Category: The Double Life Of My Billionaire Husband novel (Natalie Quinn and Sebastian Klein novel)

Sebastian’s enormous suit jacket seemed to cover every inch of Natalie’s body, revealing only her face. “It feels strange to wear a jacket. It completely covers the dress.”

Sebastian dragged her onto the sofa, gently pulled her hair out of the jacket, and placed his palm on the small of her back. “It’s alright. The party is about to end anyway.”

Then, he turned around and scowled at Garrett, who was watching them from a distance.

He was annoyed that Garrett had arranged such a revealing dress for Natalie. Garrett almost choked on his drink when he met Sebastian’s fiery gaze.

His cheeks turned red from the coughing. Garrett couldn’t fathom why Sebastian was staring at him.

He had specially arranged for his people to prepare a beautiful dress for Natalie. But Sebastian’s disapproving look made him question his decision.

It was past midnight when the party was over. Natalie and Sebastian returned home together.

Natalie sensed something was wrong. Sebastian hadn’t taken his eyes off her on their way back home. Unable to take it anymore, Natalie turned around and looked at him.

“What’s wrong with you tonight? Why are you constantly staring at me?”

Sebastian remained silent. Natalie shook her head and took the key from her bag. As soon as they entered the house, he grabbed her arm.

“Because you are beautiful.”

Sebastian slammed the door shut and pressed Natalie against it.

He cupped her cheeks and gently nibbled at her bottom lip. As Natalie’s lips parted, he slid his tongue into her mouth, deepening the kiss. Their tongues danced in rhythm, and they soon got breathless.

Natalie pulled back and leaned against Sebastian’s shoulder, panting for breath. Sebastian smiled and trailed his tongue across her earlobe.

“Put me down. The dress is already wrinkled. What if we end up tearing it?” Natalie whimpered as she tried pushing him away.

Her ears were sensitive to the kiss, and she shivered under his touch.

“Hmm…” Sebastian finally let go of Natalie and gently stroked her hair. “I’m going to take a shower. You go to bed early.”

With that, he turned around and walked into the bathroom.

Frustrated, Natalie leaned against the door and covered her flaming face.

They had been getting intimate at every given opportunity, and Natalie’s will seemed to crumble with every passing day. ‘What if we both lost self-control someday?’ she wondered.

…

The next day, Natalie carefully packed the dress and jewelry and went to the company. However, she had no idea where to return them.

Seeing that Garrett was walking past the design department, Natalie hurriedly stopped him. “Mr. Harding, I brought the dress and accessories.”

“Well, give it to Mr. Larson. They are his, not mine.” Garrett shrugged and went straight to the elevator.

Natalie sighed and sent Brandon a message again.

“Mr. Larson, whom should I return the dress I borrowed last night for the dinner party?”

“You don’t have to return it. We don’t reuse custom-designed dresses. It’s yours now.”

That was when it dawned on Natalie that wealthy people didn’t wear second-hand clothes. However, she was too embarrassed to accept it. “It’s too expensive, Mr. Larson. How can I accept it?”

“Well, you can save it for the future. Considering the Larson Group’s unshakable position in the fashion industry, how can an employee wear cheap clothes for dinner parties and ruin our company’s image?”

Natalie couldn’t argue with that. She had no choice but to take back the dress and jewelry. She carefully wrapped them up in a bag and hid them in her closet.

The next day when Natalie went back to work, Garrett called her to meet him.

“Mr. Larson wants you to have these,” he said, holding out several enormous bags. “Well, our company has collaborations with several fashion brands and enterprises. These are all complimentary gifts they have sent to us. You can take them.”

Natalie’s eyes widened when she saw the expensive clothes and shoes lying in front of her.

They were all from the biggest fashion houses. The clothes and shoes were in trend. Considering the demand, many of the pieces were out of stock, and most importantly, every single garment was expensive.

“These… These are too expensive and invaluable. Has Mr. Larson given clothes to the other employees as well?” Natalie asked, her face pale with horror.

“That’s not your concern,” replied Garrett.

Judging from his tone, it seemed obvious that no one else had received such expensive things.

Natalie’s stomach churned with unease, and her palms grew sweaty.

These were not just ordinary gifts. She couldn’t bring herself to accept them.

“Well, I only follow Mr. Larson’s orders. If you have any questions, feel free to ask him.” Garrett smiled as he continued to read the document.

Natalie left Garrett’s office and quickly sent a message to Brandon.

Thousands of people worked for the company. How could she be the only one to receive such expensive gifts?

The design department was indeed the most crucial component of the Larson Group. However, Tiffany was Natalie’s superior. Natalie was confused as to why she was the first one to get such expensive gifts instead of Tiffany.

“Mr. Larson, thank you for the clothes and shoes, but I’m afraid I can’t accept them. I’m not used to wearing expensive clothes, so why don’t you give them to other employees?” Natalie didn’t care if the message sounded rude. All she wanted was for him to know that she couldn’t accept expensive gifts for no reason.

It looked like Brandon was way too nice to her that it got real creepy.

Natalie had never seen the mysterious CEO, and perhaps Brandon hadn’t seen her in person either.

Although she tried not to overanalyze the situation, her intuition told her that something was wrong.

The day passed in a blur. Hours later, Natalie finally received a message from him.

“You may have to get involved in more collaborative projects in the future. As a designer of the Larson Group, you don’t seem to pay attention to the way you dress. It’s a matter of our company’s image. I don’t want people questioning the Larson Group’s design abilities. Wearing the right outfit is also an advertising strategy. As a designer, you have to carry yourself well.”

It was a long, reasonable, irrefutable speech.

Brandon was smart enough to persuade Natalie to accept the clothes even though she didn’t think it was appropriate for her to take them.

Natalie stared at the long message on her phone and took a deep breath.

She had no choice but to accept the clothes and shoes in the end.

She quickly sent, ‘thank you’ and turned off her phone.

After work, she received another message from Brandon.

“If you face any problems in life, you can also come to me any time. I will help you solve it so that it doesn’t affect your work.”

“Mr. Harding, here is the evening dress.”

Cassie’s eyes lit up. The dress and the jewelry looked expensive.

“Thank you.” She pretended to remain calm and walked toward the man carrying the dress. Just as she reached out to take the dress, the staff unexpectedly walked past her.

“Miss, could you please get out of our way?” Cassie’s eyes widened as she involuntarily stepped back.

The staff smiled and handed the evening dress to Natalie.

Cassie’s face flushed with embarrassment.

‘What the hell is going on? I thought it was for me. Why are they giving it to Natalie? Natalie has ruined my dress, but they get a new one for her? This is just ridiculous!’

“Thank you, but please take it back. This dress is too expensive. I’ll just go home and get changed,” Natalie said, nervously looking at the dress. It looked beautiful, but she couldn’t accept it because it was too expensive.

“Mr. Larson has asked us to take care of you and make sure nothing bad happens to you at the dinner party. You can’t wear your dress now. We had prepared some extra dresses in case of emergencies, and this is one of them. You can borrow it tonight. After all, it’s a matter of our company’s reputation.” Garrett smiled calmly even though his heart was racing in his chest.

He knew that Sebastian would punish him if Natalie didn’t take the dress.

