Chapter 48: I Want Someone Like Nathael

The Gatlins weren't merely wealthy; they were extraordinarily so, far surpassing the typical affluent family. Mia's father, Jordan, amassed a fortune in real estate and internet ventures. By the time Mia was born, the family had already accumulated substantial wealth, resulting in Mia's upbringing amidst extravagant luxury, the envy of many privileged young women. 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 nostalgic sigh escaping her lips.

Maggie returned the hug, tears welling. "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 down lately. "No matter what happens, I'll always be by your side," she reassured her.

"I know," Maggie whispered, her heart aching. In their past lives, Mia's unwavering presence and vibrant spirit had brightened Maggie's darkest hours. However, Mia's romantic life had hit some snags; the Gatlins had faced difficulties, leading Mia to spend several years abroad, diminishing their contact. Yet, she always visited Maggie upon her return, focusing on happy memories to lift her spirits. Maggie regretted not paying closer attention to the Gatlins' struggles previously. Could she help them avoid past hardships in this life?

But Maggie's own life was a wreck. Blind, disfigured, filled with hatred, and in poor health, she felt utterly depleted. As a result, neither Mia nor Nathael shared their troubles, fearing it would worsen her condition.

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

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

"If she wants him, let her have him. Good men are hard to find, bad ones easy," Maggie replied, her eyes clear and resolute.

Mia raised an eyebrow. "Not bad. Our innocent Maggie has finally wised up. I'll introduce you to some eligible bachelors later—much better than Joseph."

Maggie smiled. "I want someone like Nathael."

Mia spat out her water in disbelief. "Who?"

"Nathael," Maggie repeated earnestly.

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

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

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

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

After a moment, Mia offered sincere advice: "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 warned, clearly disapproving, though acknowledging their fatal attraction.

Maggie remained silent, pondering Mia's words. Well, it seems quite accurate, but not entirely. she thought.

"Maggie, don't be foolish. I won't judge if it's his looks or wealth you're after, but if you seek his love, stop right there," Mia urged.

Maggie smiled, knowing Mia meant well. "Mia, he's a very good person."

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

"You'll understand when I introduce you to him later," Maggie said, not wanting Mia to misunderstand. In their past life, Mia had resented Nathael because of Maggie and often targeted him; perhaps only after marrying him did Mia see his efforts and soften her stance.

Later, Mia took Maggie shopping to lift her spirits. "Get whatever you like. I'll pay."

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

While browsing jewelry, they encountered Vanessa, looking prosperous in a new Dansko outfit and exquisite jewelry, tenderly holding an elderly woman. Maggie calmly observed the woman—slender, silver-haired, with prominent cheekbones, but clearly stunning in her youth, her hair styled with a jade hairpin, wearing a dark blue dress, emerald green pearl beads, and a pearl bracelet.

"What a coincidence," Maggie greeted politely.

Mia ignored Vanessa, pointing to a ruby necklace. "Maggie, what do you think of this?"

Vanessa, surprised, exclaimed, "Grandma, look at this beautiful necklace!"