Wife by Day, Boss by Night

Natalie cherished the tradition that Brian, her childhood sweetheart, had upheld every year without fail. On her birthday morning, he'd rise with the sun and make the famous birthday pancakes, serving them with berries and whipped cream. He'd insist she finish every last bite before she could even think about heading off to school.

"So, no pancakes from you this year?" Natalie playfully asked, tilting her head to the side.

A tender look crossed Brian's eyes as he replied, "After we get our marriage license, I'll make them for you."

Life had been hectic for him lately, with a jam-packed schedule that made it uncertain if he could return in time to continue the tradition on her birthday morning.

But he had a plan. He would wrap up all his urgent tasks before the special day.

He wanted to clear a few days to spend quality time with her and Nate, their son. His wife meant a lot to him, but it had been over a week since Nate had seen Natalie. The thought

of their son feeling lonely at Herbert Morales' place tugged at Brian's heart.

Just last week, Nate's wish to have a family dinner with Natalie hadn't panned out. But after the coming busy days, things would settle down.

The film crew had finally wrapped up all the scenes at Heartland College, along with the reshoots for any missed parts. It was time to pack up all the props and return to base.

Fans of the show's lead, Lundy, let out sighs of disappointment around the set.

"Bro, will you guys come back to shoot here?" one asked.

"Is today the last day?" another interrupted.

"You said about a week, but it's been more like two, right? Any chance you'll return?"

"Bro, we're going to miss you!"

Having removed her makeup and changed into her casual clothes, Natalie couldn't help but chuckle as she overheard the fans repeating their questions for what seemed like the eight-hundredth time.

When Brian came to give a guest lecture, she didn't see them so concerned about Lundy. They were all clamoring at the library to catch a glimpse of Brian.

For these fans, their on-screen crushes were as fleeting as the seasons. Today's favorite could easily be replaced by tomorrow's, with the chances of a real encounter slim to.

none.

Rosie was nearby, taking her time to help pack Natalie's costume and props, also

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overhearing the fans outside.

Catching Rosie's attention, Natalie asked, "Did you find the USB drive yesterday?"

Rosie snapped to attention as if

jolted awake, and after a brief pause, she blurted out, coh, right, I was heading to the parking lot yesterday... I'll go look for it right now!"

Natalie knew Rosie had forgotten, and considering she had seen Lundy in the parking lot, it was likely Rosie had deliberately avoided him.

"No worries. We can look for it in the car later," Natalie said, locking eyes with Rosie for a few seconds before continuing, "What's the deal with you and Lundy anyway?"

Natalie seldom indulged in a bit of

gossip, but Rosie looked

NO

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uncomfortable as sestammered,

"It's nothing. Lundy and my brother

Gavin were schoolmates, so we know

each other."

"Wait, he and Gavin were

classmates? But didn't Lundy get his

ndy get hi

master's degree from a film school

's abroad? Natalie questioned, recalling the details promoted in the press about Lundy's education.

"Yeah, they were high school friends," Rosie nodded, confirming the connection.

As Natalie was about to delve deeper into the subject, a soft knock at the door interrupted them.