Requiem of a Broken Heart

Chapter 534:

Natalia burst into laughter. “Oh, you think too highly of me. I just ordered delivery.”

As they ate, Natalia and Jeffrey exchanged lively conversation, filling the room with warmth. Natalia’s bright personality lit up the room, making the meal feel lighter and more joyful.

“Oh, Rachel, I heard Brian’s grandmother fell ill, and you were the one taking care of her. Tracy tried to visit her, but they didn’t let her. That alone makes me happy! Honestly, you should have never broken up with Brian just to make Tracy miserable—”

Rachel’s eyes widened, and she quickly cut her off. “Natalia!”

But the damage was done.

Jeffrey’s fingers tightened around his fork, his lips quivering as he turned to Rachel. “Is it true? Did you really break up with Brian?” His voice wavered.

Rachel took a deep breath, forcing herself to stay composed as she quickly turned her head away.

“Rachel, say something!” Jeffrey’s voice trembled with anxiety as he clutched her sleeve.

“Brian and I did have a small disagreement, and yes, we’ve been contemplating a breakup. But it hasn’t happened yet, so don’t stress yourself over it.”

His eyes reddened, his voice cracking. “Are you sure? You’re not just saying that to make me feel better, are you?”noveldrama

Rachel softened, a gentle smile curving her lips as she reached out to ruffle his hair. “When have I ever lied to you, huh? And listen—if Brian and I ever do break up one day, it’ll be because of our own issues, not because of you. So don’t blame yourself.”

Realizing her earlier remark had stirred unnecessary trouble, Natalia quickly interjected, her voice filled with guilt. “This is all my fault… I shouldn’t have said anything. I’m really sorry. Can we just… eat now?” The rest of the meal passed in an uncomfortable silence, everyone seemingly lost in their own thoughts.

After dinner, Jeffrey took a quick bath and quietly retreated to his room. Rachel personally escorted Natalia to the door.

𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙡: 𝙜ⱥ𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘴⫽𝙘𝙤𝙢

“Rachel, I’m so sorry. I should’ve kept my mouth shut. If you’re upset, just yell at me or slap me or something… I’ll feel better that way,” Natalia stammered, her voice laced with regret.

Rachel gave a soft laugh, shaking her head. “Oh, come on. Why would I do that?”

Natalia hung her head, her voice barely audible. “But I really put my foot in my mouth back there. Please don’t hold it against me, okay?” Rachel’s smile faltered, her voice softening. “I’m not upset with you. You were just being honest. If anything, I’m upset with myself.”

Natalia’s worry deepened, and she blurted, “Rachel, don’t be like this, please.”

Noticing Natalia’s genuine concern, Rachel quickly softened her tone. “Natalia, really, I’m not upset with you. Don’t overthink it. Besides, the truth will eventually come out. Jeffrey’s going to find out one day… I just hope that day doesn’t come too soon.”

Natalia clutched Rachel’s hand, her brows furrowing. “But… it’s just a breakup, right? Why are you so terrified of him knowing?”

Rachel’s throat tightened. “Because…”

Her voice cracked as she slowly laid everything bare. By the time she finished, her eyes shimmered with unshed tears.

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