Chapter 492: Just Passing By

Vivian stepped from the car, summoning her courage as she approached Nathaniel.

“Mr. Rainsworth.”

Nathaniel stood still, going straight to the point. “What’s the matter?”

Vivian, having prepared her speech en route, immediately said, “Ceci is a kind and innocent girl. Her recent kindness stems from your amnesia and blindness, not from any romantic interest. Please don’t misunderstand.”

Nathaniel furrowed his brows. “So, what’s your point?”

“Please leave Ceci alone and stop bothering her,” Vivian pleaded, clenching her fists.

Nathaniel responded calmly, “And what if I don’t?” It hadn’t been easy to convince Cecilia to start over; how could he give up so easily?

Vivian was taken aback. Even without his memories, Nathaniel remained difficult, his words harsh.

“Do you think you can provide Ceci with a happy life? You’re blind, you can barely care for yourself—how can you care for her, let alone a child? You can’t expect her to support you constantly. Don’t think you can simply rely on her! And, even if your amnesia prevents you from remembering, I do. You used to despise her for her hearing impairment. Now, blind yourself, how can you be so shameless? Don't you feel inferior?”

Vivian, not naturally adept at insults, flushed crimson after her lengthy outburst. In the past, Nathaniel would have quickly taken offense. Now, however, a flicker of complexity crossed his eyes.

“I’ll address your concerns. I’ve never been one to live off others.”

“How?” Vivian asked. “Ceci mentioned you have a significant debt.”

Nathaniel was startled, clearly unprepared for the closeness between Cecilia and Vivian. To reveal his wealth would expose his pretense of poverty; admitting to lack of funds would be tantamount to confessing dependence.

“What’s the matter? Can’t find an excuse now? I’m not Ceci; you can’t deceive me. Leave. Repay your debt yourself, or have your mother do it.”

Nathaniel, his handsome face serious, replied, “I’ve started a private business. It will soon be profitable.” He never imagined money would become a barrier between him and Cecilia.

“How soon? What kind of company? It’s not some fly-by-night operation, is it?” Vivian’s frankness remained undeterred.

Nathaniel’s sharp eyebrows knitted. “I’ll explain after the new year.”

Vivian was about to speak when Cecilia, noticing Nathaniel’s absence, intervened. “Vivian, weren’t you unable to make it today?”

Seeing Cecilia, Vivian felt like a scolded child.

“Oh, I was just passing by. Grandpa asked me to buy some things, so it was convenient.”

Lowering her voice, she warned Nathaniel, “Regardless of your words, if you hurt Ceci again, I will never forgive you, even in death. And don’t tell Ceci about this conversation.”

Vivian departed. Her bodyguards, hidden in the shadows, broke out in a cold sweat. Good heavens, was this woman courting death?

Cecilia waved goodbye to Vivian, then turned to Nathaniel. “What can we buy here?” This hillside villa offered no merchandise.

“What did Vivian talk to you about?”