Chapter 506

Edgar suggested, "How about we arrange for the maids who clean Galaxy Villa every day to discreetly poke a few holes in Mr. Martin's condoms? Just a few pricks in each one." He rarely thought up such schemes; however, as he spoke, his eyes lit up as if he were personally going to carry out the deed.

Gloria's eyes sparkled with intrigue. Suddenly, she remembered something. "Is that how your grandson was conceived?"

Edgar began coughing uncontrollably. His eyes darted around nervously. He was at a loss, unsure how to answer.

Gloria seemed to see through him. "No need to rush," she said. "Let's wait until Skye's health is fully recovered. Besides, those troublesome people will be back from abroad in a few days. They'll have a lot to deal with, so it's better to wait until everything is settled before having a child."

Her expression grew serious. Edgar sobered up. He didn't dare to say more.

In Jipsburg City, heavy rain began to fall. The air turned damp, and the sky grew dark. It was perfect for Austin's scene, which required heavy rain.

Director Blake Booth had been waiting for such weather for over a month. The pre-arranged scenes would all be completed today.

Natalie, well-informed about the plan, arrived early, as per Blake's instructions.

When Austin arrived on set and saw Natalie, he was surprised. "You…"

Natalie immediately flashed her usual carefree smile. "I'm here to work today, right on time! I've got hot water, towels, and fresh clothes ready. I won't let you catch a cold."

Austin smiled. "Don't worry. I'm not that fragile. It's just a bit of rain."

Hank, standing nearby, shook his head. "You have a commercial and a variety show to shoot tomorrow. You should be careful today."

Over the years, Hank had been by Austin's side, helping him navigate numerous challenges. A few rain scenes were nothing, but Austin had injured himself doing many dangerous stunts. His knees still ached whenever it rained. Hank couldn't help but feel that Austin had an unusual attachment to Natalie. Although he knew some things and felt pity for her, he didn't want Austin to make a mistake that would ruin everything they had worked for.

The scenes were shot seamlessly, thanks to the skilled performances of Austin and his co-stars. They wrapped up quickly. Everything Natalie had prepared came in handy, including the hot peppermint tea she had bought from a nearby hotel while Austin was filming.

In the car, Austin downed the hot peppermint tea in one go. Hank subtly raised an eyebrow. He had never seen Austin willingly drink hot peppermint tea before. He thought, "Who are you kidding by saying you're indifferent to Natalie?"

"Did you drink any?" Austin asked Natalie.

Natalie shook her head. "I didn't get caught in the rain, so there's no need."

Austin glanced at her. He noticed how much thinner she looked. "Have you been sick these past few days and not eating?"

"Huh? I've been eating, just not a lot. I'm all better now, though. No worries, Mr. Powell. It won't affect my work at all."

Natalie didn't dare to look up. Her eyes showed vulnerabilities and pain that couldn't be hidden. Perhaps Austin's concern made her unable to stop recalling the experiences of these past few days. Some things came to mind even when one tried consciously to avoid them.

Hank, perceptive as ever, sensed something unusual with Natalie. He chimed in cheerfully, "You did a good job, though! I didn't even think of preparing hot peppermint tea, but you did. Good job!"

"Of course! When I put my mind to it, no one can do it better than me," Natalie replied, resuming her usual proud demeanor.