Chapter 963

Hank wondered why Natalie was bothered by the prospect of entering the entertainment industry. Marriage to Austin would grant her everything imaginable. If she desired acting, she'd have an Oscar-winning actor at her side, guiding her through every scene. Beyond that, she'd have him—sharing her life and her bed. It was a life most could only dream of, readily attainable with a simple yes to Austin.

Natalie, recalling the delightful barbecue, frowned. "I could do everything else, but if I can't eat, I can't handle it. I'll reconsider."

Skylar laughed, shaking her head at Natalie's tipsy musings. "You're such a foodie."

"Haha! Skye, we're both foodies."

Austin, with his high alcohol tolerance, barely registered the red wine he'd consumed. Natalie's compliment on his acting—his ability to quickly embody a character with her—brought a smile to his face. Romantic scenes, she could get him into character quickly. And he'd be completely sincere; no one else elicited that response. Previously, he'd relied on acting techniques for romance; it wasn't the same as genuine feeling.

They had kissed, yet she acted as if nothing had happened, assuming he was merely caught up in the moment. He'd need a different approach with her from now on.

Natalie started to speak to Austin, but paused, noticing his gaze. She wondered if she'd misspoken earlier; he seemed unhappy.

Turning to Skylar, she asked, "Hey, Skye, do you think Mr. Powell seems off today? He doesn't look too happy."

Skylar glanced at Austin, his gaze downcast and thoughtful. "You must have misread him. Mr. Powell's in a great mood today."

Natalie mumbled, slightly drunk, "Did I see that wrong? I really need to drink less. My eyes aren't working properly."

She realized she might have been mistaken. The barbecue, the singing—everyone had such a good time—it was hard to believe Austin was suddenly in a bad mood.

Later, Skylar and Natalie shared a room and bed, a college flashback. Skylar showered first, followed by Natalie.

While Natalie showered, Skylar checked her WhatsApp. Joe hadn't replied to her barbecue picture in two hours. She wondered if he was busy. She then checked Instagram, having just posted pictures from the day. As her post went live and she was about to close the app, she saw a new post from Vera.

Vera looked radiant on her balcony, bathed in the soft glow of the evening light and a gentle breeze. The view from…