Ch. 1131..1140

Chapter 1131 Insignificant

Samuel had been pampering Natalie ever since he returned. The woman started her vacation after handing over her work at Dream Corporation to Yandel and had been spending all her time with Samuel.

With Samuel taking care of everything for her, all Natalie did was read, practice calligraphy, and keep her kids company at home. A few days into her vacation, Natalie did step out of her house, but it was to attend Varre’s funeral.

It was a simple funeral, and the only people who attended were Anna and Varre’s apprentices. Natalie bowed respectfully at Varre’s photo when she arrived.

Even though she was already aware that Varre did not have long to live when they were at the monastery, it had only been slightly more than ten days when Varre completed the replica of the jade key for her. She could hardly believe that they were already separated by life and death.

If Varre had not spent his last days helping her despite suffering from end-stage cancer, there was no way she could have deceived Zophie and the others so easily.

“Thank you…” Natalie said softly while she placed the flowers she had brought along with her next to Varre’s photo.

After that, Natalie saw Anna, who was leading the ceremony. As a family member, she was dressed in a mourning outfit and had a white flower in her hair. The woman had a sorrowful expression on her face, and her eyes were swollen from crying

“Anna, I’m so sorry for your loss. Take care.”

“I will.” Anna nodded appreciatively.

During the funeral, Varre’s apprentices prayed for him in unison, their quiet prayers echoing in the air.

When Natalie was about to leave after the ceremony ended, Anna caught up with her and stopped her, “Natalie, wait…”

“Anna?”

“Let’s talk elsewhere.”

“Sure.”

Anna and Natalie left the funeral venue and headed to a nearby coffee shop.

Natalie looked at Anna and said, “Anna, take your time to settle your father’s affairs, and don’t worry about work for the time being.”

“Okay.” Anna held Natalie’s hand tightly. Tears had already welled up in her eyes as she said with a smile, “Thank you… What should I do? It seems like I’m becoming more and more indebted to you. After you left, my father and I had a long chat, and he told me the real reason for my mother’s death. I also learned that my father had tried his best, but despite his efforts, he had still failed, resulting in my mother’s tragic demise. My father did not want to talk about the incident as he knew how badly I was affected by it. Besides, because I kept rejecting him, we did not have a chance to resolve our misunderstanding until right before he died… Come to think of it, if you had not told me the truth, I would have left with you after getting the jade key. If that were the case, not only would I not have found out what really happened, but I would have also missed out on the precious moments I spent with my father before he passed away.”

Natalie merely gazed at Anna, not knowing what she could say to comfort her.

Even though Anna got to spend time with Varre during the last days of his life, it was barely enough for the woman.

“Sorry. Your father’s cancer was too advanced…” Natalie cast her eyes down and sighed helplessly before continuing, “Anna, there was really nothing I could have done…”

Anna grabbed Natalie’s hand and said in a gentle voice, “Natalie, please don’t say that! Some things are just predestined. Besides, it was because of you that my father and I got to spend a few days together. We are very grateful to you for that. We spoke about my childhood and my kid. I even managed to introduce Kyle to my father. Even though he was already very weak, he was still smiling from ear to ear. Before he passed away, he told me that he had no more regrets and asked me to thank you for that. However, at the same time, he wanted me to remind you that the jade key has brought nothing but trouble. He trusted that you would be able to handle it well, but he still wanted you to be careful.”

Natalie felt rather emotional when she heard Varre’s last words for her.

Blaze’s leader and Bastien from the royal family were both after the key. Perhaps, there were others who were trying to get their hands on it as well.

All the information that was currently present pointed to the fact that there was something unusual about the jade key. There was most likely some treasure stored in the secret room that the key was supposed to open.

Natalie squeezed Anna’s hand and said, “Anna, I will remember your father’s reminder and be careful.”

“Okay.”

After leaving Varre’s funeral, Natalie made a trip to Dream Corporation.

The moment she reached the office, she spotted a familiar face. A pretty lady was in the midst of a conversation with Yandel.

“Mr. Moss, I didn’t get to meet either Muse or Ms. Nichols…” Helma said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. Despite looking elegant and gentle, the woman said in a demanding tone, “I’ve been here twice, and both times, I only got to meet you. Mr. Moss, is a client like me too insignificant for Ms. Nichols to grant me a meeting?”

