Ch. 371..380
Chapter 371 Sleeping With A Child
Under the dim yellow light, Jonathan’s face was streaked with tears.
Upon seeing Cecilia, he quickly wiped away his tears. “Mommy.”
Cecilia was momentarily stunned.
“Jon, why are you crying?”
She had never seen him cry before.
Jonathan immediately turned away, ensuring his tears were thoroughly wiped before he dared to look at Cecilia. “I wasn’t crying.”
He looked toward who was standing behind Cecilia, feeling a bit apprehensive.
Half an hour ago, he had gotten up to use the bathroom and noticed that the lights in the room were still on. However, both Cecilia’s room and Nathaniel’s room were empty.
He thought that Cecilia had been kidnapped by Nathaniel. He blamed himself for not watching. over her properly, which was why he was crying.
Unexpectedly, he was caught red–handed. He found it truly embarrassing.
“When I was in the bathroom, I accidentally got water in my eyes,” Jonathan explained earnestly.
Cecilia did not expose him.
She thought he had gotten up to use the bathroom alone, and not seeing her there, he was scared and started crying.
Jonathan quickly changed the subject. “Mommy, where did you and Mr. Rainsworth go?”
Not wanting him to worry, Cecilia lied, “We didn’t go anywhere. We just went out for a stroll.”
Going for a stroll in such cold weather?
I spent nearly half an hour in worry.
So they were strolling outside for at least half an hour?
Jonathan cast a wary glance at Nathaniel. Did he deceive Mommy?
Mommy is too kind–hearted, while sc*mbag daddy is full of cunning schemes.
Sensing his gaze, Nathaniel said, “It was too cold outside, so we took a stroll in the car.”
He said this on purpose, leading Jonathan’s thoughts astray.
A man and a woman in the car in the middle of the night….
Although Jonathan was just a child, he had watched many television shows and picked up some knowledge from them.
In an instant, he felt a sense of danger and no longer cared about the potential embarrassment.
“Mr. Rainsworth, could you stay with me tonight? I can’t sleep.”
I absolutely can’t let him and Mommy sleep together. I have no choice but to sacrifice myself.
“No,” Nathaniel firmly declined. “I prefer to sleep alone.”
“What about when you get married in the future? Will you still sleep alone?” Jonathan asked innocently.
Nathaniel’s lips curled up into a cold, sarcastic smile. “Have you ever taken a biology class? Do you know that when a man and a woman come together, it’s like they become one-
Before he could finish his sentence, Cecilia abruptly grabbed his arm.
“Shut your mouth!” She lowered her voice, her cars turning so red.
How could he discuss such matters with a child?
He’s not acting his age!
Nathaniel fell silent and said no more.
Jonathan, however, was filled with curiosity. “Mommy, why is it that when a man and a woman come together, it’s like they become one?”
He was quite intelligent. There was little he didn’t understand.
Cecilia leaned over and explained to him, “Don’t listen to Mr. Rainsworth’s nonsense. He’s just pulling your leg. If you’re scared, you can sleep with me tonight.”
Jonathan’s little face instantly turned rosy.
I’m practically grown up now. Isn’t it a bit inappropriate to still be sleeping with Mommy?
However, opportunities like this are hard to come by…
Just as he was hesitating on whether to agree, Nathaniel scooped him up from behind and headed toward his own room. “I don’t mind sleeping with a child for a night.”
Dreaming of sleeping with Cecilia? Not a chance!
Jonathan felt as if his heart had shattered.
He could have slept with Cecilia.
Sharing a bed with Nathaniel, Jonathan sneakily glanced at him and warned, “Mr. Rainsworth, her.”
Nathaniel, unusually serious, asked, “Why do you think I would deceive her?”
Chapter 372 Take It Easy
Jonathan was taken aback.
Clearly, he hadn’t figured out how to answer this question.
Nathaniel’s lips parted slightly. “I won’t hurt her, but words alone may not be enough. You’re welcome to keep an eye on me at all times.”
Upon hearing his words, Jonathan was surprised. But without hesitation, he responded, “All right, it’s a deal. I’ll make sure to keep a close eye on you.”
After their discussion, Jonathan closed his eyes, intending to sleep.
However, he had started sleeping alone when he was just two or three years old. Now, having a grown man lying beside him was truly out of his comfort zone.
He tossed and turned, unable to sleep, yet he couldn’t just leave like that.
What if Nathaniel took advantage of his absence to go find Cecilia?
The night was difficult to endure, but by the break of dawn, he was up again and escorted to the preschool by Sven.
Meanwhile, Magnus fled back to Tudela overnight, his heart filled with lingering fear.
He was somewhat perplexed. It was Nathaniel who had instructed him to seek out Cecilia, so how. did they end up living together?
