Ch. 921..930
A Cue for Love Chapter 921
Perpetual Longing
“Mmm…”
Feeling intoxicated, Natalie drifted in and out of consciousness.
Samuel, with his arms wrapped around Natalie, felt as if he was holding his entire world within his arms.
However, thinking about the message sent to him by his son ignited a whiff of jealousy within him.
Even though he was the one who hurt and left her, his possessiveness over her didn’t diminish one bit, especially when it came to the way Natalie and Jerome interacted. The tacit understanding they shared with each other seemed to be seared into their soul.
Holding that thought, Samuel felt as if something had pierced his heart, eliciting a painful yet bitter sensation.
“Jerome… Who is he to you…” Samuel’s voice was so deep that one could hear the hoarseness coming from the bottom of his throat.
“What?”
Upon hearing Jerome’s voice being mentioned, Natalie peeked out underneath her eyelids.
“Why are you… asking about Jerome?”
The familiar manner in which she brought up his name brought a sullen look upon Samuel’s face.
“Who is he? How much does that man mean to you?” Samuel’s voice was low as he continued. By the time he finished, his teeth were tightly clenched.
Natalie snorted in laughter. “Jerome’s like a brother to me. The kind where we’re joined at the hip. Since I don’t have a younger brother, I treat him as such. Whoever dares to bully him would feel my wrath! However, he’s now all grown up and has even become a major general. Hence, h-he no longer… needs my protection… anymore.”
Despite being drunk, Natalie still had the presence of mind to answer logically, albeit in broken sentences.
Upon learning that Natalie saw Jerome as her brother, Samuel couldn’t help but curl his lips. Even if Jerome had feelings for her, she, at the very least, saw the relationship as platonic.
When something dawned upon him all of a sudden, Samuel gave her pinkish cheeks a pinch.
“Ouch!” Natalie purred just like a kitten.
“Remember, no matter how close you are to him, there’s always a line to be drawn,” Samuel demanded.
No sooner had he finished than he realized how unreasonable his request was. Cognizant that he had no right to place restrictions on her, he added, “A-At the very least, don’t cross the line while I’m still alive.”
Squirming in discomfort, Natalie pursed her lips without reply.
“Did you hear me?”
“Shut up… I’m really sleepy…”
Just when Samuel wanted to give up, he heard a sudden mumble from her. “Mm-hmm, I hear you.”
Caressing her face with his hand, Samuel peered into her eyes. Beyond the affection and desire in his gaze was his love for her.
“D-Don’t go…”
Suddenly, Natalie awoke from her dreams and noticed that she was lying in her bed.
Although there wasn’t a hangover, she instinctively rubbed the back of her head due to the grogginess she felt.
“Ms. Nichols, are you okay?” Emma asked in concern as she came over.
“I’m fine. I just need a while.” Natalie shook her head.
“All right, I’ve prepared oatmeal porridge for breakfast. You’ll feel better once you have some.”
“Mm-hmm.”
After regaining her senses, Natalie realized the last thing she remembered was drinking at the road stall. Subsequently, she couldn’t recall how she got home and figured that it was probably because she was drunk.
She couldn’t help but ask, “By the way, Emma, how did I come back?”
“The vendor of the stall you were eating at got a taxi to send you.” Emma added with a smile, “Furthermore, he was sensitive enough to get you a female driver due to how late it was. The driver was very professional and even helped me support you all the way up here.”
“I see…”
Tightening her grip on the sheets, Natalie felt that something was amiss.
Female driver? Why do I vaguely remember being hugged and kissed by a man? Furthermore, it felt as if the man was Samuel himself! What the f*ck is going on? Can it be that he’s all that I can think of now?
A Cue for Love Chapter 922
The Words Of A Despicable Woman
Meanwhile, Jerry, with his sling bag over his shoulder, was humming an upbeat tune as he returned to the Jones residence.
Even though he had left the cattery for some time, the thought of all the fluffy kittens inside filled him with unbridled longing.
The instant he reached home, he rushed toward Olivia’s room with excitement, hoping to share the news of his recovery with her.
“Olivia, I have wonderful news for you.”
In contrast to Jerry’s delight, Olivia sat listlessly by the side, her brows tightly knitted. She had a light-colored wool blanket draped over her swollen legs.
Looking up, Olivia asked in an indifferent tone, “What is it?”
“Olivia, I’m no longer allergic to cats.” Recalling the sensation when he touched their fur, he added in an innocent tone, “It never occurred to me that real cats feel entirely different from stuffed toys.”
