The Unwavering Heart That Broke (Nathalie and Lance) novel Chapter 209

Nathalie’s icy attitude hung over the table. Camilla felt it like a chill in the air, but she kept her pleasant smile in place, refusing to let it show.

She called the waiter over. “We’re ready for the food now.”

The waiter nodded. “Coming right up.”

As soon as the dishes were laid out, Camilla brightened, putting on her warmest voice. “Nathalie, these are all your favorites. You haven’t been able to eat much with your restricted diet, right? I asked the chef to make everything just for you. Go on, try something.”

But Nathalie barely glanced at the food. She looked straight at Daniel sitting across from her.

He’d been silent all evening, frowning, not saying a word. Only when he noticed her gaze did his expression shift. He drew in a careful breath, softened his features, and finally spoke. “Nathalie, I know I was too impulsive before. I shouldn’t have hit you. Does it still hurt?”

Nathalie’s lashes trembled. Her eyes stung, but she forced herself to swallow the emotion.

“Can I ask you something?”

Camilla nodded right away. “Of course, Nathalie. Say what’s on your mind.”

Nathalie drew in another deep breath. “Why are you both so good to Felice James?”

Camilla blinked, searching for the words. “We brought her back here, so of course we should treat her well. She’s been with us for more than ten years. We care about her now. There’s really no difference between her and our own child anymore.” She paused, her voice turning gentle and serious. “Nathalie, Felice truly wants to get along with you. Can you maybe give her a chance? Just try to get to know her. You might realize you’ve misunderstood her a little...”

Nathalie suddenly got to her feet. “No. That’s not possible.”

Daniel’s anger only seemed to burn hotter. “Look at her! Does she show any respect to her parents? I’ve swallowed my pride this much, what more does she want? Am I supposed to kneel and beg for forgiveness now?”

Camilla’s tears slipped down her face. She turned desperately back to Nathalie. “Don’t say things like that. Nathalie, you’re my daughter, and we’re a family. There’s nothing we can’t get past together.”

But Nathalie slipped her hand away, her eyes shining with hurt even as her voice stayed firm. “Let’s just end it. I mean it. I can’t keep doing this. I’m exhausted.”

Camilla, even more desperate now, tried to grab Nathalie’s hand again. Then, out of nowhere, she clutched at her chest, her face going chalk-white as her lips turned purple. “Nathalie... this can’t...”

Before anyone could react, she collapsed.