The Heiress Nobody Saw Coming (Natalie and Marcus) novel Chapter 289

"I'm feeling a little tired and need to take a break. If I haven't been the perfect host, I hope you'll forgive me," Natalie said, draped in Marcus' suit jacket.

The faint scent of gardenias lingered on the fabric. It struck her as odd since she distinctly remembered Marcus not having this scent the first time they met. But now wasn't the time to dwell on what cologne he used.

"Ms. Walker, please, rest!"

"Yeah, take a break! No need to worry about us."

The group of men around her, all acquaintances Lincoln had recently introduced her to, smiled warmly. Their polite and friendly teasing instantly lightened the atmosphere, making it easier for her to step away.

Natalie gave them a gracious smile, turning her head slightly to glance at Marcus. He nodded subtly, and the two headed upstairs together.

Once upstairs, Natalie pulled out her phone and dialed Hector's number.

"Hey, Hector," she said when he picked up. "Which hospital is Emma in right now?"

"She's at the Good Hope Psychiatric Center in Soutia," Hector replied in a low voice. "Why are you asking, Nat?"

"Just curious," Natalie said casually. "That's all. Talk later."

She hung up and turned to Marcus. "You know where Emma was transferred to, don't you?"

Marcus nodded. "Yeah. Hector asked me to help arrange some bodyguards, so of course I know."

"Then… should we pay her a visit?" Natalie asked, a sly smile curving her lips. She held her phone up as if checking her makeup, but she was really using the reflection to catch a glimpse of a shadowy figure lurking nearby.

"Sure," Marcus said without hesitation.

"Give me a minute to change. We'll sneak out through the back."

"I'll wait outside your room."

"Alright."

They stepped into the elevator together, and as they descended, Natalie's gaze flicked to the security camera. She smiled faintly, her expression unreadable.

Interesting, she thought. That sneaky housekeeper—was she working for Emma? Sky? Or someone else entirely?

No matter whose spy it was, they wouldn't stop her from dealing with Emma.

When the elevator reached the fifth floor, Natalie handed Marcus his jacket and slipped into her room.

That evening, she'd worn several different evening gowns, each paired with matching heels and accessories. Her makeup had been carefully tailored for each outfit, ensuring she looked stunning no matter the ensemble.

But for this visit, Natalie chose something simple and comfortable—a white chiffon blouse, black straight-leg pants, and flat sandals. She threw on a lightweight cardigan and grabbed a small crossbody bag to complete the look.

She didn't bother changing her makeup or hairstyle. Even in casual attire, she looked radiant—someone who'd stand out in any crowd.

When she stepped out, Marcus was waiting by the door. She met his gaze and said, "Let's go, Mr. Holden."

Marcus, who had been glancing at something on his phone, put it away immediately and followed her.

As they walked, he couldn't help but notice the transformation. In her evening gown, Natalie had exuded a regal elegance—distant, untouchable, and utterly captivating.

She looked approachable and warm in her casual outfit, like the girl next door. Except for one thing—her icy gaze. It was the kind of look that said, "Don't mess with me."

They stepped into the elevator, but Natalie pulled Marcus out with her when it stopped on the second floor.

"We're going out the window," she said matter-of-factly.