After a moment’s hesitation, Natalie finally took the dress.

“Miss, this way, please.”

Natalie nodded and went to the dressing room with the staff.

“Miss, let me help you with your makeup. You are a natural beauty, and makeup will accentuate your features.” The make-up artist picked up the eye shadow palette and carefully examined Natalie’s face.

“I have already worn mild makeup.” Natalie frowned and covered her face.

Despite being a designer, she didn’t like dressing up. She seldom wore makeup and had never tried any heavy, dramatic look.

“What do you mean by you’re wearing makeup? You have just worn a little foundation. I promise you will look gorgeous. You won’t know unless you try. I have worked with many celebrities in the past. I’m sure you will dazzle tonight.” The make-up artist smiled and waved the brush in her hand, as if it were a magical wand.

Soon, the makeup artist finished her work, and the assistants helped Natalie with the dress.

After checking that everything was in place, they finally led her out.

The noisy banquet hall dropped silent.

All eyes were on Natalie.

The sudden attention made her uncomfortable. She squirmed on the spot and didn’t know where to put her hands.

‘Gosh, why are they staring at me? Do I look ugly?’

Her stomach flipped with anxiety. Just then, Natalie let out a startled gasp as her gaze fell on the glass door.

She was amazed to see her reflection.

The woman on the glass looked nothing like her but seemed like a regal princess.

Her face looked flawless, and the makeup seemed to accentuate her features. Her bright red lips lit up her entire face.

The black velvet strapless dress revealed her milky skin. The dazzling neckpiece made her look like royalty.

Natalie was the most beautiful woman at the party tonight. It looked like the makeup artist had brought out Natalie’s inner beauty that she had been hiding all this while.

The way a person carried themselves was an important factor in earning people’s respect.

Natalie walked past the people watching her with rapt attention, gently lifting her dress. From the corner of her eyes, she could feel the people’s burning gazes.

Her racing heart slowed down when she saw Sebastian. She quickly grabbed his arm and hid behind him. Her curled lashes and the neat sweep of eyeliner made her eyes look bigger and more seductive. “Thank you, Mr. Harding. I’ll return the dress tomorrow.”

Garrett coughed awkwardly. Unable to meet Natalie’s gaze, he looked away. “Okay, okay.”

After all, Natalie looked incredible after dressing up.

Sebastian used the opportunity to hold Natalie in his arms. He raked his eyes across her beautiful face as he gently stroked her cheek with his thumb as if she were a piece of art. “Have you worn makeup?” he asked softly.

“Don’t I look good?” Natalie looked at him through her lashes.

Sebastian chuckled. He pressed his lips against her ear and whispered, “God, you are beautiful! You look like a real princess.”

Natalie shivered and shrank into his arms. “Sebastian, stop! It tickles.”

Sebastian’s Adam’s apple bobbed, and his eyes darkened. He couldn’t take his eyes off her alluring face.

Cassie burned with jealousy when she saw the intimate couple.

Her hatred for Natalie reached its peak. She felt the woman was a slut who effortlessly seduced men.

Ever since they were children, Natalie had been more attractive than her. Even though Natalie wore the simplest outfit, she would garner the attention of the people around her. Now that Natalie was dressed like royalty, Cassie felt she faded in comparison to her.

“Be careful about the dress. Otherwise, you’ll have to sell yourself to pay it back.” Cassie sneered and walked past Natalie, deliberately bumping against her shoulder.

Sebastian’s face darkened, his cold eyes blazed with rage.

Seeing that, Garrett immediately waved at the security. “Throw this woman out!”

Several security guards surrounded Cassie and grabbed her arms to take her away.

Cassie thrashed and screamed, trying to free herself. “Why the hell are you driving me away? I’m here as Mr. Sherman’s date. How dare you drive me away?”

“All right. I’ll ask Mr. Sherman to deal with you.”

Garrett looked around the banquet hall and saw a plump, timid-middle-aged man. “Mr. Sherman, don’t be shy. What do you say?” he demanded.

Sherman had been a loser in his early years. Later, he gained wealth after selling antiques. However, by then he had become too old to have fun in life. He didn’t dare to offend the deputy CEO of the Larson Group.

Sherman was frightened out of his wits that he didn’t dare to even look at Cassie. “It’s up to you, Mr. Harding.” He waved his hand. “I just brought her to accompany me tonight. Besides that, we don’t share any relationship. You can do whatever you want.”

With that, Sherman turned around and began talking with the others as if nothing had happened.

“Do you know who I am?” Cassie bellowed. “I’m the daughter of the Quinn family. My parents won’t spare you.”

Garrett glanced at her coldly. Then, he picked up a glass of wine from the tray, took a sip, and smacked its lips. “I don’t care who you are and which family you belong. I’m ready to deal with them at any time.”

Cassie struggled desperately and refused to leave. Finally, the guards dragged her out of the hotel.

The commotion had already garnered the people’s attention. Several men were staring at Natalie.

They all seemed to ogle her with lustful eyes, their gazes drinking every inch of her body.

“It’s all right now. Let’s go back to our seats.” When Natalie raised her head, she saw Sebastian staring into the distance. His jaw was tense, and his eyes narrowed as if faced with a dangerous enemy.

Natalie sensed that he was angry.

“What’s wrong with you?” she asked quizzically.

Sebastian took a deep breath and looked at her. Then, he took off his suit jacket and draped it around Natalie’s shoulders. “Nothing. Put on my coat.”

Natalie tugged at her wet dress that was clinging to her legs.

The sweet scent of roses from the wine wafted in the air.

Natalie immediately moved back from Cassie and glared at her. “You did it on purpose! You didn’t have an invitation, right? How did you get in?”

Cassie smirked at her. “Of course, I walked in. I have my ways. I can get into parties even without the invitation.”

She crossed her arms over her chest and raked her eyes across Natalie — back to her arrogant self. “I accidentally stained your dress. How about I compensate for it? How much is this dress? Is it even a hundred dollars?”

Cassie took out three hundred dollar bills from her handbag and threw them at Cassie’s face. “I’ll compensate you three times the price. You don’t have to thank me.”

Sebastian put down the glass and stood up, his face taut with anger.

He grabbed some tissues from the table and tried wiping the stain from Natalie’s dress, which was dripping with wine.

Then, he glared at Cassie as if he wanted to burn her alive.

“I’m fine. It’s between her and me. Please don’t get involved in this.” Natalie felt the coldness emanating from him. She quickly grabbed the tissues from his hand, trying to calm him down.

She feared that Sebastian might end up beating up Cassie until she passed out.

Moreover, her dress indeed wasn’t expensive.

Cassie had perhaps already figured that out. How could a poor woman like Natalie afford an expensive dress? She didn’t even have decent clothes to wear for opulent dinner parties. After all, she struggled to make ends meet.

Cassie threw the money on the floor and sneered. “Do you know what kind of occasion it is? Don’t you have any sense of aesthetics? How could you come here wearing a cheap dress? Don’t you have money to even afford a decent dress, or are you too stingy to spend money on it? You are indeed just a bumpkin that hasn’t seen the world. You should feel ashamed of yourself for attending such a party.”

