Chapter 438

Jeremy's expression turned cold. Larissa knew her daughter well; once Natalie decided on something, she wouldn't be swayed. Natalie's terrible temper mirrored her husband's.

Larissa refused to give up. "If you're so tired from work every day," she said, "how will you prepare for a baby?" Her son-in-law's request meant he didn't want Natalie assisting a male celebrity actor. At the very least, it shouldn't affect their relationship. Larissa sensed marital problems. In the past, Natalie had proactively prepared for a baby, but now, she seemed disinterested.

Natalie looked at Jeremy; his expression was unreadable. A lump formed in her throat. Turning to Larissa, she said, "Jeremy's away at work every day. Mom, why don't you criticize him? Don't be a hypocrite. Everyone works. I haven't found work to interfere with having children. I didn't get pregnant when I wasn't working; maybe I will now. I can always resign once I'm pregnant. Let's drop it, Mom."

Larissa sighed, remaining silent.

After Larissa left, Natalie immediately confronted Jeremy. "You called Mom to pressure me into resigning, didn't you? Can you stop being so selfish? I supported you when you worked all day and barely came home for months. Why are you preventing me from pursuing my career?"

"This job isn't for you, Nath," Jeremy said calmly, though his emotions were turbulent. "Resign. You can apply elsewhere later."

Tears welled in Natalie's eyes. She shook her head firmly. "No. I won't quit."

Jeremy's gaze darkened; he pursed his lips. Natalie knew he was furious, but she wouldn't yield. They stared at each other in silence, a tense standoff until Natalie almost gave in. Thankfully, her determination held.

Finally, Jeremy compromised. "Quit when you get pregnant."

Natalie sighed with relief, hugging him. "Honey, you're the best!"

Jeremy's icy mask cracked. He embraced her. "Go shower."

Natalie blushed. "You go first. I just ate and want a break before showering."

"Alright."

While Jeremy showered, Natalie rummaged through lingerie she'd bought months ago. They would finally serve their purpose. Afterward, she wanted an honest conversation with him, hoping he'd explain his lie.

Just as Natalie was about to shower in the guest bathroom, a WhatsApp notification appeared. A stranger had added her. She was about to block them, but accidentally accepted the request. It was probably someone from Austin's team. She was glad she hadn't blocked them; she'd almost forgotten she needed to socialize for her job.

Just then, Austin called. "Free tonight? The director needs two night scenes filmed—last-minute notice."

Natalie was surprised. "What?"

Austin heard her surprise. "Any plans? If so, I'll ask the team to arrange another assistant."

"Nothing! I'll come in now!" She couldn't leave her post so early in her job.

She quickly changed and waited outside the bathroom. Jeremy emerged. Seeing her in more formal attire, he raised an eyebrow. "Going out?"

Natalie smiled. "Mr. Powell needs night scenes filmed. I have to go with him. I can't stay tonight, but I'll make it up to you tomorrow!"

Jeremy's expression froze. He glared at Natalie, making her scalp prickle.