he still cares? That he didn''t mean to hurt you?"


    Nina looked down, "He apologized. He promised to make it up to me for the rest of his life."


    Natalie saw in Nina''s stubbornness and resentment a mirror of her younger self.


    Back then, she was driven by vengeance, unstoppable by anyone.


    She knew she couldn''t stop Nina either.


    "Nina, whatever you''re trying to prove, just remember to cherish the happiness you have now." With that,


    Natalie quietly headed into the kitchen.


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 Chapter 499

    The neon lights were especially dazzling at midnight, casting a vibrant glow over the bustling night market in the Capital. It was Cameron''s first time visiting the market, and he was immediately drawn to the myriad of stalls showcasing all sorts of figurines. He crouched down, carefully inspecting each one until he found a true gem-a little white rabbit. He remembered that Nina''s zodiac sign was the rabbit, and it seemed like the perfect gift.


    He made sure the stall owner wrapped it with extra care before he headed home with the gift box tucked under his arm. By the time Cameron walked through the door, it was already past ten at night. To his surprise, Greta was still up, sitting alone on the couch in the living room, waiting for him. Cameron greeted her with a cool expression. "Why aren''t you asleep yet?"


    Greta stood up and moved towards him, gently taking his package, helping him shed his coat, and even bending down to change his shoes. "Cameron," she said softly, "I''ve been thinking for a long time. Our marriage wasn''t easy toe by, and it seems foolish to act rashly. If there''s trouble between us, we should work on fixing it, not throwing in the towel."


    Cameron kept quiet, and it was hard to tell if her humble attempt to reconcile had any effect on him.


    Continuing, Greta said, "I know I''ve been spoiled by my father and haven''t been the kind, considerate wife I should be. But I can change; I can learn to be a good wife. I''ll cook and clean if that''s what it takes, as long as you''re willing."


    Still, Cameron said nothing, and Greta''s face fell further as her efforts met with silence. "Cameron, are you really going to give up on me?" she asked, her voice trembling.


    After what seemed like an eternity, Cameron finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper, "Our love has faded. Nothing you do can change that."


    Greta''s eyes welled up with tears. Cameron gently nudged her aside and headed upstairs without another word.


    mel


    In his room, he ced the gift box on the nightstand and slipped into the bathroom. Greta followed him and noticed the beautifully wrapped box, its sparkling exterior hinting at a special gift inside. Her heart sank with suspicion.


    Convinced that Cameron was seeing someone else, panic and insecurity washed over her. She couldn''t bear the thought of being cast aside. With determination, she picked up the gift box, tore off the tape, and opened it.


    Inside, she found a rabbit dressed in


    a pink gown, adorned with a


    d.ne


    diamond ne. Jealousy red within her Cameron had beenining about money, giving


    her barely enough for essentials, yet here he was, buying expensive


    trinkets?


    The sound of the shower stopped, and Cameron emerged, wrapped in a bathrobe. Greta stood there, still caught in the throes of her emotions. Seeing her with the gift, Cameron''s temper red like never before.


    He snatched the figurine from her hands, making sure it was unharmed, and then turned to her with anger. "Who said you coulde in here? Don''t touch my things again."


    Greta''sposed demeanor shattered, and she yelled back, "What are you hiding, Cameron? You used to say what''s yours is mine, that I could touch anything of yours." Cameron shot back, "That was then. This is now."


    Tears streaming down her face,


    Greta lunged for the figurine,


    shouting, won''t let you give gifts to another woman. It''s not fair to me. Our money is shared, and if you''re spending it on someone else, I''ll take you to court for divorce."


    In the struggle, the figurine slipped from their hands, crashing to the floor in pieces.

 Chapter 500

    Greta stood there, staring at the broken toy on the floor, an unexpected wave of relief washing over her. She reassured herself, "It''s better this way. You won''t have to chase after her anymore. Cameron, can''t you see? This is fate stepping in." But instead of understanding, Cameron hit her with a brutal p. The blow was so forceful, it sent Greta reeling like a butterfly caught in a storm, crashing back to the ground.


    Blood spilled from her mouth, and she looked up at Cameron, her eyes wide with disbelief. "You hit me? For someone else? Cameron, I''m your wife. How could you do this?"


    Cameron was initially shocked, almost as if he couldn''t believe he''d let himself stoop so low. Yet, his remorse was fleeting. With a dismissive snort, he stormed off, leaving Greta alone with her pain.


    Greta gingerly touched her swollen cheek, but the sting on her skin was nothingpared to the ache in her heart. The love they once had soured into bitter resentment. She buried her face in her hands, tears flowing freely. Cameron marched back to the bedroom, mming the door with a deafening bang. He copsed onto the bed, hands tangling in his hair, frustration boiling over.


    He had wanted to make amends with Nina, but Greta had ruined it. Was she destined to be a thorn in Nina''s side? He couldn''t let this happen again. Determined to end the cycle, Cameron decided it was time to cut ties with Greta for good. He sat at hisputer, drafting a divorce agreement. He listed his assets, ensuring Greta would be financially secure. The division wasplete.


    The next morning, before heading


    out, Cameron left the divorce papers


    on the coffee table. When Greta came down for breakfast and sav them, a mix of shame and fury washed over her. Without reading them, she tore the papers to pieces.


    The thought of losing Cameron terrified her, she feared she''d wither away without him. But Greta refused to be a vietim. She vowed to fight back, to wreck Cameron''s flings. She wouldn''t just sit and wait to be discarded like Nellie.


    An idea sparked. She rushed to the trash can, retrieving the gift box from the night before. It was from Cameron, addressed to "Dear Nina."


    Assuming Nina was some shameless homewrecker, Greta''s anger boiled over. "Nina, I''ll expose you and bring you down," she vowed.


    In moments of crisis, Greta transformed, driven by fierce determination. Ignoring her own frailty, she bought a high-def camera and secretly installed it in Cameron''s car.


    Before long, she discovered Cameron wasn''t stayingte at the office but was often parked near a swanky neighborhood.


    Fueled by rage, Greta stormed into the upscale area one morning. Through the fancy gate, she spotted rabbit-shaped lights and figures like the ones Cameron had brought home, confirming her suspicions. Her fury burned brighter.


    "You homewrecker,e out here!" she shouted, pounding on the door. "How dare you seduce my Cameron? Have you no shame?"


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