Recalling the lethal gaze in Nathaniel’s eyes from yesterday, he felt a sense of fear.
He didn’t dare to ask Orion Corporation for money anymore and returned home disheartened.
In the mansion, Paula informed Cassandra that they had already received news about Cecille.
“I heard she’s about to return soon. We’ll be able to see her in no time.”
Cassandra reached out and embraced her. “Mom, you’re the best.”
“Of course.”
Upon seeing Magnus‘ disheveled state, Paula couldn’t help but express her concern. “Where have you been messing around this time? You didn’t come back all night?”
Naturally, Magnus wouldn’t tell the truth.
“I went out for a drink.”
Cassandra, standing off to the side, was growing increasingly irritated. “Magnus, don’t parade around using the Evans family’s name to deceive people. If my father finds out, you won’t be able to handle the consequences.”
Magnus had been scared by Nathaniel the previous night, and now Cassandra’s intimidation further enraged him.
“Cassandra, who do you think you are to criticize me? Don’t forget, without me, Magnus, your father would be nothing but a man relying on women!”
Paula slapped him across the face. “Is that how you speak to your sister? Go back to your room.”
Magnus looked at Paula in disbelief before reluctantly leaving.
Even though he was Paula’s son, he couldn’t fathom why his mother showed such blatant favoritism toward Cassandra. After all, Cassandra was merely the daughter of Ralph’s ex–wife. Yet, ever since they arrived at the Evans residence, his mother’s bias was painfully clear.
Seeing Magnus get slapped, Cassandra scoffed, “Mom, I only let him stay because of you. If he continues to be ungrateful, he can get out of my house.”
The words “my house” made Paula feel a little upset but she did not show it.
“Cassandra, don’t be angry.”
Cassandra rose to her feet, her face filled with pride as she returned to her room.
Cassandra’s arrogant demeanor only fueled Magnus‘ frustration further. “Mom, why are you so nice to Cassandra? She’s not even your real daughter.”
“What do you know? Just go back to your room.” Paula didn’t want to engage in further conversation with him.
Reluctantly, Magnus returned to his room.
That afternoon, Charlotte arrived in Tudela. She promptly sent a message to Cecilia, notifying her that she was ready to meet with clients at any time.
Cecilia informed her to schedule a meeting with a client for the next day.
“Sure,” Charlotte agreed instantly.
Seeing her still busy with work despite being pregnant, Martha couldn’t help but feel concerned.
“Take it easy. Don’t exhaust yourself.”
Cecilia sat next to Martha, shaking her head. “Don’t worry, I’m not tired. Lottie is going to a meeting. I’m just going to sit in and listen.”
After what happened last night, she needed to rest well, considering the child in her womb.
“Okay.”
Martha nodded, feeling a touch of worry. Calvin had often reached out to her previously, but since his last departure, there had been no news from him at all.
Chapter 373 It Will Not Happen
Cecilia shook her head. “No, what’s up?”
“It’s nothing. I just haven’t seen him for a long time. Why don’t you invite him over for dinner again sometime?”
Cecilia had also realized it and immediately relayed to Martha the conversation she had with Calvin last time.
“Martha, Calvin is just taking care of me as a friend. Don’t make it difficult for him.”
Friend?
Although Martha had aged, her eyesight was still sharp. How could she possibly miss the affection Calvin had for Cecilia?
Did Calvin give up his pursuit of Cecilia because Nathaniel is at home?
Upon thinking of this, Martha couldn’t help but worry for Cecilia.
“I understand. But Ceci, you need to think more about yourself. You’re expecting again. How can take care of so many children?”
“I have money now. I’m not afraid,” Cecilia optimistically stated.
What Martha meant by “taking care” wasn’t about hiring a nanny to do so, but rather, she wished. for Cecilia to find love and happiness.
But knowing that Cecilla was steadfast in her decisions and unlikely to change her mind, she didn’t bother to persuade her further.
The day seemed to pass by exceptionally fast.
The following day, Cecilia had to make another trip back to Tudela.
Watching her travel back and forth, Martha was truly heartbroken.
“I’ll go with you,” Nathaniel said solemnly over breakfast.
He was worried about the child in Cecilia’s belly.
“It’s fine. You should focus on your work,” Cecilia declined firmly.
“Then bring the bodyguards along.”
Nathaniel knew that Cecilia wouldn’t allow him to accompany her, so he suggested a compromise.
“Sven’s company is enough for me,” Cecilia declined once again.
She felt that having too many people around her was too conspicuous, and she truly wasn’t accustomed to it. She was uncomfortable with the idea of being constantly followed by a crowd.
After having breakfast and stepping out, she found those previously unattractive bodyguards waiting outside.
Sven was by another car, a stark contrast to them.
As soon as Cecilia appeared, the bodyguards instantly bowed in respect..