Expecting her to be happy for him, he was taken aback by her snarky response.
“How is that possible?”
“It’s true!” Jerry explained. “After petting the cat for a long time, I didn’t have an asthma attack nor feel any discomfort at all.”
“Jerry, you touched a cat today?” Olivia’s eyes widened in anger as she reprimanded, “Stop fooling around! Does everyone’s advice not matter to you at all?”
Jerry was baffled by the sudden outburst. “Olivia, I’m not messing around and am telling you the truth. Nothing bad happened after I touched the cat. With my asthma gone, I, too, can live like an ordinary person without the need to worry about everything.”
“Jerry Jones!” Olivia barked. “And yet, you claim that you’re not messing around? You might be lucky just that once. What happens if you have a serious attack the next time?”
“I won’t! I’ll recover!”
Olivia pressed on, “What gave you such confidence?”
“My faith in her!”
“Her?” Olivia had found the source of the issue. “Who’s she?”
“I don’t want to tell you.” Jerry turned his face away.
“Is it the slut dressed in the bunny costume who was trying to seduce you? Did you meet up with her?” Olivia narrowed her eyes as she spouted the vilest words she could think of.
“Olivia, how many times have I told you that you can’t speak of her that away!” Jerry defended Natalie by reflex when he remembered how she had helped him. “Not only does she have impressive medical skills, but she’s also not as bad as how you’re painting her out to be. On top of that, she has never done anything that would cross the line with me.”
Olivia refused to accept his explanation. Instead, she was fixated only on one thing.
Her!
“Just as I expected.”
As she tightened the grip on the woolen blanket covering her legs, Olivia’s eyes brimmed with hatred.
First, it was Ammy in the morning, and now, Jerry in the afternoon. This is too much of a coincidence. I’m just worried that she’s luring both men into a trap.
In response to Olivia’s silence, Jerry frowned. “Olivia, it’s wrong for you to be biased against her.”
Unexpectedly, Olivia flipped open her woolen blanket to reveal her badly swollen ankles.
“She was the one who did this to me.” A vicious glint flashed in her eye as she spoke. “While putting on smiles in front of the men, she shows her true colors when she’s among women. After Ammy was tricked by her, the same is happening to you too!”
“Could there have been a misunderstanding?” Jerry refused to believe that Natalie was someone capable of hurting his sister.
“Pfft.” Olivia snorted. “Do you now see it? Even you have been taken in by her. I’m your sister, for goodness sake, and you’d rather believe her words over mine?”
“That’s not what I meant—”
“What do you mean then?” Olivia thundered, “Jerry, as your sister, I would never harm you. Hence, I forbid you from listening to anything that despicable woman says. More importantly, stay away from her. Do you understand?”
A Cue for Love Chapter 923
Behaving Ridiculously
Despicable woman?
The words sounded jarring in Jerry’s ear.
If based on his first impression of Natalie at the birthday banquet, Jerry would also have doubted the latter’s character. But after she saved his life twice, he was certain that Natalie wasn’t the person Olivia had described.
“I don’t!” For the first time ever, Jerry refuted his sister’s words. “Olivia, you don’t know her at all!”
“She’s just luring you into a trap by being nice to you.” Olivia couldn’t contain her anger. “Jerry, you’re being too naive to think that you have seen her for who she is.”
“I’m already an adult!”
“But does it mean that you’ve matured?” Olivia retorted.
Stumped, Jerry felt that there was no way he could get through to Olivia. As long as he praised Natalie, even if it was the truth, Olivia would definitely accuse him of being bewitched.
“I’m tired. I’m going back to rest.”
“Jerry, how can you leave when we’re not done here?” Olivia yelled exasperatedly at his silhouette.
Despite having heard her, he didn’t bother to turn around.
With her ankles swollen, pursuing Jerry was futile. All she was left with was a deeper sense of hatred and jealousy for Natalie.
Cured his asthma? That’s impossible! Dad, Mom, and I had hired plenty of famous doctors to do the same, but none have succeeded until now. Thus, how could he have been cured by a lady in her twenties? She must have taken advantage of his good nature to convince him. Ever since Jerry was young, he has never disobeyed me. But now, he’s arguing with me over an unimportant woman? It’s clear that she has many tricks up her sleeve. After stealing my fiancé in the morning, she steals my brother in the afternoon. Nothing seems to be able to satisfy her.
With blood pumping into her heart, Olivia dug her nails into the table and vowed in her mind. How dare she tries to steal those closest to me? I will make sure that she falls into the depths of Hell and that her reputation is left in tatters.
