586-590

*Chapter 586: What Do You Owe Me and How Will You Repay It?*

"Annie, Ed said I'm getting a big head and being pretentious. You've been with me all along—what do you think?"

In the car, Luca flipped through a book absentmindedly, turning a few pages.

Annie glanced at him and smiled. "Well... maybe a little."

"Where?"

"Hard to say, just a feeling. But it's normal. When actors suddenly blow up in popularity, this kind of thing happens. The entertainment industry is showering you with praise, calling you Hollywood's No. 1 leading man. Boss, it's completely normal to get a little cocky, pretentious, or even indulgent."

"You don't need to carry any burden over it. Knowing how grounded you are, you'll get over it soon," Annie said with a grin.

Luca shook his head. "But I've been famous for years now. Since 2003, I've received no shortage of praise. In 2006, when my net worth was revealed, there were even more people hyping me up."

"That's different. From 2003 onward, there were people praising you, but criticism outweighed the compliments. In 2006, while many admired your business acumen, because of Britney and the two little ones, there were even more people calling you a scumbag. The criticism was so loud I heard you avoided reading newspapers for months just to escape it."

"You have a point," Luca admitted, stroking his chin. "Hearing you say this, I realize something strange. Since 2003, the public has mostly criticized and condemned me. Now, all of a sudden, no one's doing that anymore. I’m not used to it."

"Where have all the haters gone?"

Annie chuckled softly. "Isn't it nice to not be criticized?"

"Not at all. Criticism keeps me grounded. Knowing there are so many people who dislike me motivates me to improve and do better. Without it, I feel empty and lonely."

Luca thought of Mencius's words: When a country faces internal chaos and external threats, it survives; but when there is comfort and ease, it perishes.  

"Annie, do you know what Pitt and Leonardo have been up to lately?"

Luca felt like he was being over-praised, suspecting someone was orchestrating this. There weren’t many likely suspects, and even if it wasn’t them, they’d take the fall.

Annie tapped on her laptop. "The news says both are on set filming. One's working on The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and the other's doing Body of Lies."

Luca nodded. Seeing Pitt and Leonardo working so hard, he lost any desire to revel in his success. After returning to the office, he dived back into post-production work.

After over two months of effort, the three-hour rough cut of Inglourious Basterds was completed. The length was necessary to accommodate its many violent and explicit scenes, which would need different edits for various markets.

"Director Allen, what do you think?"

In the screening room, Luca paused the film and turned to visiting director Woody Allen.

Woody Allen was stunned for a while before speaking. "Did you really direct this? Personally?"

"Yes. Is there a problem?"

"Is this your first time directing a feature film?"

"No, it's my second. I previously directed a short film, The Pianist, where you were the artistic advisor—don’t you remember?"

"That's different. Shorts and features are worlds apart," Allen said, waving his hand. With a sigh, he added, "I can't deny my age anymore. If a newcomer like you can direct something like this, we old-timers should retire."

"Is it really that impressive?" Luca chuckled.

"Not exaggerating at all. This film has an incredibly high level of completion. Its style, cinematography, color palette, dialogue, performances, and score—everything is nearly flawless. Your directing skills are on par with top-tier directors."

"So, it's not bad?" Luca smiled.

"Not bad? It’s excellent. Even directors like Tarantino or Guy Ritchie, who specialize in this style, couldn’t necessarily do it better."

Woody Allen looked at him with a complicated expression. "I never believed in prodigies until now. Watching you, I finally understand what one is. You excel at every profession you touch. Calling you a genius is no exaggeration."

Luca smiled faintly, relieved that Ed's earlier scolding had grounded him.

"Director Allen, you flatter me. I was just casually directing. It’s not as great as you say."

"Casually?!"

Woody Allen nearly spat out his coffee. "If this is 'casual,' what would you produce if you actually tried? Your audacity hasn’t changed."

"Luca, you have a natural talent for directing. Why not consider switching careers and focusing solely on directing?"

Luca shook his head. "Acting is my main profession. Directing is just a hobby—something I do when I feel inspired. Doing it full-time would be exhausting and boring."

"Rubbish!" Allen sighed. "Not becoming a director would be a waste of your talent."

Luca simply smiled and poured him another coffee.

"Director Allen, why did you drop by today? If it’s tennis, we can head out now."

