Chapter 22

After the press conference, Ethan poured every last bit of his social network and resources into one final search. At last, he found Natalie’s new location— Switzerland, a quiet mountain town, where she seemed to be searching for fresh inspiration. He caught the next flight, traveling alone this time—no entourage, no air of importance. He came as nothing more than a man desperately seeking someone, following the address to a small wooden cabin nestled at the edge of the town, ringed by snow-capped peaks and pine forests. He stood outside the fence, gazing into the yard. There was Natalie, wrapped in a blanket on a wicker chair, her knees covered, an easel before her as she sketched in silence. Sunlight spilled over her, tranquil and radiant. Ethan’s heart was racing, almost to the point of bursting out of his chest. He took a deep breath for courage, gently pushed open the gate, and walked inside. She heard the soft crunch of his steps, lifting her head. When she saw who it was,