Nonetheless, Natalie wasn’t Olivia’s biggest worry.
It was instead Farrington Jewelry’s latest financial condition.
All this while, Farrington Jewelry’s brand was well established in Loang and was considered the top jeweler in the industry. However, it had begun to lose its luster in recent years due to the mushrooming of smaller mass market brands. As an older institution, it failed to attract the attention of the younger crowd, leading to a significant drop in its revenue.
In truth, she had nothing to do with the trend.
It was just that the decline started at the same time she joined the company. Consequently, everyone inside and outside the industry conjectured that she was one of the reasons for Farrington Jewelry’s decline.
Therefore, having resolved to prove herself to her parents and the board, she had to demonstrate a meaningful turnaround in the company’s financial situation.
Even though she had tried plenty of methods over the last two years to do so, none of them bore any fruit.
Since she was out of ideas, collaborating with Muse was the best option she was left with.
If she managed to engage the mysterious Muse to design next season’s jewelry, she was confident that the products would be a hit, capable of bringing back the younger crowd who wielded the highest purchasing power.
The next day after her decision was made, Olivia, suffering through the pain, hobbled on her crutches up to Anna’s door.
The last time she had invited Anna to join her was a few years ago. Consequently, Olivia felt that she had demonstrated enough sincerity by personally paying the latter a visit.
When the doorbell rang, Anna came out to get the door.
Thinking that it was Natalie, she called out without hesitation, “Natalie—”
However, when she saw who it really was, the smile on her face froze before she asked in surprise, “Ms. Jones? What are you doing here?”
A Cue for Love Chapter 924
Thanks But No Thanks
“Natalie?” The word flashed across Olivia’s mind, but she didn’t give it much thought. Instead, she nodded with an elegant smile. “Muse, it’s been a long time since we last saw each other. Therefore, I wanted to drop by to catch up and talk about the good old days,” Olivia casually remarked without revealing her true objective.
“As I’ve sprained my ankles, I wonder if it’s convenient for us to talk inside?”
“Sure, please come in, Ms. Jones.”
Olivia limped into Anna’s apartment with the help of her crutches.
Upon entering the apartment and scrutinizing the decor, she noticed that the room was filled with baby products.
Recalling the news that she had previously received, a contemptuous glint flashed in her eye.
Back then, she had lowered herself to invite Anna to design for Farrington Jewelry. Unfortunately, the latter wasn’t appreciative and turned her down with the excuse that she wasn’t interested in working with any jewelry companies. Not long after that, Muse disappeared without a trace.
Initially, Olivia assumed that Muse had retired or was improving herself. It never crossed her mind that Anna ended up marrying a country bumpkin. The man was both egoistic and had low self-esteem. Not only did he ignore his family, but he was also a gambling addict. Moreover, he would give her a beating whenever his temper flared.
If only Anna had worked with Farrington Jewelry back then, she wouldn’t have fallen into such a terrible predicament.
Even though Anna was oblivious to Olivia’s thoughts, she could sense the cold haughtiness the latter emitted from the eye contact they made.
“Ms. Jones, have some coffee.”
“Thank you.”
Both of them took their seats opposite each other.
After taking a sip, Olivia kicked off the conversation with an expressionless tone. “Before I came, I actually did some digging into your past over the last two years.”
“Ms. Jones, what are you…” Even though Anna knew that conducting a background check wasn’t difficult for someone who ran Farrington Jewelry, she still felt unsettled over having her past revealed that way.
“Muse, I’m doing this out of concern for you.” Olivia continued, “I didn’t expect you to have suffered so much over the last few years. It’s my fault for not showing enough concern. If only I had known earlier, I would definitely have helped you no matter what.”
“Help?” Anna asked.
“That man will only drag you down and burden you!” Olivia assumed that Anna, trapped in despair, was waiting to be rescued. Thus, she took the liberty to suggest, “You’re still young at thirty-one this year. Given your fame as the mysterious designer, Muse, you can have any man you fancy.”
She continued, “As a result, I’ll hire the best divorce lawyer in Yaleview to help you secure all your assets in court. As for your child, who will be nothing but a burden, you should give him custody of it. As long as you focus your creative energy on your designs, I’m confident that you can quickly leave the nightmare of the last two years behind.”
Unknown to Olivia, Anna’s expression had gradually darkened.
It was true that she had suffered over the last two years.
Thinking back, she realized it was too simplistic for Olivia to judge it that way.
After all, despite how her marriage with Caleb fell apart in the end, both of them did share many loving memories.
