Chapter 1749

chapter1749

Natalie realized she had been overthinking. She had also underestimated the subtle influence of constantly being surrounded by a certain type of people.

When one was immersed in the same environment for too long, it would become nearly impossible to remain unaffected or to hold on to one's ideals.

For Natalie, it all felt normal now.

She let out a bitter laugh. It wasn't a big deal. All she could do was acknowledge that Austin had good fortune with women-and wish him well.

A few minutes later, she parked her car by the side of the road and booked a flight on her phone. Her priorities were simple now-she wanted a divorce from Austin and custody of their children.

She knew getting custody wouldn't be easy, but this was the right moment to divorce. While Austin still had some lingering feelings for her and a sense of guilt, this was her only chance to take the children back home.

...

Two days later, Skylar drove Natalie to the airport.

Skylar asked, "Why are you leaving so suddenly?"

Natalie looked thinner over the past couple of days, but her eyes now held a newfound determination. "I miss the kids. I'll be back soon-probably."

"Have you made up your mind?" Skylar asked.

Natalie replied firmly, "Yes, there's nothing to hesitate about. If we drag this out any longer, we'll end up despising each other. If it gets to the point of discussing divorce or a separation, we'll just end up throwing dirt at each other. No need to make things uglier."

Skylar nodded, her gaze drifting to the crowds flowing in and out of the airport. Still, she couldn't hide her concern. "If anything happens that you can't handle, call me, okay?"

"I will, I promise. Stop worrying about me." Natalie's eyes glistened, but she forced a smile.

She couldn't bring herself to tell her parents about the situation. The only person who knew was Skylar.

And Skylar was the only one who could say, in moments like this, that if Natalie couldn't handle something, she should ask for help. But Natalie was determined to manage it on her own.

Ten minutes later, after seeing Natalie off, Skylar turned to head back to the

airport parking lot when she suddenly spotted a familiar face-Aiken.

A young, beautiful woman clung to Aiken's arm. Skylar recognized her immediately. She was Zera, the celebrity.

Zera was also the reason Wendy had left the country. Skylar was surprised to see that Aiken was still with her.

Skylar considered walking past without acknowledging them, but the couple moved quickly. They were right in front of her before she could slip away unnoticed.

Aiken spoke first. "Well, what a coincidence. Are you here to see someone off or pick someone up?"

"Just sending off a friend," Skylar replied with a polite nod. "Are you going on vacation?"

Zera eyed Skylar warily, her gaze filled with scrutiny. Skylar was stunning and carried an undeniable presence. Even knowing Skylar was Joe's wife, Zera couldn't help but feet uneasy.

Skylar ignored Zera's gaze while Aiken explained, "It's for work."

elaet

"Alright, I won't keep you then." Skylar smiled faintly and turned leave. She had no intention of engaging further, especially with Zera's calculating stare.

After all, this was Aiken's matter, and Skylar had no intention of commenting on it -though she couldn't help but think he was being foolish.

Aiken stood there for a moment, watching her leave. It wasn't until Skylar was far away that he finally turned his attention back.

Zera hesitated before speaking. "Weren't you supposed to come with me to Fashion Week? How does this count as work?"

Aiken glanced at her sharply.

Zera faltered under his gaze. "Why are you looking at me like that? I just think you're spoiling me, that's all."

"Spoiling?" Aiken's expression darkened suddenly, his mood shifting without warning.

Zera felt flustered. "Yes, everyone

says you spoil me, so I just assumed it's because you love me. Aiken, if I hadn't met you, I wouldn't have had

chance to attend the show."