Ch. 151..160
Chapter 151
Before “Inkwell” could make a move, Suzanne had picked up the paintbrush. Despite her memory loss, she had no intention of relying on her previous works. Instinctively, she smoothed out the paper before beginning to paint.
“That’s definitely Inkwell. I’d recognize those beautiful fingers anywhere,” one viewer remarked.
“I knew it! Those hands are unmistakable. She’s the real deal,”
exclaimed another.
“It’s been three years since we’ve seen Inkwell. What masterpiece will she create this time?” someone mused.
“Support Inkwell! I can hear the charities weeping tears of joy over her paintings once again,” another urged.
The reporters watched Suzanne at work with a mixture of awe and admiration, moved by the outpouring of support in the comments.
Deep down, they had unequivocally acknowledged Suzanne as the true Inkwell and felt honored to capture her remarkable moments
firsthand.
Sally seethed with frustration at the sudden turn of events. Under the scrutiny of cameras and branded an impostor by netizens, “Inkwell” found herself stripped of excuses and was compelled to recreate a painting she had once so familiarly traced.
As the two women continued to paint, the appraisers closely observed their progress. Upon glimpsing the incomplete work of ” Inkwell”, they frowned disapprovingly before shifting their attention to Suzanne. The moment the appraisers beheld Suzanne’s painting, their faces lit up with astonishment.
At that instant, the reporters shifted their attention to the livestream and posed a question. “Can our viewers find the real Inkwell from
these two artworks?”
“Isn’t it obvious? The imposter is just copying Inkwell’s old stuff.
She’s done it so much that now she can only make soulless replicas,” one snickered.
“I knew she was a fake from the start. Ever since she revealed her face, she stopped her live streams and charity work,” chimed in another.
“Both paintings are beautiful, but Cutie’s artwork is undeniably more vibrant and captivating,” someone complimented.
“That settles it, then. Cutie must be the real Inkwell. I never expected her to look so sweet,” another concluded.
True to the commenter’s remark, Suzanne’s cherubic face only added
to her charm on camera.
After completing her painting, Suzanne set down her paintbrush and glanced up, coincidentally locking gazes with Nathan.
His eyes held a depth and intensity that she couldn’t comprehend, stirring warmth within her heart. Flustered, she quickly averted her
gaze.
The spectators approached and praised Suzanne’s artwork just as ‘ Inkwell” finished hers. Upon examination of the two paintings, the appraisers concluded that “Inkwell” was an imposter.
Despite the perfect piece, she was merely tracing a previous artwork and lacked the genuine artistic flair of the true Inkwell.
In contrast, Suzanne’s depiction of the Morrison Residence’s backyard was nothing short of breathtaking, capturing every detail with photo-realistic precision.
“It’s clear that Ms. Suzanne York is the real Inkwell. What do you have to say for yourself?” The appraisers turned to the imposter and demanded sternly.
Refusing to acknowledge her deceit, the imposter retorted, “How can you claim I’m the imposter? My painting is flawless!”
“Inkwell’s creations are spontaneous, rarely repeating the same piece. Your painting resembles a printout, a feat beyond Inkwell’s style.
“It seems you’ve practiced it countless times to achieve such flawlessness,” one appraiser coldly concluded.
The imposter paled instantly. As she sought aid from her assistant, the latter was nowhere to be found.
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Chapter 152
As the assistant made a dash for the door, they were intercepted by Norvanian military soldiers. The lawyer quickly interjected, “We could sue you for defamation.”
However, the appraiser sneered in response. “Watch your own back. That woman has committed a crime.”
In a panic, the imposter fought her way through the crowd, attempting to flee. Onlookers observed her futile attempt to reach the exit before being apprehended by the waiting soldiers.
“What are you doing? Let go of me! I’m calling the police!” she
protested as she struggled against them.
“No need. We’ll take you there ourselves,” Cole retorted.
With that, the imposter and her assistant were escorted away in a technical vehicle and transported to the police.
Back in the hall, the remaining spectators were left with mixed
emotions.
