Chapter 286 If You're Going to Break Someone's Spirit, Make It Convincing

Marcus' lips curved into a slight smile. His deep, magnetic voice softened just a touch as he spoke. Sitting next to him, Natalie looked stunning. Throughout the evening, she'd changed into several elegant evening gowns, yet none of them were the ones he'd bought for her. The diamond tiara his grandfather had gifted her paired beautifully with the shimmering gown she had chosen to wear tonight, giving her an ethereal glow. Right now, Natalie was dressed in a pure white backless evening gown. The halter neck wrapped snugly around her collarbone, with two thin straps connecting the neckline to her lower back. The design left much of her smooth, porcelain skin exposed, showing off the delicate curve of her shoulder blades and the slight dip at the base of her back. She leaned back casually in her chair, surrounded by vibrant red roses. Against the vivid backdrop, her pristine white dress made her look even more pure and striking, like something out of a dream. Marcus' gaze lin