Chapter 34
Natalie let out a small laugh, her smile wry. “Grandpa, we’re still in the early stages. It’s too soon to be talking about liking someone.”
Her grandfather wasn’t deterred. “If it works out, fantastic. If not, no harm done. You’re looking for some excitement, and I’ve got just the thing. Interested in meeting a few guys?”
He ticked them off on his fingers, his eyes sparkling. “The sophisticated one, the muscle man, the charming older gentleman, and the young heartthrob. I promise, they’re all quite handsome. You’re bound to find one that interests you.”
He thumped his chest confidently. “So, what do you say? Shall we go take a look? I’ll show you around.”
Natalie was at a loss for words.
Valerie struggled to suppress her laughter, observing that Lambert’s enthusiasm surpassed that of the younger folks.
Natalie experienced a whirlwind of feelings, unsure if her grandfather was truly serious, yet touched by his affection and concern for her well-being.
Her eyes pooled with tears. “Grandpa, let’s skip it for tonight. We can always go tomorrow,” she suggested gently.
As her words trailed off, a chill raced down her spine. Glancing up, she found Easton’s gaze fixed on her from the other side of the room, causing her heart to flutter. “What’s he doing here?” she wondered.
Natalie knew Easton had caught bits of her conversation with her grandfather, but she didn’t mind, figuring it was for the best since their relationship had ended. She felt a thrill, thinking her grandfather had done her a big favor.
Natalie stood straight, not bothered by the cold vibes Easton was sending her way. She knew he only acted nice around Jennifer.
With a bright smile, she linked arms with her grandfather. “Grandpa, Valerie, let’s head home. I’ve got a date with Mr. Chambers tomorrow. He’s just back from abroad and isn’t familiar with the area. I can show him around.”
Lambert smiled broadly. “That’s my girl. You’ve got great taste. Maurice is quite the looker. He could charm his way out of any situation. And you, sweetheart, are more than enough to make him head over heels without any fuss.”
Natalie was surprised by her grandfather’s dramatic display.
“Being too handsome isn’t always a good thing. He’s only allowed to look that good around you, to keep the rest at bay,” he teased, before becoming more serious. “But the guy my granddaughter is into is too loyal to even glance at another woman.”
“Maurice isn’t like Easton, all lovesick and easily swayed,” Natalie replied.
Easton, who’d been listening in, looked taken aback.
Natalie let out a helpless laugh. “Grandpa, let’s bounce.”
Easton stepped in front of Natalie, his face stern and angry. “Natalie, we need to talk.”
Natalie looked at him, puzzled. “What’s there to talk about? We’ve already had our say. I walked out of your house with just my clothes on. Are you seriously asking for money for those?”
Easton frowned, stung by her implication that he was being petty. “We’re still legally married,” he retorted, his tone icy.
Natalie rolled her eyes. “That’s your problem. You signed the divorce papers first, and I followed. The waiting period is up. You can have Xavier handle the rest, or do you need me to hit the courthouse tomorrow?”
She knew Jennifer’s luck would keep her safe from tonight’s drama. In her past life, Easton had been pushed into marrying Jennifer after she died. But even without that, they were meant to be. So, Natalie wasn’t going to stand in their way this time around.
Seeing her determination, Easton asked again, “Are you sure you want a divorce?” His anger was palpable as he watched her prepare for a date with another man.
Natalie rolled her eyes at his nonsense. “Easton, you’ve been eager for a divorce. I’m just letting you and Jennifer have your way. You guys are meant for each other. Enjoy your married life. So, ex, that’s it. See you.”