The Heiress Nobody Saw Coming (Natalie and Marcus) novel Chapter 522

Natalie listened to Melissa and felt a spark of determination stir in her chest. She smiled softly and said, "Perfect timing, actually. We've got some things to take care of in Dithoria State too. We could all head back together."

"That'd be wonderful!" Melissa replied, her tone instantly brightening. She already had a great impression of Natalie, and knowing that Marcus had helped their family so much made her feel even more connected to Natalie.

She continued, "Getting to know both you and Mr. Holden has been such a blessing for our family. And being able to travel to Dithoria State with the two of you is more than we could've ever hoped for."

Melissa's smile was warm and genuine. Ever since finding Sierra, she had started healing. For the first time in years, she looked vibrant and alive.

In the days leading up to Sierra's return, Melissa had been eating better, taking care of herself, and making an effort to be in good spirits. Her transformation was obvious, and it all stemmed from the joy of having her daughter back.

"Ms. Walker, when would be the right time for us to head to Dithoria State?" Melissa asked gently.

Natalie paused, pretending to think it over. Then, in a serious tone, she said, "Hmm... the sooner, the better."

After all, Charles had left early that morning to rush back to Dithoria State from The Herbalist's Sanctuary. If they acted fast and brought Charlene under the guise of accompanying the Sinclairs, they might catch Charles completely off guard.

She and Marcus had already gone over the signs. The inconsistencies in Charles' story screamed of guilt—his nervousness, his rushed excuses, and everything pointed to him hiding something. Besides, the more evasive he was, the more obvious it became that he had something to conceal.

Nonetheless, with Charles suddenly gone, there was no way either Marcus or Natalie could get the truth directly out of him. Calling him would not help; he could just ignore the call, hang up, shut off his phone, or give half-hearted, misleading answers.

Either way, they were not going to get the truth over the phone. Whatever happened all those years ago, Charles clearly was not planning on talking.

Charlene being pushed into the spotlight had been their last clue from Grace's side. The trail ended there.

Langley Group had collapsed, and their former rivals quickly swooped in to finish them off. There would be no more Langley Group in Amberton, and the Langley family would never hold the top spot again.

Grace was now in custody, still under investigation for multiple serious charges. Nonetheless, Natalie and Marcus no longer needed to be involved in that.

What mattered to them now was the black notebook Selena had left behind—filled with horrifying details of abduction cases. Law enforcement was taking it seriously and had already launched a new investigation based on its contents. Natalie and Marcus were providing all the help they could.

"Mrs. Remington, Ms. Sinclair, I'm actually really close friends with Sophia. Since we'll all be in Dithoria State, I could show you both around. Sophia and I can play tour guide," Natalie said.

She glanced at her phone and sent Hector a quick message, asking him to keep Charlene under wraps and prepare to bring her back to Dithoria State with them.

Hector's reply quickly came. "Got it."

Then, Natalie slipped her phone back into her bag.

"That sounds amazing! I can't wait to finally meet Ms. Sinclair," Sierra said, her voice suddenly filled with emotion as her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "I'll talk to Samuel and Dad now. I really want to go to Dithoria State as soon as possible."

Melissa's tone was soft and full of love. "Go ahead, sweetheart."

Sierra left the room and returned not long after, her whole face glowing with happiness. "Mom, Dad and Samuel both said yes. Nat, thank you so much. I'm going to go start packing."