In particular, Lindsey wore a somber expression at the unexpected revelation. Despite their initial reluctance, Duke and Layla begrudgingly acknowledged Suzanne as Inkwell.
In contrast to their dampened spirit, the internet buzzed with excitement. The return of the renowned Inkwell after a prolonged absence sparked fervor. Her latest masterpiece, “Spring Garden”, became highly coveted among art enthusiasts.
To their surprise, Suzanne refused to set a price. Instead, she proposed, “Make a donation to an orphanage in Norvania. The highest donor will receive the piece.”
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Upon hearing this, Wendy hurriedly grabbed her arm urgently and
chided in a hushed voice, “Are you out of your mind? The painting you sold me alone is valued at five million, let alone the piece
authenticated under camera surveillance.
“Every billionaire online is vying for it. You could easily make ten
million or more! Don’t waste the money on charity. It’s not like they will appreciate your kindness.”
Suzanne offered a gentle smile and remarked, “I suggest you donate the remaining funds after the art restoration, Wendy.”
“But that’s my money!” Wendy snapped back angrily.
“I’m saying this nicely because you’re family. Let’s not escalate this to legal matters,” Suzanne replied calmly but firmly.
Wendy stared at her in disbelief. Despite Suzanne’s outward gentleness, her eyes betrayed a steely resolve and ruthlessness- signs that she wasn’t one to be underestimated.
Although Wendy was driven by greed, she wasn’t devoid of moral After all, the paintings rightfully belonged to Suzanne.
“Fine. I’ll make the donation,” Wendy sensibly agreed, recognizing the potential benefits of aligning herself with Suzanne’s goodwill.
The art enthusiasts in the hall grew impatient, eagerly shouting their bids. A reporter jumped into the fray, announcing, “Ms. York, the highest bid in my livestream stands at 5 million for the piece.”
The bidding frenzy escalated rapidly, soaring to six million, then eight million, and eventually peaking at ten million dollars.
Duke stood in stunned silence. Even Layla, with her usual disdainful expression, covered her mouth in shock in astonishment.
They hadn’t anticipated that the plain painting, created by the woman
they held in contempt, would command such a staggering sum.
The Morrisons, along with Lindsey, were equally flabbergasted by the spectacle unfolding before them.
Addressing the highest bidder, Suzanne graciously remarked, “Your generosity is truly appreciated. Once you provide the receipt, the painting will be yours.”
The bidder eagerly retrieved their phone, their voice trembling with excitement. “I’ll get the finance department to process the donation immediately!”
Before the bidder could dial the number, a commanding voice suddenly announced from behind. “One hundred million.”
The declaration left everyone in disbelief, prompting them to instinctively shift their attention to the speaker. To their surprise, the bidder turned out to be none other than Nathan himself.
As Suzanne met Nathan’s gaze, her heart instinctively skipped a She was suddenly overwhelmed by confusion and astonishment.
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Chapter 153
Nathan strolled over to Suzanne, captivated by her portrayal of his backyard on canvas. “I’m offering a hundred million for this
masterpiece. Any particular charity in mind?” he inquired with genuine interest.
Caught off guard, Suzanne hesitated before responding, “Any charity will do…”
Locking eyes with her, Nathan directed Cole. “Arrange a one hundred million donation to an educational institution in rural areas.”
While Cole hastened to carry out the order, Suzanne carefully rolled up her artwork and handed it to Nathan.
“On behalf of the institution, we express our deepest gratitude,” Suzanne stated earnestly.
As Nathan accepted the painting, his stern expression softened into smile.
Confused by the distant exchange, the onlookers couldn’t help but wonder about the true nature of Nathan and Suzanne’s relationship.
Meanwhile, the internet erupted with excitement over the breaking
news.
Inkwell, the acclaimed painter, had returned after three years to expose her imitator and auction her latest masterpiece for charity. The unexpected revelation sparked a global frenzy within the realms of art and charity alike.
Seizing the opportunity, a reporter approached Suzanne and started firing questions. “Would you mind an interview, Ms. Inkwell? Are you a Sunteri or Norvanian? Was your hiatus due to marriage with General
13
Morrison?”
