The Unwavering Heart That Broke (Nathalie and Lance) novel Chapter 207

Camilla paced the room, her voice full of panic. “What are we supposed to do? Nathalie won’t even talk to me.”

Daniel closed his eyes for a second, trying to steady himself. “Let’s just do what Lance suggested. Right now, saving The Blair Group is all that matters.”

Camilla let out a frustrated sigh. “This is unbelievable. Why would Nathalie let Lance treat us like this? We’re her parents.”

But Daniel was hardly listening now. He picked up his phone and called Lance, finally giving in to the conditions Lance had set. He booked a table at a restaurant, planning to talk things through over dinner.

Aaron answered the call, as always. His tone was polite, but it didn’t hide the distance between them. “I’ll let Lance know.”

When Daniel hung up, his whole face looked tired. It seemed like his wrinkles had deepened overnight.

***

Nathalie stared down at the strands of hair in her palm, her expression clouded with doubt.

She didn’t want to believe what she suspected, but she needed answers.

Before Felice joined the Blair family, Nathalie was the center of her parents’ world. They were always loving, always adoring. She’d never wanted to question if she was really their daughter. But too much had happened lately. She couldn’t help wondering, couldn’t stop second-guessing everything she thought she knew.

If her fears weren’t true, she could finally breathe easy. But if they were… the thought of facing parents who cared so little hurt more than she could say.

She tucked the hair away carefully. When she was discharged, she’d do a DNA test on her own. No one else could know. If they found out, who knew what they’d do to hide the truth?

***

Evening came.

The door opened and Lance walked in, tall and straight-backed.

Nathalie glanced his way. “I’m pretty much healed. I don’t want to stay here any longer.”

He nodded. “Alright. That means we’re done with hospital visits.”

His quick agreement caught her off guard. She blinked at him, surprised.

“See if you like it,” he said.

Nathalie didn’t even look up. She was busy texting, pretending not to notice him at all.

Lance’s hand hovered in the space between them, awkward and uncertain. His gaze lingered on her.

“This is from a brand you’ve always loved. I pre-ordered the newest piece for you. Just have a look,” he tried again.

Nathalie didn’t even blink. “Maybe I liked it before. Doesn’t mean I do now.”

Lance’s hand dropped. He opened the box himself, revealing a purple diamond bracelet, its unique design catching the light and throwing tiny sparkles everywhere.

He reached over and gently took her hand, meaning to slip the bracelet on.

Nathalie pulled back with a frown. “I told you, I don’t like it.”