Natalie ignored the money that Cassie had thrown on the floor. She smiled and picked up a plate of stewed beef from a waiter walking past her and turned it over on Cassie’s head.

“Argh! What the hell are you doing?”

Cassie bellowed. She never thought Cassie would do something like this.

The thick sauce splashed on her face, ruining her makeup. Lumps of beef were stuck on her head, and the sauce dripped from her head, staining her dress and dribbling down her body.

Cassie’s face distorted, and her eyes almost popped out of her sockets. “You bitch!” she shouted like a maniac. “How dare you…”

In the past, only she bullied Natalie. Cassie was the spoiled princess, while Natalie endured everything without fighting back.

“Why not? Fortunately, this dish was not boiling hot. Otherwise, it would have burned your artificial face for which you had spent a lot of money.”

Natalie smiled calmly as she put the plate back on the table. Then, she picked up the three hundred dollars from the floor and threw them at Cassie’s face. “Take back your three hundred dollars. You ruined my dress, and I did the same to you. We’re even. How much is your dress? I’ll pay for it.”

“Do you think you can afford it? You fucking bitch! I’ll teach you a lesson today!” Cassie quickly wiped the sauce off her face and darted toward Natalie.

Sebastian quickly stood in front of Natalie to protect her. His face darkened in an instant.

All the staff and security guards at the party were trained and experienced. Before Sebastian could do anything, one of the staff dragged Cassie away and threw her to the floor.

Garrett had been gone only for a while and didn’t expect something like this to happen. Hearing the commotion, he rushed over and walked through the crowd. His eyes widened when he saw Natalie’s stained dress and Cassie’s disheveled hair. The carpet was covered in red wine and sauce.

“What happened? Who is making trouble?” Garrett asked, his jaw tense with rage.

Cassie had met this man before. He was the one who had driven her out of the Larson Group the previous time. Later, she learned that he was Garrett Harding, the deputy CEO of the Larson Group and the son of the famous Harding family.

The men she had dated so far faded in comparison to Garrett.

Cassie pointed at Natalie, who was standing behind Sebastian. “It’s her!” she pouted, trying to sound pitiful. “I accidentally spilled wine on her dress, but she unreasonably threw this dish on me. Why would you let such a crazy woman into the party?”

Cassie knew that her makeup and clothes were ruined, and she looked terrible at the moment.

Therefore, her hatred for Natalie intensified. The woman had ruined her night and her chances for seducing Garrett.

Natalie lowered her eyes and fell silent. Sebastian pulled her closer into his arms and sneered. “You should have hit her harder. Look at the way she is talking about you now.”

Natalie’s eyes narrowed. She shouldn’t have attacked Cassie, but she just couldn’t take it anymore.

Growing up together, she found out about Cassie’s true nature long ago.

Sebastian smiled tenderly and stroked Natalie’s hair as he secretly winked at Garrett.

Sensing the warning in his eyes, Garrett pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose and looked at Sebastian. The coldness of his gaze sent a shiver down Garrett’s spine.

He understood what the man meant and beckoned at the waiter. “Go and get a new evening gown here, now.”

Hearing that, Cassie’s face suddenly lit up, and her lips curled up into an arrogant smile.

She assumed the evening gown was for her, which meant Garrett was on her side. ‘Natalie is doomed!’

“The Larson Group is indeed a big enterprise. I won’t hold you accountable for what happened to me at your dinner party today,” Cassie said arrogantly.

The corners of Garrett’s mouth twitched in embarrassment.

‘Who let this mad woman in?’ he thought.

Thinking that Garrett cared about her, Cassie assumed she had a good chance with him. She winked at him seductively in front of all the people.

Garrett seemed like the perfect guy for her. He was from a wealthy family and held a high position in a reputable company. Moreover, he was tall, well-built, and handsome. Cassie felt it would be great if she hooked up with him. Her future would dazzle if she got married to him.

Seeing that Garrett was still silent, she walked up to him and smiled sweetly. “Thank you, Mr. Harding.”

The gravy mingled with her perfume and makeup exuded a disgusting smell. Garrett clamped his mouth, for the scent made him sick. However, Cassie continued to walk toward him.

Garrett stepped back in disgust and wiped his shoulder where Cassie had just touched him.

Moments later, the waiter returned with a clothing bag.

Inside was an opulent evening dress from a luxury brand.

Three men followed him with a makeup kit and jewelry to match the dress.

“Cassie!” The man was stunned when he saw who had called his name. Then he broke into a wrinkly smile. “Didn’t I give you my number last time? Why didn’t you call me?”

As he spoke, his eyes roamed over her body hungrily.

When she saw that she still had a chance, Cassie walked to his side and slipped her arm into his. “Mr. Sherman, I’m sorry. I wanted to call you, but I lost your card.”

Nobody cared that she was lying.

The man smiled knowingly and put his wrinkled hand on Cassie’s waist. He had been interested in Cassie ever since the beginning. His gaze landed on her bulging cleavage, lust filling his eyes. “Why haven’t you gone inside yet?”

“My friend couldn’t make it and give me her invitation, but the staff didn’t let me in.” Cassie stuck out her lower lip, batting her eyelashes at the old man coquettishly.

“In that case, you can come in with me. But you have to be with me tonight.” The man’s eyes stared into hers hungrily.

While he didn’t think that Cassie was that pretty, he couldn’t get over her because he hadn’t gotten her yet.

Then, he looked at his young female companion and said in a low voice, “You can go now. I’ll have my secretary transfer the money to your account.”

Hearing this, the girl glanced at Cassie indifferently. She didn’t know why Cassie was so eager to have this old man. Oh well, life was difficult for everyone, the girl supposed. It didn’t matter. Anyway, she’d still get the money, and that was all that mattered.

With a smile, the girl nodded and left.

The man brought Cassie to the dinner party as his plus one.

When they entered the banquet hall, Cassie heard glasses clinking everywhere. The magnificent hall was brightly illuminated, while the sound of saxophones and pianos playing stimulated her senses.

The Larson Group wasn’t playing around. The dinner party reeked of extreme luxury. There were even gambling tables and billiard tables by the side, for when guests got bored.

Cassie studied the crowd seemingly nonchalantly, keeping an eye open for her prey tonight.

The second Natalie entered the banquet hall, she felt like she had stepped foot inside a movie about the rich and powerful.

It was already dark out, but the brightly lit hall was even livelier than a sunny room.

But there was more to it than she thought. Everyone seemed to be hell-bent on meeting some invisible goal, hopping from table to table and exchanging tactful greetings.

Sebastian stopped a waiter and took a glass of red wine for himself and a glass of orange juice from his tray.

He handed the orange juice to Natalie. “What are you looking at?”

Following the woman’s gaze, he saw that she was staring at several independent designers in a huddle, chattering happily.

“Wow! I can’t believe the Larson Group actually invited those design masters. They’re constants at international fashion shows. I didn’t think I’d see them here.” Natalie sipped at her orange juice absentmindedly, her eyes filled with shock and awe.

“Why don’t you go and say hi?” Sebastian put his hand on her back and took another sip of wine, looking relaxed and at home.

Natalie burst into laughter. “I’m just a nobody from the Larson Group. I haven’t even been regularized yet. How could I possibly talk to those masters?”

