Chapter 494
Ultimately, Susan's reputation lay in ruins. While Natalie and Oliver played a role, the true driving force behind Susan's downfall was the idle gossip circulating among the heiresses and ladies of leisure.
Natalie felt no sympathy; in fact, she could almost clap for joy.
A few days later...
Mr. Liam delivered a report, "Sir, the Hastings family called and said they would like to visit tomorrow."
Natalie was immersed in her book and looked up briefly.
‘Is this the ‘explanation’ and ‘accountability’ the Hastings family promised?’
Oliver nodded, organizing a reception in one of the outer rooms at Rosewood Estate, before he asked. "Will you join us?"
Natalie nodded in response.
…
The Hastings sent Samuel to represent them and accompany Susan.
As Oliver wheeled Natalie into the room, Samuel stared at her.
She had taken great care of herself, appearing radiant in a coral pink dress. Her beauty and poise eclipsed that of many socialites.
In contrast, Susan appeared as a shadow of former self—frail and detached, sitting on the couch in a daze.
"Oliver, Natalie," Samuel began with a solemn tone, his voice carrying a veneer of formality, "My mother has been sent abroad, and I’m sorry she can’t offer her apologies to you personally."
He paused, his gaze shifting to Susan before he resumed, "I brought my sister here to apologize to Natalie. Additionally, the Hastings family has arranged some form of compensation."
"Susan doesn’t look like she came to apologize though,” Natalie remarked with a fake smile.
Susan's expression was cold. She naturally did not wish to come here, but the Hastings family insisted. In the end, she acquiesced, only because she wanted to see Oliver once more. She wanted to see the current state of their relationship.
Previously at the Hastings family’s mansion, it was evident to all that Natalie and Oliver were experiencing difficulties in their relationship. Natalie had even removed her wedding ring.
Susan was eager to discover if their relationship had truly ended.
Alas, here was Natalie, parading around Rosewood Estate as if she still were the lady of the house, unaffected by any changes.
Susan scoffed disdainfully.
"It seems like she still doesn’t recognize her mistake,” Natalie continued, “I’m not the kind to force people to apologize if they don’t mean it.”
The others thought Natalie would then suggest they move past the incident, but she said, “Since you refuse to apologize, I’ll see you in court.”
Samuel was slightly shocked.
A pang of fear struck Susan’s heart, but she quickly regained her composure. “I’ve done nothing wrong. Why would I fear going to court? Natalie, you’re the one who should be worried.”
"We’ll see about that once we’re in court,” Natalie replied icily, maintaining a poise and dignity. Then, she continued, “Everyone in the Hastings family knows what you did. The scar on my arm speaks volumes. It’s not my style to bully others. Since we’re going to court, you should remember to rehearse your story with your family. Try to come up with a story without holes.”
Susan and Natalie both knew the truth of the matter, but Natalie had the audacity to stand her ground and speak so confidently. Susan was shocked, struck deeply by Natalie’s words.
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