Chapter 1172
Skylar and Natalie arrived at the Solace Café an hour late. Eddie Byrd, the film crew's head, was already waiting. After Skylar sat down, a staff member brought her coffee. She sipped it while watching Natalie converse with Eddie.
Natalie hesitated, weighing the offer. Filming would require closing the café for several hours daily, severely impacting business. Her primary concern was whether the payment would be worthwhile. Just as she was contemplating this, Eddie said, “The price is negotiable. Name your figure.”
He continued, “Your café's décor perfectly matches our film's theme. We'll keep your café's name unchanged and provide unconditional promotion.”
Natalie's eyes widened. This was an incredible opportunity—a stroke of luck. She'd earn money and receive free advertising. The café's unique décor, a result of her own considerable effort and creativity, had contributed significantly to its success. Over the past two years, she had opened two more branches. This film deal, however, could propel her café into a full-fledged chain, dramatically increasing its brand recognition.
After only a moment's hesitation, Natalie accepted, and they discussed payment terms for a half-month filming period. Once the crew departed, Natalie's joy overflowed. “Skye, I’m about to become a rich woman!” she exclaimed, beaming. “I’m one step away from financial freedom! I always knew I was lucky.”
Skylar, having listened attentively, gave Natalie a thumbs-up. “Our Natalie is getting better and better,” she said sincerely.
“I closed a big deal today!” Natalie declared. “Lunch is on me—order whatever you want!” Her happiness was palpable; it had been a long time since she felt this elated.
Over the past three years, she’d built her business, her parents were healthy, and her relationship with Jeremy had evolved into a comfortable friendship. Yet, a subtle sense of incompleteness lingered, though she rarely acknowledged it.
For lunch, they went to a fondue restaurant. All the private rooms were booked, so they sat in the crowded main dining area. They had frequented this restaurant years ago, and it remained remarkably popular. They ordered a lavish spread—lobster, crab, and prawns—and enjoyed a leisurely meal, chatting comfortably.
“Are you staying for good?” Natalie asked, a hint of reluctance in her voice. While Instagram video calls were convenient, they couldn't replace face-to-face conversations.
“I’ll stay a while,” Skylar replied, “but I’ll eventually return to Murida. Grandma needs me.” Moreover, a vivid dream suggested Joe was still alive, and she felt close to finding him. She planned to settle her affairs in Jipsburg before returning.