“Mrs. Rainsworth.”
Cecilia, too weary to engage with them, headed straight for Sven. “Sven, let’s go.”
“All right.
Sven was driving, with four bodyguards trailing behind their car.
Cecilia called Nathaniel. “Tell your bodyguards to leave.”
“From this point forward, they are under your command.” Nathaniel responded gravely. “You can give them orders yourself.”
Cecilia was taken aback.
Under my command?
She had Sven stop the car first, then turned to the bodyguards following in the car behind. “Stop following me and go back.”
“Understood.”
Sure enough, the chief bodyguard immediately complied.
Inside the house, Nathaniel was holding his phone, his face a mask of quiet resentment after being abruptly hung up on.
The day before, he had asked Mason to tempt Sven, but Sven had turned it down.
The more he thought about it, the more he felt there was more to this bodyguard, and that he wasn’t safe.
Looks like I’ll have to accompany Ceci on a trip to Tudela.
Martha had not yet retired for the night. Spotting Nathaniel lost in thought with his phone in hand, she found it a bit odd and asked, “What’s the matter?”
“It’s nothing… I’ll be working night shifts for the next few days, so I won’t be coming home.”
Night shifts?
Martha was somewhat taken aback, feeling even more strongly that he was no longer worthy of being with Cecilia.
“Go ahead, but make sure you don’t upset Ceci. If you do, be the one to ask for a divorce. Don’t waste any more of her time.”
Nathaniel rose to his feet. “Don’t worry. It won’t happen.”
His voice carried a resonance that could shake the earth.
Chapter 374 Confronted By Two Women
Upon arriving at Tudela, Cecilia had met with Charlotte before making her way to the outside of Orion Corporation.
Cecilia sat in a nearby café, waiting for Charlotte. Charlotte was equipped with a recording. device, ready to update her with information at any moment.
Gazing at the towering office building of Orion Corporation, Cecilia leaned back in her chair, sipping her coffee with a hint of apprehension.
A person had stood before her, and she hadn’t even noticed..
“Cecilia!”
When Cecilia heard the voice, she turned around to see who it was. It was Stella’s good friend, Yvette.
“What are you doing here?” Yvette initially couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw Cecilia. But as she got closer, she was surprised to find out it was indeed Cecilia.
Cecilia found her question amusing. “Why can’t I be here?”
Upon hearing that, Yvette was infuriated and retorted, “You nearly ruined Stella’s career, and yet you still have the audacity to stay in Tudela. How can you be so shameless?”
Unexpectedly, someone was still standing up for Stella even at this point.
Cecilia wasn’t in the mood to indulge her, though. “Really? Did I force her to record that video?”
“Stella said the video was fabricated, that the person in it wasn’t her at all!” Yvette retorted.
“And you just believed her words? Don’t you have a mind of your own? Whether it’s a fabrication. or not, a simple investigation would reveal the truth. I trust that as the prominent young lady of the Harrison family, you would be capable of investigating that, right?”
Yvette was rendered speechless after hearing that.
She stormed out of the door, immediately dialing a number to inform Stella that Cecilia was here.
Stella was in the midst of preparing for a new drama.
After her last apology, she had finally managed to start taking on roles again. As such, she didn’t want to deal with Cecilia just yet.
After thanking Yvette for informing her, she ended the call.
While Yvette was in a huff, she happened to run into Paula just as he was getting out of his car.
Paula came over because she heard that Cecille was visiting Orion Corporation. She wanted to help her daughter, Cassandra, get the music score first.
“Yvette, who did you just say was here?”
Yvette hadn’t expected such a coincidence today, running into both Cecilia and Paula. “Your daughter, Cecilia,” she replied, somewhat annoyed.
After she finished speaking, she got into her car and left.
Upon hearing that Cecilia was present, Paula was reminded of the scene a few days ago when Cecilia had rudely told her to leave.
Also, she recalled the will that was in Cecilia’s hands.
She then headed to the café, and sure enough, she saw Cecilia sitting by the window, engrossed in her computer.
Paula tapped on the table. “It seems I’ve underestimated you before. Have you found a job now?”
Immediately, Cecilia shut down her computer, not allowing her to see the sheet music on the screen.
Paula no longer cared, though. What kind of job could Cecilia, in her crippled state, possibly find anyway?
“I forgot something when you kicked me out in a hurry the other day. Where’s the will?”
She extended her hand as she continued, “Hand me the will. You should know well that I am your father’s wife. Even if he left a will, I am entitled to half of the marital assets. Give me that invalid will.”
“In that case, what do you want the will for?” Cecilia asked in a soft voice.
Paula was taken aback.
She hadn’t anticipated how sharp–tongued Cecilia had become these days. Suddenly, her phone started ringing.
Seeing that it was from her assistant, she answered the call. “Ms. Cecille is about to leave Orion Corporation.”
