Chapter 38: I Am Not Lying

A lump formed in Nathaniel’s throat; an unusual glint flickered in his deep eyes. He said nothing, but Mason understood and left.

A rumor circulated through Rainsworth Group’s business department: a prominent tycoon planned a visit, offering substantial funding to Rainsworth Group’s Hope Charity—essentially, free charity. Employees buzzed with speculation.

“Which big shot’s playing the fool?”

“Who knows? Maybe he’s got more money than places to spend it.”

“I heard he’s from overseas…”

Meanwhile, Cecilia arrived at Rainsworth Group headquarters. Looking at the towering buildings, vastly expanded since her departure four years ago—a testament to Nathaniel’s leadership and the Rainsworth family’s legacy—she felt a surge of complex emotions.

Over the past four years, she hadn't been idle. With Calvin's help, she'd built her own company and accumulated wealth. Before returning to Tudela, she meticulously planned her approach. Learning of Rainsworth Group's nationwide charity investment, she devised a plan to use this as a guise for reconnecting with Nathaniel. This “collaboration” would provide her excuse for proximity. Her appearance at yesterday's charity auction served the same purpose—to attract his attention. A mere investment collaboration wouldn't suffice; she needed to spark his interest and prompt him to seek her out.

Cecilia exited her car. The project manager waited at the entrance. Seeing an elegantly dressed woman, he looked puzzled.

“Are you Ms. Smith?”

Cecilia calmly replied, “Yes. Is there a problem?”

The manager was taken aback, but Cecilia produced their correspondence. He quickly recovered. “Not at all! You’re a beautiful woman with a kind heart.”

He led Cecilia to the reception room, then went to fetch Nathaniel. Soon, footsteps echoed, followed by a door closing. Cecilia looked up, meeting Nathaniel’s chillingly cold gaze. His deep eyes revealed only curiosity. Feigning surprise, she exclaimed, “It’s you?”

Nathaniel doubted her amnesia. Seeing her performance continue, he strode forward.

“What a coincidence,” he said, emphasizing the words.

Cecilia maintained her pretense. “Are you in charge of this project?”

“Precisely. I’m in charge of Rainsworth Group, Nathaniel,” he replied, his gaze intense. She wore a professional suit. He’d done his research; she'd established an overseas trading company and contacted Rainsworth Group’s business department about charity investment just a month ago.

“Mr. Rainsworth. A pleasure,” Cecilia said smoothly, her demeanor unchanged. “My investment this time—”

Nathaniel interrupted. “Let’s not discuss work today. Let’s discuss your memory loss.”

He watched calmly, expecting more lies. The atmosphere thickened. Facing the woman who'd adored him for over a decade, Nathaniel felt a complex mix of emotions.

Had this been in the past, Cecilia would have been bitter. But now, her sickly young son was her priority.

“I’m not sure what you mean, but I assure you, I wasn’t lying. I suffered from severe depression. Those with depression often experience near-standstill brain cell activity, impairing brain function. This causes sluggish responses and decreased memory retention, leading to intermittent memory loss. My doctor suggested my inability to recall certain people or events may be a protective mechanism, preventing distress.”