Sebastian casually put down his glass and glanced at Garrett from across the room.

Garrett caught his gaze and immediately sprang into action. As if he had just received an urgent order, he deserted the crowd he had been talking to and walked towards Sebastian.

“Quinn.” Natalie turned around to see Garrett in a white suit standing behind her.

What was he doing here?

Wasn’t he trying to avoid her? Why did he take the initiative to talk to her here?

“Good evening, Mr. Harding.” Natalie smiled awkwardly and tilted her head slightly.

Glancing at Sebastian’s face carefully from time to time, Garrett broke into a big smile and told Natalie, “Mr. Larson told me to take care of you tonight. Are you free? The Larson Group has invited some well-known designers here. Do you want to meet them?”

Natalie’s jaw dropped to the floor in shock, as though she was just informed that she had won the lottery.

“What—? Can I? Mr. Harding, are you sure? I’m just a nobody—”

“Of course. Mr. Larson needed to deal with some things tonight, so he told me to introduce you to the top designers in your field. They seldom come back. They all just happen to be here this time because of a fashion show. It’s a rare opportunity to meet them all in one place.” Garrett pushed his glasses up his nose and smiled politely.

Natalie pursed her lips, her eyes blinking a lot more than usual. Whenever she was nervous, this was her body’s physical response.

She looked at Sebastian, who nodded at her encouragingly.

“Okay then.” She pinched herself to make sure she wasn’t dreaming.

She followed Garrett to the group of designers. Garrett cleared his throat and said, “Sorry to disturb you, everyone. Allow me to introduce to you our newest and most promising designer, Quinn.”

Since someone like Garrett had gone out of his way to introduce her, the designers all looked at Natalie with great interest.

“You must be very talented!” One of the designers gave Natalie a thumbs up and smiled, which made Natalie feel welcome.

From local to international design trends, the conversation between the designers could’ve kept going forever.

But after a while, Garrett wanted Natalie to meet other important guests—business partners from clothing companies who had also attended the dinner party.

Hours passed and the party was coming to a close.

Sebastian had been sitting on the sofa in silence, sipping from his wine occasionally. Multiple women tried to accost him, but they all shrank back whenever the cold man looked at them sharply.

It wasn’t until Natalie wove through the crowd and came back that he finally broke into a smile. “Why don’t you talk to them some more? You came back so soon.”

Garrett had just suggested that Natalie go back to chat with the designers, but she had worried that Sebastian would be bored to death, so she came back to him.

Natalie smiled gently and was about to sit down next to Sebastian. She wanted to hang out with him, not the designers.

“I met them already. But now, I want to talk to—”

Before she could finished her sentence, Natalie jolted in shock.

Somebody had spilled a glass of wine on her from behind. Red wine stained her light blue dress and dripped at her feet, forming a red puddle.

Natalie turned around and saw who it was.

Cassie was standing beside her. She looked apologetic, but it somehow seemed exaggerated as she fought a complacent smile.

“Oh, I’m sorry. A waiter bumped against me now.”

She clamped her mouth with one hand and held the glass with the other, pretending to feel sorry for her.

Her apology didn’t seem sincere, for her every word dripped with contempt. “I didn’t mean it.”

“Why are you stopping me? I have the invitation.” Cassie angrily opened her bag and threw the invitation at him.

The Larson Group hadn’t invited the Quinn family. Cassie had bought the invitation from a friend.

Cassie had been single ever since she broke up with Jason a few days ago. She was used to having boyfriends at her beck and call. An emptiness would reside in her heart as if she had lost her purpose in life if she didn’t date anyone. Therefore, Cassie decided to attend the party and hook up with a golden bachelor.

Tired of feeling bored and lonely, Cassie was determined to find a wealthy, handsome boyfriend.

The escort took her invitation and then opened the guest list. He carefully compared the two. “I’m sorry, Ma’am. You’re not on the guest list. I’m afraid you’re not allowed to attend the party.”

Cassie’s ears burned with embarrassment.

Everyone who graced this hotel was rich and powerful. They all paused whatever they were doing now to glance at her with contempt.

“I have an invitation. Let me in already!” Cassie shouted indignantly, waving the invitation at the doorman’s face.

She normally got into these kinds of events like this. The staff never stopped to check the guests carefully before.

In Cassie’s delusional mind, she thought she was a socialite. Even though she wasn’t invited, she thought she deserved to attend the event.

She had even dressed up for the occasion and wore her most expensive accessories. She thought the staff wouldn’t dare to question her if she tried to enter the venue like this.

“I’m sorry. Rules are rules. You can’t enter using another person’s invitation.” The staff cast Cassie a cold glance and made a gesture, asking her to move out of the way.

Cassie had no choice but to step aside dejectedly.

Just as she was about to lose all hope, she caught a glimpse of Sebastian walking towards the banquet hall, hand in hand with Natalie.

Even Cassie had to admit that Sebastian looked quite handsome tonight. He had a nice figure and was very tall, standing at least a head above the crowd. He instantly drew the attention of the public, especially with his indescribable aura.

“Are you here to catch a glimpse of what you can’t have? They won’t let you in without an invitation. Don’t blame me for not giving you a heads up if you’re driven away.” Cassie crossed her arms over her chest and sneered at Natalie when they came close.

After all, what right did Natalie have to be here? She was basically begging to be insulted.

Sebastian looked at Cassie coldly. His eyes clouded over, as though they had been covered with a thin veil of frost.

This woman had been nothing but rude to Natalie. If it weren’t for the fact that she was his wife’s sister and that he wasn’t sure how Natalie felt about her, he would’ve taught her a lesson or two by now.

Natalie simply ignored Cassie and walked past her. With a faint smile on her face, she pulled out an invitation from her bag and handed it to the staff.

Cassie’s jaw practically dropped to the floor. How the hell did Natalie have an invitation?!

But Cassie quickly recovered. She figured that Natalie must’ve stolen the invitation. Since the staff here was particularly strict, surely they’d find out that Natalie was a fraud and would never let her in. Smirking, Cassie was ready to laugh at Natalie’s humiliation.

“Oh! Miss Quinn, please come in. Allow me to escort you inside.” To Cassie’s surprise, the staff didn’t even bother to look at the invitation and respectfully welcomed Natalie.

Through gritted teeth, she stopped them angrily. “What the hell?! You didn’t even check her identity!”

“Not here, sis.” Natalie shook her head and sighed, as though she was exhausted by Cassie’s behavior.

Cassie had humiliated the Quinn family in public time and time again. Lauren had really spoiled her. How could she not control herself even in public?

“What the hell is that supposed to mean? Why can’t I point out injustice when I see it? And how on earth do you have an invitation? It can’t be yours. You stole it from someone, didn’t you?!” Cassie was so furious that her face turned purple.

It wasn’t some third-rate dinner party. This was an event hosted by the Larson Group, a tycoon in the business world. It had taken Cassie a great deal of effort to get her hands on an invitation.

So how the fuck did Natalie get one?

Natalie didn’t answer her. Instead, she calmly opened the envelope, pulled out the invitation, and held it up in between her slender fingers.

“Here. See for yourself.”

To Cassie’s surprise, her name was on the invitation.

“What the hell?! How can this be—?!”

