Reborn From Oblivion

Even though he didn't say a word, his gesture spoke louder than anything, instantly soothing Nathalie's broken heart.

"Thanks. Sorry for making a fool of myself," she murmured, a bit embarrassed.

"Let's dig in," he said softly.

Nathalie picked up her fork, staring at the spread of delicious dishes, unsure where to begin. Suddenly, she chuckled at herself, "When I was a kid, we didn't have much. Meals were uncertain, so my brother Nathan and I would collect cans and bottles to sell for some bread or sandwiches. I remember Nathan once promising that he'd study hard and make loads of money so I could always have enough to eat, clothes to wear, and a roof over my head. It seemed like a pipe dream back then, but here we are, turning things around."

The man's fork hovered in mid-air. "Your brother's lucky to have you."

Nathalie smiled, correcting him, "No, I'm the lucky one."

His expression turned serious. "You two are really close, aren't you?"

"Of course. We had each other's backs growing up. He's the most trustworthy person in the world," Nathalie replied with conviction.

For a moment, he seemed lost in thought. Then, with a note of caution, he said, "Caring too deeply for someone can make parting ways all the more painful. I'd suggest not putting all your eggs in one basket."

Nathalie shook her head, "I used to think like that too, but Nathan taught me to trust again."

He seemed taken aback, letting out a barely audible sigh.

Just then, his phone buzzed on the table. Ashley's name flashed insistently on the screen.

Nathalie's eyes widened, "You and Ashley..."

He didn't directly respond to her surprise.

"Sorry, I need to take this," he said.

Nathalie nodded, signaling for him to go ahead.

He picked up the phone, holding it to his ear.

Ashley's voice came through loud and clear, "Brother, where are you? The storm's wrecked a lot of

buildings, and some people are imet

trouble, I'm stuck in the suburbs and can't get back. Can you comenoveldrama

me?"

Though his face showed no emotion, Nathalie sensed a shift in his mood.

"I'll send my assistant," he replied.

"Thanks, brother."

"I'm with a friend right now, can't chat. Bye."

"What friend could be so important? You never used to..."

But before Ashley could finish, he hung up, cutting her off.

Nathalie's heart sank as she pieced together the connection between him and Ashley, feeling like she'd been caught red-handed in some secret.

She quickly finished her meal, then stood up, "It's getting late. I should head out."

He continued eating at a leisurely

rain,ake a look outside. With this

do you plan on getting

home?"

She glanced out the window. The weather was relentless. Getting home alone

seemed impossible.

She looked at him, hopeful, "Will you have someone take me home?"

"Oh, he's just stepped out," he said casually.

Feeling deflated, Nathalie sank back into her seat.

"How am I supposed to get home?" she asked, anxiety creeping in about being stuck here.

"Looks like you're stuck with me tonight," he said quietly, a hint of something in his voice.