Chapter 119: The Words Once Said

Nathaniel was taken aback. Didn't she say she had a fondness for gold, silver, and jewelry? “Are you sure?” Nathaniel’s expression grew cold.

Seeing his state, Cecilia was certain he’d forgotten their past conversation. “I accept gifts from anyone,” she said, “but yours is the only one I refuse!” She brushed past him and went upstairs.

Nathaniel tossed the gift box in the trash. He’d skipped meals, had a cold, and now a nagging stomachache. He didn't understand his behavior that day. Seeing the luxurious bracelet from a client reminded him of Cecilia’s words after her memory loss: “I told you, I don’t remember. But I love makeup, vibrant clothes, and gold, silver, and jewelry.”

Anger darkened his face as he slumped onto the couch. Cecilia, however, was no longer indulging him. She retreated to her room to rest, per the doctor’s orders to remain calm and avoid late nights. The previous day, her ear problems had returned.

Nathaniel remained on the couch for half an hour, listening until Cecilia's movements upstairs ceased. Only then did he realize she truly didn't care for him anymore.

Upstairs, Cecilia took her medicine and drifted to sleep. But soon, the locked door opened, and a tall figure entered. He pulled back the covers and embraced her. The familiar scent of Cecilia eased his discomfort.

Awakening in the dark, Cecilia couldn't see him. She tried to push him away, but Nathaniel held her tighter. “Don’t move,” he murmured, his voice deep and raspy. “Let me hold you.”

“Let go,” Cecilia demanded, noticing his burning skin.

“I’ve told you, don’t move around recklessly,” he said, his Adam’s apple bobbing. Cecilia, hearing his strong heartbeat, instinctively recoiled, but he pulled her back.

Nathaniel leaned against her, but unlike before, he couldn't sleep. His wandering hands roamed. Cecilia pulled away. “What are you doing?”

“Don’t you want it?” Nathaniel asked seriously. “Weren’t you unwilling to give up? Now, you have the opportunity.” His body temperature seemed to rise further.

“I don’t need this opportunity.” Cecilia retreated, finding herself cornered.

“Too late.”

Nathaniel, unbeknownst to Cecilia, had stripped. When he embraced her again, she felt his entire body. He kissed her forcefully and passionately.

Shivering, Cecilia longed to bear Nathaniel's child, seeing it as the only way to save Elliot.

Watching her reluctant movements, Nathaniel felt a pang of jealousy. “What, so it’s unacceptable if it’s me, but okay if it’s Calvin?”

Smack!

Cecilia slapped him hard. Stunned by her own action, she watched as Nathaniel, his face flushed, simply continued. Involuntarily, she tightened her grip on his shoulders. Nathaniel, sensing her discomfort, subtly shifted his Adam's apple.