When She Rose From the Ashes (Natalie and Jensen) novel Chapter 575

**TITLE: HereSelf 575**
**CONTENT: Chapter 575 The Gunn Surname**

Renee sat back in her chair, contemplating the delicate dynamics of their world. She had come to a realization: since Natalie struggled with social nuances, it would be wiser for Natalie to focus on her design work in the future, while she, Renee, would take on the burden of navigating these complex interactions.

After all, someone as innocent and pure-hearted as Natalie deserved to be shielded from the murky waters of such people.

Yet, Natalie felt a strange reluctance gnawing at her. It was a feeling she couldn’t quite articulate, but it was there, lurking just beneath the surface. Perhaps it stemmed from the fact that the woman’s surname was Gunn.

Her knowledge of Baron’s family was limited, but she was acutely aware of the shadows that loomed over them. Baron had been cast out from the Gunn family, and the bitterness of that separation had weighed heavily on his mother, leading to her untimely demise, consumed by anger and heartbreak.

Though she had no concrete evidence that this Yulia was connected to Baron’s past, an instinctual aversion bubbled up within her. The thought of serving anyone bearing the Gunn name filled her with an inexplicable dread.

As this realization washed over her, the warmth of her smile faded into a tight-lipped frown. Her voice, though not raised, carried an unmistakable firmness as she declared, “I’m sorry, but I won’t be taking your order.”

Yulia’s brow furrowed in confusion. “Why?” she asked, genuinely perplexed by the sudden dismissal.

Natalie’s gaze hardened, and she replied, cold as ice, “Because your surname is Gunn. Is that reason enough?”

The room fell into a stunned silence. Yulia and the others froze, caught off guard by the weight of Natalie’s words.

“What’s wrong with my surname being Gunn? As far as I know, the live-in son-in-law in your family also seems to be named Gunn, doesn’t he?” Yulia retorted, her voice laced with disbelief.

She had never anticipated that Natalie would refuse her based on something so seemingly trivial.

Natalie’s expression darkened further at Yulia’s words. “That surname… my husband wouldn’t even want to be associated with it. If he had the chance, he’d change it in a heartbeat. And because you carry the Gunn name, I refuse to engage in any business with you. Not for any price!”

“Are you out of your mind?” Yulia exclaimed, her face flushed with indignation.

Throughout her life, Yulia had rarely faced disrespect like this.

Natalie simply smiled, a sharp, almost defiant smile, and replied, “Yes, I am. It’s unfortunate that you might not even have the medicine I require. So, Ms. Gunn, I kindly ask you to leave.”

Renee had seldom witnessed Natalie wielding such a fierce edge. Typically, Natalie exuded a gentle and mild demeanor. While she often shied away from social interactions, she wouldn’t normally confront someone so directly.

But now, it was evident to Renee that Natalie was actively challenging Yulia.

Did they share some unspoken history?

However, they had seemed unfamiliar with each other upon their first encounter.

Renee found herself lost in thought, trying to piece together the puzzle.

Just then, Beth returned, balancing a tray of steaming tea. Upon overhearing Natalie’s bold declaration, she immediately positioned herself protectively in front of Natalie.

“Is there something wrong with your hearing, lady? Didn’t you hear our designer say she won’t do business with you? Why are you still lingering here?”

Natalie caught the underlying concern in Renee’s voice. A smile tugged at her lips, softening her expression.

“You can’t expect me to stay cooped up indoors for the rest of my life, can you? Don’t worry. If someone truly intends to harm me, I’d be in danger whether I’m in the studio or out in the world…”

Despite her reassurance, Renee still felt a knot of unease tighten in her stomach.

“Why don’t you let Beth accompany you?”

“It’s really not necessary. The mall is just next door. I’ll be fine, so please don’t fret.”

With a final wave, Natalie stepped out of the studio.

Though Renee’s worry lingered, she reminded herself of Natalie’s words. They hadn’t done anything wrong; why should they live in fear?

Resolving to focus on her work, she shook her head and dove back into her tasks.

As Natalie exited the studio, she spotted the nearby shopping mall and felt a rush of excitement. It had been ages since she had indulged in a shopping spree.

Her thoughts danced with images of new clothes for Baron, and playful toys for the children. Today was a day for splurging, and she was ready to embrace it.

She first made her way to the men’s clothing store, her heart racing with anticipation.