Chapter 1231

Natalie mused that if Fiona believed herself superior, perhaps she could transform into a national treasure, like a bald eagle. Only then might Natalie hold Fiona in higher regard.

Just as she opened her apartment door, the building manager arrived with two security guards.

“Ms. Jakeman.”

Natalie turned to them. “I don’t know this woman. Please escort her out.”

“Natalie!” Fiona exclaimed, staring in disbelief. Her shock at Natalie’s boldness was genuine; it was as if Natalie considered Fiona unworthy of her attention.

“I don’t know how she obtained my personal information, but your building’s security is questionable. How can you allow anyone in? I don’t want to see her again.”

With that, Natalie entered her apartment, firmly shutting the door behind her. Inside, she poured a glass of water and settled onto the couch. Just as she took a sip, Austin called.

“Fiona was my fiancée. Our families arranged the engagement, but we broke it off five years ago,” Austin explained.

Natalie was surprised to hear their engagement had ended so long ago, but it didn't concern her.

“Mr. Powell, you needn’t explain. You should speak with Ms. Ortega. I only called to prevent her from bothering me,” Natalie said. There was no possibility of anything further between her and Austin, and it was best to nip any romantic notions in the bud.

Austin fell silent. After a few minutes, he said, “Natalie, you sound nervous.”

“Nervous? What would I be nervous about?” Natalie retorted, biting her lip.

“You like me,” Austin said before ending the call, leaving Natalie no chance to reply.

His words echoed in her mind: “You like me.” Those three words, coupled with the memory of his passionate kiss at the café, stirred buried feelings.

Chapter 1231 (Continued)

After returning to Galaxy, Skylar sent the photos to Steven. He replied that he would come over after work.

She prepared a few dishes. Once the food was ready, Steven arrived with his laptop.

As they sat down, he said, “I reviewed the photos; they're recent. That’s Paul. The injuries and shaved head aren't makeup or edits. Skye, it seems Paul and Joe have been in serious trouble for the past three years.”

He opened his laptop and enlarged a photo. “You can see clues about Paul’s location. My analysis suggests some kind of cellar or basement. The light isn’t natural; it’s artificial,” Steven explained, pointing to the screen.

Chapter 1232