Reborn From Oblivion

Lizzy eased the door open and whispered, "Sis, Ashley's here."

Nathalie snapped to attention. "Bring her in."

Her history with the Stewart family was long and tangled; there was no escaping

it. Better to face Ashley head-on. But what was this visit about—personal matters or business?

Lizzy exited quietly.

In no time, Lizzy ushered Ashley into Nathan's study. "Ashley, come on in."

Lizzy lingered by the door, motioning Ashley inside.

Ashley paused, taking in the room. Nathan's presence was everywhere: his elegant calligraphy on the walls, photos capturing his brilliant smile on the desk. The mahogany furniture filled the air with its warm, woody aroma, reminiscent of Nathan's own subtle scent.

Nathalie sat where Nathan used to, her eyes locked on Ashley.

After a moment's survey, Ashley stepped in, looking somber.

She plopped into the chair across from Nathalie, crossed her legs, and lit a cigarette. She inhaled deeply, blew out a smoke ring, and finally met Nathalie's gaze.

"You really let him slip away," Ashley said, her voice thick with blame.

Nathalie was well aware of Ashley's long-held infatuation with Nathan. His passing must have been a blow to her too.

Softly, Nathalie said, "I'm sorry." It felt like she was apologizing to Nathan himself.

Ashley scoffed, "Too little, too late."

Nathalie took a steadying breath. "Why are you here?"

Ashley shot back, "Isn't it obvious? I'm here to hold you accountable for Nathan."

Nathalie's expression remained icy. "You have no right."

Though guilt weighed on her, she was determined to live up to Nathan's ideals.

To cherish herself and never be defeated by anyone.

A bitter expression creased Ashley's pretty face. "He must've been blind. I'm clearly superior in every way, yet he picked you. Just because you saved him once as a kid."

Nathalie's face drained of color.

She wasn't someone who expected gratitude for past favors. If Nathan's devotion was just repayment, it would feel shameful to her.

But then, Ashley backed off. "Whatever. You were his favorite. For his sake, I'll let it slide."

Clearing her throat, she continued, "I've got a message for you. Tomorrow's the Stewart family shareholders meeting. As the heir

from the second branch, you have to be there."

Still wrapped in grief for Nathan, Nathalie replied quietly, "I understand."

Ashley gave her a disdainful look.

"Nathalie, don't say I didn't warn you. The folks at tomorrow's meeting are the old guard of Stewart Enterprises. Their opinion of you will make

break your standing in the

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She gave Nathalie a critical once-over and shook her head in disapproval: "With that fragile demeanor, you're not cut out for business. Why not hand over your shares to me? I'll make sure you're set for life. How about it?"

Nathalie's eyes sparked with defiance. "That's your real agenda, isn't it?"

A flash of panic crossed Ashley's face. "What... are you talking about?"

Nathalie said, "Ashley, you really are a master of the game, born and bred in luxury. You've got a knack for chipping away at someone's spirit to get what you want."