Chapter 48: I Want Someone Like Nathael

The Gatlins weren't just wealthy; they were extraordinarily wealthy, far surpassing even the most affluent families. Mia's father, Jordan, had made his fortune in real estate and internet technology. By the time Mia was born, the family had already amassed a substantial fortune, resulting in Mia's upbringing amidst extravagant luxury. Jordan, having lost his wife early, never remarried and spoiled his daughter immensely, shaping Mia's temperament.

"Maggie" Mia removed her sunglasses, revealing languid cat eyes. She gently embraced Maggie, a wave of nostalgia washing over her.

Maggie returned the hug, tears welling in her eyes. "Mia."

Sensing Maggie's sadness, Mia said softly, "Maggie, you know I love you."

"Yeah," Maggie choked out.

Mia didn't press for details, knowing Maggie had been feeling down. "No matter what happens, I'll always be by your side," she reassured her.

"I know," Maggie whispered, her heart aching. In her previous life, Mia's brightness and vitality had been a lifeline during Maggie's darkest hours. However, as time passed, Mia's personal life had encountered difficulties, possibly related to problems the Gatlins faced. Mia had spent a few years abroad, leading to less frequent meetings. Yet, every time she returned, she made sure to see Maggie, sharing cheerful anecdotes to lift her spirits. Maggie regretted not paying closer attention to the Gatlins' struggles in the past. Could she help them avoid similar detours in this life? Unfortunately, Maggie's own life had been a wreck—blind, disfigured, consumed by hatred, and in poor health—leaving her feeling hollowed out. As a result, neither Mia nor Nathael had shared their troubles, fearing it would worsen her condition.

"What are you thinking about? You're becoming more and more beautiful," Mia said, sitting across from Maggie, her delicate hand propping up her cheek. Her alluring eyes held a mischievous glint, making Maggie's heart race. "I was thinking about you."

Men at nearby tables kept stealing glances, hesitant to approach. Mia ignored them, focusing on Maggie. "What's going on between you and Joseph? How did you let Vanessa take advantage of you?"

"If she wants him, let her have him. It's hard to find a good man, but easy to find a bad one," Maggie replied, her eyes clear and unwavering.

Mia raised an eyebrow. "Not bad. Our innocent Maggie has finally figured it out. I'll introduce you to some eligible bachelors later. They're much better than Joseph."

Maggie smiled. "I want someone like Nathael."

"Pfft!" Mia spat out her water, incredulous. "Who?"

"Nathael," Maggie repeated seriously.

Mia groaned. "Oh my goodness, please spare me. According to my dad, Nathael is at the top of the list of people I shouldn't mess with."

Maggie paused, remembering her past involvement with Nathael. Mia narrowed her eyes. "You're not serious, are you?"

"Hm, more serious than anything," Maggie replied earnestly.

Mia was speechless. It would be better to continue with that idiot, Joseph! she thought.

After a moment, Mia offered sincere advice, "You can have a good time, but don't fall in love with him."

"Why?" Maggie asked, confused.

"Men like him—reserved, deep, gentle, introverted—are heartless and ruthless. Women who fall for him don't end well," Mia frowned. She knew, however, that such men held a fatal attraction for women.

Maggie pondered this, remaining silent. Well, it seems quite accurate, but not entirely, she thought.

"Maggie, don't be foolish. I won't say anything if you're attracted to his looks or wealth. But if you're seeking his love, I advise you to stop right there," Mia warned.

Maggie, understanding Mia's concern, smiled. "Mia, he's a very good person."

Seeing the determination in Maggie's eyes, Mia fell silent. Maggie claimed Nathael, known for his ruthlessness and cunning, was a good person.

"You'll understand when I introduce you to him later," Maggie said, unwilling to let Mia misunderstand Nathael. In her previous life, Mia had harbored a grudge against him, often targeting him. Perhaps only after marrying Nathael had Mia seen his efforts and softened her attitude.

Later, Mia took Maggie shopping to cheer her up. "Get whatever you like. I'll pay for it."

"Okay," Maggie replied, knowing Mia worried she might neglect herself.

While shopping for jewelry, they ran into Vanessa, who now looked prosperous, dressed in Dansko, adorned with jewelry, and holding an elderly woman's hand. Maggie observed the elderly woman—slender, silver-haired, with prominent cheekbones, but clearly stunning in her youth. Her hair was neatly styled with a jade hairpin; she wore a dark blue dress, emerald green pearl beads, and a pearl bracelet, exuding elegance and nobility.

"What a coincidence," Maggie greeted politely.

Mia ignored Vanessa, picking up a ruby necklace. "Maggie, what do you think of this one?"

Vanessa, surprised, paused. "Grandma, look at this beautiful necklace."