Chapter 36

Easton frowned as Nick spoke, his words resonating. “I want her happiness, but she’s been relentless. Her jealousy over your attention to Jennifer has made life hell for her. If she’d admitted to saving Mrs. Spencer, Jennifer wouldn’t have been mistreated.”

Easton’s gaze sharpened, recalling Xavier’s words. In this family, no one seemed to care about Natalie, always blaming her when things went wrong.

He paused, realizing he’d done the same, always assuming the worst about Natalie without ever seeking the truth. Yet, everything she did seemed to push his buttons.

Nick’s voice was laced with regret. “Easton, Natalie’s been tough on you. She’s uneducated and unemployed. Now that your divorce is final, I’m relieved. When you and Jennifer marry and settle down, we parents can finally relax.”

Wendy felt the sting of Nick’s words, especially since they were directed at their own daughter. She was still mulling over what Natalie had said, which led her to ponder Nick’s insinuation.

Wendy’s anger flared. “How can you talk about our daughter like that? If it weren’t for the mix-up, she would have been just as successful. You should be ashamed of yourself!” She stood up and stormed upstairs.

Nick frowned, surprised by her reaction. But he couldn’t afford to wait any longer; he needed his daughter to marry Easton to secure his own plans.

Easton’s face darkened, and without a word, he turned and left.

Jennifer was taken aback, and Nick’s frown deepened.

“Dad, you’re rushing things,” Jennifer said urgently. “Easton isn’t like other guys. He’s been kind to me because I saved him. Without that, he probably wouldn’t even notice me.”

Nick’s worry was evident. “I fear if Easton finds out Natalie was the one who saved him, it’s the end for you two. That’s why I’m pushing for a quick marriage. Once you get married and have a child, he’ll be bound to you for life.”

Jennifer rolled her eyes and stood up, her face cold. “Dad, we can’t force this. Let’s just wait and see. And don’t forget to give Mom her tonic.”

Nick nodded silently, acknowledging her words. “I won’t forget.” He then headed to the kitchen and returned with Wendy’s tonic.

Wendy had just finished her bath and felt a pang of guilt as she saw Nick enter the room.

“You’ve been working too hard, Wendy. This tonic will help you sleep better tonight and be ready for work tomorrow. The company needs you at your best,” Nick said, handing her the tonic.

As Wendy drained the tonic with a soft smile, Nick’s eyes betrayed a sly glimmer as he watched her.

Oblivious to that, Wendy was already plotting to make amends. She put the bowl down and took out a costly tie she’d purchased for him from the bedside table. “Honey, I bought you this tie. Take care of it; the clip is costly.”

Nick gladly took the tie, aware Wendy was trying to make up for something. “Wendy, you didn’t have to buy me this,” he said gently. “You should spend more on yourself – get more clothes, take better care of your looks, and love yourself more.”

Wendy was moved, believing that Natalie had misunderstood Nick. In her heart, her caring husband could never be disloyal or cause her any harm.