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Novel Catalog
Chapter 38 I Am Not Lying
memory loss and confusion. It’s a well-known fact,” Cecilia said, her tone measured and calm, though her words were laced with subtle defensiveness.
Nathaniel’s eyes narrowed, his gaze never leaving her. He was skeptical but couldn’t help but wonder if she truly believed the facade she was presenting.
“Depression, huh?” Nathaniel’s voice remained cool and detached. “Is that why you disappeared without a trace for four years? Is that why you faked your death, and then reappeared as if nothing happened?”
Cecilia’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of her disappearance. She had expected this confrontation, but hearing him bring it up so directly was something else. She forced herself to keep her composure, not wanting to reveal any weakness.
“I did what I had to do,” she said softly, almost as if speaking to herself. “And that was in the past. What matters now is what I do moving forward.”
Nathaniel leaned against the doorframe, crossing his arms. His eyes remained fixed on her, as if trying to peel back the layers of her story.
“You say that, but the past is what brought us here,” he said, his voice now tinged with a hint of frustration. “You disappeared, left me in the dark, and now you show up with your own company and a plan to invest in our charity. How do I know you’re not just playing me again?”
Cecilia took a deep breath. The weight of his words hit her, but she couldn’t afford to let it show. She had a plan—she needed to get close to Nathaniel, and this was just the beginning.
“I’m not playing anyone,” she replied steadily. “I have no intention of revisiting old wounds. I’m here for the charity, and if I can help, I will. As for the past, I can’t change it, but I’m trying to make amends in my own way.”
Nathaniel studied her for a moment, still unsure whether to believe her or dismiss it all as another elaborate act. Yet, despite the icy exterior, something in his expression softened for a brief moment.
“If you’re truly here for the charity,” Nathaniel said, his voice returning to its usual controlled tone, “then we can talk business. But don’t think for a second that I’ve forgotten about everything else.”
Cecilia nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. She knew Nathaniel well enough to understand that his trust wasn’t easily earned. But she was willing to play the long game.
“I understand,” she replied. “Let’s talk business then.”
With that, the tension between them remained thick, but at least the formalities of their interaction had shifted back to something more neutral—something that might, in time, lead to the opportunity she so desperately needed.
