The Alpha's Four Hidden Heirs (Natalie and Samuel) novel Chapter 64

NATALIE.

The fierce glare Shawn shot at the manager was unmistakable—anyone watching could tell he was terrified. His whole body trembled slightly, as if his boots were filled with nerves rather than feet.

I almost told Shawn to stop, but I held my tongue. The manager’s condescending look, judging me solely on my appearance, didn’t bother me, but I knew it would sting someone else. So I stayed silent, letting Shawn deliver the reprimand.

“I apologize, Miss…” The manager trailed off uncertainly.

“Edmund,” I supplied calmly.

“I apologize, Miss Edmund, if I have offended you,” he said, his tone more respectful now.

“That’s fine,” I replied simply. He nodded and then led us to our table.

Once seated, I felt my throat dry and reached for my glass of water. “You didn’t have to stand up for me just now,” I said quietly. “I’m used to people judging me by how I look. I don’t need a knight in shining armor—I can handle myself.”

Shawn’s gaze held mine steadily. “How could I not? Even if that’s not your real face, judging someone by appearances is wrong. Besides, you’re Grandpa’s lifesaver. I’d never let anyone hurt you.”

I smiled softly. “I’ll remember that. If I ever need help from the Watson family, I’ll come to you and Grandpa.”

Apart from Theo and Ed, Shawn and Grandpa were the only men in my life. Theo felt like a younger brother, Ed more like a father figure. I’d never really had a male friend before—after everything that happened to me, trusting men was difficult. But maybe, if circumstances were different, Shawn and I could have been friends.

The Watson family was one of Dellmoor’s oldest packs. Though not as powerful as the Bowers, their century-old roots in every industry gave them a solid foundation. No one dared to look down on them.

Dream was still just beginning to take shape, and I had a long way to go before building my empire. It would be foolish not to use the Watson family’s connections—but it wasn’t like I was exploiting them. They offered their help freely.

Shawn smiled at me, his eyes never leaving my face. “Ms. Edmund, no matter what challenges come your way, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help.”

“Promise?” I asked.

“I promise,” he said with a warm grin.

We clinked glasses lightly and shared a smile.

The restaurant was underwater, surrounded by shimmering blue water. Schools of fish swam lazily past the windows, and colorful corals swayed gently in the current. The atmosphere was magical—like dining inside a living aquarium.

Not only was the setting breathtaking, but every dish was delicious too.

Still, Shawn barely touched his food, his attention fixed on me as I ate.

At first, I didn’t notice, but soon I realized his eyes were locked onto my face.

I wondered if something was wrong with my hyper-realistic mask.

“Is there something on my face?” I asked.

“You’ve got something on your lips,” he said, leaning forward as if to wipe it away. But I was quicker.

“What did you say? Didn’t you say she’s Ross’s new lover? Then why is she with Shawn now?” Belle asked, disbelief ringing in her voice.

I almost laughed out loud. So they think Ross and I are together?

“I’m telling the truth. She’s the one,” Natasha insisted.

I heard Belle growl under her breath. Why was she so furious? She and her family were the ones who destroyed his life.

“Why is Shawn looking at her so gently? She’s hideous! I’m a thousand times prettier, yet Shawn never showed interest when I tried to talk to him. If it weren’t for the friendship between Alpha Watson and Grandpa, I’d be invisible to Shawn even standing right in front of him.”

Wait—so now she wants Shawn? Belle was clearly confused.

She couldn’t accept that she and I were treated differently. “Why? Why is that woman sitting with Shawn?”

They were just spoiled little princesses, jealous because I had what they wanted.

“I fell for her trap once. She’s not a simple woman. I bet she used some dirty tricks to make Mr. Watson spend time with her,” Natasha sneered.

I’d heard enough. To add fuel to the fire, I placed my hand gently over Shawn’s and smiled at him.

“Please, can we leave now?” I whispered.