Regardless of all Caleb’s fault, he did have a healthy and adorable baby with her.
To her, the child wasn’t a burden but a blessing from God instead.
Unfortunately, Olivia had painted a grim picture of her experience with a broad brush stroke.
Even though Olivia claimed that her criticism was borne out of concern, all she was trying to do was win Anna over with her sympathy. In truth, she didn’t take Anna’s interest into consideration at all.
“I will go through the divorce, while the lawyer will help me obtain custody of my child. As for designing, I’ll be starting from scratch again.” With a frosty look in her eye, Anna added, “However, there’s no need for you to concern yourself with any of that.”
“Muse, I’m doing this for your own good.”
“I don’t want to repeat myself. Thank you.” Anna kept her distance from Olivia.
Despite feeling awkward from being rebuffed, Olivia refused to give up on her plan to recruit Muse.
“Muse, have you thought about how you’re going to present your new designs? Or will you be retaining your creative concepts of the past? Anyway, I still hope to invite you to work with Farrington Jewelry.”
A Cue for Love Chapter 925
A Small World After All
Anna already had her own plans.
“Ms. Jones, thank you for your kind thoughts.” Anna was resolute in her reply. “However, my answer remains the same from three years ago. I’m unable to collaborate with Farrington Jewelry.”
Spurned a second time, Olivia felt the anger within her swell. Nonetheless, she maintained an elegant and mesmerizing smile on her face.
“Why are you being so stubborn? You will need a lot of money for the upcoming divorce proceedings and raising your child. Given the amazing talent you have in design, why don’t you want to at least listen to what I’m offering? After all, I’m prepared to give you better terms compared to three years ago.”
Staring at Olivia, Anna, with an icy glint in her eye, dropped her cordial front.
“Ms. Jones, my reason for rejecting you remains the same as it was three years ago. I don’t work with those who only value profit and not loyalty.” Anna continued coldly, “As you have zero understanding of design, you’re unable to comprehend the concept that my design philosophy is trying to express.”
Olivia’s grip on the coffee cup tightened so much that she spilled her drink.
“If you turn me down, who else can you work with?”
“Let me repeat myself; there’s no need for you to be concerned.” Gradually getting to her feet, Anna asserted in a firm yet polite tone. “You’ll have to excuse me, as it’s about time my baby wakes up from her nap. Let me escort you out.”
Given how obvious Anna made it, her hint wasn’t lost on Olivia.
Olivia had assumed that Anna, who was supposedly in dire circumstances, would jump at the helping hand she was extending. In fact, she expected the latter to be filled with gratitude. Instead, she was met by a rejection that was more resolute than three years ago.”
“Since I have brought the partnership agreement with me, I have no intention of bringing it back with me.” Leaving a bunch of documents on the table, Olivia, with a thoughtful gleam in her eye, suggested, “A smart woman like you probably knows that hasty decisions will lead to regrets. Therefore, I hope that you will reconsider the matter thoroughly and get in touch.”
Anna let out a light chuckle. “Take it with you. I don’t need it.”
“You!”
“Ms. Jones, you’re a smart woman yourself.” Anna, too, bared her fangs. “There’s no need to keep persuading me, as you’ll end up embarrassing yourself. I’m sure you understand my decision very well.”
Anna’s rejection couldn’t be anymore clearer.
After struggling with herself, Olivia had no choice but to put the agreement back into her bag before being walked to the door by Anna.
Just when she was about to leave, she ran into the person she least expected to see.
At the sight of Natalie, she uttered, “Why is it you again?”
The exact same question popped into Natalie’s mind.
She was there to pay Anna and her baby a visit and could have never imagined running into Olivia.
Nevertheless, the purpose of Olivia’s visit quickly dawned upon her. She could easily tell that the former was trying to recruit Muse to be her designer.
“Why not? I’m here to see Anna. Am I supposed to get your permission?”
“You!” The rage within Olivia was ignited.
Meanwhile, Anna was elated to see Natalie, which was an extreme contrast to her attitude toward Olivia.
Taking Natalie’s hands, her eyes glistened with joy. “Natalie, I’ve been waiting for you for a long time. Why did you only come now? Recently, I have a lot of ideas that I would like to show you!”
Olivia gave Natalie a look of shock.
She actually knows Muse! On top of that, Muse is willing to share her ideas with Natalie after outright rejecting me! What the f*ck is going on?
Olivia was so stunned that she couldn’t snap out of her shock.
