Chapter 14
After that, under Natalie’s direction, the household staff gradually began disregarding the children.
Not only was there no one to take them to school, but eventually even their meals weren’t specifically prepared.
They were only allowed to eat whatever scraps remained after Natalie had finished her meals.
The summer sun blazed down on NY, while air conditioners hummed steadily throughout the Westbrook mansion.
Ethan and Emma lay on the playroom carpet building with Legos, occasionally stealing glances at Natalie trying on ipstick at her vanity.
Auntie Natalie,” Emma ventured timidly, “can we get ice cream? You promised…”
ast week, when Gabriel had bought Natalie another expensive necklace, she’d been in such a good mood that she’d apped the children with her foot while they were playing on the floor and promised to take them for ice cream.
et Natalie didn’t even turn around, snapping impatiently: “Can’t you see I’m busy?”
But…” Ethan gathered his courage, his voice barely audible:
You said last week you’d take us…”
God, you’re so annoying!” Natalie spun around, smearing a harsh streak of red lipstick across her cheek.
All you think about is food! Look how fat you’re getting!”
he children huddled together in fear.
ince their mother had left, they’d experienced none of the warmth Natalie had once shown them.
ler formerly sweet smiles had vanished, replaced by perpetual impatience and sharp scolding.
Get the hell back to your rooms!” Natalie snarled, dabbing at her lipstick with a makeup wipe, her brow furrowed 1 disgust.
I can’t even look at your faces without getting a headache!”
mma’s eyes welled with tears, but she dared not cry aloud.
The last time she’d cried, Natalie had pinched her thigh hard and threatened to throw away all her favorite toys if
he told her father.
‘oday, Gabriel had unusually announced he would be staying home for the night.
Chapter 14
When he arrived that evening, the children were already in bed.
Natalie greeted him in a silk nightgown, radiating a subtle perfume, her meticulously maintained skin looking flawlessly soft.
“Finally finished with work? Decided to grace us with your presence?” she teased softly, taking his briefcase.
“The merger had some complications, but I should be home more now,” Gabriel loosened his tie and glanced around, suddenly asking:
“Where are the kids? I haven’t seen them in ages.”
“Already asleep. Don’t worry, I’ve been taking excellent care of them,” Natalie smiled, linking her arm through his
as she purred:
“Gabriel, there’s a charity gala tomorrow and I need a necklace to complete my outfit… Could you possibly…?”
Gabriel nodded distractedly before she even finished: “Go pick something yourself. Just use my black card.”
At breakfast the next morning, he finally saw the children.
But what puzzled Gabriel was their unusual silence.
Looking closer, the children seemed thinner, their chins noticeably sharper.
Gabriel set down his coffee cup, frowning: “What’s wrong? Are you feeling sick?”
‘N–no!” Hearing this question, Ethan immediately shook his head nervously, his hands visibly trembling, his spoon clinking against the bowl.
Natalie emerged from the kitchen carrying a fruit platter, glanced over, and smiled sweetly: “Gabriel, don’t worry. The children are perfectly fine.”
She bent down to affectionately ruffle Ethan’s hair, her tone incredibly gentle.
‘Right, Ethan?”
Ethan’s entire body stiffened as he quietly replied: “Mmm…”
ust then, Gabriel’s phone suddenly rang.
Checking the caller ID, he rose from the table: “Something at the office. I need to go.”
After the door closed, Natalie’s smile instantly vanished.
She snatched the milk cup from Emma’s hand, her face showing naked impatience: “Drinking so slowly–trying to be late? Hurry up!”
Chapter 14
“While your father’s home these next few days, you two better attend school properly. Don’t cause any trouble.”
“Otherwise, you’ll regret it.”
This threat was extremely effective. Emma jolted in fear, quickly stuffing bread into her mouth, only to choke, her face turning red.
“Useless brat!” Natalie frowned in disgust, not even sparing a glance as she spat:
‘Completely pathetic, just like your mother!”