“Why did you remain silent during the imposter’s reign? Can we expect more of your artwork in the future?” another reporter pressed.
The crowd of reporters encircled Suzanne and bombarded her with inquiries. Flustered, Suzanne instinctively retreated. Unbeknownst to her, the Morrisons watched the scene with a mix of emotions.
Witnessing Suzanne’s discomfort, Nathan exchanged a look with Cole, who promptly instructed the soldiers to usher the reporters back.
Taking advantage of the distraction, Nathan took Suzanne’s hand and guided her discreetly through a side door, leaving Cole to handle the persistent press.
“That’s all for today, folks. As you can see, Ms. Suzanne York is the real Inkwell. However, now isn’t the time for questions. Please, return, “Cole announced.
Refusing to leave empty-handed, the reporters turned their atter to the Morrisons for clarification. Dumbfounded, the Morrisons struggled to maintain composure while concealing their true feelin
Amidst the chaos, Sally noticed Suzanne and Nathan’s disappearance and hurriedly left to search for them,
Arriving in the back garden, she found no trace of the pair. Frustrated, she clenched her fists and stomped in anger.
She hadn’t expected that the organization would assign an idiot to impersonate Inkwell. That moron brought a knife to a gunfight and actually made a fool of herself in front of the real Inkwell.
If such an accident happened again, Sally feared that her true identity might soon be uncovered.
Consumed by fury, Sally crushed a handful of flowers and growled, “If I’d known you’d be such a nuisance, would’ve killed you from the
start.”
Meanwhile, Nathan led Suzanne to the greenhouse, where blooming flowers filled the space. Carefully withdrawing her hand, Suzanne looked up at Nathan with an anxious heart.
“Why have you brought me here?” she inquired.
“There’s nobody around to overhear our conversation,” Nathan
explained, leaning against the flower rack as his gaze fixed intently on Suzanne.
“Have your memories returned?” he asked. Suzanne shook her head in response.
Raising an eyebrow, Nathan continued, “Yet you seemed certain of being Inkwell just moments ago.”
Suzanne showed a faint smile. “If a few had told me I was Inkwell, I might have dismissed it as a mistake. But when everyone insists that I am the real Inkwell, their words must hold true.
“Sometimes, your artwork can serve as the most convinci
just like your handwriting or fingerprints.”
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Chapter 154
Nathan peered into Suzanne’s bright and hopeful eyes, captivated by her gentle yet resolute demeanor. Despite her apparent meekness, she exuded a quiet confidence and radiance.
As Nathan remained silent, Suzanne grew uneasy and hurriedly asked, “Can you help me run a background check on Inkwell? I’m curious to uncover the truth behind this persona.”
“I’ve previously looked into them. They’ve covered their tracks well,” Nathan replied.
Suzanne persisted, “Are you certain there’s nothing to uncover?”
“The only lead we have is your voice during conversations with charity institutions. Mrs. Potter has confirmed your identity as Inkwell earlier, “Nathan explained.
Suzanne was about to refute his assertion when doubt cast a nervous glance at Nathan, unsure whether she coul
he
“Can I trust you, Nathan?” she asked for assurance.
Yet, Nathan let out a wry chuckle. “What do you think?”
Suzanne hesitated for a moment before shaking her head. Too m weird things had happened since she lost her memories; she could afford to place blind trust in anyone.
Adding to her skepticism, she had undergone her second DNA test under the supervision of Nathan’s subordinates.
Suzanne resolved to uncover the truth of her identity. Until then, she
had no one to rely on.
“Let’s get a divorce, Nathan,” Suzanne stated calmly after a prolonged
silence. Nathan was momentarily stunned before eyeising her with a scomber expression.
Jonbeknownst to Nathan, Suzanne’s heart winced in painia at her own woodds. Even so, she remained steadfast in unraveling the anyysteries Suntounding her.
I want to go back to Sunterland,” she explained, her voice tapering off with a touch of uncertainty.
Nathanrottenched his fists as he felt a heavy tug at his chest. Gazining up at thee sky, he drew in a deep breath.