How did Natalie get an invitation in her name?

Cassie was shocked and green with envy.

Natalie had married Sebastian under her name. Of course it was Cassie’s name on the invitation.

But the question still stood: how did Natalie get an invitation to such an important occasion? Yes, she was an employee of the Larson Group, but she was a newbie and held no special position. How could a new employee be qualified to attend such a dinner party?

Exasperated and at a loss, Cassie could do nothing but look at Natalie in disbelief.

Natalie looked back at Cassie calmly. “There. Satisfied? We’ll go inside now.”

Cassie watched in silent rage as Natalie and Sebastian walked inside the venue.

She was so angry that she stomped her high heel on the marble floor. The sound of heels clacking echoed across the hotel hall.

Hearing this, Natalie turned around and sneered, “Why are you still here? Did you want to stay and get a glimpse of what you can’t have?”

Natalie smiled smugly. She gave Cassie a taste of her own medicine.

Cassie’s eyes were raging with anger. She glared at Natalie murderously, as though she would attack Natalie at any moment.

The dinner party was about to begin, but Cassie was still standing outside, the cold wind blowing at her.

She couldn’t let Natalie get away with this. No matter what, she needed to get inside the banquet hall.

More and more people streamed into the dinner party. A limousine slowly pulled to a stop outside the private hotel. A paunchy rich businessman who seemed to be at his fifties or sixties got off the car, supported by a female companion in her twenties.

It looked like a little kind-hearted girl was helping her frail grandfather cross the road.

“Mr. Sherman, you’re here!” With a bright, flirtatious smile on her face, Cassie sauntered over to the elderly businessman.

He had tried to hook up with Cassie before, but she had rejected his advances because he was old and fat.

But now, she had to put her hopes on him to get inside the venue.

Sebastian looked at her and smiled. Then, he picked up the remote and turned on the TV. “I just came home after a run, so I took a shower. I didn’t know you’d come back early.”

Natalie often worked overtime and came home late.

“Put on your clothes. Otherwise, I won’t be able to talk to you.” She covered her face with one hand whilst fanning herself with the other.

It was a scorching summer day.

Sebastian chuckled, shaking his head. Then, he picked up a black shirt from the sofa and put it on. “I’m dressed now. What do you want to say?”

Natalie blew out a loud breath and walked to the sofa. She took out the invitation from her bag and sat beside him. “Our company is holding a dinner party next week. Would you be able to join me?” she asked, studying his face.

She would feel safe only if he accompanied her.

Sebastian looked at the invitation and nodded. “Sure. Anyway, I’m free that day.”

Then, his eyes widened as if he remembered something. “Well, let me just grab my jacket, and I’ll take you to buy some clothes.”

Natalie frowned in confusion. “What clothes are you going to buy?”

Sebastian quickly buttoned his shirt. The black shirt clung to his pert muscles and complimented his skin tone. “If we don’t buy clothes, what will you wear to the dinner party?” he asked, arching an eyebrow.

“I have many dresses. I can pick something nice from my wardrobe.” Natalie frowned. “An evening dress is insanely expensive. We don’t have to waste money on that.”

Sebastian rubbed his temples and sighed. “I’ll pay for it. You can wear it for other important occasions in the future.”

“No, no! You have no idea how expensive they are.” Natalie shook her head fiercely. “Don’t buy me clothes. Otherwise, I won’t talk to you.”

“Okay, jeez. I won’t.” Sebastian rubbed her hair, amused by her response.

The dinner party of the Larson Group was held in a private hotel located at the heart of the city.

As Natalie got out of the taxi, her eyes widened in astonishment.

Luxury cars were lined up outside the hotel. People stepped out of their cars in branded clothes and jewelry. They were all big shots in the design field who had come along with their dates.

Natalie immediately frowned and looked at her dress. Her stomach flipped as she realized her outfit was too simple for the occasion. She faded in comparison to all the big wigs gracing the occasion.

Natalie realized that people born with a silver spoon had natural confidence and exuded a majestic aura.

“What’s wrong?” Sebastian got out of the taxi and closed the door. Seeing that Natalie was distracted, he placed his hand on the small of her back.

Natalie blinked and looked at him. Sebastian was wearing the same suit he had worn at their wedding. She seldom saw him dressed up this formally.

The man looked as majestic as the people attending the party. In fact, he somehow looked more regal than them. Sebastian looked calm and composed, exuding effortless confidence. Natalie couldn’t take her eyes off him.

His handsome countenance and outstanding temperament drew the attention of the people attending the party.

Natalie frowned in confusion. Sebastian had told her that he didn’t even have a decent job. How could a simple man like him emanate such a powerful aura?

“I don’t know. I have a strange feeling that I’m like Cinderella. Perhaps I’d be confronted with the truth tonight.” Natalie sighed with dejection as she nervously shifted her weight between her feet.

The people attending the party were either wealthy or influential. But Natalie was just an ordinary woman who was struggling to meet her old maid’s medical bills.

Sebastian smiled and leaned closer to Natalie. “Stop overthinking. These people could be wealthy enough to dress well for the occasion, but I’m sure they, too, have problems in life. Perhaps they are not as happy as you are. Don’t let looks deceive you,” he whispered into her ear.

“Oh, come on. Don’t joke to cheer me up. I’m not a fool.” Natalie grinned at the handsome man before her.

She didn’t realize her eyes were glinting with joy. Sebastian’s presence somehow made her feel at ease.

Sebastian was a great partner. He would always do or say something to make her happy.

However, today, his handsome countenance seemed to outshine his personality.

He was like a dazzling star, and all eyes were on him.

“All right. Stop frowning. Let’s go inside with happy faces.” Sebastian’s eyes shone with tenderness. He leaned closer and planted a soft kiss in the corner of her mouth, The cool night breeze swept across them, and the cicadas chirped.

Natalie giggled, oblivious that her curly hair had become messy because of the night breeze.

“Are you kidding me? Are you also here for the dinner party?” A shrill voice of a woman snapped Natalie out of her happy bubble.

Natalie turned around and saw Cassie glowering at her, anger and hatred evident in her eyes.

Cassie had witnessed the sweet interaction between the couple.

Natalie looked blissfully happy with Sebastian, who looked like a Greek God. They looked perfect for each other, and Cassie couldn’t bear to see that.

She hated Natalie with a vengeance and couldn’t watch her be happy. To Cassie, everyone in the world could be happy except for her.

The smile on Natalie’s face disappeared in an instant. ‘What a small world!’

“Yes.” Natalie shrugged nonchalantly.

“Are you aware of how important this dinner party is? It’s only meant for wealthy and influential people. What the hell are you doing here? You’re not qualified to attend such opulent parties.” Cassie sneered at her.

Natalie crossed her arms over her chest and glanced at Sebastian.

“Oh, really? But are you qualified to attend this party? Have you forgotten your identity?”

Sebastian’s face darkened when he saw Cassie. He fished out his phone and started texting someone.

Cassie was seething, but she had no choice but to hold back her anger.

After all, Sebastian believed that Natalie was the true heir of the Quinn family, while Cassie was the adopted daughter.

Fearing that Sebastian might find out the truth, Cassie remained silent.

She gritted her teeth and glared at Natalie.

