Nathalie's face was ghostly pale, and all the color drained away. It had been ages since anyone dared to humiliate her like this. Yet, when Mason did it, his tone was so calm, as if he were discussing the weather.

Was she really supposed to be seen as lesser because of her health issues, her divorce, and her struggles with fertility? Feeling shaky but resolute, she bit her lip and stood even taller, defiantly telling Mason, "Mr. Mason, you may see me as someone who comes from nothing and has had a rough ride, which makes me unworthy. But as I see it, I've always been independent and strong." She held up her slender but strong hands. "Everything I have today is a result of my own hard work. I've never tried to cozy up to anyone for personal gain. So, isn't your criticism a bit unfair?"

Mason was used to being on a pedestal and surrounded by yes-men. He wasn't accustomed to such boldness from someone younger. His temper flared at Nathalie's audacity. "Don't act so high and mighty. If you were really above it all, why do you hang onto Nathan so tightly? And why do you pick a name that's bound to raise eyebrows?"

Nathalie's face went even paler, her body trembling. But she found the strength to reply, "Mr. Mason, you've got it wrong. My name, Nathalie, has nothing to do with Nathan. It's a tribute to a homeless kid I once helped."

She hated talking about her connection to Nathan with strangers, but under Mason's relentless questioning, she decided to lay it out. "Nathan and I crossed paths by chance in Milan. He was in trouble, and I lent him a hand. He's a grateful guy, so he looked out for me. I'm sorry if that made you misunderstand our relationship."

Mason felt uncomfortable learning the truth. "So, you're the one who saved him?"

"You honestly have no romantic feelings for him?" he asked, still uneasy.

Nathalie was upfront. "In my last marriage, I nearly lost my life. I barely made it out and have no plans to marry again. Mr. Mason, trust me, I'm not interested in Mr. Nathan like that."

Mason's frown deepened. "Ms.

Nathalie, you're sensible. You don't have feelings for Nathan, but he sees you differently. I can't risk his future on this. So, I'm asking you to step away from Nathan. If you do, I'll make sure you're compensated for any setbacks in your career."

Nathalie paused, then looked up with determination. "I can leave Nathan's world."

Mason was surprised she agreed so easily, a hint of gratitude in his eyes.

But Nathalie continued, "I don't want any compensation. As long as Nathan is treated well, I'll step aside. However..."

Mason's brow furrowed again, his expression turning cold. He suspected Nathalie wasn't going to let go of Nathan so easily.

Nathalie's face turned sad. "I can't

leave the Capital just yet. I have unfinished business here. So please, give me three months. Once I've done what I need to, you won't have to push me out. I'll leave on my

own."

Mason was caught off guard. "If you just disappear, Nathan will definitely get suspicious. Three months will give you time to slowly distance yourself. I'll also help redirect his attention to other women. By the time you go, he won't try to stop you." Têxt © .