Upon hearing this, Paula didn’t have time to waste talking to Cecilia any further and hurriedly left.
Charlotte’s voice came through Cecilia’s hearing aid, stating that everything had been arranged, and all that was left was for her to make the decision when the time came.
Cecilia left the café as well, only to see that Paula had intercepted Charlotte before she could even reach the latter.
Immediately, Cecilia activated the eavesdropping device installed in her hearing aid and heard
“You must be Ms. Cecille, right? I didn’t expect you to be so young. I am Cassandra’s mother. Could I possibly have a word with you?”
The part where she said she was Cassandra’s mother exploded in Cecilia’s mind.
Chapter 375 Perform A Dance Publicly
The snow was falling heavily.
Cecilia watched as Paula and Charlotte conversed in the distance. For some reason, her eyes began to redden.
Sven, holding an umbrella, stood by her side.
Although he wasn’t sure what was wrong with Cecilia, he could sense that she seemed quite upset at the moment.
Just as Charlotte was about to explain that she was merely an assistant, Cecilia’s voice echoed through her earpiece, “Lottie, pretend to be me and have a chat with her.”
So, Charlotte told Paula, “All right.”
“Let’s step aside for a chat, then.”
“Sure.”
The two of them then went to a fancy restaurant nearby.
Cecilia and Sven found themselves seated next to their private booth, silently listening in on Paula’s conversation.
“Ms. Cecille, both Cassandra and I are particularly fond of your music. Please name your price. As long as we can secure exclusive rights to your compositions, I’m willing to accept it no matter the cost.”
Paula, who had always been as protective of her money as her own life, was now surprisingly showing such concern for her other daughter.
Cecilia felt as if her throat had been pricked by a needle.
She told Charlotte, “Tell her that my music isn’t something that can be bought with money.”
Immediately, Charlotte relayed to Paula what Cecilia had said.
Paula felt a bit awkward, “What do you want, then? Just tell me, and I’ll definitely find a way to get it for you.”
At that moment, she embodied the image of a doting mother whose love for her daughter knew no bounds.
Cecilia was curious to know how far Paula could go for her daughter, so she asked, “Are you the internationally renowned dancer, Paula Escobar?”
Paula was somewhat taken aback as she hadn’t expected that even Cecille knew who she was. Without any hint of modesty, she accepted the recognition.
However, the next sentence Charlotte uttered left her frozen in shock.
“When you ended your dancing career at the age of twenty–five, it was truly a pity. If you truly desire this song, I propose a deal. Perform a dance publicly. Once you do that, I will grant you exclusive rights to this song. What do you think?” Charlotte said, echoing the words of her boss.
I don’t get why my boss wants this middle–aged woman in front of me to dance in public. What’s so appealing about it?
Cecilia, however, knew all too well why she wanted that.
Ever since Paula had given birth to her, she had never stepped foot on a stage again, nor had she danced even once.
Once upon a time, in her youthful ignorance, Cecilia made a wish on her birthday, saying, “I want Mom to perform a dance.”
Paula retorted, “Who do you think you are, to deserve a dance from me? I’m out of shape now, and I’ve mentioned before that I will never dance again in my life.”
Paula was stubborn. Once she declared she wouldn’t dance anymore, she never did again..
At that moment, upon hearing Charlotte’s words, Paula’s expression changed several times before. she finally refused her request. “Could we consider other conditions? I’ve mentioned before that I would never dance again.”
In the end, the business deal fell through.
Cecilia stepped out of the private booth after Paula left.
Charlotte approached her with a puzzled look on her face. “Why did you make such a request, Boss?”
Charlotte was still unaware that Paula was actually Cecilia’s biological mother.
Cecilia didn’t offer any explanations. Instead, she said, “Let’s call it a day. I’d like to go back and rest a bit.”
She wanted to investigate the matter concerning Cassandra and find out why Cassandra was Paula’s daughter.
“All right, then. We’ll meet this mysterious big shot tomorrow?”
“Yup.”
After they had agreed, Cecilia returned to the hotel she had previously booked.
When she pushed the door open to enter, she saw a tall, upright figure standing by the balcony.
Cecilia thought she had entered the wrong room and was about to leave when the man turned around. “Cecilia, is that you?”
“With our marriage certificate,” Nathaniel replied.
Chapter 376 You Are Sleeping On The Couch
“Get out!” demanded Cecilia. Not caring how he had entered, she immediately ordered him to leave.
“The receptionist mentioned that all the rooms here are fully booked. If I were to leave now, would have nowhere to stay,” Nathaniel said in a somewhat pitiful manner.
“How could it be fully booked now? It’s not even peak season.”
As Cecilia spoke, she picked up her phone and called the front desk to inquire. As expected, the place was fully booked.
