Chapter 603
Edgar felt concerned when he realized Joe hadn't mentioned his birthday to Skylar. After a moment, he sighed. "Mr. Martin is rather pitiful; he's only celebrated with Mrs. Martin Senior. But this year, you'll be with him." It was a heartbreaking story. Edgar felt quite clever for his insight.
Skylar replied, "We have a reservation tonight. Thanks for the reminder, Edgar. We won't see Mrs. Martin Senior tonight, then."
After ending the call, Skylar browsed for a gift at the mall across the street during her lunch break. The mall overflowed with items—men's clothing, bags, and more. She was at a loss for what to get Joe. She would have had more time to choose something thoughtful had she known two days in advance. Joe’s clothing was all custom-made. Suddenly, she spotted a pair of matching couples' loungewear. The loungewear featured adorable deer embroidery.
She imagined herself and Joe wearing them at home. It was hard to picture Joel in such loungewear, so she bought it on a whim. Since loungewear couldn't serve as the main gift, she also bought a ring that could be engraved on the spot. She chose a design featuring a flower symbolizing safety and engraved "Happy Birthday" on it. The jeweler's craftsmanship was impressive; the engraving was almost identical to her design. The gift wasn't expensive, but it was heartfelt.
Natalie returned to the studio. Everyone else had been given the day off by Austin; only Austin and Hank remained.
"Sorry, Mr. Powell, Hank. I'm here to resign."
Natalie had prepared a speech, but found herself at a loss. The resignation sounded awkward.
"Resign?" Hank immediately looked at Austin.
Austin's cold, serious face held a hint of profundity. "Natalie, I've said his blacklist won't affect me. This matter will be resolved in time. You don't need to resign out of guilt." Austin wondered what Jeremy had said to Natalie after her visit. He'd turned such a bright woman so downcast.
Hank wasn't sure where Austin's confidence came from. But over the past two years, he sensed Austin seemed to be hiding a decade-old secret. Even Austin couldn't guess what it was, but he felt there were subtle hints.
"Listen to Mr. Powell. There's no need to resign. Mr. Powell is taking a break. Besides, leaving now could affect his performance at upcoming events abroad," Hank said, trying to persuade her. He thought, One shouldn't fear power, right?
Natalie stared at them. "Mr. Powell, if I stay, no one in this industry will dare to cast you." Acting was everything to Austin. Without roles, it would be extremely unfair.
"I can't let your career suffer because of me. I can't be that selfish. Besides, personal issues have already affected my work. I really shouldn't stay. I'm truly sorry."
Austin knew Natalie was determined. After a moment of silence, he said, "I won't accept your resignation, but you can take a month off. Use this month to sort out your issues. As for Hank and me, our careers will turn around within this month. You can come back then."
"Yes, take a month off," Hank immediately echoed, then glanced at Austin, musing over the statement. A month? Austin must be very confident to offer such a precise timeframe.
Natalie agreed. Besides, another troublesome matter awaited her.