I’ll take you there. When do you plan to return to Norvania?” he asked d softly, purposefully sidestepping the topic of divorce.
Casting her eyess down, Suzanne replied indifferently, “I don’t know. It could be months or years-or maybe I won’t come back at all.”-
There was no telling how long she would stay in Sunterland. It would ake days or her whotee life to uncover her identity or rega
memories.
Nathan turned away froom Suzanne, his breath heavy wit His heart felt as if piercced by needles, leaving him in agoni
As Nathan lapsed into silence, Suzanne cautiously inquired, “S we settle the divorce befored leave?”
Stay,” Nathan murmured.
Suzanne stood stunned by his suddcen plea, her gaze fixed on his back in disbelief.
Suppressing the ache in his chest, Netthan approached Suzanne and ook hold of her arm. Tears brimmed in his eyes as he implored, ” Please, Suzanne, don’t leave. I’ll give you anything you want.”
Suzanne was utterly dumbfounded. She coulddn’t shake the
impression that Nathan had developed feelings for her. Thought inexperienced in matters of love, she sensed the passionate fire within him.
Yet, Nathan had made it clear in his messages that Sally held his heart. Why was he begging Suzanne to stay if he truly loved Sally?
Suzanne couldn’t help but wonder if Nathan feared that her stay in Sunterland would lead to the discovery of her true identity. After much contemplation, she stated firmly, “I want my freedom.”
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Chapter 155
Nathan’s expression crumbled instantly. As he released Suzanne’s arm in sorrow, he silently retreated a few steps with eyes downcast.
Suzanne was confused about the sudden shift in his demeanor, but she couldn’t have cared less. Her heart had already shattered when Nathan sent that disappointing message.
She no longer desired to remain his wife, especially knowing he intended to marry Sally immediately following Vera’s passing.
“No need to worry about upsetting Grandma, Nathan. Her illness has taken away her memory of me. Let’s not delay any further and proceed with the divorce,” Suzanne murmured, suppressing the pain throbbing in her chest.
With a heavy heart, Nathan questioned softly, “Is that what truly want?”
“It is,” Suzanne affirmed, her heart heavy with sorrow as tears
in her eyes.
For three years, She had harbored deep affection and admiration Nathan. Whenever he visited Vera, she would watch them interact from afar while losing in her own reverie.
She sought to learn everything about him, probing Vera for insights into his preferences, his passions, his quirks, his past, and his triumphs.
She had never ceased to love him, to dream of their shared future. Upon finally marrying him, she unexpectedly discovered he harbored feelings for another.
Their marriage lacked the joy and contentment she had hoped for.
There were even moments when her heart twinged at the sight of Nathan’s affection for Sally.
It was then did Suzanne truly understood the pain of unrequited love within a relationship.
After a brief moment of silence, Nathan asked solemnly, “Are you sure about this?”
valid
Avoiding his gaze to hide her tears, Suzanne replied calmly, “My decision was made long ago. It’s just that I’ve finally found a reason to do so.”
Nathan remained silent, his eyes drifting skyward with a heavy sigh.
Suzanne continued, “I trust you’ll respect my decision. Let’s part ways with peace.”
With that declaration, she turned on her heels to leave. Just as she took a few strides, Nathan’s unexpected reply halted her in her tracks. “But I can’t simply accept your decision,” he confessed.
Stunned, Suzanne struggled to hold back tears as a sharp ache pierced her heart.
Nathan was driving her to the brink of despair. He didn’t reciproc her love, yet he refused to release her. So why did he insist on clingin to a relationship devoid of genuine affection?
She struggled with household tasks and couldn’t contribute
financially. Even the hope of having a child together seemed distant. They even slept in separate beds, leaving her no chance to share warmth with him at night.
With tears streaming down her face, Suzanne steeled herself and spoke with a cold resolve, “Then I’ll seek divorce through legal means.”
She brushed away her tears and marched forward. Before she could
advance further, Nathan seized her arm. His voice quivered with pain and regret as he reached out to her.
