Chapter 75 A Glimmer of Hope
Adrian stepped into his study, the soft hum of the computer booting up filled the room. His eyes were drawn to an email from Brice, the subject line simply read, "Natalie." He scanned the contents of the email multiple times, each word and image painting a vivid portrait of a woman named Natalie, who reveled in vanity and had a penchant for posing nude in various adult establishments. Adrian's jaw tightened, his teeth grinding together as he recalled the previous night's indiscretions. His anger flared, fueled by his own lack of control. How could he have possibly developed an interest in such a woman?---Today marked Natalie's scheduled visit to Rosalie. The aftermath of Adrian's outburst the previous night had left her body aching and sore. She mustered the strength to rise and prepare herself for the day. As she made her way towards the Cullen Villa, she noticed Avery's arranged car already waiting for her. Before entering the vehicle, a blindfold was secured over her eyes. Throughout the journey, she strained to decipher her surroundings through the darkness. The car took a sudden turn, only to circle back, an apparent diversion tactic. Accompanied by a bodyguard, Natalie attempted to make small talk, her voice soft and gentle, "I'm a little thirsty. Is there a shop nearby where we could buy some water?"The bodyguard, charmed by Natalie's demeanor, didn't refuse. "Sure, wait here, Eric. Pull over."Upon his return, he handed Natalie a bottle of water and a chocolate pastry. "Have something to eat. We'll be there soon.""Thank you."The bodyguard was merely doing his job, tasked with overseeing this woman's visit to the hospital. Natalie's pleasant demeanor made his job easier, putting him in a good mood. "Miss, who is the person you're visiting in the hospital?""That's my mother.""That's a tough disease to treat. My friend's father had it. He had to undergo dialysis every day. In the end, he couldn't hold on."Natalie said, "In this world, as long as there is hope, we should strive for it. That way, we won't have any regrets."She took a bite of the chocolate bread, the taste was familiar. The rich chocolate flavor and dusting of cocoa powder were distinctive. Natalie savored it before tucking the leftover bread into her pocket. ---Approximately fifteen minutes later, the car came to a halt. Natalie stepped out and into the hospital. Rosalie's condition had improved significantly. Despite her frail appearance, her eyes sparkled with life."Natalie, how much does it cost to stay here? It's too expensive. I'm fine now. We can go back home," Rosalie pleaded, clutching Natalie's hand.Tears welled up in Natalie's eyes at the sight of Rosalie. She yearned to take her mother home. Unbeknownst to Rosalie, she was essentially imprisoned in the hospital room by Avery, with security guards stationed outside. Natalie decided to spare Rosalie the harsh reality, reassuring her, "Mom, don't worry. I have money. Mr. Cullen lent me some before, and I still have a lot left. Mom, you can stay here peacefully. Besides studying, I also have to work. I will save money diligently. Mom, you don't have to worry, but I can't come to see you often.""Silly child, my body is already like this. It can't be cured. Even if I have surgery, it will only extend my life for a few more years...""Mom..." Natalie hugged Rosalie.
Rosalie said, "That day, I dreamt of your father and brother. I thought they were going to take me with them. I followed them and kept walking, but then I heard you calling me. I couldn't bear to leave you. You're my only family."