“I’ll deal with you later.” Cassie rolled her eyes and walked toward the banquet hall of the hotel.

However, the escort at the door stopped her.

“Ma’am, please show us the invitation.”

At nine in the evening, Natalie finally returned home with a shopping bag.

She had gone to several men’s clothing shops, hoping to find the perfect outfit for Sebastian.

Unfortunately, she didn’t know his size. Therefore, she ended up buying a belt for him.

Sebastian put away the documents on the table and looked at Natalie. A frown lined his forehead as he realized she looked exhausted. “What happened? Why are you so late?”

He opened the refrigerator and took a bottle of soda.

“Well, I got caught up with something.” Natalie put the bag on the table and slumped on the sofa. “I’m thirsty. Grab me a bottle.”

After a moment’s thought, Sebastian frowned and pressed the soda bottle against her cheek. Then, he sat beside her. “No. Are you on your period?”

“Sebastian! How… how did you know that?” Natalie involuntary cupped her mouth with her palms and looked at him with wide eyes. She was both embarrassed and shocked.

It looked like the boundaries between them was getting thinner with every passing day.

Sebastian slung his arm around her shoulder and raised his chin toward the bathroom. “You’re very forgetful. You left the box of sanitary pads on the washbasin this morning. I’ve put them in the cabinet for you.”

Natalie didn’t know what to say. Sebastian tucked a loose strand of her hair behind her ear and smiled. “Did someone taunt you? You came home looking upset.”

Natalie sighed and told him everything about what Elaine had done at the shopping mall.

“Why didn’t you call me? I would have taught her a lesson for bullying you.” Sebastian’s face darkened. He leaned closer and pinched her cheek.

Natalie slapped Sebastian’s hand away and nestled closer to him. “I could handle it myself!” she said, blinking at him. “Besides, there were surveillance cameras everywhere.”

Sebastian arched an eyebrow in reprimand. “Well, thankfully, there were surveillance cameras this time. What if there wasn’t any way to prove your innocence?”

Natalie pursed her lips and played with her fingers.

“I didn’t think about it. Even otherwise, I don’t think you’d be able to prove my innocence. It would have only been unnecessary trouble for you.”

Sebastian looked at her as a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. “What makes you think I wouldn’t have been able to help you?”

Dealing with such a problem was a piece of cake for Sebastian. He could buy the entire shopping mall with the snap of a finger.

Every shop in the mall would belong to him, and his wife could just take anything she liked.

“By the way, I bought you a gift.” Natalie pointed at the bag on the table.

“Miss Quinn, you’ve acted fast. I’m impressed.” Sebastian’s face beamed with joy. He had only casually mentioned it in their conversation last night.

Sebastian picked up the bag on the table and opened it. Inside was a pure black leather belt. Although it looked stylish, the texture and quality were average. Sebastian knew that was all Natalie could get for her budget.

In his unoccupied villa, there were hundreds of belts with excellent workmanship that was a thousand times better than this one. However, Sebastian loved this belt more than anything else.

“It looks good.” Sebastian’s smile broadened, and his eyes twinkled with delight. He leaned forward and kissed the top of her head. His heart melted into a puddle at the sweetness of her gesture.

He happily clutched the belt.

Natalie smoothed her bangs and smiled.

She had chosen the belt in a hurry. Part of her had been worrying that Sebastian might not like it, but she was finally relieved to witness his reaction.

“Don’t try to be brave when you encounter problems like this again. I can always help you. Remember that.” Sebastian looked into her eyes. Their faces were inches apart; they could feel each other’s breath.

Natalie’s face turned hot when she met his gaze. His hot breath drove her insane. She curled up in his arms as countless thoughts exploded in her mind. She couldn’t comprehend her emotions.

Natalie’s mind instantly flitted to the passionate kiss they shared last night.

She quickly withdrew herself from his warm embrace.

“Oh, I… I see. I’m glad you like the gift. Well, it’s getting late. I’m going back to my room.”

Sebastian’s brows furrowed as he saw Natalie sprint into her room. He didn’t bother chasing after her.

Something seemed wrong. Sebastian understood that Natalie didn’t think he was capable enough to help her, and that was why she didn’t call him for help.

It looked like he had to get close to Natalie as Brandon.

Even if Natalie didn’t ask him for help, she could always resort to Brandon’s aid.

The next day, when Natalie was engrossed in work, her phone chimed.

It was a private message from Brandon.

“The Larson Group is holding a dinner party next week. I want you to attend it on behalf of the design department.”

Natalie was taken aback.

“No, no, no! I don’t think it’s a good idea,” Natalie muttered to herself, staring at the screen.

She was a new employee of the company. How could she attend such a ceremonious occasion?

Natalie quickly typed her message. “Mr. Larson, why don’t you ask Ms. Fisher to attend the party? I’ve never been to such opulent parties before. I’m afraid I might end up making a fool of myself and bring disgrace to the design department.”

Brandon quickly replied, “Fisher isn’t available that night. Many big shots and prestigious people in the design field will attend the party. You can get to know them and increase your contacts. It will help your career in the long run.

His words reminded Natalie of what Ike had previously done to her. She was afraid that history might repeat itself.

A shiver ran down her spine.

Just as she wondered how to refuse, Brandon sent another message.

“Don’t worry. This is a formal dinner party organized by our company. Garrett and other senior executives will also attend it. Besides, you can bring a date.”

Natalie’s eyes widened. She looked around to see if the CEO was watching her through a secret camera. He was talking to her as if he had read her mind.

Natalie breathed a sigh of relief after knowing that she could bring someone to accompany her.

She could take Sebastian with her. That way, she would feel safe and protected.

After work, the HR department sent Natalie an invitation to the dinner party. It was an elegant gilded envelope written in a beautiful font.

The invitation revealed the Larson Group’s power and wealth.

When Natalie arrived home, she was surprised to find that Sebastian was already back.

He walked out of the bathroom in nothing but a towel, water dripping from his hair. His chiseled muscles flexed with every move.

“Sebastian, why are you not wearing any clothes?” Natalie hurriedly turned her face as a blush flamed her cheeks.

“Chris, I didn’t take the wallet. If I agree to pay ten times its price, it’ll just prove that I’m guilty, right?” Natalie spoke calmly. There wasn’t a trace of panic in her voice.

Elaine eavesdropped from the sidelines. She thought that Natalie was just too proud to accept Christopher’s money. But it was futile. Did she think that the police could prove her innocence?

Anyway, the wallet was found in Natalie’s pocket, and what had really happened wasn’t caught on the store’s security camera. That meant that Natalie, by default, was the thief.

Unable to contain her excitement, Elaine urged the shop manager to call the police already. “The thief can’t pay you. You’re wasting your time if you don’t call the police right now.”

The shop manager agreed and called the police. It didn’t take long before two men in uniform strolled into the shop.

When the police arrived, Elaine immediately ran up to them, dragging Natalie behind her. “Sir, it’s her who stole from this store, but she still doesn’t want to admit it.”

“Please hold on. I want you to check the security camera footage. I have evidence to prove that I didn’t steal the wallet, but was framed,” Natalie said with a confident smile.