Chapter 1132 Guilty

Yandel had always been a diplomatic person who had a way with people, but judging by the awkward expression on his face, it was apparent that the man was having a hard time dealing with Helma, who had a prestigious status in Loang.

“Ms. Helma, that’s not the case, of course…” Yandel’s eyes darted from side to side before he said in a calm voice, “Ms. Nichols and Muse are not avoiding you on purpose. It’s just that they are both currently on vacation. If there’s anything you need, please feel free to let me know.”

After sizing Yandel up, Helma replied, “So what if you are the direct heir of the Moss family? Your family can barely be considered a prestigious one! Besides, I heard that the Moss family had openly cut off ties with you a few years ago…”

That was Yandel’s secret. Over the past few years, both the Moss family and Yandel had been trying their best to conceal the matter.

Back then, there was quite a commotion in Yaleview when the incident happened. However, it lasted less than two years before everyone stopped talking about it. As such, no one had brought up the relationship between Yandel and the Moss family during Yandel’s current trip to Yaleview, where he was helping Natalie with the expansion of Dream Corporation’s business.

No doubt, Helma’s words had hit a sore spot. Even though Yandel managed to keep his graceful demeanor and did not show any displeasure on his face, he was clenching his fists so tightly that the veins on his arms were already popping.

Meanwhile, Natalie was observing them quietly. As Yandel had his back to the woman, he did not notice Natalie’s presence.

However, it was not the same for Helma, who was facing Natalie and would have noticed her presence a while back. In fact, what Helma had said during the latter part of her conversation with Yandel was directed at Natalie.

There was bad blood between the two women because of Bastien.

As such, Natalie would have found it understandable for Helma to target her.

However, she would not tolerate the woman picking a fight with her subordinate.

Yandel took some time to compose himself, and just when he was about to speak, he felt a hand pressing on his right shoulder.

The man turned around suspiciously and realized that it was Natalie. “Boss… Why are you here?” he blurted out instinctively.

“My holiday just ended.” Natalie smiled faintly and said placidly, “Since Ms. Helma is here specifically to see me, how can I not entertain her personally? Get my secretary to make us some coffee. You may leave now to continue with your work.”

A slight crease appeared between Yandel’s brows when he heard that. However, when he saw the determined look in Natalie’s eyes, he swallowed his words and replied, “All right.”

After Yandel left, only Natalie and Helma remained in the office.

“I couldn’t tell that you are so protective of your subordinates…” Although Helma spoke in a casual tone, there was a hint of sarcasm in her voice.

“Ms. Helma, Yandel has been working for me for quite a while.” Natalie looked up at Helma and said in a straightforward manner, “He always had my back, and I will do the same for him. So, if there’s anything that you’re not happy with, please come to me directly. There’s no need to pick on him.”

Natalie spoke in a calm and graceful manner, but it was enough for anyone to take her seriously.

Helma let out a sigh and stated from the depths of her heart, “Natalie, it seems like I have underestimated you previously…”

Natalie was not only beautiful, but she was also smart and courageous. Helma realized that she had severely underestimated the woman by assuming that she was just an ordinary businesswoman!

Natalie took a sip of her coffee and said to Helma, “Ms. Helma, you would get the same answer from me no matter how many times you ask me about it. What happened at the banquet was not intentional. I am not interested in Prince Jonathan at all.”

Helma scoffed and started laughing. “It’s all in the past. Anyway, I’m not here today to ask you about that.”

“Then what are you…”

“I’m here to present you with a business opportunity.” An ambiguous smile crept up on Helma’s face before she continued, “Are you interested? Or are you going to reject me out of guilt?”

Chapter 1133 New Business Collaboration

Natalie was momentarily stunned when she heard that. She had assumed that Helma was there either to stir up trouble or complain, but to her surprise, the woman was there to talk business. “Are you scared?” Helma sneered.

“Nope.” Natalie tightened her grip around her coffee mug and said calmly, “Dream Corporation will never reject any profitable business opportunities. Besides, fear is not an emotion I would usually feel…”

Helma met Natalie’s gaze and replied, “I heard that Dream Jewelry has been procuring raw materials from the Stone family all along. I have ways to obtain raw materials that are of better quality than what Amos has. If we collaborate, you would no longer have to submit to the Stone family’s every whim.”

