The Double Life of My Billionaire Husband novel Chapter 423

Upon hearing the name, a trace of surprise flashed through Mrs. Harding’s eyes.

Mrs. Harding recognized the name Natalie and remembered that she was the daughter of the White family and Brandon Larson’s wife. The Larson Group had become a prominent company with branches in Seacisco and Barnes, known for Brandon’s deep love for his wife.

Mrs. Harding saw an opportunity to establish a relationship with Natalie, considering the potential business partnership between their families.

“I’ve met Johanna before. She mentioned you to me,” Mrs. Harding said, observing Natalie closely and noticing her resemblance to her mother.

Natalie’s smile widened. “Really?”

Although Natalie hadn’t met Mrs. Harding before, she had heard about her from Garrett. Natalie knew that Mrs. Harding valued nobility and etiquette, but seeing how Mrs. Harding treated Laney, she realized that she might be more approachable than expected.

Eager to strengthen ties with the White family and the Larson Group, Mrs. Harding quickly warmed up to Natalie.

“Since I know Natalie, I won’t bother anyone else. Natalie, could you help me design Laney’s dress? I’ve seen your excellent fashion designs, and your parents must be proud of you.”

Overwhelmed by Mrs. Harding’s praise, Natalie nodded gratefully, lost for words. “Thank you for your trust, Mrs. Harding. I won’t let you down.”

Smiling with joy, Mrs. Harding finished her coffee and said, “Great! We’ve found our designer. Let’s discuss the next steps.” She straightened her dress and looked at Natalie expectantly.

However, their conversation was interrupted by Mrs. Harding’s ringing phone. Apologizing, she answered the call and learned that something required her immediate attention. “What’s wrong? Oh, it’s ready? Okay, I’ll pick it up right away.”

Apologizing once again, Mrs. Harding turned to Laney. “I’m sorry, but I have to run. I’ll leave the rest to Laney.”

Laney assured her, “Don’t worry, Mrs. Harding. I’ll stay in touch with Natalie. She has great ideas.”

With a subtle wink, Laney exchanged knowing glances with Natalie. They understood each other well. As Mrs. Harding left, Dalores, Laney’s mother-in-law, watched helplessly, seething with anger. Mrs. Harding had chosen Natalie personally, leaving Dalores unable to voice her objections. Frustrated, Dalores resolved to get rid of Natalie, glaring at her contemptuously.

Now that Mrs. Harding was gone, Natalie cleared her throat and suggested, “Laney, it’s almost lunchtime. Shall we discuss over lunch?” Laney happily agreed.

The two women headed to a charming restaurant near the studio, accompanied by Natalie’s bodyguard sitting opposite them. While ordering food, Laney glanced at Natalie, who was engrossed in conversation with her female bodyguard.

Laney felt a sense of nostalgia, as if they were back in the good old days when nothing had changed. Though they had only been apart for a short while, it felt like a lifetime to Laney.

Noticing Laney’s melancholy expression, Natalie asked with concern, “What’s wrong, Laney? You seem sad. Are the Hardings giving you a hard time? I’m here for you. You can talk to me.”

Laney shook her head, a wistful smile on her face. “You know, it’s not like that. I was just reminiscing about our carefree days back in Seacisco. Living with the Harding family is different. They’re nobles, so everyone there is very particular about their manners. I understand why, but sometimes it feels like I’m walking on eggshells.”

Natalie could sense her friend’s unhappiness and patted her on the shoulder to offer comfort. “The sooner you accept the reality, the better. You’ve changed so much, Laney. I almost didn’t recognize you earlier,” Natalie remarked, concerned.

After ordering their food, Laney handed the menu to the waiter and sent him away. Turning to Natalie, she expressed her struggles. “It’s tough. I don’t want to disappoint Garrett. He left his job at the Larson Group to work for the Harding family because of me. I want to please his family, but it’s really difficult at times.”

Laney had been finding the etiquette classes over the past few months challenging. With Garrett busy running the family business, he rarely had time to see her. Laney, who loved martial arts and cherished her freedom, felt like her true self was buried since marrying into the Harding family. She questioned if her life still held any meaning and feared being trapped by the family’s rules, feeling suffocated.