Chapter 7 Reliance

It was a sleepless night for Natalie. She spent the entire night thinking about various moments from her previous life—how Cedric and Isabella had been together and the heartlessness with which Cedric had made her sign the surgery consent form.

The only thing she didn't want to recall was the seven years of their love and the three years of their marriage.

Yesterday afternoon, Natalie sent the divorce agreement to the handwriting analysis center.

Upon waking up, she immediately called to inquire about the results. Once she had that sorted out, she went to where she had arranged to meet Bianca.

Bianca had arrived ahead of her and was waiting at the entrance. She wore a professional outfit with a windbreaker, which was Natalie's favorite look.

However, she hadn't dressed that way since her marriage to Cedric.

So, every time she saw Bianca, she envied her for her mature appearance.

Natalie asked, "Why didn't you go in first?"

"You're Mrs. Johnson, remember? Your chosen venues are all exclusive members-only places. They don't entertain non-members."

Natalie stiffened upon hearing that. She looked at Bianca with a guilty expression and said, "I'm sorry. I..."

"Oh, come on, I'm just teasing you."

Seeing that Natalie didn't know what to say, Bianca interrupted her and pulled her inside.

It had to be said that since being with Cedric, Natalie had become increasingly immersed in his world.

Even having a casual afternoon tea could cost more than some people's monthly salary. It was no wonder that when she married Cedric, many people speculated that she was marrying him for his money.

"So, what changed your mind?" Bianca asked while stirring her coffee.

Natalie looked down, and her long lashes concealed the emotions in her eyes. Her tone was calm as she replied, "I simply had a moment of realization."

Six months ago, when Bianca had advised her to divorce Cedric, she had been angry for over three months and hadn't spoken to her best friend during that time.

She now looked apologetically at the woman opposite her and said, "Bia, I'm sorry for before. I wasn't really mad at you. I was just scared."

She had been afraid that all the rumors circulating outside were true. It took a lot of courage to let go of a ten-year relationship, something not everyone could do.

Bianca appeared nonchalant, her words direct and sharp as ever. "I understand. After all, you've been together for so many years. A man like him is quite charming when you're in love."

Natalie remained silent.

"Marriage really isn't suited for you," Bianca stated matter-of-factly.

Natalie nodded.

Over these three years, only she knew what kind of life she had been living.

Just as Natalie and Bianca were about to continue their conversation, an unpleasant voice interrupted them, "Well, well. Who do we have here?"

Natalie turned around at the voice and saw Christina Johnson looking at her with disdain. Christina was Cedric's sister, or rather, the adopted daughter of the Johnson family.

Natalie only spared her a glance before her gaze landed on Isabella Morgan, who was standing beside Christina.

Isabella might not be considered drop-dead gorgeous, but she had an appearance that was easy on the eyes.

Natalie's eyes dimmed, and she clenched her fists. She trembled with anger at the sight of the woman.

"Bia, let's go."

Natalie didn't want to stay here for another second. She was afraid that she might lose control and confront that woman.

It was a special day today, and she couldn't afford any conflict with Isabella.

Bianca couldn't stand people who thought they were superior just because of their family background. So, she easily replied, "Sure. I should get back to work too."

But Christina couldn't resist taunting Natalie.

"It seems you still haven't learned your lessons from Mom's teachings, huh? You're still associating with these unsavory sort."

"Christina Johnson!"

Natalie couldn't hold back her fury any longer. She turned around, intending to retaliate, but a hand reached out to grip her wrist tightly.

"Nat," Bianca said firmly.

"Oh, what's this? Are you angry? Over someone like her?" Christina mocked.

"Christina, where are your manners? You're still considered to be part of the Johnsons, aren't you?" Natalie retorted without holding back.

She knew that being adopted was a sensitive topic for Christina. Even Rebecca never openly acknowledged Christina's status as an adopted daughter to outsiders.

Seeing how Christina's face had paled from the reminder, Natalie huffed and pulled Bianca's hand.

"Let's go."

Christina suddenly shrieked from behind them, "How could my brother be interested in a woman like her?!"

"That's enough. Why do you even bother with her?" Isabella's tone was gentle as she subtly asserted her authority.

Based on how she spoke, there was no doubt that she thought she was the true young mistress of the Johnson family.

Natalie's lips curved into an icy smile.