Chapter 1159

Natalie avoided Austin’s gaze, forcing a smile. "Mr. Powell, I think you've misunderstood. I recently divorced Jeremy and haven't moved on. I'm not planning to date for the next few years."

Austin’s expression darkened as he fixed his eyes on her. She couldn't meet his intense gaze.

After a long silence, he finally said, "I won't accept your resignation. Come back to work tomorrow."

"Mr. Powell, I'm sorry," she replied.

Austin stared at Natalie for a moment before standing and leaving. She sat in a daze, eventually snapping out of it as her takeout grew cold. She began eating, her mind wandering. Ending things now was best for everyone. It was easier to prevent complications before they arose.

Her marriage to Jeremy hadn't met her family's expectations. Moreover, Austin's family situation might be even more complicated, and her involvement could cause him trouble. And love… it often faded.

As dusk approached, Steven, finding himself with free time, invited Skylar to a night market barbecue. It had been a long time since they'd gone together. Skylar was excited; Steven was bringing a friend. She suspected who it might be. She arrived early at a popular barbecue restaurant.

By evening, every restaurant in the area bustled with customers. Minutes after her arrival, Steven entered with a girl younger than Skylar—a high schooler with a fresh, innocent beauty. Without makeup, her oval face and glowing skin were undeniably charming.

"Hi, I'm Skylar Sullivan," Skylar greeted. The girl stared in awe as they shook hands. "I'm Mona Silva."

Releasing hands, Mona turned to Steven, exclaiming, "You never told me your sister was this pretty! She looks like a female lead from one of my novels."

Skylar laughed at Mona's cuteness. Steven looked at Mona with affection. "You can probably tell by looking at me," he said.

Skylar raised an eyebrow. She hadn't noticed this narcissistic side of Steven before. Since he'd started seeing Mona, he seemed more vibrant, possessing an unfamiliar energy.

"You're not wrong, but she's even prettier than you," Mona earnestly complimented.

Happiness surged through Skylar. She placed the menu before Mona. "Take a look. Steven's treating us tonight."

"What do you both want? I'll treat you! I just got paid!" Mona exclaimed excitedly. She was overjoyed. Finding Skylar had provided instant inspiration for her struggling new story. Skylar was stunning; even more radiant than Steven.

Just as Skylar said, "Lamb skewers," someone approached their table. "What a coincidence!"