“Ms. Helma, that sounds like a good deal for Dream Corporation…” Natalie still had doubts about Helma’s intentions. “But what would you get out of it? It seems like Dream Corporation will benefit more from this than the Leitz family will.”

Helma, who had just lifted her cup to take a sip of coffee, froze. Natalie’s response was exactly as she had expected.

Natalie was not a gullible person, and she would not easily believe anything that seemed too good to be true.

However, Helma was already prepared for that. With a smile on her face, she said, “Natalie, I was indeed pretty upset about what happened at the banquet as you had made me look like a fool. Nevertheless, what happened has already happened. There’s no going back for Prince Jonathan and me. Whether I want it or not, moving on is my only choice. Other than being related to the royal family, our Leitz family has been exploring some business opportunities. The Stone family amassed their fortune by mining rough stones, and our family is keen on having a slice of the same pie. It’s extremely difficult for ordinary businesses to obtain mining rights, but that isn’t the case for the Leitz family. In fact, we have already obtained the rights. All we need now is an anchor client who can supply us with a steady stream of business, and Dream Jewelry was the first company that came to my mind.”

Natalie blinked a few times while she scrutinized Helma’s expression.

At the same time, Helma was also sizing her up.

Finally, Natalie extended her hand and said graciously, “Ms. Helma, I hope we’ll have a fruitful collaboration.”

“I’m looking forward to that.”

After Helma left, Natalie went to look for Yandel.

“Yandel, did Helma create any trouble for you when I was not around?” Natalie knew Yandel well. Yandel understood that Natalie had been focusing on her recovery, and he wanted her to enjoy her vacation time with Samuel. As such, even if he was facing pressure at work, it was unlikely that he would let her know.

Yandel shook his head and replied, “I’m fine. I have already become desensitized to certain things after so long.”

“Thank you, Yandel.”

“Boss, you’re being too polite toward me again!” Yandel said, frowning. “I’m just doing what I’m supposed to do. If you continue acting this way, I will get angry!”

Natalie and Yandel had gone through a lot together. After the man’s reminder, Natalie stopped being so sentimental.

After that, Natalie told Yandel about their new business collaboration with Helma.

Yandel said, “Boss, the Leitz family and you are practically enemies. Don’t you think this business opportunity could be a trap?”

“Helma’s proposal did make sense. On the surface, there seem to be no issues.” Natalie rested her chin on one hand and continued, “She gave us a good deal. What they can offer is indeed much better than what we are getting from the Stone family right now. If we reject them without a good reason, others who get to know about it will think that Dream is putting on airs. Besides, we might also end up offending our current business partners who are on good terms with the Leitz family.”

“Boss, I still think that Helma wouldn’t be so kind to us,” Yandel said hesitantly.

“Well, if we reject her this time, she will just try again,” Natalie replied. “Yandel, we can take this opportunity to see what they are up to. If it is really a trap, even if we had turned her down, the Leitz family would still think of other ways to set me up.”

Chapter 1134 Keep Staring

Yandel felt a lot calmer upon hearing what Natalie said. “Have you guessed it as well, Boss?” Yandel asked. “It’s not that. I just feel that we should let some things go with the flow. Regardless of whether it would turn out good or bad, we’ll only find out as we go forward.” Natalie frowned. “Of course, your reminder makes sense. We don’t know the exact reasons Helma looked for us for a collaboration. We should be cautious from now on.”

“Okay! Since you’ve already made your decision, I’ll do everything you tell me to, Boss!” Yandel answered, beating his chest. “Okay.” Natalie stayed back to continue working.

She had full confidence in Yandel’s loyalty. However, during the time she had stayed home to recuperate, she had burdened Yandel and Lia with too much work. She planned to pick up where she left off with Dream.

Natalie had so much to deal with that she ended up staying in the office until eleven at night. Upon finishing the last document she was working on, she realized it was already dark outside. It’s already so late? I forgot to inform the others at home!

Natalie got up from her chair and picked up her phone to ring Samuel. The moment she did that, the doorbell at her office rang. What’s going on?

Without hanging up the phone, Natalie immediately went to open the door, only to see Samuel leaning against the wall outside her office. His gaze was as alluring as ever.

Natalie’s eyes lit up slightly when she asked, “W-What are you doing here?”

Samuel smoothed her hair and answered, “I was waiting for you to come home, but I ran out of patience, so I came here to wait for you. Fortunately, you’re still here!”