Pursing her lips, Natalie suggested with a smirk, “Ms. Jones, stop spacing out. You’re in my way.”
A Cue for Love Chapter 926
You Will Beg Me One Day
Despite the fury burning in her eyes, Olivia had no choice but to limp aside with her crutches.
“Thank you.”
Ever since Olivia saw Natalie, her gaze never returned to Anna. It wasn’t until Natalie had entered the apartment that the door was shut in Olivia’s face.
Subsequently, Olivia, filled with shock and jealousy, lingered at the door for a long while.
Does that despicable woman know that Anna is Muse? Furthermore, why is that minx so close to Muse?
Biting her lip, Olivia wasn’t planning on giving up persuading Muse anytime soon.
After all, she was sure that a single mother who had an upcoming divorce case in court would certainly have pressing financial needs, at least for hiring a good lawyer. Therefore, Olivia felt that once Anna had gotten past her ego and understood the value of money, her stance would naturally waver.
“Muse, I’ll be waiting.” Thrusting her chin in the air, she declared arrogantly, “Sooner or later, you’ll be groveling at my feet!”
Inside the apartment, Anna carried Kyle, who had just finished her milk, over to Natalie.
“Kyle, Natalie is here to see you again…” Anna spoke to the baby.
Less than a year old, the baby had a chubby face and small pinkish features. There was even a milky scent to her.
As if she could understand what her mother was saying, Kyle flailed her limbs happily. The sight of her was so adorable that it would easily melt anyone’s heart.
“Kyle seems to adore you.”
“Really?” Natalie pointed at herself. “Are you sure she doesn’t just like anyone she sees?”
“She’s really naughty!” Anna couldn’t help but complain. “She really does like you. Perhaps she instinctively knows about all that you have done for us.”
“Stop flattering me by putting words in her mouth.” Natalie laughed as she teased Kyle.
Not knowing how to respond, Anna simply shook her head with a smile.
After playing with Kyle for a short while, Anna handed her over to the nanny she had hired before heading into the study with Natalie.
“Olivia came to see me about collaborating with Farrington Jewelry.” Anna explained candidly, “However, I rejected her outright and didn’t reveal my partnership with Dream to her.”
“I think that she will continue bugging you, for she’s desperate to prove herself by showing some results.” Natalie continued calmly, “If she tries to pressure you by making your life difficult, you can tell Yandel or me anytime, and we’ll deal with it. As Kyle is still young, you should spend more time with her outside of work.”
Holding Natalie’s hand tightly, Anna had so much to say but didn’t know where to begin.
Natalie had helped her so much that she knew she would never be able to repay her debt of gratitude.
“Natalie, thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
“Don’t be a stranger.” Natalie cracked a faint smile. “That’s what we should be doing in life. Anna, let’s work together to do something meaningful.”
Her eyes sparkled with optimism.
Subsequently, Anna would never forget the glint in Natalie’s eyes. Even when the latter had reached the pinnacle of the business world, she maintained the same unmistakable look, but that was a story for another day.
After Natalie had finished her discussion with Anna and left, she received a call from Yandel.
“What’s up?”
“Boss, Amos has sent you an invitation for Carlos’ birthday banquet the following evening.” Yandel gave Natalie the details of the event. “Usually, such invitations are sent out at least half a month in advance. Hence, isn’t it too sudden to send one to you now?”
“So be it. Yandel, please RSVP to the Stone Corporation that I’ll be attending.” Natalie casually added, “The Stone family controls many gem mines. Furthermore, there’s nothing for me to lose since it isn’t a particularly precarious event.”
“For your plus one, I’ll put down Mr. Bow—”
Halfway through his sentence, Yandel couldn’t resist slapping his own mouth.
Other than the fact that Samuel wasn’t around, he couldn’t attend the event with Natalie even if he was. Yandel had just blurted out the words out of habit.
A Cue for Love Chapter 927
Comparison Between Beauties
He stopped halfway and apologized, “Boss, I’m sorry for my faux pas.”
Natalie’s lips curled slightly over the phone as she replied, “No need for an apology. It’s not like you did it on purpose.”
“Okay.” Regaining his senses, Yandel inquired, “In that case, who would you like as your plus one for the birthday banquet?”
Natalie replied matter-of-factly, “I know you’re hoping for me to choose someone else, but just think about it; when we were in Chanaea, I could still trouble Ross. Now that we’re in Loang, you have become my only hope!”
Cognizant of the truth behind her words, Yandel had no choice but to resign himself to the task. “Understood.”
After ending the call, Natalie looked up at the sky and sighed.
