Chapter 106
Natalie felt flattered by the teasing words, knowing they were meant to please her.
As a mature woman, it was natural for her to appreciate and be attracted to men.
Despite the man's greasy, he had a good physique that could still captivate her.
Being single, she thought it wasn't unreasonable to take a look, especially since he had to show her.
She reasoned that she wasn't responsible for his actions.
But she couldn't reply directly to what he wanted to show.
It would mean he was leading her by the nose.
However, she hesitated to express her interest for fear of appearing too eager.
Natalie narrowed her eyes and smiled coyly.
A minute later, Darren received a WhatsApp notification.
He picked up his phone.
He had expected her to specify what she wanted to see, but she surprised him by being evasive.
Queen Natalie: [Whatever, send it or not.]
Darren laughed. Natalie had played her cards well. He asked if she wanted to see other parts, pretending to give her control, but he was testing her interest in him.
No matter how she responded, it suggested she was interested in him. But she was sharp, throwing the question back at him with a simple "whatever." It meant if he sent it, she would look. If not, she wouldn't care. That's a classic player move, noncommittal and detached! This girl's got a game. How could she not?
He used to worry she'd be easily tricked by bad guys, but now it seemed she wasn't such a pushover. Darren set a trap but didn't catch her, which was quite surprising.
After a brief pause, he sent another message. Lift Weights for an Hour Every Day: [If you can advance in the next public performance, I'll show you something good then.]
Playing mind games, who wouldn't? She told him to do whatever he wanted, so he gave her one in return. Not only did he show that he was watching her program and paying close attention to her, but he also set up the next chat and even hinted at the content of their future conversation, making her feel intrigued.
Darren knew how to be charming but couldn't be bothered to make the effort.
But this time, he was putting effort into winning over Natalie, unlike his usual laid-back approach. But after waiting five minutes, there was still no reply.
Had she been too busy chatting with other men to respond? Darren's face darkened. He made time to connect with her after work, only to be ignored. Who wouldn't be annoyed?
Frustrated, he sent three messages in quick succession to regain her attention. Lift Weights for an Hour Every Day:
II want to replace Leon and go on the program with you.]
Lift Weights for an Hour Every Day: [Leon is handsome, but not as handsome as me. Don't let him seduce you.]
Lift Weights for an Hour Every Day: [You're ignoring me.
Are you talking to someone else? Are their abs better than mine?]
After tending to her interests, Natalie returned to find the greasy man's messages filled with jealousy and dominance.
She found it oddly endearing and felt a twinge of interest.
Though she initially intended to ignore him, she found herself replying. Queen Natalie: I'm going to take a shower first.]
Seeing her response, Darren felt some relief.
He assumed she would be back soon, but after returning home and showering, he noticed her last message still lingered unanswered.
It seemed she had taken her time. He sent a few more messages, hoping to spark a conversation, but chatting with Natalie felt more like a futile endeavor than a simple exchange.
He glanced at the last photo he impulsively sent, feeling a mix of invitation and regret, but since two minutes had passed, and he ultimately gave up. Forgot it. Natalie enjoyed it. Let her take advantage.
Meanwhile, Natalie finished her bath, too sleepy to go straight to bed, completely forgetting about her chat with the greasy man.
By the time she remembered, she was already in Sweet Love's live broadcasting room. She had come early today, and her partner Leon hadn't arrived yet.
With little inspiration to write a tune, she pulled out her phone to play. She quickly saw the unread messages from the greasy man, the last of which was a picture.
Natalie's eyes lit up.
Lift Weights for an Hour Every Day: [Have you done with your shower?]
Lift Weights for an Hour Every Day: II'm already waiting for you on the bed.]
Lift Weights for an Hour Every Day: [Picture]
The images were provocative, showing a dimly lit room where the man was partially covered by a quilt on luxurious gray silk sheets.
His one long leg was exposed, slender, and strong, hinting at the edge of his fitted bottoms.
It was tawdry yet elegant, exuding an androgynous sexiness.
Natalie admired the legs, noting their strength and perfect lines.
In her memory, only Darren's legs could compare.
Thinking of Darren, she couldn't help but remember that night filled with confusion and desire, igniting her inspiration.
It ignited her inspiration. Sparse inspiration turned into a flood. Natalie put away her phone and immersed herself in her work.
She was so focused that she didn't notice when Leon arrived.
Seeing her working, Leon didn't disturb her thoughtfully.
Natalie remained intensely focused until the live broadcast began.
Viewers, expecting to see sweet interactions between her and Leon, found the atmosphere earnest instead.
Natalie didn't look up, engrossed in her writing.
[Did they argue? No way! My favorite couple can't break up.]
[What is Natalie writing? I want to read it.]
Can someone intervene? These two need to talk. I want to see their sweet interactions.]
[Leon, stop being a gentleman. Listen to me, go up and kiss her passionately. Kiss her first and apologize later. All women fall for that.]
[If not, use your manly strength.]
[Is someone talking about something weird? I'm still in elementary school.]
Despite the lively comments, the two remained focused.
It wasn't until near the end of the afternoon program that Natalie finished her score.
She looked exhausted and didn't seem in a good mood.
After handing it over, she left immediately.
Leon carefully read the score.
Half an hour later, he felt amazement, pity, and relief.
The score exceeded his expectations.
He had already anticipated the audience and netizens' reactions would be.
The next day, Leon praised Natalie without reservation.
Natalie had regained her usual composure, "The score is done. Now you need to practice."
Leon agreed, "Today is Wednesday, and we perform on Friday. Two days is enough time. You have the solo piano part. Can you prepare?"
"I don't need to prepare," Natalie replied with a smile.
"You practice well. Let's rehearse together tomorrow."
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