Natalie smiled gleefully when she heard that. “Why didn’t you tell me you were here? Why did you wait outside? Aren’t you bored?”

“A little…” Samuel reached out to pull Natalie in. While caressing her back, he continued in his hoarse voice, “But I forgot all about it the moment I saw you.”

What… He’s such a flirt! Natalie’s heart was filled with emotions. She lifted her head to meet his gaze and said, “What did you have for dinner? Why are your words so sweet?” She smiled and grabbed his collar to pull him closer.

Samuel stared into her eyes and uttered in his seductive voice, “Should I have a taste of you? That way, I might sound even sweeter.”

“You—”

Before Natalie could finish her sentence, Samuel had already leaned in to kiss her on her lips. Of course, the kiss started out light, but as they went on, the kiss became a passionate one.

Since it was late at night, the office was rather dark.

With certain senses weakened, physical stimulation and the sense of pleasure were heightened.

At that moment, heavy breathing sounds and the sounds of their tongues interlocking filled the room.

The sounds were continuous, and the ambiguous atmosphere could easily make one blush.

Suddenly, someone said, “Samuel, are you really not going to tell Boss you’re here? She’s a busy woman, you know? If you don’t tell her, s-she…”

Yandel was there to urge Samuel to let Natalie know he had been waiting for her. However, he ran into Samuel pressing Natalie up against the wall and kissing her passionately.

Yandel was utterly stunned. He was so stupefied that he froze on the spot and kept stuttering.

Natalie was disheartened when she saw Yandel staring at her. Yandel is my subordinate, and this is an office! How could I let him see such an embarrassing scene? What should I do?

Samuel quickly pulled Natalie’s limp body inward and stood in front of her. While using his own body to shield her from Yandel’s gaze, he growled, “Yandel! Are you going to just keep staring

Chapter 1135 Blissful

Yandel finally regained his senses and lowered his head. “I saw nothing! Carry on! Carry on!” He turned around and left in a hurry. No! There goes Yandel’s impression of me! Natalie was still holding Samuel’s arm when she glared at him. “Samuel, I want to die!”

Samuel held her chin and scolded, “Die? Don’t you dare say such nonsense again! You’re now my wife. There’s nothing wrong with kissing you.”

His gaze was solemn and cold. When Natalie saw that, she realized how angry Samuel was. “I was just expressing my feelings!”

“Still! You can’t say that word!” Samuel said domineeringly. “Isn’t that inevitable for everyone? It’s just—” Samuel put his hand over her mouth to stop her from talking. “No!”

Right then, Natalie could feel how much Samuel cared about her. I never knew Samuel doesn’t take jokes like this. Although I wasn’t wrong when I said it was an inevitable end for everyone, Samuel loves me so much that he doesn’t even allow me to mention death out loud.

“Mmph! Your h-hand is covering my mouth… I-I can’t talk…”

“Are you still going to say that word?” It was rare to see Samuel being so harsh with Natalie. “No… No…” Natalie shook her head.

Only then did Samuel retract his hand. He held her hand gently and said, “Come. Let’s go home.” Samuel’s palm had calluses, but she felt an inexplicable sense of peace when she held his hand.

Their fingers intertwined, and Natalie’s heart was filled with joy. When you meet the right person, even the most insignificant gestures can be so blissful.

Meanwhile, at the Leitz residence, Helma was removing her earrings. Heidi approached Helma and asked, “Helma, did that b*tch, Natalie, take the bait?”

“Yes.” Helma maintained a straight face. “However, she’s an extraordinary woman. I’ve already heard about what she did in Chanaea before she came to Loang. She established Dream Corporation and reclaimed her father’s company effortlessly. After that, she forced her biological father, stepmother, biological sister, and stepsister to their graves. Although she has blood on her hands, she somehow escaped all sorts of punishment!”

Heidi knew Natalie was definitely not someone to be trifled with. However, she still couldn’t help but feel flustered when she heard what Helma said. Is Natalie really so capable?

“Helma, should we expose the information that you’ve discovered?” Heidi asked tentatively. “Should we get netizens and ghostwriters to go after her?” “That’s so lame.”

“Huh?” Helma rolled her eyes at Heidi and said, “Do you think Natalie would be bothered by having a bad reputation? Besides, if you employ ghostwriters, will you be able to not let Natalie catch you? Why should we go through so much trouble to only hurt her a little? Don’t you find that lame?”