It isn’t easy forming a habit. Neither is it easy to get rid of it too.
In the blink of an eye, it was the day of the banquet.
The event was held in Yaleview Tower, the tallest building in the city. From the entrance to the ballroom, the venue was opulently decorated, clearly a reminder to the guests of the host’s distinguished position.
Glistening chandeliers illuminated the path from above, while the walls were adorned with elegant oil paintings. The striking red carpet was made of pure wool and felt plush to every step. Even though the guest list wasn’t big, they were the who’s who of the city and naturally dressed to the nines.
Meanwhile, the head of the Jones family, Bridger, entered the ballroom, followed by his wife, Jada Goode, and children, Olivia and Jerry.
“Happy birthday, Carlos!” Bridger extended his hand with glee written all over his face.
After wishing Carlos the same, Jada didn’t forget to push Jerry and Olivia forward.
While Jerry wished Carlos a lackluster happy birthday, Olivia walked up to the latter with a vibrant smile. “Mr. Stone, I would like to wish you a splendid birthday this year. I also heard that you had obtained a piece of land in western Loang that’s rich in minerals. Therefore, I couldn’t be any happier for you.”
“Olivia, you really have your ear to the ground.” Chomping on his cigar, Carlos threw Amos a glance. “But, it no longer belongs to me, as I have transferred ownership of it over to Ammy.”
Amos grunted in acknowledgment.
Upon hearing the news, Olivia’s eyes flickered with elation, especially since Amos was her fiancé.
After all, such a valuable gift from Carlos would only serve to further secure her future.
In the meantime, Bridger and Jada shared Olivia’s delight. As the Stone family’s business empire continued to grow, the two of them relished the brilliance of their decision to get their daughter engaged to Amos.
The only one who was slow to share the Jones family’s sentiment was Jerry.
In the midst of their joy, the Jones family was oblivious to the fact that Carlos and Amos were discreetly frowning upon their reaction.
Carlos never liked the Jones family and had only tacitly agreed to the marriage. Nevertheless, he considered Olivia an eligible candidate for daughter-in-law simply because he couldn’t find any fault with her.
As for Amos, all he felt toward Olivia was disdain. As a gemstone supplier, he had provided Farrington Jewelry with plenty of opportunities, but Olivia had always failed to impress. Instead, she would insist on his continuous support by leveraging her position as his fiancée.
All this while, Amos didn’t mind the fact at all until Natalie’s appearance provided a basis for comparison. It was only then that Olivia’s mediocrity became jarringly obvious.
“Ammy, go chat with Olivia,” Carlos casually ordered.
Having no choice but to pretend to obey his father’s instructions, Amos led Olivia to the side.
Meanwhile, Olivia’s smile widened in anticipation of getting to interact with Amos privately. “Ammy, congratulations on receiving that piece of land.”
Ignoring her, Amos raised his wine glass to his lips as his gaze drifted toward the entrance. The only thing on his mind was the woman he was waiting with anticipation for.
A Cue for Love Chapter 928
Not Someone We Can Offend
Olivia could feel Amos’ indifference toward her but refused to give up.
“Ammy, are you free on the weekends? I want to learn equestrian skills, and yours are amazing. Can you teach me?”
“I’m busy.” Amos said perfunctorily, “You don’t have to look for me to learn such skills. You’ll learn faster with a proper trainer. However, are you sure a klutz like you that can trip over a flat surface wants to learn equestrian skills?”
Olivia frowned when Amos brought up her leg injuries.
“Ammy, I’m your fiancée. Why don’t you trust me?” Olivia bit her lip. “Our families are close, and we grew up together, so you should know how I feel about you—”
Before Olivia could finish her sentence, she saw the corners of Amos’ lips tugged widely.
What’s wrong with him?
Olivia instinctively followed Amos’ gaze and saw a figure arriving at the entrance.
The woman had fair, smooth skin without a single blemish, her big round eyes shining brightly.
Her thin lips were a stark contrast to her fair skin after being colored red.
A black lacy gown cinched at her waist, showing off her slim yet alluring curves. It was nothing special other than being tailored. However, her wearing it made it seem elegant and expensive.
She didn’t look like a princess. She looked more like a queen or empress.
Being the gentleman he was, Yandel let Natalie’s arm slide through his. Nonetheless, he looked more like her knight who would cut down any obstacles in her path than her partner.
Once he had set his eyes on Natalie, Amos couldn’t tear his eyes away from her.
He knew she was beautiful but never imagined her beauty would stun him after she merely changed into a gown.
