I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 287

Alexander’s eyes lingered on her face for a moment. All he saw was Natalie’s calm, collected expression.

He just nodded, voice low. “No need.”

The silence between them stretched, awkward and heavy. Natalie cleared her throat and pointed outside. “I’ll just… step out for a bit.”

“Alex.”

Camila walked over, her smile gentle and practiced. She slipped her arm around Alexander’s with an easy familiarity. “Aaron Lee said you’d gone to rest, but here you are.”

“I was just about to head back,” Alexander replied, his tone cool.

Camila turned to Natalie, her smile never wavering. “Sorry, it’s so crowded tonight. I didn’t even notice you’d arrived. If there’s anything you need, please let me know. After all, you’re my special guest.”

Natalie offered a polite smile. “Congratulations on taking over The White Group.”

“Oh, it’s just family business,” Camila replied lightly. “Not nearly as impressive as you, Natalie. You’ve really made a name for yourself. Vice president at Billy Firth—your boss must really trust you.”

The meaning behind her words was clear. No matter how successful Natalie became, she was still just an employee, working for someone else. And of course, there was the reminder about Natalie’s family losing its standing. She might have once been a society princess, but that was the past.

Natalie caught every subtle dig. “You’ve got your own challenges too, Ms. White.” Her gaze dropped briefly to Camila’s stomach. “Maybe focus a little more on yourself right now. That’s what really matters, isn’t it?”

It was a gentle suggestion. Instead of wasting time trying to get under her skin, Camila should pay more attention to her own situation. Natalie was also making it clear that she and Alexander were over.

Camila just smiled, unbothered. She turned to Alexander. “Alex, I’m feeling a little tired. Let’s go rest for a while.”

Ramirez Chateau was the biggest winery in Cabinda, famous for its wines and a symbol of the region. It was at the heart of the Ramirez Group. Hosting an event here was proof of just how much the family approved of Camila.

When Natalie was married to Alexander, she’d never once been invited here. He hadn’t even suggested a visit, not even out of courtesy.

Camila’s pointed words made it obvious she hadn’t taken Natalie’s hint earlier.

“Congratulations,” Natalie said evenly. “But you don’t have to tell me all this. I’m not interested in Alexander anymore.”

If hints didn’t work, she’d just say it straight.

Camila didn’t believe her for a second. She let out a short laugh. “So I should thank you? Maybe if that were true, I’d be grateful. But…” She paused, voice sharp and slow. “You’re lying.”