Chapter 961

Skylar noticed Natalie stifling laughter, realizing Hank and Natalie’s weight loss likely shared a cause. Looking at Austin, she saw he maintained his physique; he looked as fit as he had in Jipsburg.

Hank, a skilled barbecuer, called out, “Just another half hour, at most. Everything will be ready.”

Natalie leaned in, excited. “It smells amazing.”

“Doesn’t it? I’ve loved barbecue since I was a kid. These seasonings are from my hometown—authentic.”

Natalie eagerly nodded, a true food enthusiast. “It’s obviously authentic.”

Skylar and Austin stood aside, each with a different fruit juice. Skylar noticed Austin’s gaze often drifted toward Natalie. When Natalie eyed the skewers hungrily, he smiled. His affection was evident; his feelings were clearly more than admiration.

“Mr. Powell,” Skylar asked directly, “do you have feelings for Natalie? Not employer-employee affection, but genuine romantic interest?”

Austin sipped his juice, then set it down, shifting his gaze from Natalie. “Is it that obvious?”

“Yes,” Skylar nodded.

His voice softened, becoming serious. “How long do you think it will take for her to be ready for a new relationship?”

Skylar was surprised by his directness. “Are you aware of her past with Jeremy?”

“They’re divorced. Knowing Natalie, she won’t rekindle anything with him,” Austin said confidently. He clearly knew Natalie well.

Skylar remained cautious. “Mr. Powell, are your feelings genuine, or are you seeking companionship because of the loneliness of filming? Natalie is kind and simple. She doesn’t manipulate men. She’s just emerged from a painful situation and can’t afford another hurtful relationship.”

Skylar hoped he understood. If he only wanted a casual fling, he should reconsider; Natalie wouldn't participate. Those playing emotional games should look elsewhere; Natalie was not to be treated so.

Austin looked at Skylar with a serious, sincere expression. “She’s lucky to have a friend like you.”

Their eyes met; Skylar sensed his seriousness. He smiled. “I’ve been in the entertainment industry for over a decade, and this is the first time I’ve truly put my heart into a relationship. If she agrees, she will be my wife.”

Skylar’s expression softened. She smiled and nodded. “Natalie can be slow emotionally. You’ll need to be thoughtful and patient.” Impatience might scare her away.

Skylar knew his feelings were genuine. Natalie had been infatuated with him and followed his news. Someone like Austin, known for his clean reputation, was rare. Even Charles, who worked in the industry, commented on Austin’s difference from other celebrities.

Natalie ran over. “What are you two talking about? Is the juice good? I heard Hank say it’s from the orchard.” She’d initially wanted alcohol, but seeing Skylar and Austin drinking juice, she chose a glass instead.

“It’s delicious, full of fruit flavor,” Skylar said.

Austin handed her another glass. “This one’s mango. Try it.”

“I love mangoes. Thank you, Mr. Powell.” Natalie eagerly set aside her orange juice and took the mango juice.