Echoes of a Forsaken Heart novel Chapter 163

Eveleen's entanglement with the kidnapping case was a serious criminal matter, one that typically would be out of Caspian's jurisdiction.

But the thought of this young girl, clueless and deceived, it just didn't sit right with him.

As expected, Natalia's face contorted into a visage of utter shock the moment he broke the news.

"Mr. Spiegel, what are you saying?"

For a moment, Natalia thought she had misheard, or perhaps misunderstood his words.

Caspian watched her, lips pursed, before he repeated himself.

"Eveleen was part of the crew that orchestrated your kidnapping. She was in cahoots with Orpheus."

Natalia's brow furrowed, and she struggled to find her words.

"How did you come to know this?"

Caspian pulled out his smartphone and showed her a video clip.

The footage was of Orpheus, post-arrest, a shadow of his former self, battered and bruised, but confessing the entire plot.

He laid it all out - from why he had snatched her, to Eveleen's involvement, down to the bitter decision to leave her for dead at the bottom of a ravine. It was all there, painfully clear.

Natalia's grip on the phone tightened.

So that was it. It had all been a setup from the start.

A bitter laugh escaped her as she looked up, her eyes tinged with the redness of anger.

"Mr. Spiegel, thank you for telling me. Is there a way to ensure Eveleen won't be granted bail or a reduced sentence?"

With Orpheus's testimony, Eveleen's involvement was undeniable.

But Natalia knew neither the Schafers nor Eveleen would go down without a fight.

And Hamilton might just lend a hand to help.

With a wry smile and the sour taste of betrayal on her tongue, she posed the question.

Caspian raised an eyebrow; the girl was tougher and sharper than he'd anticipated.

"Since I've shared this with you, rest assured, I have a plan. Leave it with me."

A small, grateful smile crossed Natalia's lips. "Thank you," she said after a pause.

She laughed lightly, adding, "I'm just not sure how to repay your kindness."

Caspian's assistance was invaluable, and she felt indebted.

Caspian chuckled. "What? You think I have an ulterior motive?"

Natalia didn't nod, but she didn't deny it either.

Like Hamilton once said, nobody would help another without reason.

Caspian's initial approach had surprised her, but his company had been nothing but pleasant.

"Ms. Jenkins, rest easy. I'm taken, loyal heart and soul, unlike some."

She knew exactly who he referred to with 'some'.

Her laughter sidestepped the implication, and Caspian, realizing she wanted to change the subject, began discussing the case details.

After parting ways with Caspian, Natalia headed straight for her rental.

Since the split with Hamilton, she hadn't returned, yet her belongings remained, including some important documents.

She intended to pack up and cancel the lease but didn't expect to find her landlady, Alba, tidying up inside.

Natalia's frown deepened.

Alba recognized her instantly. "Hello, Ms. Jenkins."

With a furrowed brow, Natalia inquired, "What's going on? Where are my things?"

Alba's smile was apologetic. "Your boyfriend's already picked them up. He said you two lovebirds had a tiff but made up, so you're moving back in. Didn't he tell you?"

Natalia's temple throbbed. "When did he come?"

"Last night, rather late actually. Came through the agency to find me. Your boyfriend looked quite upset, so I didn't dare question him. Ms. Jenkins, every couple has their squabbles. Just kiss and make up, no need for dramatic exits."

Natalia thanked Alba and left without another word, her heart pounding as she beelined for the apartment.

Upon arrival, she was surprised to find the nanny still there, who brightened at the sight of her.

"Ms. Jenkins, you're back! How are you feeling?"

"Much better, thank you," Natalia replied, spotting Hamilton lounging with a newspaper on the couch.

What was this man playing at? Clearly, he was waiting for her.

Ignoring him, she strode to the bedroom, only to find it transformed.