The Scorned Heiress's Hidden Empire (by Jade Quinn) novel Chapter 50

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Natalie was planning to make a coat for William. She’d been quietly sizing him up over the past few days.

Her pencil glided smoothly across the paper, the lines flowing swiftly across the page.

She was sketching a modern take on the classic Chesterfield coat, a style she’d chosen after observing William’s everyday fashion preferences.

William had a refined, steady presence, and a coat with clean lines, a straight cut without waist shaping, and hidden buttons would best highlight his composed charm.

She kept the classic single–breasted design with concealed buttons and a velvet collar, but rounded out the collar to soften the overall sharpness of the coat.

She gave the shoulders a slight lift, making the silhouette more structured and elegant. The coat was cut just below the knee, enough to block the wind and keep warm, but not so long as to look bulky or drag.

For the main fabric, she chose a midnight blue cashmere blend, while the collar, cuffs, and pocket flaps were done in deep space gray wool, creating a subtle contrast in both color and texture.

She also gave careful thought to the lining, selecting a dark red silk jacquard with a motif reminiscent of Charlotte’s favorite vintage scarf.

The sketch came together in a single, fluid motion.

Natalie set down her pencil and looked it over carefully for a moment. After making sure everything was just right, she began working on the detailed pattern.

Over the next few days, Natalie spent most of her time in her studio.

When she worked, she valued efficiency and focus, always finishing what she started.

Once she got into her work, especially during these highly focused design and creation sessions, she wouldn’t let anything interrupt her unless it was truly urgent.

She never paused on her own, nor let anything unrelated distract her.

Finally, after completing the last step, Natalie let out a quiet sigh and slowly straightened up, her back aching from hours spent bent over her work.

The studio was so silent that she could hear her own breath.

Under the gentle glow of the lights, the finished coat hung on a dress form, its flowing lines and perfect shape on full display.

She glanced at the clock, and it was already past three in the morning.

She knew tonight would run late, so she’d already let her family know she wouldn’t be coming home.

Jason had been filming in Harbor City these past few days, and Natalie had promised to drop by the set tomorrow to

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Chapter 50

check in on him.

She headed upstairs to wash up and get some rest.

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The next morning, since Natalie had stayed over, Paige thoughtfully prepared breakfast for her, following her usual

-routine.

As Natalie was about to leave, she gave Paige a few reminders, and Paige listened carefully.

Ryan was being his usual persistent self, insisting on tagging along with Natalie just so he could spend a little more time with her. But Jason was absolutely not going to let him intrude on his precious one–on–one time with Natalie.

Jason had originally planned to bring Natalie along to the set with him in the morning, but since she hadn’t gone back to Mitchell Manor last night, she texted Jason to let him know she’d make her own way there.

Jason still insisted on sending a car for her, but she turned him down. Natalie followed the address he had sent and drove over on her own.

About ten minutes later, she pulled up at the entrance to the studio lot.

The place was divided into several large backlot sections. Some were built to resemble weathered old towns, others grand fantasy courts, ruined fortresses, or ancient stone cities.

He looked over Natalie’s clean, simple outfit and her striking beauty, thinking to himself, ‘Is this another clueless newbie actress or fan hoping to catch a break or meet someone famous?”

Natalie was just about to speak up and explain why she was there when the door to a nearby cabin swung open.

A middle–aged man with a thick beard strode out quickly. He had a walkie–talkie in one hand and a rolled–up script in the other, his tense expression and clipped tone making his frustration obvious as he called out to the staffer blocking Natalie.

“Martin, where’s Miss Moore, the one I told you to wait for? Is she here yet? The makeup artist is about to lose it.”

Martin, the staff member, looked confused. He glanced at Natalie and then at Daniel Reed, the assistant director, and hesitantly pointed at her. “This lady just arrived. Is she Miss Moore?”

Daniel finally turned his attention to Natalie, and his eyes immediately lit up.

‘I didn’t expect someone this striking. How have I never seen her around before? Looks aren’t enough. She’s playing a villain, and the role only has a handful of lines, but they’re crucial. Whether she can actually carry it is another matter.‘

“Miss Moore, right? Come on. We’ve been waiting for you for ages.”

Natalie frowned. “I think there’s been a mix–up…”

“Wait. You’re not Miss Moore?” Daniel looked puzzled as he asked.

“My last name is Moore, but…”

“That’s close enough. Come on in. Weren’t you recommended by Mr. Mitchell? He’s about to get his styling done, so let’s not waste any time.”

Natalie licked her lips, a hint of uncertainty flickering across her usually calm face. ‘Is this supposed to happen?‘

Daniel and the staff member half–guided, half–ushered her into the set. She’d already texted Jason, but he hadn’t replied, so she figured she’d just see what was going on for now.

Natalie was ushered straight into the dressing room.

The makeup artist, a nimble woman in her forties, glanced at Natalie, and her eyes sparkled. “Well, Daniel, you really found someone who looks the part this time.”

“Of course, she’s Mr. Mitchell’s pick,” Daniel replied.