Echoes Of a Forsaken Heart

Chapter 246 Hamilton's heart skipped a beat.

Suddenly, he found himself at a loss for words.

In the past, he would have defiantly declared, "My woman, who dares to look down on her?" But now, it seemed he couldn't say those words with any conviction.

Because of him, she had indeed endured a lot of hardships.

And now, she was even being berated by the old man at has worthless.

Even so, his heart was still uneasy.

Because her future plans didn't seem to include him.

Yet, seeing the fatigue on her face, he ultimately held back his words.

Regardless of whether her future plans included him or not, her life could only belong to him.

The sleek black Maybach silently glided through the streets.

Finally, he parked in front of a dessert shop that was still open.

In no time, he emerged with a serving of tiramisu.

Natalia reached out to take it, but Hamilton didn't hand it over.

Instead, he offered her a fork and opened the box for her.

Natalia, guided by his hand, forked a piece into her mouth. As the sweet, rich flavor spread, she felt a bit less weary. Watching her satisfied expression, Hamilton couldn't help but chuckle.

"Why do you like this stuff so much?" "Because it's delicious." She paused, then added.

Hamilton used to love sweets as a kid.

Back then, she would give him lollipops, which he would always have in his mouth.

Natalia glanced at the cake in Hamilton's hand.

"Don't you like sweets?" Hamilton looked at her, his finger brushing her lips, "I used to not care for them, but now, suddenly, I'm curious." Natalia handed him the fork.

But Hamilton suddenly leaned in closer.

It was as if he desperately wanted to taste the cake, and upon their lips meeting, he delved deeper.

The taste of chocolate spread in their mouths, and his kisses grew more fervent.

Natalia found herself pinned beneath him, unable to move.

The cake was set aside on the center console as he pressed down on her more fully.

His kisses trailed from the side of her lips to her cheek, then down to her neck and collarbone.

As the weather grew warmer, Natalia wore only a light blouse.

Hamilton's hand slid under the hem, and Natalia quickly grasped his wrist.

Hamilton paused.

Then he bit her earlobe forcefully, "Natalia, I've missed you." Natalia stiffened, and Hamilton's kisses fell upon her once again.

Their clothes rustled with urgency.

Just when things seemed to spiral out of control, Natalia bit down on his lip forcefully.

Hamilton, gripping her waist, gave a firm squeeze before letting go.

"Miss me, Natalia?" His voice was husky.

Natalia pushed him away, "Stop it, I'm really exhausted." Hamilton laughed softly, "Yeah, I've felt it; you're wet." Natalia threw the fork at him in response.

Hamilton laughed again and started the car.

When he finally stopped, he noticed she had somehow fallen asleep.

Sighing softly, he got out, opened the passenger door, and carried her out.

Natalia woke with a start, "Are we there? Putdown, I can walk." Hamilton didn't listen, carrying her straight into the building.

At her door, he finally set her down.

"I want to stay over tonight, okay?" Natalia kicked him, "Go home!" Hamilton chuckled, "Get srest, Natalia. Don't wear yourself out. I'm always here for you, whenever you need me." Natalia bit her lip, then nodded.

Just as she was about to enter, Hamilton called out to her again.

"About what I told you before, don't trust anyone else with it-not Mason, not Ronin." Natalia frowned slightly.

Though she didn't understand why he said that, she nodded in agreement.

The NorthSuburb project had taken half a month of negotiations before finally being settled.

Mason was surprised at their progress.

"I didn't expect you guys to be so efficient." Natalia smiled, "We've already delayed long enough, and besides, our agreement is almost up, isn't it?" Mason looked at her, his gaze darkening, but he showed only pride, "You've worked hard. How's your mother doing?" At the mention of Tatiana, Natalia hesitated slightly.

"Not too well, still in the ICU." Mason sighed, "Don't be too upset. Take care of yourself." Natalia nodded, "Thank you, President Joyner." The NorthSuburb project, involving new district development, meant even the launch ceremony was bustling. Natalia stood on stage, handling reporters with ease and eloquence.

Ronin felt a pang of jealousy beside her.

"Mason, such a capable woman, and you're not making her your daughter-in-law. Don't you think it's a pity?" Mason remained silent, his gaze on Natalia growing darker.

Natalia was indeed impressive. He had never expected her to secure the NorthSuburb project.

Not just because the land was difficult to acquire.

But also because the city government hadn't intended to let Ron Group have it.

Mason had known this all along.

After all, in Silkwood City, Ron Group was still considered a newcomer without deep roots.

But what he hadn't anticipated was Natalia's ability to clinch the project, surprising everyone by swapping the bid documents at the last minute-documents even her assistants hadn't seen.

Many city officials attended today, and as Natalia spoke of the newm district development, admiration was evident in their eyes. Mason's brow furrowed slightly.

Natalia had indeed exceeded his expectations.

Meanwhile, elsewhere.

Orpheus watched Natalia on the live broadcast, anger making him slap Patrick across the face.

"So, this is your guarantee that she wouldn't secure the project?" Patrick's face was just as grim.

He thought he had it all under control, having greased the palms of those around Natalia. If he could just get his hands on their proposal, he was sure Natalia wouldn't stand a chance at clinching the deal. What he hadn't counted on was Natalia pulling a fast one at the last minute, swapping out the proposal for another. "It's not my fault, it's that sneaky Natalia," he fumed.

In a fit of rage, Orpheus kicked Patrick out of the room. "You're useless, get out!" Patrick looked up at him with puppy eyes, "But what about my funding?" Orpheus was livid, "Dream on about your funding!" With that, he stormed off, but just as he reached the door, his phone rang.

"Orpheus, I've heard there's a fresh catch in town. Care to try something new?" A glint appeared in Orpheus's eye. He was always one to remember his mentor's advice.

But today, his frustrations got the better of him, and he certainly needed an outlet. "Wait for me." With that, he ended the call.

Meanwhile, Hamilton was waiting for Natalia downstairs when his phone buzzed.

"The fish has taken the bait."