Olivia caught the admiration in Amos’ gaze. “Ammy, what is that woman doing here?”
“I invited her,” Amos answered.
“H-Her?” Anger stirred within her. Her chest began to rise and fall intensely. “Ammy, what’s wrong with you? Are you aware of the difference between our statuses and hers? How can you invite her to your father’s birthday banquet?”
“The one that’s wrong is you.” Amos said impatiently, “You’re just my fiancée from an arranged marriage, so you have no right to tell me what to do. Are you still unaware that my consent is the gavel that decides the arranged marriage with the Jones family?”
Amos had only regarded his marriage as a business deal. His opinion was a painful betrayal to Olivia.
“For that woman, you—”
“Don’t address her with disdain.” Amos warned her with a frown, “She’s not someone you can compare to.”
Amos finished the glass in his hand and set the glass down heavily on the table.
He strode away from Olivia’s side coldly.
In contrast, rage flowed through Olivia like lava.
It’s her again! She’s everywhere all the time and keeps ruining all the good things happening to me! Does this despicable and vulgar woman think she could turn into a beautiful swan with just her looks and a priceless gown? The venue tonight is perfect. I’ll tear off that woman’s disguise in front of everyone.
After coming up with a plan, Olivia reached for her glass and walked over to Natalie.
Jerry rushed to Olivia’s side when he saw his sister heading toward Natalie with an air of arrogance. “Olivia, what are you planning to do?” he asked as he grasped Olivia’s wrist.
Seeing Jerry blocking her way, Olivia shot him a death glare. “What about you, Jerry? What are you planning to do to me?”
“Tonight is Mr. Carlos’ birthday banquet. Keep that in mind for whatever you’re planning to do.” With furrowed brows, Jerry advised good-naturedly, “Even though I don’t know her exact identity, she isn’t someone we can offend.”
A Cue for Love Chapter 929
You Will Be At A Loss
“Hmmph!” Olivia rolled her eyes at Jerry with contempt. “What part of her we can’t offend? Oh, you mean the man backing her? This is a Stone family event. I don’t think her man has greater power and influence than Mr. Carlos.”
Jerry didn’t understand why his usually astute sister wouldn’t take his advice.
His grip on her wrist tightened. “Why won’t you listen to me, Olivia? Today’s event is way too important to mess up. I forbid you to cause trouble for her.”
Olivia leveled a gaze at her rebellious brother. Bitter resentment gleamed in her eyes. “Jerry, I’m your sister! Or has that woman bewitched you to the point that you don’t even consider me your sister anymore?”
“The only reason she could come today was an invitation from Amos, and he’s not an idiot!” The creases on Jerry’s forehead deepened as he was suddenly overwhelmed by the feeling that Olivia was being irrational.
“What does a kid even know? Look at Amos! Did you see how completely bewitched by her he was? His eyes were fixed on her the whole time. He doesn’t care about her identity.” Olivia tried to break free from Jerry’s grip, but her attempts ended in vain. She began to struggle fiercely. “Jerry, let go of me! You’re the one that can’t think straight, not me!”
“I’m not letting you go!” Jerry said stubbornly, “I don’t want you to humiliate yourself. You’re my sister!”
Noticing their children quarreling in public, Bridger and Jada hurried over to their side.
Bridger frowned with displeasure and admonished, “Olivia, Jerry, what are you doing? Don’t you know where you are? How can you quarrel like kids? Are you brainless?”
Olivia saw her parents arrive and immediately complained, “Dad, Mom, some woman has Ammy bewitched. She actually got Ammy to invite her to tonight’s banquet. The only reason Ammy would have done so was to get Mr. Stone’s approval of that woman. He’s creating an opportunity for her to marry into the Stone family. If I want to marry Ammy, I’ll have to nip this in the bud! I don’t know what spell that woman has cast on Jerry that he’s even covering for her and getting in my way!”
Bridger placed a lot of importance on the marriage between the Stone and Jones families. After hearing Olivia’s complaint, he reprimanded Jerry, “Let go of your sister’s hand already!”
“Dad, I have to stop her. Or she’ll be the one at a loss.”
Raw anger shot through Bridger at Jerry’s rebuke. “At a loss? With the Jones and Stone families here, how will your sister lose? Since you’re so confident, tell us about that girl’s background then.”
“I…” Jerry mumbled hesitantly.
Bridger freed Olivia’s wrist from Jerry’s grip and scoffed, “Your sister was right. I think that vixen has you bewitched! Don’t stop your sister from now on. Stay obediently by your mother’s side and stop causing trouble for me!”
