Chapter 235
Natalie glanced over and saw Alexander chatting with Bruce Ward. His face was almost too perfect, like someone had designed him by hand. Even sitting down, he looked effortlessly elegant, just a hint of a smile on his lips.
She was about to look away when Camila White, sitting next to Alexander, shot her a glare that was equal parts warning and annoyance. Camila refilled Alexander’s teacup, leaning in a little too close, then locked eyes with Natalie again, her look pure challenge.
The whole thing felt like a show, like Camila wanted to make it clear who belonged at Alexander’s side. ᴛʜɪs ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ ɪs ᴜᴘᴅᴀᴛᴇ ʙʏ.net
Natalie didn’t react. Her face stayed calm and beautiful, like a quiet lake that nothing could disturb.
Just then, Mr. Main hurried over, clearly trying to make everyone feel welcome. “I’ve lined up some of our best activities. Horseback riding, hot springs, archery… all things our resort is known for p>
Natalie spoke up right away. “Thank you, Mr. Main, but I won’t be joining. I have some things at work that need me back at the office. Thanks for your hospitality these past couple of days. If there’s anything else about our collaboration, feel free to call me p>
Ava Thompson had just messaged her, saying a few files needed her attention.
Mr. Main shook her hand, exchanged the usual pleasantries, and walked her to the elevator.
She said goodbye to Samuel Thompson, but as she talked, she couldn’t shake the feeling someone was watching her. Every time she tried to catch who it was, Alexander just sat there, sipping his tea, eyes lowered, like he wasn’t paying attention to anything.
Back at the office, Natalie dove right into work, powering through the stack of files. By the time she finished, it was already dark out.
She suddenly craved something bold and flavorful, so she headed to Silverpine restaurant.
She ordered her food, and just then, her phone buzzed. Arianna Mitchell had messaged: [Natalie, Steven and I want to take you out to dinner in a couple days! Promise you’ll make time for us p>
Natalie knew exactly what this meant. Arianna wanted to officially introduce Steven Wright to her.
She stared at the message, feeling a weird mix of emotions-happy for her friend, but also hesitant. She wanted to say something, maybe a warning, but after seeing what Isabella Ward had done to women before, she decided not to. Instead, she replied: [Sure, just let me know when and where p>
Arianna answered right away: [I knew you’d say yes! You’re the best, Natalie! Love you p>
Natalie forced a small smile and sent back a kissing emoji.
She put her phone down, and suddenly someone slid into the seat across from her.
She was ready to tell the person she wasn’t sharing her table, but when she looked up, she saw Alexander Ramirez. He was wearing a vont light gray jacket over a white T-shirt, looking as put-together as ever.
She didn’t even have to ask. It was obvious he’d followed her here.
“Couldn’t find anywhere else to eat, Mr. Ramirez?” Natalie gave him a look that made it clear she wasn’t happy.
Alexander looked completely at ease. He picked up the teapot, poured himself some tea, and acted like this was totally normal.
“I just suddenly wanted Silverpine tonight. It’s the best place in Cabinda, if you ask me. Am I not allowed to eat here p>
She couldn’t really argue with that.
“Of course you can come here p>
Natalie said, “but I didn’t invite you to sit with me. You can sit She
glanced around, ready to suggest
somewhere else, but every other seat was already taken.
“There’s only space at your table, and you’re the only person I know
here Alexander finished know
tea, then looked at her like that settled it.
Natalie had nothing left to say. She pressed her lips together and decided to ignore him.
Their food arrived at the same time.
Alexander immediately reached toward a plate of stir-fried sticky rice with bamboo shoots, but Natalie blocked him with her fork. “Eat your own food p>
Just because they were at the same table didn’t mean he got to touch her food.
“I paid for it p>
Earlier, he’d gone to the counter, ordered his food, pointed at her table, and paid for both meals.
Natalie slammed her fork down and glared at him, fuming. There was no way this meal was going to be peaceful.