Reborn From Oblivion

Minnie's return had Nathalie running around like a whirlwind.

First stop was the mall, where she picked out a bunch of cute clothes and essentials for Minnie. Normally, Nathalie was a bit of a control freak, but this shopping spree was the first time she really let loose. Dominick Ford was along for the ride, juggling what seemed like a mountain of clothes, while Lizzy's hands were so full she couldn't possibly carry another thing.

When Nathalie turned around with the last item in hand, she couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of Ford and Lizzy struggling under their loads. "Alright, let's head back," she said with a sheepish grin.

On their way home, though, they ran into the last people Nathalie wanted to see: Cameron and Greta. Greta was lugging shopping bags, while Cameron sauntered along with his hands coolly tucked in his pockets.

Seeing Nathalie, Greta put on a fake friendly face. "Nathalie, it's been ages! How's life treating you?"

Nathalie was desperate to steer clear of her. "My life's none of your business," she shot back.

Greta's eyes flicked to Nathalie's empty hands and she found a new way to dig at her. "Why didn't you buy anything? Is everything too pricey for you? You've always been so thrifty, never one to splash out. But hey, life's short, Nathalie. You should treat yourself now and then. Look at me, I just snagged two dresses without a second thought..."

Nathalie's reply dripped with sarcasm, "Some things never change, huh? Your sharp tongue is as lively as ever."

Lizzy and Dominick Ford stepped up beside her, forming a united front. Greta looked puzzled by these unfamiliar faces.

Lizzy chimed in, "Who said Nathalie didn't buy anything? All this is hers. Maybe you should open your eyes."

Greta's expression soured, seeing Nathalie's shopping haul. It was like Nathalie was stocking up for a feast, while Greta had to meticulously choose, always mindful of not overspending and upsetting Cameron.

Cameron, ever the detail-oriented one, noticed all the clothes were for kids and got a bit worked up. "Nathalie, why are you buying children's clothes?"

Spotting the sizes, he realized they were for a child around three years old, and a troubling thought crossed his mind...

Nathalie was on edge, terrified Cameron might find out about Minnie. She played it cool, "They're for a friend's kid." Cameron visibly relaxed.

But Greta wasn't done, her voice full of mockery. "Oh, so that's why you're spending like there's no tomorrow. Helping out a friend, huh? Which friend of yours is so lavish?"

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Nathalie just wanted to escape this awkward encounter. "I've got things to do. Goodbye," she said tersely.

But Greta grabbed her arm, "Nathalie, you should really come see Mom and Dad soon."

Nathalie's reluctance was written all over her face.

Greta, a hint of sadness creeping in, said, "Dad's not doing well. The doctors say he might not have much time left." Nathalie's response was icy, "So, you want me to break out the fireworks in celebration?"

Greta, furious, slapped Nathalie.

With tears in her eyes, Greta scolded, "How can you be so heartless? He's still your father!"

Dominick, seething, tossed the clothes at Ford, burying his face in the pile Then he stormed up to Greta and slapped her. "You think you can hit Nathalie right in front of me? Am I invisible to you?"

Greta's face bore the angry imprint of his hand. She covered her cheek, tears streaming, and snapped at Nathalie, "Since when do you have a brother? I never knew you had one."

Nathalie stayed silent.noveldrama

Dominick spoke up, "Nathalie's got family, alright. Don't think she's out here on her own. With me around, no one's laying a finger on her."