Frustrated, Suzanne whirled around and forcefully shook off Nathan’s hand. As tears streamed down her face, she cried out amid sobs, Enough is enough! What do you even want from me?”
Taken aback by her tears, Nathan lapsed into a heavy silence.
With anguish gripping her heart, Suzanne lamented, “What have I done to deserve this torment?”
“Just who is the tormentor here?” Nathan countered, unsettled by her accusation. His eyes reddened with frustration.
Wiping her tears away, Suzanne shot back, “I married you out of love, but you see it differently. You claim to respect me and hope to build a life together, yet your heart belongs to Sally.
“Whenever she needs
you, you’re by her side in an instant. You even agreed to have her live under the same roof! Am I to share my
husband with another woman?”
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Chapter 156
In despair, Suzanne pleaded, her voice trembling, “I beg you, Nathan. Please, don’t let my last admiration for you crumble into
disillusionment. I can’t take this anymore. I-”
Before she could complete her sentence, Nathan seized her arm and pulled her into a tight embrace. Nestling in his arms, Suzanne tensed up at the sudden intimacy as her heart raced with anxiety.
As he held her delicate frame, Nathan breathed in the scent of her hair, feeling a sense of solace wash over his pain. At that moment, he wished he could keep her close forever.
Drawing near, Nathan whispered into Suzanne’s ear, “You said you married me out of love, and I admit I long to build a life with you. I assure you, I only spoke the truth.
“While I once had feelings for Sally, that’s all in the past. I understand women well, but I wish you could tell me plainly presence upsets you. I can’t bear to hear talk of divorce.”
The mere mention of divorce stabbed at his heart, a deeper a than any physical wound.
ot
Perhaps she sought solace in his embrace or found the explanatio she craved, Suzanne found herself unable to hold back her tears. She choked out between sobs, “But you said you loved her… You still love Sally.”
Nathan gently caressed her head, pressing a kiss to her hair as he murmured soothingly, “I never did. I never claimed to love her. If I were to describe my relationship with Sally, it would be that of siblings at best.”
Hearing that, Suzanne clenched her fists in anger and began to
13
struggle. “Liar! You said you love her!”
Fearing she might break free from his embrace, Nathan held her firmly and hurriedly reassured her, “I didn’t. Stop messing around.”
“You did! You sent me a message confessing your love for her. You even suggested we part ways anytime! You’re a total scumbag, Nathan! A cheater!” Suzanne wailed.
Alarmed by her words, Nathan quickly released Suzanne and took a
few steps back. Leaning in, he gently cradled Suzanne’s face and wiped away her tears.
“You’re right. I’ve been awful. Please don’t cry. Let me see that message,” he coaxed.
“It upset me so much that I deleted it,” Suzanne admitted between sobs, trying to regain composure.
“Was it the day you asked me to sign the divorce papers?” Nathan asked, his demeanor softened.
When Suzanne nodded in affirmation, Nathan patiently clarified, “Th day, a household staff at the Hoffis Manor tripped over and spille
water on me.
“Sally took away my phone to dry it. She must have seized the chance to send that message. That’s so typical of her.”
Upon hearing his explanation, Suzanne widened her eyes in disbelief.
As Nathan met her gaze, he found himself captivated by her sparkling doe eyes. Her tear-stained cheeks tinted a rosy hue, lending her an even more endearing appearance.
Unable to bear the sight of her distressed face, Nathan drew Suzanne into his embrace. Holding her close, he closed his eyes as a wave of peace enveloped him.
With the revelation behind Suzanne’s call for divorce now apparent, Nathan felt a sense of relief wash over him. Letting out a deep sigh, he comforted her. “Don’t cry. Let’s calm down and think over this. It seems we’ve been playing off against each other.”
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Chapter 157
Suzanne finally regained her composure as she met Nathan’s earnest gaze. His touch brought a soothing warmth to her cheeks.
“Were we pitted against each other?” she asked sheepishly.
When Nathan affirmed with a nod, Suzanne attempted to pursue further. Yet, she found herself stumbling over her words.
