From

Chapter 33

Natalie’s back to Josh, she looked like a fuming kitten–cute even when she was mad.

Josh sidled up to the bed, trying to get her to face him, but she yanked the blanket around her and scooted away without a word. Josh felt a mix of frustration and amusement.

He smiled helplessly, leaned over, and held Natalie’s waist. He whispered, “Come on, Nat. You won’t even let me touch you now?” There was a slight quiver in his voice, as if genuinely wounded.

His eyes caught a subtle twitch in Natalie’s fingers. He hid a grin, knowing her too well; she was a softie at heart.

“You still mad? Okay, how about I go without food for three days? That should square us, right?‘ he suggested lightly

Natalie pursed her lips and said nothing.

“Silence

means yes? Alright, guess I’ll starve myself,” Josh joked, standing up to leave,

Natalie suddenly turned around and said, “Wait.”

He turned, hiding his victory behind a casual sinile. “Yeah“”

Natalie’s eyes were downcast, her hands fidgeting. I don’t want you to skip meals,” she mumbled.

“That so? Have we made up then? Josh couldn’t resist teasing as he brushed her hair back.

Natalie was at a loss for words, internally accusing Josh of tricking her. Tm not mad, she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Josh hoisted the quilt–wrapped Natalie onto his lap and kissed her on the top of her head. “I promise I won’t do that again, okay?” Natalie hesitated, her inner turmoil clear as day. Eventually, she muttered. “Don’t worry. Since we’re married, I’ll keep my word. L… I will… Josh watched her stumble over her words, then held her face gently, their foreheads touching. “That’s my girl, he said softly, chuckling at her

adorableness.

Coaxed back into a good mood, Natalie joined Josh for dinner, which featured all her favorites

Mid–dinner, she ventured, “Tomorrow, I’m starting at my friend’s company”

Peeling shrimp for her, Josh asked, “You still want to design?”

“Yes, Natalie said.

“Have you ever thou

you ever thought about continuing dancing?” he probed.

Natalie’s expression froze. It was an distant dream for her to dance and become the chief dancer of the National Opera House. She used to be only one step away from it. “No. Designing is good–less exhausting

Josh stared at Natalie for a moment and offered, “If you ever change your mind, I’ll make it happen.”

Natalie didn’t respond.

Later, they fell asleep in each other’s arms. Despite her period cramps, Natalie hadn’t slept this soundly in years, and through the night, she felt an unfamiliar warmth comforting her.

The next morning, Natalie hurriedly washed up and went downstairs.

Outside, Josh, already suited up, was about to leave for a meeting when he spotted Natalie descending the staircase. The car was running, and Martin paused mid–ignition at the sight.

As he expected, Josh couldn’t resist stepping out to greet Natalie. “I thought I had to leave before Natalie asked, “Are you leaving now?”

you woke

tip today,”

Josh leaned in closer, lowering his voice to a soothing tone. “Yeah, but I can stick around if you’d like me to, he offered.

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Chapter 33

Martin, overhearing this, panicked internally. He thought, “Seriously? We have a Solterra joint meeting at nine! Please mind your words, Mrs.

Franco…

To his disappointment, Natalie hesitated before asking. “Is that okay?”

Josh raised his eyebrows and smiled, “Absolutely.”

Martin watched, a silent spectator, as Josh headed back inside for a second breakfast with Natalie. She was a picture of grace, eating at a leisurely pace. Josh, content to simply enjoy her company, occasionally teased her by playfully lifting food to her lips with the fork. She became more and more accustomed to the charming gesture, accepting the bites he offered, and clearly, Josh was happy about that.

The servants in the villa were also shocked. They thought. It has just been a few days. Mr. President spoils Mrs. Franco so much. He even postponed the meeting for her. Mr. President has known Ms. Austin for so many years, but he’s far closer to Mrs. Franco than to Ms. Austin‘

After breakfast, Josh picked up a napkin and wiped Natalie’s lips carefully.

Martin was so anxious outside, but he didn’t dare to ur

urge Josh.

Finally, Josh and Natalie got into the car, and he instructed Martin to drop her off at her company first.

“Won’t you be late? Mr. President won’t be mad?” Natalie couldn’t help but wonder aloud.

Josh replied casually. “He won’t. Mr. President is a kind person. We don’t have anything too pressing today. He won’t blame me?

Marin thought, We don’t have anything too pressing?

Natalie nodded. “He’s really nice.

Josh smiled and said, “Yeah. Mr. President is not only nice but also quite approachable. Most importantly, he is very good–looking. You’ll like him if

you see him.

Martin rolled his eyes secretly.

Natalie couldn’t quite hide her curiosity, a small smile forming on her lips. “Is that so?”

After a thoughtful pause, Natalie added shyly, “It’s not like I’d ever get to meet someone like him.”

Martin nearly snorted at this, considering Natalie saw the president every single day.

Josh didn’t say anything. He just chuckled and caressed Natalie’s head.

13

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