When She Rose From the Ashes (Natalie and Jensen) novel Chapter 290

Chapter 290 A Cold Refusal

Natalie turned, her eyes calm as they rested on Jensen.

Under that gaze, the wicked thoughts swirling in his heart suddenly died on his lips.

Natalie was so pure–she would never do something filthy.

It had to be Witch Doctor’s scheme.

Jensen’s chest rose and fell heavily, but he bit down on his lip.

He needed to stay calm.

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Their relationship was already fragile, brittle as glass. He couldn’t let reckless impulses shatter the rare chance they had to meet.

Drawing a deep breath, he pressed everything down.

“Natalie, I really do have something important to tell you–about the baby swap when you were born. I’ve found some clues.”

He threw it out bluntly.

He knew Natalie cared deeply about the truth of that year. She had even gone all the way to the countryside to investigate.

Natalie frowned. “How do you know about that?”

“You don’t need to worry about how. Just know that the clues I have will be useful to you. Natalie, it’s nearly noon. Let’s go get lunch together.”

It had been so long since he last shared a meal with her.

But Natalie only shook her head. “Sorry. I promised my husband I’d eat at home. My parents are waiting too.”

The words stung.

He should have been the one called her husband–not that useless Baron.

Jealousy burned, but Jensen remembered how fiercely Natalie defended Baron. If he insulted him again, their conversation would end here. And he couldn’t bear to lose even this little thread between them.

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Chapter 290 A Cold Refusal

“Then… at least let me buy you a coffee?” he asked quietly,

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Anything, as long as he could sit with her for a while. It had been far too long since he’d heard her voice just for him.

Before Natalie could answer, Yvonne spoke up.

“Mr. Jensen, you’re a married man. My sister–in–law is also married. You two were once in a relationship. Isn’t it a bit improper to meet alone?”

The constant interruptions soured Jensen’s mood. His face hardened.

“I was with Natalie for five years. Even if we’re not lovers now, there’s still that bond. And besides, I’m president of Luke Corp, she’s Ms. Sunny. You really think sharing a cup of coffee would cause a scandal?”

“Who can say?” Yvonne replied steadily. “My sister–in–law may not have feelings for you, but no one can say what you think. To avoid any unnecessary rumors, it’s better if you speak here. With me present, no one can misinterpret. Don’t you agree, Mr. Jensen?”

Her words were sincere, but they only darkened Jensen’s expression.

“And what are you supposed to be? You dare bark at me?”

The insult made Natalie’s face harden.

“Mr. Jensen, she is my sister–second daughter of the Stone family. Please speak with respect.”

Yvonne knew some of the truth about her origins. Natalie and Baron hadn’t hidden it from her. Shocked as she’d been to learn she was a Stone, she was grateful too–to be cousins with Natalie.

But that tie also left her guilty. The trail of evidence pointed back to her birth father, Uncle Xenon. Even if it hadn’t been her doing, she couldn’t face Waylon and his wife without shame.

That was why, when she heard they were coming, she had fled to the studio, hiding in her work.

And now, with Natalie acknowledging her openly, her eyes brimmed.

“Hey…” Her voice cracked.

Natalie handed her a tissue. “Go wash your face. Don’t worry–he can’t do anything to me.”

With Natalie’s reassurance, Yvonne gave Jensen one last look and slipped away.

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Chapter 290 A Cold Refusal

Only Jensen and Natalie remained.

Jensen was still reeling from what he’d just heard.

“She’s your sister? Then why does she call you sister–in–law?”

“That has nothing to do with you, Mr. Jensen.”

Natalie’s indifference cut like ice, as though he truly was just a stranger.

The weight in Jensen’s chest grew unbearable.

“Natalie, don’t treat me this way. You know I love you.”

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“If that’s all you have to say, then please leave. I’m busy, Mr. Jensen. I don’t have time for this.”