She was somewhat bewildered.
Nathaniel had somehow found himself in front of her before she knew it. “Perhaps it’s fully booked because New Year is just around the corner,” he said.
“Then you should stay at a different hotel,” suggested Cecilia.
She refused to believe that all the other hotels were also fully booked.
“I won’t.”
Nathaniel refused outright, leaning toward Cecilia as he continued, “It took me a great deal of effort to find this place. Are you sure you want to ask a blind man to go out and find another hotel in the middle of the night?”
If it were someone else, Cecilia might have been uneasy. But Nathaniel had an abundance of bodyguards and subordinates, so there was no cause for concern.
She lifted her hand, clutched the corner of his clothing, and tried to lead him. away. “I’ll take to a different hotel.”
Nathaniel didn’t expect that his attempts to gain sympathy would be futile.
He simply stood still and said, “I don’t want to stay anywhere else, Ceci.”
Cecilia had tried strenuously to pull him away, but she simply couldn’t move him.
Nathaniel directly took hold of her hand, his voice dropping low as he said, “Ceci, think this through. This is Tudela. What do you think people who know me would think if they saw me here, blind?”
Upon hearing these words, Cecilia finally stopped trying to drag him away.
“Why did you come here, then?”
“I wasn’t at ease leaving you alone.”
The previous times when Nathaniel had to stay alone in a hotel, keeping watch over Cecilia, he felt incredibly lonely.
Therefore, this time, he was determined to stay with Cecilia no matter what she said.
Cecilia pulled away from his grasp. “You’re sleeping on the couch tonight.”
“All right.”
Only then did Cecilia go to freshen up.
She was too tired that day.
After taking a bath, she lay down on the bed.
She had barely settled down when she heard Nathaniel’s deep voice, “Ceci, I’m not familiar with this place. Could you tell me where the bathroom is? And where I can find the toiletries?”
Cecilia almost forgot that he couldn’t see. She had to get up again and guide him to the bathroom.
She took his hand, guiding him to touch various objects, explaining what each one was.
Nathaniel’s memory was impeccable, so he could remember anything she told him.
At times, Cecilia would wonder how someone like him could have lost his memory.
Looking at his now obedient and gentle demeanor, it truly seemed as if he had become a different person.
When Cecilia was lost in thought, she didn’t notice that Nathaniel had gently taken hold of her. It seemed as if the temperature in the room had risen.
Nathaniel leaned against her back, as if he was embracing her entirely from behind, his Adam’s apple subtly moving.
Feeling his breath on her ear, Cecilia snapped back to reality, immediately pulling away from hist grasp. “All right; you should go take a shower now,” she said.
After she had spoken, she left as if she were escaping from him.
Returning to bed, Cecilia’s face felt unusually hot. She quickly shut her eyes with the sound of water trickling in the bathroom echoing in her ears.
It wasn’t long before she unknowingly drifted into dreamland.
In her dream, she felt as though someone was holding her tightly. She was too exhausted to open. her eyes, no matter how much she tried.
The first light of dawn fell upon her face, gently rousing Cecilia from her sleep. She opened her eyes slowly, only to find herself alone on the bed with his work.
Breakfast was neatly arranged on the table.
Curious to see what Nathaniel had been working on these past few days, Cecilia left the breakfast untouched.
As she walked behind Nathaniel and took a glance, the business proposal that was originally on his computer had been replaced with a charity donation proposal.
Chapter 377 You And I Are Not Family
“Is this what your job entails?” Cecilia asked.
“Yeah; it’s all arranged by the boss,” replied Nathaniel, his expression unchanging.
Cecilia reflected on how in the past, Nathaniel would only review proposals made by others. Now, he had to create the proposals himself. You never know what can happen in life!
“Do you want to talk to Elena and have her arrange some work for you, or perhaps-”
Before Cecilia could finish her sentence, Nathaniel interrupted her, “Cecilia, from now on, we have no connection with the Rainsworth family. You are the only family I have.”
Upon hearing these words, Cecilia choked up.
She wasn’t moved, though. Instead, she said, “The reason I returned to Sparaville is because the doctor mentioned that Martha’s health is deteriorating and she might not make it past the New Year. If Martha passes away, I would still choose to leave this place. We are bound to part ways eventually. You and I are not family.”
You and I are not family…
Nathaniel’s heart sank. He had thought that Cecilia had given up on the idea of divorce during the time they recently spent together. Yet, to his surprise, she hadn’t changed her mind at all.
“I’m off to work now. You should head back soon.”
After speaking, Cecilia left the room without having breakfast.
Today, she was set to meet the mysterious individual Charlotte mentioned.
Outside the hotel, a man and a woman stood before a black sedan by the roadside.
