Chapter 34 Natalie’s Helplessness
“Let me go. What are you trying to do? Release me!”
Natalie, trying desperately to muster the strength despite being clearly overserved, shoved Garrett forcefully and yelled, "I told you I can get home by myself. Give me my phone."
“Wait! What are you doing?"
At that moment, an anxious, lean, and handsome young man who had been intently observing the scene stood up quickly and stepped forward to block the trio's path, demanding, "What are you dragging Natalie for? Amelia, return Natalie’s phone to her!"
The commotion here had grown too large, drawing curious looks from other guests, and also catching the attention of fellow classmates nearby.
A few unruly students smirked and rose to stand beside Garrett, menacingly fixing their gaze upon the young man who now blocked their way.
Seeing someone stand up for her, Natalie cried out to the rescuer, “Luke, make them let go of me.”
"Luke, you, do not meddle in this matter! Walk away," said Amelia as she gently pushed the intervening youth.
This young man is the idol that Amelia had been secretly infatuated with, possessing both striking looks and a sweet demeanor akin to a star. Although lacking a certain masculinity, he was known for his kindness and had the best academic record among the school’s males, drawing the affection of many female students.
However, Luke harbored a secret and absolute affection for Natalie, and she was fond of him in return.
Though they had not established an official relationship, mutual feelings of affection were present between them, and today, Luke had hoped to find the opportunity to confess his feelings to Natalie. He never expected that as soon as they entered the hotel, he would be dragged to another table by a few of Garrett’s underlings, leaving him to watch helplessly as Natalie was plied with drinks by Garrett, Amelia, and others.
As Luke witnessed Natalie being coerced into drinking by the group, he was angry but dared not speak out until he saw them attempting to take Natalie away. He finally mustered the courage to intervene.
“Amelia, your behavior is utterly uncalled for. Natalie places so much trust in you, considering you her best friend! How can you do that?”
Before Luke could finish, Garrett delivered a stinging slap to the young man’s fair, delicate cheek.
"Luke, are you asking for trouble? Get out of my way. I’m in a good mood today and don't want to cause a scene. Move away, or I’ll make you regret it,” Garrett hissed threateningly at Luke while the ruffians behind him clenched their fists and crowded in, intimidating Luke.
"Luke! You damn well know my temper! If you don't wise up, mark my words; the next few months will be anything but pleasant for you! I assure you, I can make it so that you won't feel like preparing for the college entrance examination, believe it or not. And another thing! Don't forget, your dad's job is still something I arranged for him through my father! Now, get lost!"
“Garrett, stop this! It’s illegal. Everyone is watching,”
Intimidated by Garrett’s outburst, Luke turned pale, trembling, still imploringly bent halfway towards Garrett.
“Let me go! Luke, get my phone back for me! What are you trying to do? Who will help me?”
Natalie struggled furiously, but her inebriated state left her powerless against the grip of Garrett, Amelia, and Grace.
The surrounding students displayed expressions ranging from gravity to schadenfreude, but none stepped forward to assist. Not even someone to speak up on Natalie’s behalf was to be found.
An unsettling silence fell among them; a few girls even indulged in hushed gossip, seemingly delighted by Natalie’s plight.
She saw Luke, frail and defeated, slink off to the side, his cheek flaming from the brutal slap while her classmates distanced themselves indifferently. Her eyes filled with indignation and despair.
“Luke! You are a coward! All of you. You’re all despicable!” Natalie screamed with her last ounce of strength, pushing away Garrett and Amelia, desperately seeking help.
But she was shoved hard from behind by Grace, and her woozy body stumbled before crashing to the ground.
“Look at you, Natalie. You can barely stand! I will take you home,” Garrett smirked triumphantly and, along with Amelia, stepped forward to help Natalie to her feet, dragging her towards the exit.
Just then, the door of the private dining room was abruptly pushed open.
Kevin stood at the entrance with a thunderous expression. Seeing Garrett and Amelia hauling Natalie, he coldly bellowed at them, “What are you doing?”
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