With a deep sigh, Nathan stated sternly, “Next time you’re upset, don’t jump straight to divorce. Talk to me about it, alright?”
Suzanne stared at him with tearful eyes and nodded obediently. Seeing that, Nathan felt a wave of relief wash over him as his fingers hesitatingly trailed down her delicate face.
An uneasy silence then settled between them. Suzanne fidgeted, her gaze shifting nervously until it settled on Nathan’s shoulder.
“Is your wound alright?” she asked with concern, oblivious to
Nathan’s intense stare fixed on her rosy lips.
When Nathan hummed in response, Suzanne breathed a sigh of relief
at his reassurance.
“Let’s head back then,” she suggested, her embarrassment evident as she struggled to find her footing.
As she turned to leave, Nathan seized her arm and called out to her. Startled, Suzanne turned back to him in confusion.
In the serene ambiance of the greenhouse, Nathan peered into Suzanne’s eyes with a fervent intensity as his breathing quickened.
He drew Suzanne nearer, closing the distance between them. Gazing
at her rosy lips, he leaned in to capture them in a tender kiss.
13:
However, Suzanne trembled with anxiety as she realized they stood in the public greenhouse frequented by Florence. The thought of her catching them kissing filled Suzanne with dread and embarrassment.
“Cut it off, Nathan. Let’s go back,” Suzanne urged, pushing Nathan. away and breaking free from his embrace. After gathering her composure, she turned on her heels and fled in embarrassment.
As Nathan watched her hurried departure, a wave of sadness and emptiness washed over him. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Suzanne’s affection for him remained distant.
Meanwhile, Suzanne had left the back garden and returned to the house. Stepping into the living room, she found Sally engaged in conversation with the Morrisons.
Upon noticing Suzanne, Sally stood up and asked pretentiously,” There you are Suzanne. Have you seen Nate anywhere?”
The sight of Sally ignited new fury within Suzanne. When she remembered Sally’s attempts to sabotage her relationship with Nathan, her anger boiled over. She had tolerated Sally’s antics in past, but not anymore.
Approaching Sally with a cold demeanor, Suzanne addressed her sternly, “Stop stealing my husband’s phone to send me deceitful messages claiming his affection for you, Ms. Hoffins. It’s contemptible to
sow discord between a husband and wife.”
Sally’s expression paled instantly, though she tried to feign innocence. “I don’t understand what you’re talking about. There must be some mistake.”
The other Morrisons exchanged surprised glances upon hearing Suzanne’s accusation. Only Layla remained defiant, her sneer
revealing her contempt. “It’s no mistake. Nathan’s love for Sally is undeniable.”
Suzanne faced Layla with a cold inquiry. “Are you a parasite, Layla?”
“Who are you calling a parasite?” Layla retorted, rising to her feet.
Undeterred, Suzanne maintained her composure. “Then why are you so convinced that Nathan has feelings for Sally?”
Layla gestured towards her family and declared, “It’s no secret! Everyone is aware of this!”
“That’s enough, Layla. I don’t want to cause anyone else upset.” Holding Layla’s arm, Sally murmured with a pitiful tone.
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Chapter 158
Layla arrogantly jabbed a finger in Suzanne’s direction, her voice dripping with disdain. “Don’t let your fame as a painter get to your head. You don’t hold a candle to Sally!
“She’s the only worthy match for the general of the Norvanian military. You? You’re nothing!”
Rendered speechless, Suzanne clenched her fists tightly. She wasn’t experienced in arguing with someone so unreasonable.
In that tense moment, Nathan entered the scene. His cold gaze cast an icy chill over the room.
Everyone was visibly unsettled by his arrival. Even Layla, whose arrogance faltered in the face of his presence. Yet, she remained convinced of her assertion-that Nathan’s heart belonged to Sally, and he would shield her from any harm.
Contrary to her expectations, Nathan strode toward Suzanne enveloped her in his embrace. Stiffening at his touch, Suzann cautiously looked up at him.
“Listen, Layla. Whether you accept it or not, Suzanne will be my and only wife,” Nathan declared firmly.
