Natalia wrapped up her day at the conference, stepping out into the evening's dim light. A restless night and a day packed with commitments had taken a toll on her. All she yearned for now was to head back and catch a moment of rest.
As she gathered her belongings, ready to leave, Delilah Powell unexpectedly called out to her.
“Natalia.”
With a smirk, Delilah sauntered over to Natalia. “I’m surprised to see you back at work so soon. I guess your mom’s passing didn’t really hit you hard, huh?”
Natalia froze, her eyes flashing with anger. “Delilah, do you recall what happened to the last person who said something like that to me?”
Caught off guard, Delilah's expression flickered with disdain. “Are you threatening me?”
Natalia chuckled. “Yes, I am, Delilah. Don’t mess with me, or your precious Hamilton might not like the outcome.”
Delilah had heard about Giselle Lynd’s fate. Giselle’s grandfather’s comments had made Delilah keep a close eye on the Schafer family.
Delilah’s face turned from red to white with anger, but then she scoffed. “You might not know, Natalia, but at Westley’s birthday bash, after you left, he announced I’m Hamilton’s fiancée. I’m the legitimate one, and you’re just the other woman!”
Natalia stiffened. She was aware of the announcement but had brushed it off, caring only about where Hamilton’s heart lay. But now, Delilah’s words stung with irony.
The Fowler family’s rejection was clear. They had turned a blind eye to her mother’s demise and now, even her pregnancy was a secret she had to keep.
Natalia scoffed back at Delilah. “Is that so? Well, congratulations. Expect a hefty gift from me at your wedding!”
Without waiting for a response, Natalia walked away, only to be stopped by Delilah’s taunting voice. “Have you no shame, Natalia?”
The confrontation drew the attention of everyone in the vicinity.
Ryan quickly intervened, defending Natalia against Delilah’s accusations. “Delilah, you better watch your mouth!”
Delilah retorted, but Natalia cut her off, leaving the scene without looking back.
Ryan glared at Delilah, mocking her claim of being Hamilton's fiancée before following Natalia out.
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