Heidi had nothing to defend herself with. “Helma, that b*tch embarrassed you at the banquet and humiliated the Leitz family. I can’t take it!” Heidi grumbled with a pout.

“What’s the hurry?” Helma kept her earrings in her jewelry box and drawled, “Her time is running out, so what’s the point in messing around? We should utterly destroy her with one move! I’ll make sure not even Bastien can save her for what she has done!”

Chapter 1136 A Chance Encounter

Natalie let out a sneeze. “What’s the matter?” Samuel asked in a deep voice. “Did you catch a cold?” Natalie sniffled and ignored Samuel. I don’t know if I caught a cold, but if I did, it’s all Samuel’s fault! Last night, I was watching the full moon on the balcony. Just a while after I went out, I suddenly caught a whiff of his musky and masculine scent coming from behind.

After that, he lunged at me and kissed me domineeringly instead of gently. He was so rough that I couldn’t help but shudder. Could this be an after-effect of returning from the mountains? Ever since Mr. Yablon got rid of the toxins in his body, he’s been craving me more than ever. I didn’t even get to go back to the bedroom last night. I was naked on the balcony as I endured the night breeze. How can I not catch a cold?

Seeing that Natalie merely sniffled and kept mum, Samuel frowned slightly and said, “I’ll try to suppress my desire after this!”

“Okay,” Natalie answered him nonchalantly. I can’t expect him to keep his word. When it comes to anything but sex, he’s a man of his word. In bed, however, he’ll most probably let his desires get the better of him. He’s not going to remember what he said! That’s something he’ll never be able to change! Perhaps that’s just what men are like regardless of how successful or sentimental they are.

After getting out of bed, Natalie had breakfast with the kids and went to Dream to work as usual. When Natalie arrived at the office and saw Yandel, she couldn’t help but let out a few coughs.

Still feeling awkward, Yandel knew things could get worse if he were to keep his head lowered and do his job. However, looking up at the ceiling wasn’t going to do either. In the end, he had no choice but to assign himself to do something for Natalie. “Boss, please carry on. I’ll make you a cup of coffee…”

With that, Yandel left immediately. Natalie felt less embarrassed after Yandel left. She rubbed her nose and went into her office to start a busy day of work.

Shortly after, Yandel brought a cup of coffee and a variety of pastries into the office for Natalie.

Natalie was too busy to eat, so she only ate the food during her break. After taking a few mouthfuls, she was amazed by how good the food tasted. This is so good! The balance between savory and sweet is spot on! I can keep eating these all day long.

By the time Natalie finished her work, she had eaten all the pastries Yandel had bought for her. When Natalie was bringing the empty plate out of her office, she bumped into Yandel.

“You finished all of it, Boss?” Yandel was slightly stunned. Although Natalie loved food, she wasn’t known to be greedy. “Yes.” Natalie nodded. “It was delicious! Where did you buy them? I would like to buy some for my daughters.”

“Let me,” Yandel answered. “It’s okay. Just give me the address,” Natalie insisted. Seeing how resolute Natalie was, Yandel gave in and said, “I’ll text you the address.”

“Sure.” Natalie completed her remaining tasks and left the office for the pastry shop.

The shop that sold the pastries was one of the premium shops in Yaleview. Despite not having restrictions on customers with lower incomes, the people who frequented there were all wealthy. That was because the prices of the pastries were exorbitant.

Meanwhile, Cynthia and her maids were having afternoon tea in the shop. When one of her maids went out to get a refill, she left the door partially open.

That was when Cynthia spotted Natalie standing in front of a glass display cabinet. At that moment, Natalie was choosing her pastries.

Cynthia couldn’t help but turn pale in shock. It’s as if I’m looking at that woman from so many years ago! Wait… That woman is no longer around. That has to be Natalie. W-Why is she here?

She held her cup tightly and smiled. Interesting…

Chapter 1137 More Dazzling

In the shop, Natalie was dazzled by the wide selection of exquisite pastries in the glass cabinet. The pastries had cute designs of animals, and they could easily make one salivate. Natalie had only wanted to buy for her daughters. In the end, she bought enough for all five of her children. Xavian, Clayton, and Franklin are so lucky!