Layla stood stunned by his proclamation, casting a nervous glance a Sally. The other Morrisons mirrored her surprise, a sense of betrayal creeping into their midst.
Sally, in turn, regarded Nathan with a hurtful gaze as tears welled up
in her eyes.
Nathan shifted his attention to Sally, his tone unwavering. “Listen,
Sally. I’ll marry you if I truly love you. If not, then there’s no romantic
connection between us.
“To put it plainly, our relationship resembles that of siblings.
However, I’m very disappointed in you. You’ve been scheming behind my back, and it’s becoming unacceptable.”
Taylor and Wendy gasped in disbelief, utterly stunned by Nathan’s declaration. Their gazes bounced between Nathan and Sally, struggling to comprehend the unexpected revelation.
“I didn’t! Why are you accusing me?” Sally protested desperately, stomping her feet.
At that moment, Tobias and Cheryl were exchanging whispers, while Duke and Layla were left dumbfounded by the sudden turn of events.
Just what was going on? Why would Nathan describe his relationship with Sally as sibling-like? And what underhanded tricks were he referring to?
No one had a clue, but they could faintly infer an answer from the words spoken.
“Get out of here at once, Sally,” Nathan ordered firmly.
“No! I suffer from major depressive disorder, Nate! Would you rather see me going nuts?” Sally cried out as her foot stomped in defiance.
Suzanne sighed softly and gently tugged at Nathan’s sleeve. Sensing her subtle cue, Nathan leaned in and asked in a hushed voice, “What’s wrong?”
With a slight tilt of her head, Suzanne whispered in Nathan’s ear, “I’ve been delving into psychology lately, particularly researching depressive disorders. From what I can gather, Sally’s likely feigning her illness
After a brief moment of contemplation, Nathan asked, “She’s dead set against leaving. Any ideas?”
“I have a plan, but will you have regrets afterward?” Suzanne sought confirmation.
Nathan shook his head, a smile tugging at his lips. “Anything you say.”
Hearing Nathan’s assurance, Suzanne nodded in satisfaction. The others watched in astonishment at their unexpected intimacy, feeling as though they were a couple deeply in love.
At that moment, it was difficult to believe that Nathan harbored. feelings for Sally. His gaze, brimming with love and affection, was solely fixed on Suzanne.
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Chapter 159
“We can hold hands and head upstairs together,” Suzanne shyly suggested. Her intention was to piss Sally off by appearing intimately close to Nathan.
“You want us to hold hands?” Nathan questioned, arching an eyebrow.
Realizing he might not be on board, Suzanne awkwardly explained, “I just want Sally to see that she doesn’t stand a chance and hopefully back off.”
To her surprise, Nathan suddenly leaned in and whispered in her ear,” Simply holding hands won’t be enough.”
Caught off guard, Suzanne was stunned when Nathan pressed his lips softly against hers. The onlookers were astounded, inwardly questioning if that was the same serious and aloof Nathan they knew.
Before anyone could collect their thoughts, Nathan lifted her feet. Startled, Suzanne instinctively encircled her arm neck and nestled her head against his chest.
Although Suzanne had initiated the idea of appearing intimat provoke Sally, she couldn’t quell her fluttering heart at Nathan’s unexpected gesture.
ne off
his
Under the watchful eyes of the onlookers, Nathan carried Suzan upstairs to their bedroom.
Meanwhile, Sally was seething with anger, yet no one bothered to offer her words of comfort.
Standing next to Taylor, Wendy murmured with doubt, “Do you think Nathan has truly fallen for Suzanne?”
“Suzanne’s got beauty, talent, and kindness. Even the most ordinary
man would be smitten,” Taylor remarked with a chuckle.
“I always thought Nathan was loyal and devoted. How could he change his feelings so suddenly?” Wendy mused.
Taylor glanced at Sally before replying, “Interestingly, Suzanne resembles bears a striking resemblance to a younger Sally. Her gentle demeanor is quite similar, too. It’s not surprising Nathan would be drawn to her.”
Intrigued, Wendy asked, “What did Sally look like when she was younger? Do you have a picture?”
