Chapter 839

Jeremy stiffened, his face paling as he slowly turned to watch Natalie enter. Initially, Natalie hadn't noticed him; she’d spotted Skylar and simply regarded Jeremy as another customer, his back to her. But when he turned, she stopped abruptly, her smile faltering. She'd never expected to see him in a boutique. Knowing the mall so well wasn't always advantageous.

"Are you here to shop, too?" Natalie asked.

Jeremy looked at her with dark eyes. Something about her felt unfamiliar.

Helena emerged from the changing room, striking a pose before the mirror before turning to Jeremy. However, he was intently watching Natalie, so engrossed he didn't hear Helena speak. She repeated, "Mr. Hughes?" Her second attempt drew everyone's attention.

Seeing Helena's interaction with Jeremy, and their shared location, Natalie realized something. Jeremy had always been busy; he'd never shopped with her. While a slight bitterness lingered, she pushed it aside. It was good he’d started a new relationship.

Natalie recognized Helena—the female lead in a viral campus drama. As Austin's assistant, Natalie was familiar with the entertainment industry.

"You're Helena Hart, aren't you? I've seen your drama. Your acting is impeccable! You look great in that dress!" Natalie complimented, though privately she thought Skylar would have looked better. Skylar, in Natalie's view, possessed a naturally model-esque figure. Still, Helena had an excellent figure—better than Natalie's.

Natalie had gained some weight recently, but she liked her current figure. Otherwise, she felt she looked mannish. She acknowledged Jeremy had always liked curvy women, though he might not have consciously realized it. Divorce offered an opportunity for rebirth.

"Thanks," Helena replied with a smile, subtly observing Jeremy.

"How did you get here so fast?" Skylar asked.

Natalie approached, explaining, "I used to shop here all the time. I've been in almost every store." Turning to Joe, she added, "I'd like to take Skylar shopping. I'll bring her back to you in about half an hour; there's a café nearby with wonderful coffee. I'll treat you to a cup."

Joe hummed noncommittally.

Natalie immediately pulled Skylar away. As she passed Jeremy, she noticed his gaze. Her eyes flashed, and she halted.

"Jer, I wish you nothing but happiness," she said. Joe and Helena, pre-occupied before the mirror, didn’t hear.

Jeremy's expression shifted dramatically. The use of "Jer," a familiar term from their early days, made him clench his fists. He recognized the sincerity in her wish; she genuinely believed in Helena's happiness.