lan didn't want to leave her alone, worried the other man might bully her again. "Natalie, I'll see you home. I'm worried about you."

Natalie looked at his concerned face with amusement. He really was worried about her.

"There's nothing to worry about. It's not like he's going to eat me."

She knew Sebastian could be cruel, usually through cold indifference. He had only struck her twice in moments of extreme anger, but she had already paid him back for that.

lan hesitated for a moment before asking, "Natalie... is he not good to you?"

Natalie smiled. "Not exactly. But there are a lot of reasons behind it. I'll tell you when I get the chance."

lan knew she didn't want to talk about it, so he didn't press further. He wished he could grow up faster so he could help her.

Natalie changed the subject to his studies. In her past life, lan had been a gaming prodigy with god-like computer skills.

Joanna had used his skills to steal numerous trade secrets.

When he was no longer useful, Joanna had ruthlessly discarded him.

His end had been tragic. Joanna had a habit of getting rid of people once they'd served their purpose.

Especially those who questioned her or showed any disloyalty; they never lasted long.

She would stage all sorts of accidents, fatal ones, and no one could ever trace them back to her.

She harmed, and she saved. In this life, she was determined to live the way she wanted.

They became engrossed in conversation, delving into topics related to lan's major.

The time flew by. When they arrived at Natalie's home, she smiled and asked, "lan, want to come in for a bit?"

lan looked at the luxurious villa and shook his head. "Maybe next time, Natalie. You're too tired today. I'll come visit in a few days."

Natalie nodded. "Alright. Then have the driver take you back to the hospital."

lan agreed. "Okay."

After the car left, Natalie went to open the door.

Suddenly, a pair of blinding headlights flashed, and Natalie raised a hand to shield her eyes.

As the car parked, she recognized

the license plate, and a flicker of et

ange

ignited in her eyes. Would this

man ever give up?

Sebastian's tall figure emerged from the car, exuding an oppressive aura.

Natalie met his cold gaze and went straight inside.

But Sebastian quickly blocked the door and followed her in.

Natalie spun around, glaring at him. "Mr. Spencer, are you disappointed to see I'm not dead?"

Sebastian frowned at her sharp tone, his own expression souring. "Natalie, you were the one who provoked me..."

"So what if provoked you? It's not

the first time you've abandoned me on the highway. The first time, nath

hing happened, I just had to walk for two hours."

"This time nearly died, but I'm not blaming you. If you were hoping to see me die I'm sorry to disappoint you. The time isn't right. Not unless you and Joanna die first."

"This time, I will make sure you two bastards die before I do."

Natalie's eyes were filled with a potent, murderous intent.

Remembering the agonizing pain of her past life, she was now consumed by a chilling desire for revenge.

For the first time, Sebastian truly felt the depth of Natalie's hatred.

Every single incident, every slight, they were the ones who had broken her heart.

It was his indulgence that had wounded her so deeply.

No matter what he said now, Natalie would never believe him.

Even if she understood that Joanna had orchestrated everything, would she ever be willing to forgive him?