Chapter 706

Natalie couldn't deny Jeremy's exceptional qualities; he was undoubtedly a wonderful person. Even now, she acknowledged that, aside from the incident with Annabelle, he had no other flaws. Before that incident, she had been wholly devoted to him. They had even discussed having a baby and envisioned a future as a family of three.

But…

"A broken marriage is hard to mend, Dad, Mom. What's done is done. Although his actions weren't intentional infidelity, I still can't overcome it. I told Mom before that even holding hands would disgust me. I can't accept it. I know we can never go back to how things were. Continuing would only cause mutual torment. The future is long, and my life is just beginning. I can't continue with Jeremy."

Natalie spoke with a clear, rational mind, without hesitation. Her resolve was unwavering.

Seeing this, Kate was deeply distressed. "Nath, can't you reconsider this calmly?" She had been worried they would regret this decision later—especially Natalie, who had been pampered since childhood and couldn't tolerate betrayal.

"I've given this a lot of thought. I've tried to make things work, but we can't go back," Natalie said firmly, shaking her head. Unknown to her parents, this decision was also painful for her. She couldn't be with Jeremy now because she loved him too much; that's why she couldn't accept their troubled relationship.

Damon sighed deeply. "I understand. You've always been this way. It's normal for you to find this unacceptable. Don't burden yourself with guilt. I'll talk to Jeremy and help you get a smooth divorce." He had called Natalie back because Jeremy had sought them out, hoping they could persuade her. Seeing Jeremy's weary state, he'd felt sympathy, but now, seeing Natalie's firm stance, he realized some wounds couldn't be healed by time.

Kate was surprised by Damon's change of attitude. "You…"

"Even though Nath can be stubborn, she doesn't act rashly in serious matters. If she's made up her mind, pushing her would only cause more pain," Damon said calmly.

Kate was stunned. Then she looked at Natalie with concern. "Nath, are you sure? Jeremy won't agree to the divorce easily." If Jeremy had been willing, he wouldn't have involved his parents.

Natalie nodded. "I've made up my mind. Jeremy won't agree, but Mom, Dad, please help me talk to him. Continuing is deceiving ourselves. A divorce is better for both of us. We need to move on."

Damon exhaled slowly. "Nath, it's clear you've given this a lot of thought." A pang of emotion touched his heart. His daughter's mature outlook showed she had indeed grown up.

At that moment, the doorbell rang. Kate immediately stood to open the door, and Natalie looked toward it.