The man was clad in a black coat, his demeanor cold and stern. In stark contrast, the woman’s aura was completely different. She was dressed in a charming little padded jacket, stepping confidently in her Doc Martens, and holding two large bags of quiche in her hands.
Charlotte was eagerly devouring the small steamed buns, yet she didn’t forget to offer one to Sven, asking, “Want one?”
Sven watched as her cheeks puffed up, reminiscent of a rabbit’s movements. “No, thank you,” he said.
“What a shame. If you won’t eat some, how could two girls like me and Boss possibly finish all of this?”
Before Sven could reply, he saw her stuffing two more quiches into her mouth.
Not even a minute had passed, and she had already finished off a whole bag of quiches.
“I can’t let this food go to waste. I suppose I’ll help Boss eat a few more.”
Sven felt that if Cecilia had been any slower, there probably wouldn’t have been any breakfast left.
Charlotte, being sharp–eyed as ever, spotted Cecilia and immediately waved at her. “Boss!”
Immediately, Cecilia strode over to the two of them, taking the few remaining quiches from her hands.
“Thank you.”
Charlotte opened the car door for her. “No need to thank me. Come on; get in the car. We’re off to meet the client.”
Sven too, had taken his place in the driver’s seat and started driving.
Charlotte was unsure of the identity of the mysterious client, but she knew he was wealthy. Their chosen meeting place was in a luxurious private room at Elite Club.
In a place like that, it was naturally impossible for Cecilia to follow and reach the same floor.
“We’ll wait for you in the car. All right.”
In the deluxe private room at the top of Elite Club.
A hand slid open the window, observing everything below the building.
“Mr. Nicholas, they’ve arrived.”
The one speaking was Nicholas‘ secretary, Jocelyn. She looked toward the private room where Nicholas was seated, engrossed in a solo game of chess, and continued, “The person who just entered isn’t Ms. Smith.”
With a slight pause, Nicholas, holding a black chess piece, asked, “Does she still not want to see me?”
A few days ago, he had sent Magnus to look for Cecilia. He knew the outcome when Cecilia didn’t show up, yet he was still unwilling to accept it.
During his time abroad, he was constantly investigating Cecilia whenever he was awake.
After knowing that she was the composer, Cecille, he had gone out of his way this time just to meet her.
After closing the window, Jocelyn stepped forward.
“I heard that the company has been interested in Ms. Smith’s compositions recently. However, she always sends her assistant to represent her, while she herself stays behind the scenes.”
While the two were engaged in conversation, Charlotte had already been led into the room by
At a single glance, she spotted a man seated within the private room, engrossed in a game of chess. His countenance was stern, his demeanor exuding a sense of refined elegance.
Chapter 378 Somewhat Skeptical
Charlotte was somewhat skeptical, so she asked probingly, “You’re Mr. Rainsworth?”
After all, she had expected the person she was negotiating a deal with to be well over fifty, considering his wealth. However, to her surprise, the man was so young and yet so rich.
Cecilia, upon hearing Charlotte’s question, wondered. Mr. Rainsworth?
Quickly, she heard the man speaking in a gentle voice. “Yes, that’s me.”
That voice was identical to Nathaniel’s.
However, his tone was extraordinarily gentle. Even though Nathaniel had become considerably softer, he had never used such a soothing tone before.
Cecilia grew anxious as she listened to Charlotte’s discussion.
Whatever conditions Charlotte proposed, the person on the other side agreed without a hint of hesitation.
Cecilia clenched her fists, her heart pounding.
In the end, Charlotte was at a loss for words because the person in front of her was incredibly agreeable.
“May I ask what your name is?” She inquired before leaving, as Cecilia instructed.
Nicholas paused for a moment, then said, “Nathaniel.”
I knew it. Cecilia was certain she didn’t mishear.
Charlotte was utterly taken aback. After she stepped out, she immediately reported to Cecilia. “Boss, did you hear that? The mysterious person turned out to be Nathaniel!”
Charlotte had been living abroad, and so had never seen Nathaniel’s face. However, she was aware that he was the CEO of Orion Corporation.
“It seems he genuinely wants to collaborate with us. Since he showed up, he’s the one, especially when he agreed to all our terms.” Charlotte was particularly thrilled at the thought that she had spent so much time talking to an incredibly handsome man, who was also a powerful figure.
However, Cecilia was troubled.
She was fine with collaborating with Orion Corporation, but when it came to Nicholas, she was hesitant.
Before Cecilia responded, Charlotte received a phone call. “It’s from Paula.”
Cecilia gestured for Charlotte to switch to speakerphone.
After Charlotte did that, she took the call. “Mdm. Paula, is there something you need?”
Paula replied, “Ms. Cecille, I’ve made up my mind. As long as you can grant my daughter exclusive rights, I am willing to dance in public. I’ve already arranged for my secretary to announce the news.”
