Chapter 436

Annabelle smiled slightly, glaring at Natalie. "You're right, Mrs. Hughes," she said. "I was Mr. Hughes' secretary. However, I was fired for misconduct."

Natalie was surprised. She'd never inquired about Jeremy's company, the Hughes Group, or his employees. "So that's what happened," she replied, smiling.

Annabelle's confusion was evident. "Mrs. Hughes, why are you assisting an actor?" she asked. No matter how handsome the actor, he couldn't compare to Jeremy, could he? And few people would humble themselves to be an assistant. Jeremy knew this, didn't he?

A thought struck her. Austin was an award-winning actor with billions of social media followers and countless admirers. But no, it was impossible. Jeremy surely knew what Natalie was doing; he tended to indulge her. How could she be worthy of all his attention?

"My schedule freed up recently, so I'm experiencing a different lifestyle," Natalie explained politely.

Annabelle's scrutinizing gaze made Natalie uncomfortable. There was no need to cultivate a closer relationship.

Meanwhile, Austin finished his scene. The female lead wanted to speak to him, but he refused, striding toward Natalie instead.

Natalie seemed lost in thought. Seeing Austin approach, she reflexively offered him a bottle. "Mr. Powell, are you thirsty?" she asked.

Austin took the bottle, looking down at her. "Do you know her?" he asked, indicating Annabelle.

"Yes, an acquaintance. I don't know her well, but something felt off," Natalie replied. She suddenly remembered they'd been at university together. Why was Annabelle here? Was she a fan? That didn't seem likely.

"Really?" Austin looked over, but Annabelle had already left. "It's nothing. Probably a coincidence. Many actors are here today. Maybe she's here to see one of them. Are you tired, Mr. Powell? Shall we sit and rest? I'll get you an umbrella," Natalie offered, dismissing the incident.

Annabelle was just a fired employee. She'd overreacted. There was no need to dwell on it.

Austin glanced at Natalie's sun-kissed cheeks. "I'm not that weak," he smiled. "I don't need you to shield me. Why don't you use the umbrella?"

After a pause, Natalie said, "I like sunbathing. The sun is perfect right now. It doesn't burn like in summer." She liked her tan, which faded quickly in winter. She used sunscreen diligently.

Austin grinned. "Not worried about getting darker?"

"Not at all," Natalie answered honestly.

Someone photographed their conversation and sent it to Jeremy. He'd just finished a meeting. Seeing Annabelle's text, he frowned.

(The final sentence "Spin to Claim Your Surprise Reward" appears to be unrelated and should be removed.)