Chapter 469

Samuel mused, “Don’t blame me, Skylar, for being a ruthless brother. Your disobedience is your own fault.”

In Yley City, relentless rain poured from late last night until afternoon. Upon arrival, Jeremy immediately convened a meeting with the branch office staff to address the urgent situation. They swiftly reassured the families of the deceased. Follow-up work ensured the absence of any flaws. The factory accident necessitated a comprehensive investigation, employing stringent methods from senior management to the workers.

The meeting lasted eight grueling hours. By the time Jeremy finally rested at the hotel, it was already 10:00 a.m. the next morning. Waking later, he was surprised to find it was 5:00 p.m.

Needing an update, Jeremy contacted branch office personnel and then called Natalie.

“Things are being handled,” he said gently. “We should have everything sorted out in the next couple of days. What are you up to?”

Listening to Jeremy's report and his concern, Natalie felt a surge of joy, remembering the early days of their relationship. “I’m on set,” she replied. “Mr. Powell had a few scenes today, plus a commercial shoot. Once I’m done, I’ll head home to rest. Take care of things, and I’ll be waiting for you.”

“Yeah, take care of yourself. Call if you need anything,” Jeremy said before ending the call. He pressed a hand to his throbbing temple.

An inexplicable unease settled in his chest. Despite resolving everything and ensuring Natalie's unawareness of recent events, he felt anxious. He wondered if it could be…

Chapter 469

Jeremy recalled seeing Austin. His intuition screamed that Austin was interested in Natalie. He needed her to resign as soon as possible. He hated this feeling of losing control.

A knock startled him. Glancing at the clock, he wondered if it was dinner. With long strides, he reached the door and opened it.

Annabelle stood there, holding takeout. Her smile widened. “Mr. Hughes, I brought you dinner.”

Jeremy's expression darkened. His voice was icy. “What are you doing here?”

Annabelle’s smile faltered momentarily, but she quickly recovered. “My hometown is Yley City. I came back a few days ago. I heard some rumors and thought you might be here. I remembered your preference for this hotel suite from our previous business trips, so I took a chance. Don’t be so cold, please. I’ve really missed you.”

She closed the distance between them. The faint scent of her perfume filled the air. Her eyes smoldered, and her tight jeans and cropped top accentuated her figure.

“Don’t you miss me, Mr. Hughes?”

Jeremy’s dark eyes deepened, the coldness replaced by a flicker of unwanted desire. Vivid memories of their recent encounters flooded his mind. A sliver of vulnerability softened his resolve. “Come in,” he conceded.

Annabelle’s smile bloomed. “I knew you weren’t heartless, Mr. Hughes. I knew you still had feelings for me.”