Natalie was over the moon as she watched the server pack all the pastries. Right after Natalie gave her card to the server to make the payment, a lady dressed in a black-and-white uniform stood in front of Natalie and stopped the server from receiving payment from Natalie. The lady then said, “Wait. Don’t receive payment from Ms. Nichols. Just put the bill on Her Ladyship’s tab.”

Upon hearing that, the server instantly gave the card back to Natalie. Natalie frowned, confused. Her Ladyship? Who’s that? Not only do they want to pay for me, but they also know my name. Whoever she is, I bet she knows me well. However, the only person I can think of is Jerome’s mother, Patricia. She’s the only person I know in Yaleview who’s addressed so.

Natalie thought about it for a while, but she was still clueless. “Her Ladyship? Who might that be?” she asked straightforwardly.

“I can’t say Her Ladyship’s name out loud. However, she’s keen to see you.” The maid took a step backward and gestured for Natalie to follow her. “She’s in one of the private rooms. I’ll take you there.”

Natalie was intrigued, but she also grew wary. She quickly switched on the tracking function on her phone. The situation in Loang is rather scary recently. I must be cautious.

“Sure!” Natalie beamed although she had already taken precautions discreetly. Soon, under the maid’s guidance, Natalie arrived in an elegantly decorated private room.

A middle-aged woman dressed in branded clothing was seen sitting inside the private room. Despite the wrinkles on the woman’s face, she exuded an elegant aura that made her look as if age would never catch up to her.

Natalie sized the woman up, and she soon recalled something. I think I saw her at Bastien’s birthday banquet. She was with His Majesty. She should be one of His Majesty’s three wives. Since Bastien’s biological mother is Lady Frieda, the woman before me is probably Lady Cynthia or Lady Diane. According to rumors, Cynthia was the first to accompany His Majesty, so she’s the oldest of those three wives. Well, I guess this woman is Lady Cynthia.

At the same time, Cynthia was scrutinizing Natalie’s facial features. The similarity is uncanny! No wonder Mikhail was stumped when he saw her. Even Bastien was attracted to this lady. After the banquet at the palace, he sent Frieda somewhere far away from Yaleview. According to him, Frieda needed to improve her health. As far as others are concerned, including Shirley, they would think that the banquet was merely an unpleasant interlude. In fact, all the incidents that happened afterward had nothing to do with each other. However, those incidents are actually all connected, and what happened was inevitable! Natalie is the key to everything. Furthermore, this lady’s background is rather fascinating. Today I have the chance to test out all the theories I have in my mind.

A long while later, Cynthia finally broke the silence by smiling and saying, “I think addressing you as Ms. Nichols is too formal. May I address you as Natalie?”

Hearing that, Natalie couldn’t possibly reject the suggestion. In a polite tone, she answered, “I don’t mind that, Lady Cynthia. You may address me anyhow you like.”

Cynthia smiled in response. This lady is even more dazzling than her late mother.

“You may disregard the formalities.” Cynthia motioned for Natalie to take a seat next to her. “Natalie, aren’t you tired of standing? Come over and take a seat next to me.”

Chapter 1138 Two Strands Of Hair

Cynthia was too welcoming. Natalie couldn’t reject her invitation and sat down beside her. Noticing that Natalie seemed uncomfortable, Cynthia changed the topic to ease her discomfort. “The pastries here are made by a pastry chef who used to work at Luna Palace and now has her own shop. You bought a lot, I see. Do you like them?”

“Yes, I quite like them.” Natalie nodded. “If you do, I can ask her to make some that aren’t for sale for you to try.” Natalie did not know Cynthia would be this nice. She was pleasantly flattered. “Lady Cynthia, you don’t have to do that. I don’t want to trouble you.”

“Oh, it’s nothing much.” Cynthia chuckled. “I like you, so it isn’t troublesome at all.” Like? Natalie said nothing, but she wasn’t sure if Cynthia was telling the truth or not.

I only met her briefly once at the royal dinner where I rejected Bastien in public. That was humiliating to the royal family, so it seemed strange for her to like me. Perhaps she isn’t Bastien’s birth mother, so she was inwardly pleased to see me upset Bastien and Lady Frieda, and that is why she likes me.

Noting the frown on Natalie’s face, Cynthia quickly added, “Natalie, you don’t have to put your guard up. As you might’ve guessed, the three of us act all harmonious in front of His Majesty, but we’re actually not on good terms in private. It’s normal for Frieda to hate you after you rejected marrying her son before His Majesty. We’re on good terms, so…”

Natalie glanced at Cynthia. Wow, I can’t believe she’s this straightforward.

