Fake Mate Beta Rises to Alpha Heiress (Natalie and Landon) novel Chapter 56

**Fading Into Blue by Austen**
**Chapter 56: Hangover**

**Leonardo’s POV:**

As I gazed down at Natalie, nestled cozily in my arms, a soft chuckle escaped my lips. It was amusing to think back to our initial encounters. In those early meetings, she had been a picture of calm composure, or perhaps just politely aloof. Who could have predicted that by our third meeting, she would be so delightfully unguarded, her defenses crumbling to reveal a carefree spirit?

This unexpected vulnerability was not off-putting in the slightest; rather, it painted her as adorably clumsy. I found myself charmed by the way she leaned into the moment, surrendering to the comfort of my embrace.

Just then, my phone buzzed insistently, pulling me from my reverie. It was Aaron, sending me a video that demanded my immediate attention. I slipped on my headphones and watched as the surveillance footage unfolded. There they were—those Alphas, relentless in their pursuit, pressuring Natalie to drink and hurling verbal jabs at her. Instantly, a chill coursed through me, and my eyes hardened with icy resolve. I removed the headphones, my fingers deftly typing a response: “Handle it cleanly.”

Returning my focus to the peaceful figure beside me, I couldn’t help but murmur softly, though I knew she was far too asleep to hear. “Those from the Scott family bullied you, didn’t they? Why didn’t you confide in me? If you truly want to stop being pushed around, why not let someone help you? Is it so difficult to lean on others?”

There was a trace of annoyance in my tone, one I hadn’t even recognized at first. As I looked at her pale profile, I recalled Aaron’s report detailing her past as an orphan who had weathered six grueling years within the Thorn Pack. It struck me then—perhaps she had never learned to rely on anyone but herself. Having fought her battles alone for so long, she had grown accustomed to facing the storms of life without assistance. This resilience set her apart from other Omegas and Betas, who often leaned on their packs for support.

As the night scenery zipped by outside the car window, I drove her back to my estate, instructing the maid to look after her with utmost care. Only after I was certain she was sound asleep did I retreat to my study, the weight of the evening settling upon my shoulders.

“Mr. Sanchez, it’s done,” Aaron reported shortly after I entered the room.

“Good,” I replied, nodding in acknowledgment. After a brief pause, I asked, “How much startup capital does Natalie require?”

“Approximately 150 million dollars,” he answered, his voice steady.

“Double that amount from the investment fund under my name. Just let them know I’m optimistic about the project’s potential,” I stated nonchalantly, as if discussing the weather rather than a significant financial decision.

Aaron’s eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his face before he composed himself. “Yes, sir.” He had worked with me long enough to understand my strict adherence to risk management, knowing I rarely made impulsive financial moves. But for Natalie, this was an exception.

“Also…” I interrupted, my gaze fixed intently on my fingertips. “Look into Natalie’s dating history. I want the full picture.”

I recalled the basic information I had seen earlier, noting that she had only experienced one campus relationship, with someone named Landon. Now, however, my curiosity had deepened. I wanted to uncover the details of those six years and understand how that guy had treated her.

“Morning,” he replied, his gaze briefly meeting mine, devoid of any discernible emotion.

The memory of clinging to him last night ignited a flush in my cheeks. “About last night…” I began, my words stumbling over each other as I searched for a way to express my gratitude.

“You had one too many. I merely dropped you off on my way,” he interjected smoothly, offering me an elegant escape from the awkwardness of the moment. “Did you sleep well?” His tone was as casual as if we were discussing the latest sports scores, making it easier to slip back into a comfortable rhythm.

“Like a baby. Your bedding is to die for,” I blurted out, only realizing how peculiar that sounded after the words escaped my lips. Fortunately, the maid signaled me to head over to the buffet, distracting me from my embarrassment.

The sight of the buffet took my breath away. It was an extravagant spread, rivaling the offerings of a high-end hotel. Despite the queasiness in my stomach from the hangover, the colorful, intricately crafted desserts were too tempting to resist. I found myself piling my plate high with a few bite-sized cakes and a honey-glazed waffle, each more enticing than the last.

“Got a soft spot for sweets?” Leonardo’s voice came from behind me, revealing that he had been watching my every move.

“Yeah, a little. Sweets always brighten my day,” I replied quietly, taking a seat across from him. “You should give them a try, Mr. Sanchez. They’re amazing.” His plate, however, contained nothing but a cup of black coffee and a small bowl of steamed egg—a simple, understated spread that mirrored his personality perfectly.