Chapter 30

Chapter 30

As Rosie ushered her into the dining area, several actors had already arrived. Rosie made quick introductions. Sensing a harmonious vibe, she hurried off to her next engagement.

Natalie found herself a secluded spot at the corner table and struck up a polite conversation with the lead actress and her

co–star.

The lead actress was the new darling of the local film scene, and Natalie, having seen her on a popular TV show, chatted with her a bit longer The supporting actress watched the exchange with a hardening gaze.

When the production team arrived, Gavin was still missing, apparently held up by some matter, so the group didn’t wait for him.

The main producer hadn’t been seated long before he noticed Natalie.

Natalie sat quietly, her beauty arresting, reminiscent of a painting.

“I haven’t met this lady before.”

At his mention, Natalie stood up with a glass of juice in hand, greeting the producer politely, “I’m Natalie Wright. I’ve been studying abroad and don’t have much acting experience. Mr. Miller gave me the thumbs–up after an audition a couple of days ago. I’ll be counting on your patience and guidance.”

“Oh… Miller just mentioned you yesterday,” the producer replied with a warm smile, standing up and approaching Natalie.

Natalie, slightly flattered, scooted her chair back, inadvertently tangling her dress hem with the chair leg.

The producer advanced to assist with her dress.

“It’s alright. I’ve got it!” Natalie smoothly avoided his touch, maintaining her composure.

Just then, two soft knocks sounded at the door. Everyone turned to see Gracia, standing by the doorway with a beaming smile. She first greeted the production team, and then her eyes fell on Natalie, her smile freezing in place.

Gracia had chosen this evening for her “coincident” encounter with a well–known producer, not expecting Natalie to be haunting the place as well.

In the dim light of the hallway, a tall man with a brooding expression stood, his gaze fixed on the producer’s hand entwined with

Natalie’s.

“Mr. Howard, Gracia, what a coincidence!” The main producer spotted Brian and immediately released Natalie’s hand, moving respectfully toward the door.

Brian was silent, his cold stare locked on Natalie. To him, it seemed Natalie threw herself at any man available. Was she that

desperate?

Natalie hadn’t expected to run into these two here. After a moment of hesitation, she looked down to avoid Brian’s gaze, silently sitting back down and straightening her dress.

She had worn a midi skirt to the venue, but Rosie insisted the company’s policy required artists to wear formal attire, so she had changed into a long gown. She should have insisted on keeping her original outfit.

With her head bowed, Natalie could still feel Brian’s intense gaze, a fine layer of sweat forming in her palms.

By the door, Gracia had stiffened her smile, while Brian remained silent, giving her no acknowledgment.

“Brian isn’t feeling well today, so we’ll be leaving now,” Gracia said to the producer, her voice still cheerful.

The pair had just reached the main entrance when Brian suddenly said in a low voice, “You go ahead.”

“But you have an international flight tomorrow morning, you should go back and rest,” Gracia hesitated, then cautiously wrapped her arm around Brian’s, cooing softly.

She knew why Brian wanted her to leave/first. It was because of Natalie.