Silently, Cecilia listened. Her hands clenched tightly, her fingertips digging deep into her palms. Her daughter, huh?
After returning to the hotel yesterday, she ran into Nathaniel and completely forgot about her investigation into Cassandra.
Suppressing the discomfort in her heart, Cecilia nodded at Charlotte.
Charlotte knew exactly what to say. “All right. Once you’ve finished this dance, we’ll sign an exclusive rights with you.”
After saying that, she immediately hung up the phone. “Boss, don’t you think this is kind of not worth it?”
Cecilia shook her head. “Not at all. At least I’ve ascertained one thing.” Now, I know she’s not devoid of motherly love, just that she has none for me..
“Lottie, thanks for your help for the past two days,” said Cecilia.
“I’ll fly back to Erihal tomorrow, then?” Charlotte asked.
“All right.” Cecilia nodded as an electronic signature was sufficient, too.
After Charlotte left, Sven escorted Cecilia back to Sparaville. On the way, Cecilia called to have someone investigate Cassandra.
Subsequently, she also looked up Cassandra on the search engine and soon obtained some personal information on the latter.
Cassandra was twenty–eight years old, a year older than Cecilia, and was a renowned international dancer.
She began her dance training at the age of four and by ten, she topped the entrance exam to join a prestigious dance academy in Drocver. At the age of twelve, she had already received the equivalent of the Oscar award of the dance industry, the Grand Prix award. By eighteen, she had become the principal dancer of the opera house. Her achievements were nothing short of outstanding.
However, Cecilia suddenly noticed Cassandra’s parents‘ column.
Cassandra’s father was Ralph Evans, a popular entrepreneur, and her mother was someone Cecilia didn’t recognize.
Chapter 379 Searched For Queenie
Cassandra’s mother was a woman named Queenie Jamieson.
An hour later, the information that Cecilia paid someone to investigate was delivered to her.
Cassandra was a public figure, so information about her was easily uncovered.
What Cecilia cared about was the exact nature of Cassandra’s relationship with Paula.
Cecilia muttered the information as she read, “Five years ago, Paula traveled abroad, where she met Cassandra’s father. They fell in love and married, making her Cassandra’s stepmother today.”
Stepmother… Cecilia thought about how Paula kept calling Cassandra her daughter on the call and didn’t believe Paula was merely Cassandra’s stepmother.
She knew all too well what kind of person Paula was. If Paula could be so ruthless to her own biological daughter, she wouldn’t have treated a non–biological one any nicer.
“What about her biological mother?” asked Cecilia.
The person on the other end said, “Do you mean Queenie? Cassandra’s father was a matrilocal son–in–law. After he joined the Jamieson family, he didn’t get along well with Queenie. They divorced five years ago. Queenie only has Cassandra as her daughter, and she treats her very well, basically giving her anything she asks for”
There wasn’t any more information, so Cecilia didn’t press for more questions.
As she thought how similar Cassandra’s dancing was to Paula’s, an idea formed in her mind, though she didn’t dare to delve deeper.
She ended the call and leaned back in her chair to rest.
Meanwhile, Nicholas received the news that the collaboration would not go through.
He didn’t ask again.
Elena also received similar news, which surprised her. “Who else could possibly offer a higher price than us?”
The secretary shook his head. “When you mentioned wanting to collaborate with Ms. Cecille, I had already given a heads–up to the other entertainment companies. No one dared to compete with us.”
“Go and discover who’s being so unaware of their place.”
“Understood.”
After returning to town, Cecilia paid a visit to Elliot before finally heading home.
Nathaniel hadn’t returned yet, but she wasn’t overly concerned. She simply spent her time chatting with Martha.
At that time, outside the town hospital, Nathaniel and Mason were seated in the car.
“Is the other child here?” asked Nathaniel.
“Yes, the two children look identical. However, Eli is rather frail and spent much of his time in the hospital,” Mason replied.
“What’s the illness?”
“It seemed to be leukemia.” Mason discovered that earlier, so when he brought Elliot back to Tudela, he had a medical team by his side.
“Let’s go back,” Nathaniel said gravely.
“Okay.”
On the way back, Nathaniel closed his eyes, the doctor’s words from earlier that day echoing in his mind. “Mr. Rainsworth, judging by the progress of your treatment, it seems likely that your memory will be fully restored in less than a month.”
One month… Recently, Nathaniel noticed that his memory was becoming increasingly clear. However, for some reason, the more his memory recovered, the more discomfort he felt.
Eventually, he arrived home but didn’t notice, so Mason had to remind him. He then opened his eyes and stepped out of the car.
From a distance, he could hear the sound of a woman playing the piano.
A voice echoed once more in Nathaniel’s mind. “I’ve been mistaken all along. The person I truly love isn’t you at all.”
