Chapter 271: A Prank

Composite photos of Nathaniel with Stella, implying infidelity, had spread widely, even reaching trending news headlines. The IT department, scrambling to delete the images and launch an investigation, discovered the method mirrored that of a previous breach of Nathaniel's private account; the timing—around three or four in the morning—was almost identical.

After sobering up, Nathaniel stared at the photographs, a throbbing headache compounding his frustration. "Have they found out who did it?"

Mason hesitated briefly before replying, "We traced the address to Zachary's Seabay Villa, but he wouldn't do something like this. The hacker who breached your account previously—his location was linked to Vivian's residence."

"I have a hunch. Could it be Jonathan?" Mason suggested.

Nathaniel fell silent at the mention of Jonathan. "Suppress the news," he ordered. Then, "Have they found the child?"

Mason shook his head.

Nathaniel poured another glass of wine, the fiery liquid burning his throat as he tossed the empty glass aside. "Keep searching."

"Understood," Mason replied, before adding, "We've identified what happened last night. Mrs. Rainsworth offended a local bigwig, Mr. Reynolds, a notorious figure with multiple jail stints. Unfortunately, he escaped again."

Nathaniel's brow furrowed slightly. "Understood."

With that, Mason left.

Nathaniel sat on the couch, lost in thought. He opened his laptop and instructed a subsidiary's customer service to provide him with an account.

Meanwhile, Cecilia's new song hadn't sold, leading her to explore collaborations. That morning, a major website expressed interest in a deal—a deal orchestrated by Nathaniel, unbeknownst to Cecilia, who was unaware of his familiarity with her work. He contacted her online.

Cecilia typed: Hello, shall we meet in person for a discussion?

Nathaniel: No need. Let's sign the contract online, and I'll transfer the money.

Cecilia, surprised by his promptness, confirmed the company account and signed the contract. Fifty million was transferred swiftly.

Cecilia: Thank you, it was a pleasure working with you.

Nathaniel, listening to her music, replied: How many pieces have you composed in total?

Cecilia responded: Adding this one, thirty-two.

Nathaniel: I've listened to your new song; it's pretty good.

Cecilia: Thank you.

After a pause, Nathaniel typed: Could you possibly sign over the other songs to me? I only need the rights to use them. Name your price.

Cecilia, surprised, quoted ten million, considering the pre-existing licenses. The money was transferred quickly. She expressed her gratitude profusely.

Nathaniel stared at her emoji, feeling a mix of emotions. Impulsively, he asked: If I may be so bold, are you married? Quickly adding: It feels like there's a story within the melody you composed.

Cecilia replied: I was married once, but we're divorced.

Nathaniel felt a surge of frustration, the urge to confront her almost overwhelming. When did we divorce? How could I not have known?

Cecilia, misinterpreting his silence, reassured him: Rest assured, I have no bad habits, nor will I engage in any scandal.

Nathaniel's thoughts raced. He typed: If you hadn’t divorced, wouldn’t you be less stressed now, being alone?

With Calvin, she had two children, yet he hadn't ensured her basic needs. Nathaniel wished he could understand her better.