The Alpha's Four Hidden Heirs (Natalie and Samuel) novel Chapter 80

**The City That Drowned in the Sound of Its Own Heartbeat**
by Erynd Cal DusK

**Chapter 80**

**NATALIE.**

Whoever is on the other end of that call had better pray that their reason for reaching out is significant.

With a frustrated exhale, I reluctantly slid my panties back into place, my mind still swirling with thoughts. I glanced at my phone and saw Theo’s name flashing on the screen, prompting me to answer.

“Theodore,” I said, using his full name, a sign of my current mood.

“Oh, oh, did I catch you at a bad time?” he inquired, a hint of concern lacing his voice.

“No, no, don’t worry about me,” I replied, trying to shake off my irritation. “I’m just in a bit of a mood.”

“Long day?” he asked, his tone softening.

“Something like that. Plus, I really miss the boys,” I admitted, a wave of longing washing over me.

“They’re doing just fine. I received the pictures from the camp, and let me tell you, they’re having a blast. Even Clayton! I didn’t think he’d last this long without his gadgets,” he chuckled, and a smile crept onto my face at the thought of them enjoying themselves.

“Yeah, you’re right. It’s good for them,” I agreed, feeling a twinge of pride.

“And good for you too,” he added, his voice taking on a more serious tone. “When was the last time you took a moment for yourself? I know you’re back there for a reason—getting your kids back—but you deserve a little fun. You take care of all of us, Natalie.”

If only he knew the storm brewing between Samuel and me.

“Is there a specific reason for your call?” I asked, redirecting the conversation.

“I see what you did there,” he teased lightly, “but fine, I’ll drop it. Yes, I did call for a reason.”

“What is it?” I inquired, my curiosity piqued.

“For the past week, the Nichols family’s Dexmed Pharmaceutical has been poaching researchers from Dream Pharmaceutical. Just today, three of them submitted their resignation letters to Yandel,” he stated, the seriousness of his tone sending a shiver down my spine.

“Why are you telling me this instead of Yandel?” I probed, my brow furrowing in confusion.

“Because Yandel thought you would handle the news better coming from me,” Theo explained, and I couldn’t help but appreciate his insight. After all, I was still simmering from our last encounter.

“I can’t believe Dexmed Pharmaceutical has fallen so far since my departure. And now they’re resorting to underhanded tactics?” My eyes narrowed as I tapped my fingers against the cool marble countertop, frustration simmering beneath the surface.

“So what do you want us to do? I could easily take down their servers tonight,” he suggested, the excitement in his voice palpable.

“That won’t be necessary, Theo. There’s no need for drastic measures. My father’s petty games pose no real threat to me,” I said with a sneer. “Dexmed is my grandfather’s legacy—his blood, sweat, and tears. Now that it’s been tarnished, it requires nurturing. I won’t allow Thomas and Yvonne to dismantle my grandfather’s hard work before I reclaim it.”

The dream has always been to restore Dexmed and merge it with Dream Pharmaceuticals. Together, we would be an unstoppable force.

“But come on, Natalie! It would be such a thrill! I’d have everything back up by morning,” he urged, his enthusiasm infectious.

“No, Theo. I’ve made my decision,” I replied firmly.

**Alpha Samuel Bowers.**

Meanwhile, I had just returned to my pack, driving home with Sophia and Franklin in the backseat.

My mood was buoyant after that kiss with Natalie. A smile danced on my lips, and it felt as if the very blood coursing through my veins was singing with joy.

That kiss… At first, she had hesitated, but then she melted into it, kissing me back with an intensity that took my breath away. What if, one day, she willingly sat on my lap? The thought sent a thrill through me—how incredible would that be?

The mere idea of having her bare beneath me was enough to make my pulse quicken.

Just thinking about it made me tug at my collar, my lips suddenly dry, begging for moisture.

As I stepped out of the car, ready to gather the kids, my gaze fell upon a woman in a white lace dress standing in front of the house.

Instantly, my smile vanished, and the lightness in my heart dissipated as I recognized her.

“Samuel, you’re finally home!” Yara squealed, striding towards me with an eagerness that set my teeth on edge.

“Keep your voice down,” I snapped, irritation flaring. “Sophia and Franklin are asleep, and I don’t want to wake them.”

Yara nodded, her expression shifting to one of understanding.

“Tell me, what are you doing here?” I asked, my tone icy. She knew better than to show up unannounced, so she better have a compelling reason for being here.