Chapter 90: Better To Live Alone
In Tudela, every woman aspired to be the subject of gossip—if that gossip involved him. Nathaniel reflected on the four or five years since her disappearance, realizing she’d been with Calvin all along. As the saying goes, familiarity breeds affection, especially given their childhood friendship.
“You’re afraid of Calvin overhearing the gossip, aren’t you?” His eyes held a chilling intensity.
Cecilia’s expression immediately darkened. She refused to indulge Nathaniel’s controlling behavior. “Mr. Rainsworth, married or not, I have the freedom to choose my residence. Aren’t you being overly controlling?”
She abruptly left. Nathaniel felt a stinging rebuke, even in her few words; he felt profoundly uncomfortable.
Overly controlling?
Watching her retreat, he saw her drifting further away. He intensely disliked this feeling. He called Mason.
“Do whatever it takes to bring the child to me.”
“Understood.”
“And continue targeting Calvin’s businesses. I want all his projects to fail!”
After the call, Nathaniel felt gloomy and unsettled, replaying Cecilia’s indifferent departure in his mind.
Back then, she said she’d love me for a lifetime! How could things change so drastically? Did she fall for Calvin? Regardless, I will win her back. What’s mine, even if unwanted, cannot be given to another.
Nathaniel sat in his car, smoking cigarette after cigarette. He pulled out a photograph of the child. If he’s my child, why would Cecilia hide him overseas? Once the child is returned, I’ll get to the bottom of this. No matter what, I’ll keep Cecilia by my side this time. I swear I will never let her escape my sight again!
That night, at Ninth Ville, Cecilia stood on the balcony, speaking to Vivian. Vivian was surprised to hear Nathaniel had brought Cecilia home.
“Has he changed?”
Cecilia shook her head. “I don’t know what’s gotten into him. He seemed particularly emotional today, as if he had something to tell me.”
“How could you refuse such a rare opportunity?”
“Approaching Daltonia Villa flooded me with memories of the past. How could I possibly flirt with him?” Cecilia paused. “Besides, if I lived with him, what would happen to Jon?”
Vivian understood. “You’re right. It’s better to live alone.”
“How’s Jon doing lately?” Cecilia asked. Their conversation lightened as they discussed Jonathan.
“My nephew Dante says Jon’s the class leader. Even the former leader respects him.” Vivian didn’t inquire about the former leader, unaware the child was Felix, the eldest Rainsworth grandson.
“Tell Jon not to draw too much attention,” Cecilia advised, understanding that those who stand out are often targeted. Jonathan had always been exceptionally bright, making him noticeable. The concept of bloodline was fascinating; the two boys were miniature versions of Nathaniel.
After speaking with Vivian, Cecilia ended the call and went outside. A warm breeze swept over her, but she felt no warmth. Though she’d regained some strength, she remained frail. That afternoon, Cecilia rested without eating.