Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 33

Chapter 33 Natalia was stunned by Scarlett’s words. She let out a sarcastic chuckle. “How is that even possible?”

Anyone who had seen Hamilton with Eveleen wouldn't dream of saying such a thing. If there was anything in the world Hamilton couldn’t part with, it was Eveleen. His tenderness was reserved for Eveleen alone.

“Why not?” Scarlett persisted.

Natalia didn’t want to dwell on it and quickly changed the subject. “It’s been ages since we grabbed a bite together. What are you in the mood for? My treat.”

Sure enough, the mention of food successfully distracted Scarlett.

“Let me think...”

Scarlett eventually picked a trendy bistro.

They chatted and laughed as they entered the restaurant, only to run into Victor, who had a girl by his side. Victor's gaze flickered when he saw Natalia walk in.

Natalia ignored him and continued inside with Scarlett, heading to a table far from where Victor was sitting. Once they were seated, Scarlett excused herself to the restroom. That was when Victor came over and took Scarlett’s seat.

“Ms. Jenkins, what a coincidence.”

Natalia stared at the menu, not bothering to look up.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

“Not really, Mr. Henkel. You could’ve pretended not to see me.”

Victor chuckled. “Why the cold shoulder?”

Natalia finally looked up. “We don’t get along. You do know that, don’t you, Mr. Henkel?” “How is that? We always used to have such good conversations.”

Natalia felt a headache coming on.

Victor was one of Hamilton’s pals. She and Victor used to get along just fine, but ever since her relationship with Hamilton was made public, Victor had changed his tune.

She dropped her gaze; she had a hunch about what he was thinking — if she was a good girl, he

might not mind chasing her. But if she was the sort who'd sleep with anyone for money, then he couldn’t be bothered to keep up the pretense. He would insult her while saying he was pursuing her.

This twisted game was probably a common trait among his crowd of trust fund kids — treating her like a plaything, despising her lowliness, all while enjoying her struggles.

Chapter 33 “Sorry, Mr. Henkel. | don’t think there’s anything left for us to talk about.” Victor's eyes narrowed slightly. “Don’t you want to know what happened between Hamilton and Eveleen last night?”

Natalia tensed up. After Hamilton left that night, she had tossed and turned in bed, telling herself not to think about it. But the thoughts came anyway, she just couldn't help it.

“| don’t want to know, and you don’t need to tell me.”

Victor's contemptuous gaze intensified. “Does running away help. Ms. Jenkins? Last time | mentioned the phrase ‘usurping the nest’, you denied it. But deep down, don’t you really think that way?

Hamilton will show up at events proudly with Eveleen on his arm. Would he do the same with you? Even though they haven't made up yet, everyone knows they were an item. It’s all above. board. And you? How many people has Hamilton let in on your little secret? Natalia, you'll always be the one who has to hide in the shadows.”

Victor's words were like daggers, each one painfully true. Natalia’s heart felt like it was being shredded, the pain almost numbing. She forced a strained smile.

“So what?” Victor smirked. “So why keep hanging around him?”

Natalia laughed dryly. “For the money, obviously.” She looked at Victor. “You know it, Mr. Henkel. I’m just his lover. What else could | possibly want but his money? His heart? Please,

I'm not insane.”

Victor raised an eyebrow. “Well, if it’s just about the money, why stick to just him? I’ve told you before, | can match his price. Natalia, give me a shot. Or name your price. How about it?”

Natalia gripped the menu tighter. “Really? Even if | did name a price, would you dare take Mr. Fowler’s girl?”

Victor's laughter grew more reckless. “You needn’t worry about that, Ms. Jenkins. Mr. Fowler said if | can get you to meet with me, then you're mine for the taking.

Natalia’s head buzzed, her face turning ghostly pale. She suppressed the turmoil in her heart, forcing a smile. “When did he say that?”

She wondered if it might have been during a recent spat with Hamilton. Hamilton, though cold and detached, had a fierce possessive streak. If she threatened to leave, it would undoubtedly upset him. In his anger, it wouldn't be surprising if he said something like that. Just like that night at Crest Club when he had said she could leave with Victor if she wished.

as still interested in

But then Victor shattered her last hope. “Just the other day. | mentioned | was still you, and he told me to pursue you. He even reminded me to make a generous offer.”

The edge of the menu paper was sharp, and it sliced into Natalia’s hand. A bright red cut appeared instantly. Droplets of blood started to form, but Natalia seemed oblivious.

She clenched the menu, maintaining a final shred of dignity, and gave Victor a weary smile. “Did you forget. Mr. Henkel? I’m picky.”

Victor was undeterred by her blatant rejection and disdain. He suddenly leaned in close to Natalia.

“Ms. Jenkins, you still have the privilege to set a price. Once Hamilton kicks you to the curb, you'll just be a plaything for anyone’s amusement, worthless.”

He sat back, smirking at Natalia. “So, Ms. Jenkins, | advise you to find a new benefactor while you can. | await your terms.” With that. Victor stood and left.

Natalia’s gaze dropped to the menu, now with a deep shade of crimson with her blood.

The cut on her finger was fine but deep. The bleeding had stopped, yet the pain was piercing her soul

Hamilton’s possessiveness had always been there, but lately, it was suffocatingly evident. She had thought, foolishly, that after three years, even without love, there would at least be some attachment.

But she overestimated her place in his life. To him, she realized, she was still nothing.

Scarlett emerged from the restroom, chattering nonstop about how chic the restaurant's new decor was. Not until she noticed Natalia’s pallor did she pause.

“What's the matter? You look as white as a sheet.” Natalia gathered her composure, lifted her head, and offered Scarlett a wan smile. “It’s nothing. just nicked my finger, that’s all.”

Scarlett’s brows furrowed in concern. “How can you be so careless? You're going to be a mom soon. Can you take care of yourself?”

Natalia quickly covered her friend's mouth. “Shh! Keep it down. Do you want the whole world to know I’m pregnant?”

Although they were a good distance from Victor, the restaurant was, after all, not that large.

Scarlett rolled her eyes. “Seriously, it’s like you have to walk on eggshells just because you’re pregnant.”

While grumbling under her breath, Scarlett examined Natalia’s cut. “It doesn’t look too serious. Just be more careful next time.” Natalia nodded with a smile. “Got it, mother hen.”

Their meal continued, though Natalia’s thoughts were elsewhere. It wasn’t until they left the restaurant that Scarlett grabbed her arm.

“What's really going on with you today? Don't tell me it’s just about your finger. I’m not that 3/4

naive. Is it Hamilton again?”

Natalia paused, then let out a soft laugh. “Scarlett, | think | want to leave Hamilton.”