Elaine narrowed her eyes at her, sniggering as though she had heard a dirty joke. “What tricks are you playing? Didn’t we just check the store’s security footage?”

“I’m not talking about this shop’s security camera. I’m talking about the security cameras in the shopping mall’s corridor.” Suddenly, Natalie turned around and pointed to the security cameras in the corridor right outside the shop.

In order to attract more customers, the shop’s storefront was made of glass, so the security cameras in the corridor could easily capture what went on inside the store through the glass walls.

“Please check the mall’s security cameras. The footage from that angle should be able to prove that I didn’t steal anything,” Natalie said calmly, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

“Don’t listen to her! She’s probably just stalling for time and plans to run away when you’re not looking!” Hearing Natalie’s calm explanation, Elaine was the one who was filled with panic. All the color drained from her face as she urgently tried to convince the policemen.

After all, she was the one who slipped the wallet into Natalie’s pocket, taking advantage of the blind spot of the store’s security camera. But she didn’t take into consideration the mall’s security cameras. If what she had done was really captured on video, she would be doomed.

“Elaine, I’m just asking the police to check the mall security cameras. Why are you so scared?” Natalie looked at her with fake empathy, although her eyes flashed dangerously.

Flustered, Elaine forced herself to keep calm. “If the thief isn’t scared, why should I be?”

As requested, the police immediately checked the mall’s security footage.

Everyone held their breath and peered at the computer screen, wondering what tricks Natalie would play. After all, the wallet had been found in her pocket.

While the footage was a little pixelated, it was still very clear that Elaine had stood next to Natalie and, under the cover of her body, secretly took the wallet from the shelf and slipped it into Natalie’s coat pocket.

What a twist!

Elaine stared at the computer screen, dumbfounded.

“Elaine, you haven’t changed one bit. All you know is to bring trouble for the others.” Natalie sneered.

“I didn’t… No… It’s…” Elaine panicked. She finally understood why Natalie was stubborn about not agreeing to the compensation but insisted on calling the police.

If no one had called the police, Elaine could have gotten away with the problem by paying the price to the shop manager even if they found out she had flicked the wallet.

However, the arrival of the police worsened the situation. They just couldn’t solve the problem in private anymore.

Christopher shook his head in disappointment. He didn’t expect Elaine to be shameless enough to do such a cheap thing. “Elaine, was it you who did that?”

The unmistakable evidence proved Elaine was the culprit.

Elaine couldn’t get away with the crime no matter how hard she tried. She lowered her head in shame, for she couldn’t come up with an excuse. “I… I didn’t do it on purpose,” she tried explaining.

However, Natalie knew she was lying. Elaine was bluffing now to escape from the problem.

Natalie looked away from Elaine. After all, the woman was a hopeless liar.

The police quickly stopped Elaine. “You are suspected of theft and false accusation. Come with us, please.”

Elaine stepped back and tried defending herself. “No, I won’t come with you. I can compensate by paying ten times the price of the wallet. Please don’t take me away.”

“You are the suspect of this crime. There is no point in compensating now. This is a police case now, and the people who have filed a complaint do not intend to let you go,” a policeman said mercilessly.

Hearing this, Elaine grabbed Natalie’s hand and pleaded, “Natalie, can you let go of me this time? Please show mercy. I know I made a mistake. I will never hurt you again. I promise.”

“You tried ruining my reputation last time in the Larson Group, and tried framing me for theft now. What makes you think I’ll let go of you?” Natalie asked calmly.

If she didn’t teach Elaine a lesson, the woman would continue to bother her.

“Sir, you can handle the case according to the law.”

Elaine sneered, fury blazing in her eyes. “Why are you so cruel? It’s all because of you! I won’t let you go!”

Her words dripped with malice. Natalie shrugged indifferently.

“I have never intended to harm you in any way. But you have been making things difficult for me time and again right from college. Elaine, it’s time for you to introspect and realize what all you have done. Don’t even think of bothering me again. Otherwise, you’ll have to face the consequences. It will be worse than this.”

Natalie scoffed at Elaine and stormed out of the shop with her bag.

Christopher followed her out, guiltily lowering his eyes.

“I’m sorry. It’s all my fault. I remember Elaine confessing her love for me before. Has she been troubling you because of that?”

The setting sun cast a soft glow on Natalie. She shook her head and sighed. “Don’t beat yourself about it, Chris. Elaine is a crazy woman. Besides, you already rejected her proposal in college. It’s not your fault.”

“Well, do you want me to continue helping you with the gift?” Christopher asked hesitantly.

Natalie checked the time on her phone: it was almost seven in the evening. “Forget it.” She waved her hands dismissively. “You better go home. I’ll look around.”

Before Christopher could respond, Natalie hurriedly sprinted off.

“Miss, please wait!” The store manager ran over and blocked Natalie’s way.

Everyone in the store also turned to look at her curiously.

“Is she a thief?”

“She doesn’t look like one…”

Natalie frowned slightly and was even more confused.

She hadn’t taken anything and had walked past the door twice. “Why is the alarm going off? Is it broken?”

“Miss, have you taken anything that you haven’t paid for?” The manager smiled politely.

Natalie tilted her head to the side and replied calmly, “No.”

But the alarm kept ringing incessantly.

With an embarrassed look, the manager leaned closer and whispered, “Miss, please tell us the truth, or we will have no choice but to frisk you.”

Just then, Elaine sauntered over.

“Hey, what’s that in your pocket?” Pretending to be shocked, Elaine pointed at the pocket of Natalie’s coat.

Natalie frowned and fished her hand into her pocket. Sure enough, there was something inside. To her surprise, she pulled out a wallet.

With a puzzled look, Elaine pointed at an empty spot on the shelf and said to the manager, “Look over there. Are you missing a wallet?”

The manager looked at the wallet in Natalie’s hand. His eyes instantly darkened and he said with disdain, “Yes, this is the most expensive wallet in our store.”

Hearing this, Elaine feigned shock and her hand flew to cover her mouth. “I always thought those things they said about you were just rumors back then. It turns out that our classmates were right all along. Why do you still misbehave? You’ve even resorted to stealing!”

Natalie looked back at her, bewildered. She had no idea how the wallet had ended up in her pocket.

She slapped the wallet onto the counter and said firmly, “I didn’t take this. I’ve never stolen anything in my life. You stop trying to ruin my reputation. If you don’t believe me, check the store’s security camera footage.”

“Yes, check the footage. My friend’s always been a decent, upright person. She would never do such a thing.” Christopher stood by Natalie firmly.

Irritated, Elaine crossed her arms over her chest. “Christopher, haven’t you heard what people have said about her back in college? She’s not as decent as you think.”

“Elaine, unlike you, I don’t fall for whatever other people say so easily.” Christopher’s usually gentle eyes turned fierce in that moment.

“Then check the security camera footage!” Elaine snorted and said nothing more.

The best way to have this matter cleared was to check the security cameras.

And so the manager scurried off to check the footage, as asked. In the video, Natalie and Christopher were standing next to the shelf with the wallet. Unfortunately, Elaine’s body blocked Natalie’s, including her arms. So it was impossible to see whether Natalie had taken the wallet or not.

Elaine smiled smugly. She sneered, “Just admit it already. Did you steal the wallet?”