“Besides, I like you because you resemble an old friend of mine,” Cynthia went on without waiting for her to reply. “I last met this friend over twenty years ago, but you remind me of her. I can’t help but think of you as her.”

“She resembles me?” Natalie asked in surprise. “Yes, she does,” Cynthia said thoughtfully. “To be honest, I keep thinking of you as the daughter of that friend. Otherwise, how could you resemble her that much?”

Natalie felt her heart leap to her throat. A friend? Could she be talking about my mother Jennie?

Natalie had seen Jennie’s photo when the latter was young. She looked like the younger version of her mother. Even Patricia would often stare at her face after her mother’s death. Natalie knew Patricia was missing her mother instead of just spacing out.

Despite her shock, she pretended to be curious and asked, “Lady Cynthia, how did you lose contact with this friend? Over twenty years is a long time. Haven’t you tried finding her?”

Cynthia was stunned. She hadn’t expected Natalie to sound her out instead. Hmm, she seems curious as though she wants to know about the woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to her.

Seeing that Cynthia seemed lost in her thoughts, Natalie called out, “Lady Cynthia?” “Hmm?” Cynthia snapped out of her reverie upon hearing Natalie’s voice.

“Did I ask something that I shouldn’t have?” Natalie put on a remorseful expression.

“No, of course not.” Cynthia sipped on her coffee to cover her awkwardness. Flashing a gentle smile, she revealed, “My friend was a gorgeous lady. Alas, she didn’t get to live long and died in a fire over twenty years ago.”

As she spoke, she raised her hand and placed it on Natalie’s head naturally. She stroked Natalie’s head a few times like an elder who was concerned for her junior.

“It will be great if you’re my friend’s daughter,” Cynthia remarked as she secretly pulled off two strands of Natalie’s hair.

Chapter 1139 Real Motive

Cynthia did it without arousing Natalie’s suspicion. Natalie met Cynthia’s eyes and flashed an unnatural smile. “Lady Cynthia, I may have to disappoint you. I don’t think I’m your friend’s daughter. My mom is dead, but she died a few years back instead of over twenty years ago.”

“I see.” Cynthia wasn’t expecting to hear that. However, Natalie’s words weren’t enough to quell her doubts. She wasn’t sure if Natalie was telling the truth. Besides, Natalie resembled that woman so much that she could be the latter’s daughter.

Those from the royal family were pretty good at putting on an act. Having spent years in Luna Palace, Cynthia was naturally a great actress. She retracted her hand nonchalantly and hide the hair strands between her fingers, all the while keeping a pleasant smile on her face.

“It’s fine. Even though you’re not my friend’s daughter, you look like her. That’s enough for me to feel close to you.” Cynthia then turned to her maid and ordered, “Tell Ximena to give half of the pastries she prepared to Natalie.”

“Understood.” Upon receiving her order, the maid turned and left the private room to do as told. “Lady Cynthia, you don’t have to do that.”

Cynthia beamed at her. “It was fate that brought us together. The sight of you brings me joy. I’d love to meet you here to have pastries and coffee together.”

Instead of getting all excited just like the other noblewoman, Natalie replied calmly, “If I have the time.” They then chatted for some time.

Glancing at her watch and realizing it was near evening, Natalie got to her feet and bade goodbye to Cynthia. “Goodbye, Lady Cynthia.”

“Demi, walk Natalie out.” The maid walked Natalie out of the shop and returned to the private room. She gave Cynthia a bow and reported, “Lady Cynthia, Ms. Nichols has already left.”

“Here.” Cynthia gave the hair strands she collected earlier to the maid. The smile on her lips had faded away. “Send these to the lab for a DNA test. Remember to keep this a secret. Even if His Majesty comes and asks you about this, tell him you don’t know anything.”

Knowing how important the matter was, Demi nodded nervously. “I will definitely keep this a secret, Lady Cynthia.”

“Good. Don’t let anyone see you.” Cynthia patted Demi’s hand. “Demi, I heard that your son got dispatched to the most dangerous peacekeeping forces. If you do a good job, the order for his new transfer will soon arrive.”

Upon learning that her son’s future and fate were involved, Demi immediately went on her knees. “Lady Cynthia, don’t you worry. I’ll get this done for sure!”