"I'm too old for that. I came to get your feedback on a script."

Woody Allen placed a folder on the table.

Luca raised an eyebrow. "Allen, you've been a screenwriter for 40–50 years, won countless awards, and mentored many, myself included. Asking me to critique your script—is this a joke?"

"Not at all. I've read your scripts—they’re mature and engaging. It shows you don’t just write well but also understand audiences. I want this to be an exchange—a veteran writer and a young one, brainstorming ideas together."

"Fine, I’ll give it a shot."

Luca skimmed through the script, which turned out to be Midnight in Paris, one of Allen’s masterpieces. The story followed an American screenwriter in Paris who encounters a series of surreal events.

Noticing a few awkward parts in the unfinished draft, Luca gave some suggestions. Allen listened intently but soon stared at him with a mix of jealousy and admiration.

"Uh, something wrong, Director Allen?"

Allen sighed. "Your talent—your gift—is truly enviable. Problems I could spend days grappling with, you resolved after one read."

"Director Allen, it’s nothing. You’re just too close to the project, whereas I have an outsider’s perspective. Anyone could do the same."

"Not just anyone," Allen muttered, scribbling notes. After a while, he asked, "Luca, do you have time this year? I’d like to collaborate again."

Luca raised an eyebrow. "As the lead actor?"

"Of course, but your fees are sky-high."

"How about a 50% discount?"

"Deal!"

The older man extended his hand enthusiastically.

Luca shook it firmly. Some debts, after all, had to be repaid.

"Director Allen, have you chosen a lead actress? If not, I have someone in mind."

"Who?" Allen asked.

Luca mentioned a name.

"Her?" Allen thought for a moment. "She seems like a good fit, but she’ll need to audition."

"Naturally," Luca agreed.

After seeing Allen off, Luca returned to his studio. By late afternoon, he grabbed the script and headed to an apartment for a meeting.

---

(End of chapter)  

*Chapter 587: Are You Trying to Seduce Me?*

“How’s the script?”

“Do you even need to ask? It’s a Woody Allen script. How bad could it possibly be?”

Rachel chuckled lightly as she flipped through the script.

“So, are you accepting the role?”

Luca, lounging in the bathtub, glanced at Rachel seated across from him. Her calf brushed against his leg amidst the steam filling the room.

“I heard Allen is extremely picky with his casting—he only chooses actors he likes. Do you really think he’d let me be the lead?” Rachel asked.

“Of course. Don’t forget who you’re talking to.”

Realizing his tone sounded smug, he adjusted, “The most important thing is that you’re perfect for the role, and your acting is phenomenal. That’s why Allen agreed. If you weren’t a good fit, he would’ve flat-out refused. He’s notoriously stubborn in this industry.”

Rachel smiled faintly, blinking at him. “This is the second role you’ve helped me land. How should I thank you?”

“Haha, don’t be so formal. Even without me, you had a shot at getting those roles.”

Luca’s calf gently brushed against her thigh.

Rachel set the script aside, slid into his lap, and teased, “Landing a major project like Sherlock Holmes isn’t easy, let alone being the lead actress in an Allen film. Without you, I wouldn’t have stood a chance. So, thank you!”

She kissed him softly.

“If that’s your thank-you gift, then I’ll gladly accept,” Luca said, cupping her face with a smile.

Rachel smiled mischievously and leaned against his shoulder, playfully trailing her toes along his leg.

“I broke up with Ryan,” she said suddenly.

“I saw it in the papers.”

Luca wrapped an arm around her shoulder.

“Actually, we split last year. He was off shooting films, and I was in Canada for school. Sometimes we wouldn’t even message each other for two months—it just fizzled out.

"One day, he came to me and said we should break up. I agreed, and that was it.”

Rachel shrugged, her lips curving into a lighthearted smile.

“Well, if it’s over, it’s over. If you have no other plans, I can take care of you,” Luca whispered in her ear.

“I don’t want you to take care of me.”

Rachel tilted her head to look at him. “I want to take care of you. Don’t forget—I’m the older one here. You’re the younger brother.”

“Alright then, big sister, I’ll trouble you to look after me from now on,” Luca chuckled.

“I’ll take excellent care of you,” Rachel said, hugging him tightly.

The steam in the bathroom grew denser, eventually enveloping their silhouettes in a milky-white haze.