His head was inexplicably throbbing in pain, compelling him to push those thoughts aside.
Upon hearing the sound of the front door opening downstairs, Cecilia also descended from the second floor and realized Nathaniel had returned.
She couldn’t help but ask, “Why are you only just getting back?”
“I was working overtime.” Nathaniel technically wasn’t lying.
He was truly occupied with setting up the new company.
After giving his response, he approached Cecilia. “Ceci, tell me honestly. The child in your belly isn’t really mine, is it?”
Recently, his memories had been returning in fragments, and he distinctly remembered that they had sex more than once.
Suddenly questioned by him, Cecilia immediately became nervous. “Of course not.”
Once his memory returned, he would realize that she had borrowed his seed.
Chapter 380 Divorce Again
Upon hearing that, Nathaniel didn’t ask any more questions.
After that exchange, Cecilia returned to her room.
The day after tomorrow was the New Year’s Day celebration. A holiday was approaching. The following day, Nathaniel didn’t have to go to work, and Jonathan didn’t have to attend school.
Cecilia led Nathaniel into a small room. “I need to talk to you about something.”
She was unaware that Jonathan was eavesdropping outside the door.
“What’s the matter?” Nathaniel stood before her, his tall figure blocking most of the light.
“I’ve given it a lot of thought, and I think we should proceed with the divorce first.” Cecilia knew that taking advantage of his amnesia to seek a divorce wasn’t quite right, but she had no choice.
She couldn’t bear the thought of losing her child.
Nathaniel grimaced. For a long time, he remained silent.
Cecilia knew he wouldn’t agree immediately, so she added, “In reality, the person you’ve always loved isn’t me at all, but a beautiful female celebrity. You two were each other’s first love. If you divorce me now, she’ll surely welcome you. That way, once you regain your memory, you won’t have any regrets.”
Nathaniel silently listened to her ramble on.
Over that period, most of his memories had returned. Thus, of course, he remembered why he initially fell in love with Stella.
Firstly, it was because she saved Elena. Secondly, he felt that he had reached the agc should be in a relationship.
where he
However, neither Nathaniel nor Stella have any semblance of emotional connection. In fact, they didn’t even hold hands.
Cecilia didn’t know any of that, and Nathaniel knew he couldn’t admit to having regained most of his memory at that moment.
If he did, Cecilia would surely demand a divorce. He was certain about it.
He had watched the video of their initial divorce proceedings provided by Mason. In order to secure the divorce, Cecilia shockingly admitted to infidelity in public, even using it as leverage to pressure him into the divorce.
Seeing that he remained silent, Cecilia felt compelled to continue, “If you still have any reservations, what if I promise to give you a monthly child support of one million and two hundred thousand? How does that sound?”
The expression on Nathaniel’s face changed instantly. A monthly child support of one million a hundred thousand? Who does she think I am?
However, since the topic of money came up, Nathaniel had an idea. “If divorce can make y happy, I will agree to it.”
Cecilia didn’t expect him to be so considerate. “Shall we head to City Hall to handle our div after New Year’s Day?”
The last attempt wasn’t successful due to an issue with the staff member. Thus, she was determined to succeed.
“However, there’s something I forgot to tell you,” Nathaniel began slowly.
“What is it?” asked Cecilia.
“All my assets are now frozen, and Mason has informed me that I was once burdened with a mountain of debt. If we divorce, you’ll have to shoulder half of that debt.”
Cecilia was stunned, finding it hard to believe for a long time. “How much money do you owe Nathaniel knew she wouldn’t easily believe a lie he just spun on the spot. “It’s a massive numb If you want to know the exact figure, I can get Mason over here to tell you.”
Cecilia was curious to see how he would continue to spin that lie.
That morning, Mason was summoned. He arrived with several stacks of paperwork in his hand
“Mrs. Rainsworth, I presume you’re aware that I was dismissed by Rainsworth Group quite son time ago. I only recently became aware of Mr. Rainsworth’s financial issues myself. Nicholas‘ intentions aren’t as simple as just taking over Mr. Rainsworth’s position. Take a look at these documents. They’re all transfer agreements signed on Mr. Rainsworth’s behalf. Now, all of Mr. Rainsworth’s assets have been transferred under his name, including Orion Corporation’s share Mason handed over all the documents to Cecilia.
What he said was true. Ever since Elena heard Nathaniel express his dislike for people exploitin his identity, she had Nicholas transfer Nathaniel’s assets. Her aim was to hand over the company to Nicholas as quickly as possible.
During that time, Nathaniel was kept in the dark and only received the transfer contract afterward. Elena even pleaded with him to keep that matter a secret, no matter what.
Cecilia looked at the agreement. It doesn’t seem fake.
Nathaniel then asked Mason, “Could you tell Ceci how much money I still owe at this point?”