Reborn From Oblivion

Ashley was on edge, watching Nathalie handle a billion-dollar contract with the

kind of cool indifference you'd expect from someone ordering a cup of coffee. Did she really shrug off a billion-dollar deal like it was no biggie?

Ashley was left with nothing but a bundle of nerves and worry.

Before long, the doctor attending to Nina came out to update the family. "Luckily, it wasn't a high fall. She landed on a soft patch of grass, so she's mostly out of immediate danger. She's got a few fractures, some minor internal bleeding, and a moderate concussion, but nothing too serious."

Cameron exhaled a sigh of relief. "Can I go see her?"

The doctor leveled with him, "Nina has specifically asked for her mom. The rest might need to hold on for a bit."

Nathalie nodded quietly, slipped into a sterile gown, and followed the doctor into Nina's room.

Nina lay there with one leg and one arm in casts, looking like she'd been through the wringer, yet she managed a wry smile at Nathalie.

"Mom, I'm sorry for making you worry."

Despite everything, Nathalie couldn't stay mad at her own daughter. With tears brimming, she gently stroked Nina's young face. "I forgive you, Nina. How about you come back and live with me?"

Nina's smile brightened. "Mom, thanks for still wanting me. Can you wait just a little longer? Once I wrap up what I need to do, I'll come back to you for good."

Nathalie gazed into her daughter's clear eyes, which showed none of the shadows you'd expect from someone who'd gone through such an ordeal.

A chill went through her. "Nina, why do you want to stay with Cameron?"

Nina's smile faded. "To right the wrongs from my past life." Nathalie let out a heavy sigh. Nina had a list of past regrets.

She wanted Cameron to take her on a carousel ride.

She wanted him at her parent-teacher meetings.

She wanted him to throw her a birthday party.

And she wanted to see Cameron one last time.

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Nathalie sighed again. "You've your hang-ups, and I respect that But Nina, pinning your hopes of Sone else is a powerless and foolish thing to do." fo noveldrama

Nina whispered, "I get it, Mom."

After their chat, Nathalie stood up. "Rest up, sweetie. I'll be back tomorrow."

Nina grasped her hand suddenly. "Mom, I love you."

Then she softly added, "And only you."

Nathalie was on the brink of tears. "You give your love to me, but your time to him."

Nina chuckled. "Mom, make sure you stay happy, always."

Nathalie's face softened. "I will."

Nina let go. "You can go now."

As Nathalie left the room, Cameron was on her instantly.

"Nathalie, how is she?"

Nathalie snapped, "Why don't you jump off the top floor yourself and find out how much it hurts?"

Seeing fugged at her heartstrings.

Seeing Nina, so small and broken on

the She

isn't exactly in the mood to be

to Cameron.

Cameron said, "I'm really sorry. I didn't see this coming."

Then he pleaded, "Nathalie, Nina's just so sensitive and fragile. You know your sister's health is in bad shape and she can't be left alone. I'm really at my wits' end. Maybe it's time for you to take over and raise Nina?"