Chapter 25

Natalie went back to searching for the bead. At last, she found it wedged in a corner at an edge. However, it was cracked. Several distinct fractures ran across its surface. It looked as though it would shatter into pieces with the slightest touch. Natalie carefully picked it up and placed it in her palm, not daring to exert too much pressure. She had found it, yes, but it was damaged. What was she supposed to do now? Could it be repaired? What if it couldn't? A sharp pain pulled at Natalie's heart as she glared at Abigail. Her gaze was savage enough to devour someone whole. Abigail was so frightened that she retreated to Jeffrey's side. Was this bracelet really that important? Even Jeffrey, who had watched her get slapped, didn't stand up for her. Abigail didn't dare ask. She simply held her face silently with her head lowered. Her hair fell forward as she continued to maintain her innocent facade. "Ab didn't do it on purpose," Jeffrey said. "Yet, you hit her?" Natalie replie