Chapter 23

Natalie scoffed at her past self. The family ties she’d once held dear were actually the noose around her neck. But she was done being the victim. She’d leave Wendy’s doubts and the schemes of Nick and Jennifer in the dust.

This new life was all about two things: climbing the career ladder and safeguarding her grandfather and her brothers. And before she did that, she was going to get rid of Murray, the arrogant rich kid who was more trouble than he was worth.

Meanwhile, Wendy’s investigation into Nick had come up empty. He had stuck to his routine, going straight to the office with no detours. Even a thorough check of his phone revealed nothing but calls to colleagues and family. No secret affairs lurking in the shadows.

Wendy fumed as she absorbed the news. Natalie’s words had kept her on edge, but now it was clear that Natalie was beyond help.

She dropped the idea of giving Natalie an apartment after her divorce. She’d had enough of a daughter who wanted to hurt her. Guilt made her skip a second paternity test, and she was set on making amends with Nick.

Outside the room, Nick smirked at Wendy’s guilty expression as he left, relieved she no longer suspected him. His manipulation had worked, and the investigator Wendy trusted was on his side. His control over Wendy’s family was now total.

From humble beginnings, Nick had won Wendy’s hand with his good looks and a pivotal trick. They grew well together, and he lived comfortably ever since, with plans to manage his gullible family in his own time.

Counting on Wendy’s guilt, Nick knew she’d be extra nice to him for a bit. Feeling good about this, he whistled a tune as he headed downstairs.

Jennifer was all dressed up downstairs, excitedly waiting for Easton to join her for the event. She couldn’t wait for Natalie’s public humiliation and felt her own recent heroic act of saving Emma would boost her fame as she entered the entertainment industry.

With a bright smile, she asked Nick, “Dad, why are you so happy?”

Nick smiled broadly as he saw his lovely daughter. “We’re in for a good show tonight. Let’s head out. Your mom’s on her way. We’ll watch Natalie make her apology, and Easton will meet us at the event.”

Jennifer had arranged for the paparazzi to capture Natalie’s downfall. At the thought of that, her smile turned sly.

The internet was buzzing with excitement, everyone desperate to witness Natalie’s humiliation at the banquet.

Jennifer had been crafting a kind and gentle image for her showbiz debut, and her popularity was rising thanks to her high-profile relationship with Easton.

Meanwhile, Natalie was taking heat for allegedly stealing Easton away from Jennifer. The online backlash was intensifying.

Easton, exuding an imposing presence in his dark suit, sat in his car reading the vicious comments directed at Natalie. His frown deepened, his expression darkening.

Xavier Kane, his assistant driving the car, had also seen the negative comments. Considering Natalie’s past kindness, Xavier asked, “Mr. Garcia, do you think we should counter these attacks?”