After returning to the Grand Mansion, Nathalie felt her heart grow closer to Nicholas.She wondered if Charles had deliberately separated her from Nicholas eight years ago so that he didn't say anything about the pineapple pie incident when Nathalie asked him.He already knew Nathalie had misunderstood, but didn't say anything about it.If Charles had been honest with her at that time and said that it was Nicholas' gift and that it was actually Nicholas who had saved Nathalie, maybe she wouldn't have ended up dating and marrying Charles.Maybe Nathalie would have waited until Nicholas returned from his college leave and asked him out first.Besides, since their fight in marketing class, Nathalie had actually started to like paying attention to Nicholas, it was just that her sense of prestige made her cover it up with an indifferent attitude.In the end, Nathalie realized that she had indeed chosen the wrong man. Charles had lied to her from the start and instead destroyed her dreams a
Nathalie PoVMy hands were clammy. I felt so nervous right now, that I had to wipe my hands with tissues several times. On the dining table there were already lots of wads of tissue that I had used.Nicholas saw my nervousness and he took my hand, rubbing my palm gently."It's okay," he said. "I'm by your side. I won't let anyone bother you."Technically, I had already met grandfather Jerome Grand, and the couple Andy and Lilian Grand, before NSync's opening a few days ago.When I was having dinner with Nicholas in the restaurant, after we met with Charles and Gina in the Shark Fin restaurant, the three of them also came to the same restaurant as us and Nicholas introduced me as his girlfriend.Grandfather Jerome was friendly to me, while Andy Grand, Nicholas' father, gave me a questioning look, and his wife didn't say anything, just stared at me coldly.Still, I could read their confusion and surprise. They definitely wouldn't have thought that Nicholas already had a girlfriend and
When she arrived at the White Grand mansion, Nathalie's eyes widened. The classic-style building in front of her eyes was even twice as big and grander than Nicholas' Grand mansion.Nicholas grabbed Nathalie's hand and put it on his arm. "Are you ready?"Nathalie took a few breaths, patted Nicholas' hand, then stomped her right foot and lifted her chin. "Let's go!" -- she said gallantly.Nicholas smiled because even though Nathalie was like that, her voice sounded shaky.The Grand family had gathered in the living room when Nicholas and Nathalie entered."Good evening everyone," said Nicholas. He nodded to everyone in front of him, as did Nathalie. "As requested by grandfather, I brought my lover, Nathalie Darren to formally introduce herself to you.""Good evening everyone," greeted Nathalie politely. "Although we have met twice before, I feel the need to formally introduce myself again. My name is Nathalie Darren Adams, but I rarely use my father's name. Thank you for the invitation
Nathalie wasn't afraid of anything. Let Grandpa Jerome live with her and Nicholas in the Grand Mansion and see how they interacted.So far, everything between Nathalie and Nicholas had been natural and straightforward. There was no awkwardness or fake behavior.Maybe, it was fortunate that Nathalie and Nicholas had known each other since they were in college and even though they weren't close at that time, their relationship wasn't bad either.After talking, Grandpa Jerome invited Nathalie back to the living room, where the others were still gathered.Andy and Lilian looked at Nathalie suspiciously, while Leon seemed to be thinking about something.The conversation that was taking place felt stiff, as if forced, but Nathalie didn't want to show that she was feeling tense.Nathalie and Nicholas had talked about this before, even anticipating what kind of atmosphere might occur. So, this wasn't a big problem to deal with.Nicholas mostly talked to Grandpa Jerome, occasionally with his f
The CCTV footage clearly showed what happened in the hallway.Leon's face was burning with shame. The pain in his groin was still throbbing, as was his shin that was kicked by Nathalie, and his face was also very sore after being beaten by Nicholas."Tomorrow morning, I will make sure you become the main topic in the mass media, Leon," Nicholas said sarcastically. "The CEO of Grand Enterprise tried to harass his brother's lover.""What do you mean, Nicholas?" Andy snapped. "Do you want to embarrass our family?"Nicholas stared at his father with a look full of hatred. He slammed the table, until everyone was shocked, except for Grandpa Jerome, who remained calm watching the interaction between his son, daughter-in-law, and grandson.When shocked, Nathalie spontaneously put her hand on Nicholas' thigh and it did not escape Grandpa Jerome's gaze. He also saw how Nicholas' head fell back."Dad, what do you mean I want to embarrass this family?" Nicholas asked sharply. "Leon was the one
Andy paced back and forth angrily. He still wanted to scold Leon, but he couldn't bear to look at Lilian's eyes that were already very swollen from crying too much."Dad, please, listen to my explanation first," Leon said carefully. "I'm willing to give up my position to Nicholas, with certain considerations.""Tsk!" Andy snapped angrily. "Why did you do that stupid thing, Leon? You've never been too interested in women, why are you now trying to seduce Nicholas' girlfriend?""Honey, please, don't keep getting angry," Lilian said in a hoarse voice. "Can you listen to what your son has to say?"Andy exhaled loudly and sat down, slumping back against the sofa.Nicholas and Natalie had gone home and Grandpa Jerome went straight to his room, not saying anything to Andy or Leon at all.However, the look in the old man's eyes clearly implied great anger and the three of them felt afraid."I just wanted to test Nathalie," Leon said. "I'm suspicious of her. We know that Nicholas has been ask
"Welcome!"Grandpa Jerome entered the Grand mansion with his eyes alert, examining his surroundings.He had opposed Nicholas when his grandson said he wanted to buy his own house and live separately from him.Nicholas had lived with him after his mother passed away and because of the trouble Andy had caused, Nicholas had become very close to him.Grandpa Jerome was worried that Nicholas would have difficulty living alone.However, Nicholas insisted that he could take care of himself. Finally, Grandpa Jerome allowed him, on the condition that Madam Olla, Mr. Quentin, and Lyle must accompany him to the newly purchased mansion.Those three people were the ones Grandpa Jerome trusted the most to accompany Nicholas. His worries lessened when he knew they were with his grandson.At that time, there was a little problem because Leon had just been confirmed as the CEO of Grand Enterprise and Nicholas as the CEO of The Grand Care Hospital.
