Chapter 375: Perform a Dance Publicly

The snow fell heavily. Cecilia watched Paula and Charlotte converse in the distance, her eyes reddening. Sven, holding an umbrella, stood beside her. He sensed her distress, though he didn't understand its cause.

Just as Charlotte was about to explain her role as an assistant, Cecilia's voice echoed in her earpiece: "Lottie, pretend to be me and talk to her."

Charlotte approached Paula. "All right. Let's step aside for a chat."

"Sure," Paula replied.

They went to a nearby restaurant. Cecilia and Sven listened from a private booth.

"Ms. Cecille," Paula said, "Cassandra and I adore your music. Name your price. We want exclusive rights to your compositions, regardless of the cost."

Paula, usually fiercely protective of her money, showed surprising concern for her other daughter. Cecilia felt a sharp pang of emotion.

She told Charlotte, "Tell her my music isn't for sale."

Charlotte relayed the message. Paula responded, "Then what do you want? Tell me, and I'll get it for you." She seemed the picture of a devoted mother.

Curious to see how far Paula's love extended, Cecilia asked, "Are you the internationally renowned dancer, Paula Escobar?"

Paula, slightly surprised Cecille knew her, readily confirmed it. But Charlotte's next words froze her.

"When you ended your dancing career at twenty-five, it was a pity. If you truly want this song, I propose a deal: perform a dance publicly. Then I'll grant you exclusive rights. What do you think?"

Cecilia understood her request. Since giving birth to Cecilia, Paula hadn't danced once. In her youth, Cecilia had wished, "I want Mom to perform a dance." Paula had retorted, "Who do you think you are? I'm out of shape and will never dance again."

Paula's expression flickered before she refused. "Could we consider other conditions? I've said I'd never dance again."

The deal fell through. After Paula left, Charlotte approached Cecilia, puzzled. "Why that request, Boss?" She was unaware of Paula's true identity.

Cecilia simply said, "Let's call it a day. I need to rest." She intended to investigate Cassandra's connection to Paula.

"All right. We meet the mysterious big shot tomorrow?"

"Yes."

Cecilia returned to her hotel. Opening the door, she saw a tall figure by the balcony. Thinking she'd entered the wrong room, she was about to leave when the man turned. "Cecilia, is that you?"

"With our marriage certificate," Nathaniel replied.