Chapter 201: Saved Your Mother

With a heavy heart, Nathaniel suppressed his resentment, cupped Cecelia's face, and kissed her. Only then did Cecelia notice his injured, bleeding hand. Instead of expressing concern, she pulled away forcefully. "Have you forgotten what I said? I won't honor our agreement anymore."

Nathaniel's breath hitched as he listened, his lips brushing her cheek. "Does that mean you don't owe me anything?" Cecelia's voice trembled. Yes, Stella saved his mother's life, but didn't I? How can he be so unfair to me?

Nathaniel, unaware of her thoughts, assumed her feelings of neglect stemmed from their three years of marriage. "From now on, I promise we'll live a happy life together." It was his first compromise. Five years ago, Cecelia would have rejoiced, but now, trust was lost. "I'm tired. Just give me some space."

Nathaniel gently scooped her into his arms and carried her to the house. Later that night, he pulled her into an embrace. He couldn't sleep; the emptiness of the house from earlier haunted him. The wound on his hand throbbed faintly.

After what seemed an eternity, Cecelia broke the silence. "Can you tell me more about how Stella saved your mother?" She wondered why she'd never heard this before.

Nathaniel recounted the incident: Elena and Zachary's framed accident, Stella's rescue. Shock filled Cecelia's eyes. Only now did she understand Zachary's kindness to Stella and Nathaniel's tolerance. She realized Stella had taken credit for her act.

She clung to Nathaniel's sleeve, trembling. "If I told you I saved your mother, would you believe me?" Nathaniel's dark eyes wavered. Before he could respond, Cecelia added hastily, "Don't overthink it. I'm tired; I'm going to bed."

A wave of fear washed over her. She was too afraid to wait for his response. Countless betrayals and neglect had eroded her trust. She feared his words would only wound her further. Moreover, with over a decade passed and no proof, continuing felt humiliating.

Nathaniel, however, remained unconvinced. He'd witnessed Stella's actions at the hospital. He continued to embrace Cecelia, eventually falling asleep.

He dreamt Cecelia slipped away, leaving him unable to find her. He awoke to find her in the corner of the bed. He pulled her close, fearing she'd vanish again. Just as he drifted off, his phone vibrated. It was Mason.

He went to the balcony, answering in a hushed tone. "What's the matter?"

"Mr. Rainsworth, the finance manager reports your personal account has been hacked. Over seventy billion is gone!" Mason exclaimed.