---

The next day, Luca arrived at his office feeling refreshed. Inglourious Basterds was nearly complete, and the company would handle the distribution. Now he needed to plan his upcoming projects.

Currently, he had two major opportunities: a leading role in Sherlock Holmes and an indie film, Midnight in Paris.  

Since Midnight in Paris hadn’t officially begun production, it could be postponed.

At the same time, his company had several internal projects in the pipeline: The Hangover, Black Swan, Shutter Island, and The Social Network.  

After two days of meetings, the production department finalized the schedule: this year, they’d focus on The Hangover and Black Swan, while Shutter Island and The Social Network would move forward next year.

The company also had unfinished projects, like Fast & Furious 4 and The Tuner, so juggling too many films at once wasn’t feasible.

“Boss, Miss Portman is here,” his secretary, Doria, announced over the phone.

“Send her in.”

“Of course.”

The door swung open, and Natalie Portman walked in.

“Good afternoon, Luca.”

“Natalie, why are you dressed like that?”

Luca glanced up, only to see her wearing a white ballet dress and tights. The outfit revealed just enough to be both stunning and alluring.

“Well? Do I look good?”

Natalie spun on her toes, executing a flawless glissade, her slender waist and elegant legs exuding the refined aura of a leading lady.

“Is this your way of convincing me?”

Luca crossed his arms, watching her with amusement.

“Yes. I’ve been practicing ballet for weeks. I want to prove through action that I’m the perfect actress to play Nina,” Natalie declared confidently.

Luca chuckled softly. “Alright. The role of Nina in Black Swan is yours. Show me what you can do.”

“That’s it?”

Natalie blinked in surprise.

“What’s ‘it’?”

“You’re just... giving me the role?”

She looked at him, puzzled.

Luca smiled faintly. “If I don’t give it to you, how else would you get it?”

Natalie gazed at him silently before breaking into a sly smile. “Aren’t you going to... try to seduce me?”

Luca nearly choked on his drink. “Excuse me? When did I ever say I’d do that?”

Natalie’s expression was unreadable. Ever since she saw the script last year, she felt like she’d fallen into Luca’s trap—it was too good to pass up.

And she knew what kind of man Luca was. He’d never let her off easy without getting something in return.

But this... this was unexpected.

Could it be true? Did he really have no ulterior motives?

Or was he just biding his time?

No matter what, she couldn’t afford to lose this opportunity.

“Luca, I believe you’re a good man. You’re talented and capable, so of course, you wouldn’t resort to such underhanded tactics. I was wrong to doubt you,” Natalie said sweetly.

Luca shook his head. “Natalie, if I ever tried to seduce you, I’d be the one at a disadvantage.”

“What?”

“If I really went that route, not only would you get the role, but you’d also get me. That’d be a huge loss for me.”

“You—”

Natalie glared at him, her face darkening. In all her years, she’d never met someone so shameless.

“Am I wrong? Rumor has it plenty of women in the industry want a chance with me, but unfortunately for them, they don’t stand a chance. I hope you’re not one of them,” Luca said seriously.

Natalie rolled her eyes dramatically. “I’m not!”

“Oh, that’s good.”

Luca breathed a sigh of relief.

Natalie’s irritation grew. “What’s that supposed to mean? If I were one of them, would it be such a burden to you?”

“Absolutely. Once you’re cast as the lead, we’ll have to interact a lot. If you were constantly scheming for my body, it’d make working together impossible. But since you’re not, I don’t have to worry.”

Luca pulled a pepper spray canister from his desk drawer. The label read: Too many female predators these days. Boys need to protect themselves too.  

“Pfft!”

Natalie covered her face, laughing uncontrollably. Her shoulders shook as she doubled over.

“Natalie, are you crying? There’s no need to be upset just because you can’t have me. I’m only against coercion, not genuine relationships.

“If you’re truly interested, you can start by asking me out. Take it slow, build a connection. Over time, who knows? You still have a chance.”

Natalie shot to her feet, her cheeks flushed. Her eyes glimmered with a mix of frustration and amusement.

“So, this was your plan all along—to make me ask you out? You really are a scoundrel.”

She cast him a flirtatious glance before spinning on her heel to leave.

“I was kidding.”

“I wasn’t. Get ready for our date!”

