I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 256

Natalie shifted some of her work to tomorrow, so tonight she could actually leave on time. Alexander had sent her the restaurant’s address that morning, but he hadn’t messaged or called since. It didn’t really matter. They were meeting soon anyway. He could just tell her whatever it was then.

She got in her car and headed straight to the restaurant.

The place was beautiful, all elegant European style with an air of quiet class. Warm, yellow light spilled out from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside, neat green shrubs swayed gently in the breeze, framing the entrance with a soft touch of nature.

Inside, mellow music drifted through the air. The wood floors shone under the crystal chandelier, and every table was dressed in a crisp white cloth with carefully arranged silverware and glasses. Everything looked perfect.

Natalie spotted Alexander right away. He was sitting at a table in the center, his posture straight and formal in a perfectly tailored suit. Even from across the room, she could see he looked tired, weighed down by something heavy.

She walked over to him quickly.

“Have you been waiting long?”

“Not at all. You’re right on time.”

For a moment, it seemed like he’d just snapped out of his thoughts. He gave her a small smile, but after that, he didn’t say anything else.

This dinner was supposed to be about the results, but he hadn’t mentioned a word about them. Natalie’s nerves kicked in, and she decided to just ask.

“So, what did the test say?”

Alexander looked at her, meeting her eyes without flinching. “Natalie…”

“Alex?” she pressed, searching his face.

After a long pause, Alexander finally spoke. His voice was steady and almost emotionless, like he was talking about the weather instead of shattering her heart.

“You can bring Arianna with you.”

He had confirmed it. That was his answer. There was nothing left between them to save.

Natalie felt her chest tightening, like invisible hands were squeezing her heart until it hurt. The music in the restaurant suddenly sounded so loud and harsh. Laughter and happy voices all around her felt like they were aimed at her, mocking her for holding onto hope, for even thinking there might be another chance.

She swallowed hard, forcing herself to sound calm. “Congratulations. I’m really sorry, but I probably won’t be able to make it. Work’s been crazy and I have to report back to headquarters next month.”

When she mentioned going back to the UK, she noticed Alexander’s expression change, just for a second.