"Can't we put an extra bed in that room?" Nathalie asked hesitantly. "The room is very spacious."Nicholas raised an eyebrow. "No need. Grandpa will get suspicious. I'll just sleep on the couch, it's not a problem.""No!" Nathalie denied quickly. "I'll sleep on the couch. I'm a guest in this house and I should--""You must be kidding me," Nicholas interrupted, flicking Nathalie's forehead lightly."Ouch!" Nathalie complained, rubbing her forehead. It didn't hurt, but she was surprised. "Why did you flick my forehead?""Because you're being unreasonable," Nicholas said, rubbing Nathalie's forehead. "How could I let you sleep on the couch? Besides, you're not a guest! You're part of this house!"Nathalie smiled shyly and pinched the tip of Nicholas' nose. "You're so cute. But, we still can't sleep in the same room," she said with a serious expression."Why?" Nicholas asked with a frown. "We're getting married soon, according to th
"If your father takes over the company again, he will definitely get rid of Leon!" Lilian said in panic. "Your father doesn't like me and Leon, even though Leon is also his grandson.""Calm down, Lilian," Andy said to calm his wife. "My father said he would be fair. He will give the CEO position to those who can bring profit to the company within three months. That means Leon also has the same opportunity to try harder."Lilian stared at Andy in annoyance. "That's just a subtle way to get rid of Leon from the company! Don't you realize that?"Andy's eyebrows rose. "Why do you think that? I don't see anything wrong with my father's way. He inherited the company from his ancestors, guarding, developing, and expanding it with all his mind, energy, and time. He also definitely wants his successor to be able to do what he did for the previous company."Lilian sighed. "Yes, but Leon might not--"Andy stared at Lilian sharply. "Don't tell me you doubt Leon's ability to compete with Nicholas?
"Where are you?" Charles asked, keeping his voice steady."Wh-why do you ask, of course I'm at... Err... I'm at m-mom's house," Gina replied, stuttering a bit.Why did Charles suddenly call? Up until now, Charles rarely called when he was out of the house. Usually he only sent messages, and even then only when he was about to go home."At your mom's house? Why is it so quiet? And why is your voice echoing?" Charles asked again.As soon as she called, Gina walked quickly to the women's bathroom. The man with her stood confusedly near the open studio door."I-I'm in the bathroom," Gina answered quickly."Ah, okay. Do you want me to send you lunch? What do you want?" Charles asked."N-no need," Gina said quickly. She couldn't wait. The movie must have started and Larry was getting annoyed waiting. "My mom will cook.""Okay. I'll be home a bit late today. If you want to go home, just call a taxi," Charles said, deliberately taking his time.Charles saw the man with Gina standing outside t
"Why are you so angry?" Charles asked in a flat tone, sounding more like bored."Honey, haven't you read and seen the news?" Gina said annoyed. "They threw a party that was called a spectacular wedding party and it's been more than a week and it's still being talked about!"Charles sighed. The more he went on, the more tired he felt of dealing with Gina. The woman was very demanding, demanding and difficult to control.She kept throwing tantrums when the news of Nathalie and Nicholas' wedding broke out. She started comparing their wedding preparations that were only a few weeks away and wanted to change some things because she didn't want to lose to Nathalie's party."Gina, do you want to make my mother angry and cancel our wedding altogether?" Charles said. "Talk to her and tell her what you think or ask her to change the concept of your wedding like Nathalie's."Gina was silent, feeling annoyed but she knew there was nothing she could do. Kelly was very fierce to her and she had arr
Lilian was restless.She waited for Merryl, but the woman was nowhere to be seen, even though the party was almost over.Approaching midnight, large fireworks were set off from the middle of the sea.George paid three fishing boats that would sail to set off the fireworks on their way.The beautiful fireworks glowed against the backdrop of the star-filled night sky, making all the guests exclaim in awe and applaud after the fireworks lit up in the sky.Nicholas kissed Nathalie as he watched the fireworks."Finally, my dream has come true. I have you in my life, my dream," Nicholas whispered in Nathalie's ear. "With a bonus," he continued while rubbing Nathalie's stomach.Nathalie smiled and pressed herself into Nicholas' arms. She felt so happy, she couldn't speak. She kissed Nicholas's chin."You really gave me my dream wedding," Nathlie said in a hoarse voice because of the feeling of happiness that was choking her throat."I'm glad everything went smoothly," Nicholas said. "There's
