To call it a feast for the eyes was an understatement. The men gathered were all attractive in their own right there were business types, casual types, and even openly flirtatious types.
Natalie’s appearance at the banquet was akin to throwing bait into a wolf’s den. Curious, appraising looks were thrown in her direction. The ups and downs in life should have steeled her nerves by now, yet she couldn’t help the chill running up her spine.
Bella was comparatively calmer. She even secretly praised Benjamin for taking such spectacular arrangements, though she shouldn’t be surprised. One could always count on his capability, after all.
Natalie pointed out sardonically, “I was expecting food at your banquet. Are we having male models for dinner?”
Worried Natalie might get skittish and flee, Bella quickly looped her arm through the former’s and led her into the fray ahead. They aren’t male models! They’re all Grendale’s finest! If you see any gentleman you like, don’t be shy to make your move.”
Even a fool would understand what was happening just by looking at this scene. Natalie demanded, “Bella, are you trying to find me a husband?”
Bella denied this accusation vehemently to keep Natalie from storming out of the banquet. Lying through her teeth was the best course of action at this point. “I’m not a pimp, you know, nor do I have the free time to pull such boring stunts.
“These guys are my friends, and they’re here to welcome me home. But if you happen to meet someone you like, what’s stopping you from getting to know them better, right?”
A humorless laugh escaped Natalie as she rolled her eyes.
The two women stopped in the middle of the hall. Natalie did see a few familiar faces. So, Bella did know some of these men,
after all.
At that moment, a good–looking young man approached Natalie and Bella. The latter stepped forward enthusiastically to greet him, then introduced Natalie. “Thomas, this is Natalie, my best friend. No one else comes close to her.”
Thomas Hartley sported a nicely tailored suit and had both hands in his pockets. Surprise and amazement filled his eyes when he glanced at Natalie. “Oh, I’ve heard about her, alright. Amanda, isn’t it?”
“Yes, she’s Amanda. She’s a wunderkind!” Sensing Thomas‘ interest, Bella immediately made to leave. She turned to Natalie and said, “I have to greet the other guests, Natalie. Stay and chat with Thomas.”
The words had only just left Bella’s mouth when she turned and bolted like a hare.
Natalie felt awkward. If she were honest, she wasn’t a big fan of hanging out with strangers. She was about to conjure up some excuse and leave when Thomas cut to the chase. “How shall I address you? Ms. Spencer or Ms. Sutton?”
“The latter will do,” Natalie replied for courtesy’s sake.
“Ms. Sutton, you’re far more beautiful than I expected. If I may be so bold, I’m quite interested in having a romantic relationship with you, and I don’t mind that you’re a divorcee. But we don’t have to have a wedding. I don’t like noisy, pretentious formalities. What do you think?”
Natalie gaped at Thomas, thoroughly confused. A shadow passed over her face as she drew a deep breath and s I’m sorry, but I have no interest in you whatsoever. If marriage is what you’re looking for, you’re better off chu
else.”
“Mr. Hartley,
someone
Annoyance seized her. How were men so confident about their mediocrity?
She picked up her skirts and began to head forward, but Thomas suddenly cut her off, “What do you mean by that, Natalie? You’re nothing more than secondhand goods! Don’t act like you’re better than me!”
He was Bella’s guest. Natalie hadn’t wanted to pick a fight with him, but if he insisted on embarrassing himself, she would be happy to help. Her spine straightened, and a devious smile curled her lips, like she was ready to win this fight.
1/2
Chapter 78
+25 BONUS
She said with a chuckle, “I’m sure many women have had you warm their beds, Mr. Hartley. I can’t help but wonder about your sudden urgency to find a wife. Could you no longer keep up with the other women’s bedroom demands?
“Oh, wait. I seem to remember now. Statistics have shown that a man’s stamina and endurance tend to decline after 25 years old. That explains your desperation, Mr. Hartley.”
Thomas never expected a divorcee like Natalie to be so insolent. He was so furious that he nearly forgot how to breathe.
-6
