Chapter 16 Unwelcome At The Gates

• The morning air was crisp as Natalie approached McCloud Company, her resolve firm despite the recent rejection from her grandfather. After being dismissed from the mansion, she had decided to try a different approach. She was determined to return to her role at the company, believing that her work might provide a semblance of stability and purpose in the midst of her personal turmoil.
• Her pregnancy, though still early, was beginning to show, and Natalie had hoped that resuming her professional duties might offer a reprieve from the chaos in her personal life. She walked with a sense of purpose, her heels clicking against the marble floor of the grand lobby as she made her way towards the security desk.
• The security guard on duty looked up as she approached. “Good morning,” Natalie said, trying to sound as composed as possible. “I’m here to start my workday.”