"We are gathered here today, to witness two souls become one in the sacred bond of matrimony. Nicholas Alexander Grand and Nathalie Darren Adams, by the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. Nicholas, you may kiss your wife."Reverend Leslie Boun's words caused the beach sky to fill with cheers and applause, as Nicholas gently pulled Nathalie by the waist and kissed her lips.It was a warm, passionate, and loving kiss. Nathalie wrapped her arms around Nicholas' neck and smiled into the kiss."I love you so much, Mrs. Nathalie Grand," Nicholas whispered."I love you too, Mr. Nicholas Grand," Nathalie replied.Nicholas wiped the corners of Nathalie's wet eyes and led her down from the podium to approach the guests who were ready to offer their congratulations and prayers.The wedding was very lively and attended by many important people, covered by many journalists from various media. The sunny weather combined with the sound of the ocean in the background, the food flow
"This is going to be the most amazing wedding of the century," Lyle murmured as he watched workers stacking chairs from containers onto the beach."Of course," said Madam Olla, standing next to Lyle. "Our young master deserves it. He's been waiting for Ms. Nathalie for over seven years."George arranged for everyone important to arrive the day before the wedding and placed them in semi-permanent tents that had been built on either side of the main house on the island.The main house was large, with an open concept facing the sea, but it was perched on a hill. There were six large rooms and two smaller rooms, with five bathrooms and a swimming pool behind the house.George placed grandfather Jerome, Hardy, and the couple Andy and Lilian, in three of the main rooms. Leon would be coming on the day and Nicholas thought it would be better.Lyle, Madam Olla, and the other staff from the Grand Mansion were placed in semi-permanent tents and they considered it a fun vacation.The twins Emie
"Are you going to keep ignoring me like this?"Gina slammed her bag on the floor angrily and glared at Charles.They had just returned from the Maldives and Gina was tired after sitting on the plane for so long, plus she couldn't stand Charles' attitude.Since that night, when Charles told her that Nathalie was pregnant, Charles had been ignoring her. Talking as needed, touching as needed, sometimes even no touch at all, even just a kiss on the forehead."Okay, if you think of me as just a fun prostitute in bed, at least give me more money!" Gina said sarcastically. "With my face and body, even though I'm pregnant, I'm sure I can get ten times more money than what you give me! Many men have a fetish for pregnant women.""Don't talk carelessly," Charles said in a softer tone. He reached out to grab Gina's shoulder and intended to hug her, but Gina pulled away."You think you're the only one who can treat me like a worthless object?" Gina said sarcastically. "I can do it too! Don't wor
"Are you sure it's Nicholas's child?" Lilian quipped."Why? Do you believe your son's words that Nicholas is sterile?" Nathalie asked in a mocking tone. "You even mocked me for my divorce by my ex-husband because I was considered sterile, right? In reality, none of us are sterile.""But--"Nathalie smiled. "Don't worry, it's very modern now and Nicholas has a good and complete hospital. You can see the DNA test results tomorrow morning if you want."Lilian snorted in annoyance. "You want to marry Nicholas because of his money, right? You know that as a Grand, Nicholas has a lot of inheritance.""Oh? Was that also your motive for being Andy's lover in the past? If I'm not mistaken, you were his secretary, right? I thought a secretary seducing her rich boss, getting pregnant, and asking to be married only existed in cheesy novels and cheap soap operas, but it turned out to be the truth," Nathalie said in a low tone."Are you insulting me?" Lilian asked in annoyance."No, I'm just asking
"Nathalie, are you back?" Hardy asked happily. "I missed you.""I missed you too, Dad. I just got back this morning. My work finished early and Nicholas also had some things to take care of here, so we decided to just go home," Nathalie said. "By the way, Dad, Lyle will pick you up tonight, for dinner with Grandpa Jerome. ""Oh, okay. I'll come," Hardy said happily. "I'm glad you're back and you sound healthy and in good spirits."The grand mansion was ready. Nicholas invited Andy, Lilian, and Leon to dinner. He planned to announce his early wedding plans.Lilian was upset because Nicholas' dinner invitation meant she had to cancel her dinner plans with her club friends."Why can't I not come," Lilian said. "This is a sudden invitation, while my plans with my friends have been made for a long time.""This is Dad's order," Andy said flatly. "If you have a good reason to give to my father when he asks why you're not here, go ahead."Of course Lilian didn't dare to disobey her scary fath