The Unwavering Heart That Broke (Nathalie and Lance) novel Chapter 168

Nathalie froze for a moment when she heard that.

Was that what Camilla meant last night? Did she really turn down the chance and just hand it off to Felice? That couldn’t happen.

Her expression turned serious as she looked at Damaris. “You’re right. I have to go to this.”

The Blair Group would belong to her one day. Even if she wasn’t a natural businesswoman, she could always hire someone to take care of the details. But showing up at events like this was something she couldn’t just leave to Felice.

Damaris nodded. “Exactly. You should head out early today. Get your hair done, pick out a killer outfit… make sure everyone’s looking at you, not her.”

Nathalie nodded. “Got it.” She went off to ask Addis for permission to leave work early.

Addis agreed, letting her go two hours ahead of time. He shot her a strange look. “Felice just asked me for time off too. Don’t you two go causing any drama. If either of you lose your voice, I’m sending you the bill.”

Nathalie laughed. “Relax, we’re not going there to scream at each other.”

Addis just sighed.

She left with Damaris, and together they went dress shopping before heading off to the salon.

Nathalie picked out a floor-length dress in a deep, wine-red shade. With her hair styled in loose waves and her makeup perfectly done, she looked absolutely stunning. The effect was bold, graceful, impossible to ignore—like a red rose in full bloom.

The Charles family’s party was at the BlueNight. When night fell, the ballroom lights sparkled and the sound of a soft piano drifted across the room.

Nathalie and Damaris made their entrance and instantly drew plenty of stares.

Most of the looks Nathalie received weren’t exactly friendly, though. People were sizing her up, whispering behind their champagne glasses.

Olivia approached, all fake smile as a server brought over a tray. She picked up a glass of champagne and held it out. “Nathalie, glad you could make it. But why didn’t you come with Lance?” There was a glint in her eye, just a little too sharp.

Nathalie ignored the glass. She took one from the tray herself, raised it, and clinked it very lightly against Olivia’s. “You’re awfully interested in my private life. Should I save you a spot under my bed?”

Olivia’s smile slipped, her whole face cooling down a degree. “Just making conversation, Nathalie. No need to take it so personally.”

Nathalie widened her eyes like she was honestly surprised. “Oh, I was joking too. You don’t look happy, though. Is the view under the bed too cramped for you? You could always stand beside it. You’d see everything even more clearly.”

Olivia went quiet, gripping her glass so hard it was a wonder she didn’t break it.

She shot Nathalie a little smirk. “Not that it matters anymore. You’re not even the star of that bed. So what are you so smug about?”