The Imposter Bride (Natalia and Magnus) novel Chapter 356

He was gambling, gambling everything he held dear in a high-stakes game, betting on his wife's affection for him. If Natalia were to witness this scene, he was certain she would show up.

So, he smoothly lured the readily available Diana to the hotel, drugged her into oblivion, and patiently awaited Natalia's arrival.

Time ticked away. Magnus didn't even glance at Diana, who was sprawled on the bed, snoring like a farm animal. Instead, he kept his gaze fixed on the gloaming.

His ears were on high alert, listening for any signs of movement outside. Any footsteps that echoed made his heart clench, and he anxiously awaited the potential knock on the door. At this late hour, he knew any knocking would undoubtedly be from his wife—Natalia.

However, time and time again, as the footsteps drew near and then receded, Magnus realized he was wrong. They were merely late-night hotel guests or staff, and none of them belonged to his wife.

No matter, the night was still young, and he didn't mind the wait.

The twilight deepened, gradually giving way to the pale light of dawn until a brilliant sunrise greeted the horizon. Morning had arrived.

Magnus, who had been standing by the window all night, dejectedly dropped his cigarette butt. Beneath his feet, a pile of spent cigarettes lay scattered. He had stayed up all night, yet his wife never showed up.

With a bitter smile, Magnus whispered, "Natalia, are you really so ruthless? How long do you plan on avoiding me?"

Exhaling a puff of smoke, he sighed heavily and left the room with heavy steps. In the spacious bed, Diana remained in a deep sleep, oblivious to everything that had transpired.

Worn and dejected, Magnus left the hotel, his steps heavy as if he had aged a decade overnight. His dispirited appearance was caught by a tabloid reporter who had been staking out the hotel all night. Excitedly, he scribbled in his notebook, [Mr. Andersen and his new lady love spent a passionate night together. Seen stumbling out of the hotel in the wee hours, apparently spent.]

*

Respecting Hector's wishes, Natalia left Rome with him and temporarily settled in Hawaii.

Hawaii was home to a small business owned by Hector's family. Hector had tried to persuade Natalia to join him at his family's business, but she had refused.

Planning to avoid Hector's stubborn attentiveness, Natalia decided to distance herself from him slowly. Once Hector's work situation stabilized, she planned to leave Hawaii and wander elsewhere.

Despite being in this unfamiliar city, her thoughts were consumed by Magnus. She found herself constantly seeking news about him, hoping for some relief from her longing.

Magnus was a globally recognized businessman. His staggering wealth and charming looks made it difficult for the tabloids to ignore him.

One day, Natalia was sitting in a café, idly scrolling through her phone, when she came across the latest news about Magnus.

The article featured several clear photos of a drunk Magnus with a giggling Diana, their arms wrapped around each other as they headed towards a hotel. They looked every bit the smitten couple. The tabloid's headline was equally suggestive. [Famous CEO spotted with a beautiful woman at a passionate night at the hotel.]

Natalia's face instantly turned pale. She couldn't believe her eyes. Magnus was really with Diana! Her previous suspicions became a harsh reality. This time, she could no longer convince herself that Magnus loved her.