Chapter 464

Natalie searched the news for any media coverage of the factory incident. Finding none, she breathed a sigh of relief. The local manager seemed to have acted swiftly, containing the issue and minimizing any major impact. With Jeremy en route, things should be resolved quickly, and the families of the deceased would be cared for.

Just as Natalie was about to put down her phone, she noticed an unread Instagram message. It was from an unknown user she’d followed a few days earlier—someone she’d completely forgotten about. The message read: "You don't understand Jeremy."

Natalie wondered if this stranger knew Jeremy or was simply using a fake account. She replied, "Who are you?"

After sending the message, she set down her phone, changed into her loungewear, and went to the bathroom. She felt unclean and noticed food stains on her clothes. Earlier, Jeremy hadn't seemed to notice before their interruption.

Remembering their intimacy, Natalie blushed and patted her cheeks. "It's been a year since we got married. It's not like we're on our honeymoon. Why am I still feeling shy?"

After showering and before bed, she checked her phone again. The sender hadn't responded, leaving Natalie perplexed. Just as she was about to delete the contact, a nagging feeling stopped her. This person might not be just pranking her; something felt wrong. She decided to keep the user as a follower to discover their motive.

Meanwhile, Annabelle sped toward the airport. A former colleague had told her about the incident at the Yley City factory, where Jeremy had already gone. She knew she wouldn't likely catch the same flight. In the taxi, she smirked, remembering Natalie's message. "Want to know who I am?" she thought. "You'll find out soon enough." The situation seemed opportune—a chance encounter with Jeremy. This time, she would tell him about her pregnancy. An abortion was out of the question; she wouldn't have another chance to conceive. She would ensure Jeremy stayed with her.

Half-asleep, Skylar felt someone holding her. Out of habit, she snuggled closer. As she became more aware, she mumbled, "You're back?"

"Yeah, go back to sleep," Joe replied softly.

Exhausted, Skylar mumbled, "Okay," and drifted back to sleep instantly. Joe watched the woman nestled in his arms, his heart unexpectedly softening. Listening to her peaceful breathing, he, too, slowly fell asleep.

The next morning, Joe asked Skylar, "Did you want to tell me something yesterday?"

Skylar woke feeling refreshed, the previous day's events almost forgotten.