Natalie frowned deeply. “The footage can’t prove that I stole the wallet. Why are you so hell-bent on slandering me? Perhaps it was you who took the wallet and slipped it into my pocket to frame me.”

Elaine’s nostrils flared and her eyes went wide. To cover up her ploy, she raised her voice and pointed a finger at Natalie. “Don’t you dare accuse me! The wallet was found in your pocket, so obviously, you were the one who stole it!”

“Elaine, how many times do we have to say that the footage doesn’t show that it was Natalie who stole it? Stop framing her.” Christopher looked at her coldly and added, “I know she didn’t steal the wallet.”

Elaine had wanted to paint Natalie as a thief so that Christopher would dislike her. But now that Christopher was even protecting Natalie, Elaine was utterly enraged.

“Christopher, just how well do you know Natalie? Maybe she’s not the good girl you make her out to be. There were a lot of rumors about her back in college. Her classmates wouldn’t make up stories for no reason. Plus, now she’s trying to put the blame on me. You heard it yourself!” Elaine’s voice was shrill, which made her sound as though she really believed what she was saying.

Clenching her fists, Natalie said through gritted teeth, “You were the one who started all those rumors. Years have passed and we’re supposed to be more mature now. Haven’t you grown up yet?”

At the time, Natalie had ignored what Elaine did because they were about to graduate. There was no use getting worked up over such a trivial thing.

“How dare you accuse me of starting those rumors? Do you have any proof?”

Elaine couldn’t help but snicker at Natalie’s stupidity. They had graduated years ago. Even if Elaine indeed was the one who spread the rumors, Natalie had no evidence.

Moreover, the video didn’t show that Elaine deliberately framed Natalie.

All the bystanders in the store watched this scene unfold with great interest. Since the wallet was found in Natalie’s pocket, surely she was the prime suspect.

“But she’s so pretty. I’d never have thought she was a thief!”

“You know what they say: you can’t judge a book by its cover.”

Hearing their whispers, Christopher raised his head and cleared his throat loudly. “The matter hasn’t been investigated thoroughly. Don’t draw conclusions just yet.”

The manager couldn’t just let Natalie go after what happened. “Miss, store policy dictates that you have to pay ten times the price of what you stole. The wallet was found in your pocket. You must pay us back, or we’ll call the police.”

Natalie looked at him, speechless.

Hesitating, she clutched her bag so tightly until her knuckles turned white. Suddenly, she saw something at the corridor outside the store.

Turning around, she sneered smugly. “Okay. Call the police.”

Elaine’s eyes widened as she couldn’t believe her luck. Snickering, she said arrogantly, “It sounds like you don’t have the money to pay for it. That’s probably why you resorted to stealing, you poor thing.”

Elaine nearly jumped with joy. If Natalie was sent to jail for shoplifting, her career would be ruined.

Elaine’s words undoubtedly smeared Natalie’s name even further.

“I’m asking the manager to call the police precisely because I didn’t steal the wallet! Why do I have to pay ten times the item’s price? I’ll wait for the police to deal with this matter.” Natalie’s voice was clear, confident, and had no trace of fear.

But Elaine was unfazed. She firmly believed that Natalie would be put behind bars. Seeing Natalie act as stubborn as a mule, she couldn’t help but sneer with satisfaction.

Realizing that this matter was about to get out of hand, Christopher decided to put an end to this.

He pulled Natalie aside and said in a low voice, “How about this? I’ll pay for it. The Larson Group values its reputation. If they find out about this, you’ll probably be fired. Besides, the wallet was found in your pocket. If they really call the police, you might really end up in jail.”

“Okay. What do you want to do?”

Sebastian pressed his lips against her bare neck then finally pulled away. With a gentle smile, he winked and said, “Figure it out yourself. I know you’re tired. Go to bed.”

Then he turned around and went back to his room to get changed.

The next day, after work, Natalie went to a shopping mall nearby.

It was on the most bustling commercial street in the city. Some kind of a fun activity was going on in the shopping mall. Many children were performing on the stage as people cheered and clapped for them.

When Natalie entered the mall, she was almost knocked down by the crowd. Suddenly, a strong hand gripped her arm and pulled her back.

Natalie turned around and saw Christopher smiling at her. He was wearing a denim blue shirt and matching jeans. “Be careful. Otherwise, they might drag you to the stage to perform.”

“Thank you, Chris.” Natalie smiled sheepishly as she smoothed her bangs. “Why are you here?”

“I went to the grocery store nearby and bought some daily necessities.” Christopher lifted his bags and waved them at her. “What about you?” he asked, arching an eyebrow.

“Well, I came to pick up a gift for my husband.” Natalie looked away as a blush flamed her cheeks.

The smile on Christopher’s face vanished in an instant. His heart sank with dejection. He quickly forced a smile, trying to look normal. “Why didn’t you bring your husband with you? Do you need my advice?”

Christopher seldom got the chance to be with Natalie alone. Therefore, he wanted to stay with her, even though it meant he had to help her pick a gift for her husband.

Afraid that Sebastian might not like her choice of gift, Natalie thought it might be a good idea to get a man’s opinion. After a moment’s thought, she nodded. “Okay. Thank you, Chris.”

The two strolled into an opulent leather product store.

Glancing around, Christopher picked up a reddish-brown leather wallet and handed it to Natalie. “The wallets here are good. What do you think?”

“Yes, I love the color.” Natalie’s eyes lit up. “You have good taste, Chris.”

Christopher smiled bitterly.

The two of them were busy examining the wallet, so they didn’t see Elaine staring at them through the glass door.

Elaine had just come out of a clothing store opposite the leather shop. The blood on her face drained when she saw Natalie and Christopher interacting with such intimacy.

‘Are they together?’ she wondered.

Elaine couldn’t find a satisfactory job after she got fired from the Larson Group. She had no choice but to work for a small company to make ends meet.

Her pathetic life only made her hate Natalie even more. She felt the woman had ruined her bright future.

Bile rose in her throat when she saw Natalie and Christopher shopping happily in the mall.

She felt that Natalie was a slut, who must have seduced Christopher after joining the Larson Group.

Just as Natalie and Christopher were busy choosing the right wallet, they heard Elaine’s voice. “Hi! What a surprise to run into you two here!”

After a short pause, Natalie forced a smile. “Elaine! Long time no see.”

It was a small world, after all.

Since Christopher was not familiar with Elaine, he greeted her with a polite ‘Hello’.

“Would you like to have dinner with me? We three haven’t seen each other for a long time. After all, we used to be schoolmates. And Quinn, I want to apologize for what happened before. I misunderstood you.”

Elaine shook her head sadly and looked around as if she had no intention of leaving.

“No, I’m going home for dinner.” Natalie smiled politely.

She was aware of Elaine’s hypocrisy.

Moreover, her relationship with Elaine wasn’t good enough to have dinner with her.

Christopher didn’t bother beating around the bush, so he bluntly said, “Elaine, I don’t think we are close enough to have dinner together.”

Elaine’s face flushed with embarrassment. She remained silent.

With that, Natalie and Christopher put down the wallets, intending to leave.

However, as soon as Natalie arrived at the door, the anti-theft sensor on the door instantly turned red and began to beep aloud, startling everyone.