“Get up!” Cynthia flashed her a smile. “Go on now.”

Demi held Natalie’s two strands of hair and left the private room before hurrying out of the shop.

Cynthia sipped on her coffee and fell deep into thought.

The truth can be revealed with just one test. If she’s Mikhail’s daughter, then I won’t have to guess her identity anymore. In Loang, princes aren’t the only ones who can accede to a throne. A princess can also succeed to the throne if she is better than her fellow brothers. I wonder how Bastien will react when he discovers the woman he loves is his half-sibling. Ah, just thinking about it gives me the thrills!

Cynthia’s lips curled into a delightful smirk.

Outside, Demi gripped the strands of hair silently. With her son’s future in her mind, she quickened her pace, not noticing that someone was watching her.

They had met previously, but Demi was in a hurry and didn’t notice who it was.

Natalie only came out from her hiding spot at the corner when Demi walked far away. I knew it. Asking me out for afternoon tea is just a ruse. Lady Cynthia’s real motive is to touch my head and get my hair!

Chapter 1140 One Casual Look

Natalie bit her lip and stared at Demi’s back. She pulled her phone out of her pocket to give Billy a call. When the call was answered, she went straight to the topic. “It’s me, Billy. I need your help.”

Hearing Natalie’s voice, Billy perked up and replied, “Go on, Mrs. Bowers.” Natalie looked up and told him calmly, “I need you to help me follow someone. She should be heading to the lab with my hair to run a DNA test. Don’t alert her. I just want to know who she’s comparing my DNA with and the lab results.”

“Who is it?” “Lady Cynthia’s maid, Demi.” Natalie paused before adding, “This concerns Loang’s royal family. I have yet to inform Samuel about this. It’s important, so if you need me to tell him—”

“It’s fine,” Billy cut in. “Mrs. Bowers, Mr. Bowers has said that we are to follow your orders like how we follow his orders without questioning anything. As subordinates, we only have to abide by orders and pledge our loyalty.”

They were talking on the phone, but Natalie felt warmth spread all over her heart. She said gratefully, “Thank you, Billy.” “It’s my job.”

After the call ended, Natalie couldn’t help but glance in the direction of the shop. Her gaze turned increasingly icy.

I suspect the friend Lady Cynthia mentioned is my birth mother, Jennie. Lady Cynthia was looking at me the same way Aunt Patricia looked at me. They might be looking at me, but they were actually reminiscing about someone else through my looks. Lady Cynthia mentioned her friend died in a fire over twenty years ago, but I was also supposed to die in the so-called “fire” six years ago. I’m alive and well. She took my hair when I wasn’t noticing to run a DNA test, so she wants to find out if I’m someone’s daughter. That’s a good thing because I don’t know who my birth father is. I may find out who he is through Lady Cynthia’s lead.

If her birth father was still alive, Natalie wanted to ask him why he had slept with Jennie but dumped her after that. In the end, Jennie had no choice but to marry a b*stard like Thomas.

If he was in love with Jennie, she wanted to know why he left her easily and never tried to look for her. There were too many questions to ask.

Natalie had a strong feeling that the secret behind her identity was about to be revealed soon. Meanwhile, Helma had something related to work to report to Geert. She knocked on the door and entered the room.

“Father.” Geert looked up and praised, “Helma, you’re far more capable at work than I initially expected. You did a good job these few days. I’m impressed by your achievements.”

Despite receiving her father’s praises, Helma didn’t seem excited. She handed the file she was holding to Geert. “Father, if you acknowledge my ability, why don’t you delegate more power to me? I believe I can show you more achievements that way.”

Geert pondered over the matter for a few moments and nodded solemnly. “Okay, Helma. I’ll give you the chance.”

“Thank you, Father.” Helma knew her last step to frame Natalie was complete after Geert agreed to delegate his power to her.

Helma had once dreamed of marrying Bastien, but it was impossible for them to get together now.

After getting her heart broken, Helma could only resort to this way to take revenge on Natalie. However, deep down, she still wished her father would support her. Helma gazed at Geert’s face as hesitation rose in her heart.

Should I tell Father about my plan?

She was caught in a dilemma.

When Helma was about to reveal her secret plan, she spotted a photo underneath her father’s file. Only half of the woman’s face could be seen.

It was none other than the person she despised thoroughly!

Helma only had to take one casual look to recognize the woman immediately.