The Year She Stopped Being Crazy for Him novel Chapter 395

Rhea brushed his hand away. "It's just red wine. It won't get you drunk, and it's great for maintaining a radiant complexion."

Just as Rhea tilted the decanter over the glass, another hand reached out and firmly blocked the rim. The man's voice was calm but left no room for argument. "Natalie is young. If you're so fond of the beauty benefits, Aunt Rhea, you should drink more yourself."

Rhea's grip on the decanter tightened. She couldn't help but shoot a glance at her son.

Wasn't Hassan supposed to be divorcing Natalie? Why was he still protecting her so fiercely?

Still, this actually played right into her hands. The more Hassan showed he cared about Natalie, the faster Joelle would give up on him, leaving the door wide open for Cyrus.

"Oh my, Hassan, you're always so protective of Natalie. Alright, alright, I yield." She pulled her hand back with a laugh, keeping up the facade of perfect harmony.

Secretly, though, she scrutinized Joelle's expression.

She had to admit, the woman lived up to her reputation. She was incredibly composed. Her face didn't falter for a second, maintaining that same gentle smile.

Joelle raised her glass again. "Since this lunch was arranged specially as a welcome-back for me, I say we throw out all these rigid rules. Besides, I'm sure Natalie didn't mean to be late."

She smiled warmly at Natalie. "Hassan and I go way back. When you used to follow him around back then, I treated you exactly like a sister, just like he did. Right, Natalie?"

On the surface, Joelle's words sounded harmless.

But Natalie found them highly amusing. The woman was simultaneously trying to bridge the gap between herself and Hassan while conveniently boxing Natalie into the role of a 'little sister.'

Natalie lowered her eyes.

She hadn't planned on causing a scene. She had only intended to make an appearance to appease Cecily and then leave.

But since Joelle had set the stage so beautifully, it would be rude to stay quiet.

"If I had known you treated me like a sister, just like Hassan did, I would have married you instead. You know I have a soft spot for people who treat me well."

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