Chapter 101

Isla was furious too, but what hurt her more was seeing how much Natalie was suffering. This had to end tonight, one way or another. Vanessa was right-if the outcome couldn't be changed, then at least the process could. At the very least, Charles needed to open his eyes and remember who truly stood beside him all these years. Natalie took a deep breath, met Vanessa's gaze, and gently patted her hand. "Sweetheart, you see things clearer than I do sometimes. Don't worry, as long as I stay true to myself, stick to the plan, I can leave that woman in the dust without even trying." That unshakable elegance and quiet grace slowly spread from her, like a calm wave. Vanessa turned her head and noticed tears gathering in Isla's eyes. Maybe this was who Natalie really was all along-what a pity, such a woman, wasted on someone like Charles. Natalie headed back to change into the custom traditional-style dress Jasper had created for her under Vanessa's request. The soft blush-red fabric gave off b