Taylor swiftly retrieved his phone, scrolling through his gallery before showing Wendy a photo. As Wendy gazed at it, her expression turned from confusion to astonishment.
It was a group photo featuring the Morrison brothers with a young Sally. In the image, Sally appeared as a chubby child with sparkling eyes and an adorable smile.
“Oh my god. She really does look like Suzanne, especially in her and smile! It seems Nathan has had a type since his youth,” We remarked, returning the phone to Taylor.
All of a sudden, Taylor blurted out, “Could it be possible that Suzanne is actually Sally?”
In an instant, Wendy smacked him on the head and scolded, “What the hell were you thinking? The Hoffins watched Sally grow up. You think they wouldn’t recognize their own child?”
Their peculiar exchange drew the attention of those nearby. Sensing the stares, Taylor hurriedly clarified, “Please don’t mind us. We’re just fooling around.”
Meanwhile, Nathan had swept Suzanne into the bedroom, kicking the
door shut behind them. Sensing they were alone, Suzanne quickly withdrew her hand and tried to push Nathan away.
“Put me down. You’re still recovering,” she murmured, her voice tinged with shyness.
Ignoring her request, Nathan gently set Suzanne down on the bed. She lay there quietly-her hair scattered across the sheets, her face flushed with red, and her eyes shimmering with coyness
In that moment, she looked utterly alluring.
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Chapter 160
With his arms gently resting on her sides, Nathan stared down at Suzanne intensely and swallowed hard. His breathing grew heavy with anticipation, stirring an ambiguous tension in the air.
“Could you please let me up?” Suzanne urged, her voice trembled with urgency.
“Oh, Suzy…” Nathan’s deep, baritone voice caressed her ears, dripping with desire.
At the sound of his intimate address, Suzanne felt her heart practically explode. Even her veins pulsed with uncontrollable excitement. At that moment, she had sensed his intentions.
Before Suzanne could utter anything, Nathan pressed against her and captured her lips in a passionate kiss. A soft moan escaped Suzanne, and Nathan seized the opportunity to deepen the kiss.
The kiss was so intense that Suzanne struggled to maintain her composure. She slowly succumbed to the overwhelming bliss, instinctively wrapping her arms around Nathan’s neck.
Nathan gently tilted her head, running his fingers through her hair as he deepened the kiss.
A warm haze enveloped them as their breath mingled. Suzanne’s moans hung in the air like an intoxicating drug, tempting Nathan to surrender to his desires. His kisses trailed from her lips to her neck, causing her knees to weaken.
As Nathan’s hands began to explore under her shirt, Suzanne
snapped back to reality. She stared at the ceiling as her heart raced wild. Swiftly, she halted his explorative hand and asserted, “Nathan, we can’t do this.”
Taken aback by her sudden resistance, Nathan struggled with the burning desire coursing through him Respecting Suzanne’s
boundaries, he reluctantly withdrew his hand and buried his head in her neck.
As he inhaled her scent, he pleaded in a husky voice, “But I want you, Suzy,”
When Suzanne heard his bold request, her cheeks and body flushed even hotter. She could feel Nathan’s firm muscles pressing against her abdomen, its enormity frightened her.
Nervous and overwhelmed, she confessed, “I-I’m scared, Nathan.”
Nathan let out a bitter chuckle at her words. She could have simply told him she wasn’t ready instead of resorting to such a lame excuse.
He doubted that Suzanne would be afraid of such intimacy with her apparent sexual experience. Despite her memory loss, her desires likely remained intact.
Positioned atop Suzanne, Nathan supported his weight on his elbo as he gently reassured her, “Don’t worry. I’m free from any disease You won’t catch anything from me.”
In response to his clarification, Suzanne blurted out, “So do I.”
Nathan smiled and planted a kiss on her neck, his warm breath lingering on her skin. In a husky voice, he murmured, “I know. I believe you.”
Feeling a ticklish sensation on her neck, Suzanne shifted slightly away from him and asked sheepishly, “What are you doing?”
“Continuing from where we left off,” Nathan replied, reaching out to
unbutton her shirt.