Chapter 1248

Jeremy and Helena likely emerged from the mall at the same time. Over the past few years, Helena had solidified her position in the entertainment industry. While not an A-list actress, she consistently secured roles and endorsements, maintaining a clean public image. Their relationship seemed enduring, yet hadn't Jeremy recently begun attending blind dates arranged by his family?

"You…" Jeremy looked at Skylar, clearly surprised.

Skylar nodded toward Helena and Jeremy. "I just went to the mall to pick up a few things."

Helena was momentarily speechless. She'd worn a hat and mask in the mall to avoid recognition, removing them only upon leaving. She'd planned a romantic evening stroll with Jeremy, but this unexpected encounter felt like a betrayal of a secret. They'd reconnected over a year ago, a chance meeting. Helena had previously ended their relationship, believing it lacked a future; Jeremy's heart belonged to Natalie. Yet, Helena couldn't control her feelings. Recently, she'd realized her attraction stemmed not only from Jeremy himself, but also the opportunities he represented. This realization only strengthened her resolve to pursue him. However, she knew Jeremy likely didn't want to be seen with her by Skylar, Natalie's best friend. Seeing them together would inevitably reveal their involvement.

She glanced at Jeremy, who was speaking to Skylar. "Natalie's café is nearby. Are you here to see her?" He probably hadn't remembered Natalie's café's proximity, preoccupied as he'd been lately.

Skylar nodded. "I'm leaving tomorrow, so I wanted to see her before I go. I'll leave you two alone." She picked up her shopping bags and left briskly.

Jeremy watched her go, lost in thought. Helena, sensing his unease, asked, "Do you think seeing us together will affect your relationship with…"

"Let's go," Jeremy interrupted.

Helena was momentarily stunned. Perhaps he was no longer interested in Natalie, hence his unconcern about being seen with her. The thought brought a soft smile. "Okay."

As soon as Natalie received Skylar's message, she rushed out of the café.

"They're still filming inside, but my scenes are done. Let's go sit over there. I made two cups of hot milk tea, perfect for this weather!" Natalie exclaimed.

They settled on a nearby park bench. The night air was cool, but the warmth of the milk tea was comforting.

"This is good," Skylar said, taking several sips. "It warms me right up."

Natalie beamed with pride. "Of course it is! I made it myself, carefully adjusting the recipe!"

"Are you thinking of opening more shops?" Skylar asked, smiling.

Natalie nodded eagerly. "That's exactly what I'm planning! You always know me best."

"I could tell back in college you'd be a successful entrepreneur. Looks like I wasn't wrong," Skylar teased.

Natalie laughed. "I also said I wanted to open a flower shop. Maybe I'll do that next. When you come back, I'll have fresh flowers delivered to you every day—whatever you like!"

Chapter 1249