Whisper Destiny

Chapter 18

~ Catherine ~

I stared at the Graysons' front door from inside my car, the engine still purring softly. This was my second consecutive day here, which is very rare for me. After receiving Natasha's message, I'd asked Astrid to cancel all my afternoon appointments. I decided that we needed to sort this out, together. Taking a deep breath, I finally stepped out from my car into the cool afternoon air.

Emmette's car was absent, likely still in the office, but Noel's vehicle was in its usual spot.

As I entered the house, the housekeeper informed me that Natasha was waiting by the pool garden. I nodded, my footsteps echoing softly against the polished floors as I made my way outside.

From a distance, I could see Natasha standing by the end of the garden, gazing out over the lawn, lost in thought. I decided to let her be for a moment, understanding she must still be in shock. From where I stood, I took the opportunity to observe her. At around 5'6", she was slightly shorter than me, but she has the figure that most women could only dream of.

Despite the weight she had lost over the past year, she still maintained an hourglass shape that was the envy of many. Her curves were perfectly balanced, accentuating her slender waist and the gentle swell of her hips. It was a physique that commanded attention, effortlessly blending elegance with allure.

Her brown hair, cascading down her back in loose waves, caught the afternoon sunlight, giving it a warm, almost ethereal glow. Her profile was delicate yet striking—high cheekbones, a small, straight nose, and full lips that were currently pressed into a thin line of contemplation. Even in her casual attire, she exuded a grace that was both natural and captivating. Her skin, though paler than usual, had a porcelain quality to it, enhancing the deep green of her eyes, which now seemed distant and haunted.

I couldn't help but admire the effortless way she carried herself, even in such a troubled state. There was an elegance to her movements, a quiet strength that belied the turmoil she was undoubtedly experiencing. How Nicholas, or any man for that matter, could overlook such beauty was beyond me. Natasha had a presence that drew people in, a blend of vulnerability and resilience that made her uniquely captivating.

Throughout my journey from the office to here, I found myself wrestling with doubt. My decision wavered, shifting with every passing mile. But before I could get lost in my thoughts, I saw Natasha turn around and notice me. She cleared her throat and sat down on the bench. I slowly walked towards her, inviting myself to sit down across from her. The air between us was thick with awkwardness.

Natasha gave me a quick, sharp glance, making me suddenly self-conscious, though I kept my poker face intact.

Silence stretched between us for several minutes. Since she had initiated this meeting, I wanted her to start the conversation. From my experience in handling negotiations and difficult conversations, being the last to speak often held an advantage. So, I waited patiently. I had all day for this.

Natasha looked defeated, her shoulders slumped. She knew she had to begin.

"I want you to inform my parents that this marriage cannot happening, and I believe they will only follow your words" she said, cutting straight to the point.

I gave her a slight nod, indicating I was listening and wanted her to continue.

"I don't like you! No, I hate you! I cannot fathom how my parents thought you and I getting married was a good idea. This is insane." Her voice grew louder each second passed, but I remained silent.

She continued, "I'm not into women. I'm not gay. It's not that I have anything against it—my best friend is gay—but I'm not! And you're what, thirty? Oh gosh, you're too old for me, for fuck's sake. You untick all my boxes." Her words were a blend of frustration and disbelief.