Jada advised, “Jerry, your sister’s marriage is important. You’re still young, so you’re unaware of its importance.”
Since his parents put it that way, Jerry couldn’t come up with any other way to persuade them. However, he refused to give in to them.
Olivia glanced at the headstrong Jerry and blamed Natalie for his rebelliousness.
The happier she is, the harder I’ll make her fall.
Natalie’s appearance had attracted many other guests’ attention.
Yandel stood by Natalie’s side with a smile as he complained under his breath. “Boss, I feel inferior. You have the presence of a six-foot-eight person while my height is less than six foot two. That’s a huge difference!”
“Inferior? What are you talking about? I can prescribe you some medicine if you feel lacking in a certain department.” Natalie added, “Chin up, Yandel!”
Without a choice, Yandel braced himself and continued his front as a proper partner.
At that moment, Amos elegantly approached Natalie with a glass in hand. With his gaze trained firmly on Natalie, he said, “Ms. Nichols, it seems like you always surprise me every time we meet.”
A Cue for Love Chapter 930
I Cannot Accept
“Really?” Natalie smiled politely. “Surprises are never endless. There might be none in the future.”
Her reply was courteous yet tactful.
Amos was stunned. He never expected Natalie to give that kind of answer.
The Stone family was one of the five plutocratic families in Loang. He never had a lack of women after he reached adulthood, and there weren’t any women who tried to keep their distance from him.
Natalie was the first and only one to treat him as such.
Amos swirled his wine glass as something indescribable flashed across his eyes. “I’ve already signed the contract between Dream and Stone Corporation, but there are a few parts that need to be clarified by you, Ms. Nichols.”
After the signing of contracts, there shouldn’t be any questions after. Clearly, it was merely an excuse to have a private moment with Natalie.
Yandel and Natalie were well-versed in the business world, so they knew what he was implying.
Natalie cast a look at Yandel, and Yandel took his leave.
When they were left alone, Natalie turned to Amos with a smile. “What questions do you have for me?”
“Once the contract takes effect, Dream and Stone Corporation will be partners.” Amos’ gaze bored straight into Natalie’s eyes. “Give me a moment, and I’ll look for a chance to introduce you to my father.”
“Thank you.” Natalie was grateful for his referral. Even though Amos was at the top rung among his peers, Carlos still held the power of the Stone family in his hands. Dream Jewelry still had a lot of space to expand into, so there was no way they could avoid dealing with Carlos.
Amos took out a black velvet box from his pocket.
“This is for you.”
Natalie reached for the box and saw a vintage men’s watch lying in it.
However, that watch was a discontinued product. Putting aside the brilliant craftsmanship of the dial, just the rareness of the watch was more than enough to determine its value.
“Why are you giving it to me?” Natalie looked up at Amos with confusion.
“I know you’ve prepared a gift for my father.” The flames in Amos’ eyes burned brighter. “But I hope you can present him with this watch as your gift when you meet him later.”
“You’re asking me to give your dad the present you spent so much effort on?” Natalie gently closed the box and handed it back to Amos. “Mr. Stone, I can’t accept your feelings.”
Natalie would’ve been either really dumb or acting dumb if she still didn’t know Amos’ intention by that time.
“If you don’t try accepting it, how will you know you can’t accept it?” Amos asked.
“You have a fiancée, Mr. Stone. And I have a fiancé.” Natalie continued, “If my fiancé finds out I accepted something so significant from another man, he will be jealous.”
A glint of surprise flashed across Amos’ eyes. “You have a fiancé? Is he the person who attended with you today?”
“Of course not!” Natalie denied. Is he joking? Even if I were to find someone to act as my fiancé, I wouldn’t ask someone who would be attending the banquet. Then, we wouldn’t have to act and risk being exposed.
Amos wasn’t planning on giving up, though. “We’re not married yet, so never say never.”
“Not necessarily.” Natalie smirked. “If you truly want to marry, you don’t have to wait. If we’re not fated, then time isn’t the issue at all.”
The atmosphere between them was getting tenser by the minute.
Finally, Natalie nodded at Amos. “My partner has returned with the wine. Please excuse me.”
Under Yandel’s scrutiny, Natalie walked over to Yandel’s side and reached for the glass in his hand.
With an in-depth understanding of Natalie, he knew Amos must have gotten rebuffed by her.
Compared to Natalie’s nonchalance, Yandel was slightly worried. “Will Amos make things hard for us regarding the collaboration with your rejection?”