With a mischievous grin, she disappeared through the door.

Luca shook his head. With tricks like that, you think you can win me over? Dream on. At most, you’ll only get my body.  

(Chapter End)  

Chapter 588: "Why Does It Take You So Long to Change?"

"Luca, you’re here!"

In the company break room, Ross came over holding a cup of coffee and a stack of fruit pies.

Since last year, Bra Industries had grown significantly. The company’s finances had gone from negative $100 million to a surplus of over $60 million, skyrocketing from the No. 25 independent production company to No. 6. Its production capabilities now trailed only industry giants like Peak, New Line, Lionsgate, Touchstone, and Focus Features.

At the start of the year, Warner Bros. expressed interest in acquiring Bra Industries, including its film and script library, offering $320 million.

However, Luca and the management team weren’t planning to sell. Holding a strong hand with hits like Step Up, The Fast Series, and The Hangover series, Luca wasn’t about to sell the company prematurely.

With more funds came more employees, larger office space, and improved amenities, including a break room, a lounge bar, and a game room.

“Ross, how did the screening go?” Luca asked.

“Below our expectations,” Ross replied, sitting down.

“Why? Don’t they like Inglourious Basterds?”

In the morning, the company hosted a screening of Inglourious Basterds, inviting representatives from several distribution companies to watch and bid for distribution rights.

“No, it’s not that. It’s just that our asking price is too high. They said you’re a rookie director, and the style of the movie is risky. There are too many uncertainties, so they need more time to consider.”

“Then let’s wait,” Luca said calmly.

With Robert Downey Jr.'s Iron Man about to be released, Luca knew its success would raise the value of Downey’s movies. This, coupled with Luca’s growing reputation, meant distribution channels wouldn’t be an issue.

“By the way, Luca, the release date for Juno is set—next month on the first. This is one of our films. I hope you’ll give it some attention. If you’re willing to help with promotions, that would be even better,” Ross added with a smile.

“Alright, I’ll talk to Ed about it,” Luca nodded, although he’d hoped for a break.

Back in his office, he resumed typing on his computer.

The phone rang.

“Luca, what are you doing?”

Scarlett’s voice came through.

“Working at the office,” he replied.

“Always working! No wonder Natalie says every time she sees you, you’re busy. Luca, you’re a tycoon and a star! How can you be cooped up in the office all day? That’s so unlike you.”

“What else should I do? I need to stay occupied somehow,” Luca said, typing as he spoke.

“Come to a party. That’s what we young people should be doing. Oh, and there are plenty of gorgeous girls here,” Scarlett teased.

“No need. With you, I feel I’ve got enough,” Luca responded with a smile.

“Haha, darling, you’re too sweet,” Scarlett replied with a sultry laugh.

After a brief chat, Scarlett revealed the party’s location, and Luca wrapped up Chapter 10 of The Hunger 3 before heading out.

---

The party was at a Santa Monica estate with a man-made beach, palm trees, a volleyball court, a massive pool, and plenty of scantily clad women.

“Hey, Luca!”

Scarlett waved, running over in a tank top and shorts, her figure drawing plenty of attention. She boldly hooked her arm around his.

“I thought you wouldn’t come,” she said with a grin.

“Work kept me late. Sorry!”

“No problem. I love a hardworking man.”

Scarlett glanced at his outfit. “Are you really wearing that to a beach party?”

“What’s wrong? This is casual enough,” Luca replied, gesturing to his shirt and jeans.

“Well, it’s a beach party, but never mind. I figured you’d be like this, so I brought something for you!”

She led him toward the changing room.

“Scarlett, where are you taking him?” someone shouted from the beach.

“To change clothes! Be right back!”

“Are you really changing?”

“Of course not!”

Ignoring the teasing, Scarlett pulled Luca into the changing room. Half an hour later, Luca emerged in a T-shirt and beach shorts.

Originally, Scarlett had prepared swim trunks, but Luca felt his build would make them look indecent. Instead, Anne had gotten him proper beach attire.

“Scarlett, are you done?”

“All set!”

Scarlett stepped out in a white swimsuit that highlighted her rosy complexion and curvaceous figure.

“Hey, why did it take you so long to change?”

Natalie appeared out of nowhere, smirking mischievously.

Scarlett chuckled.

Natalie rolled her eyes. “Can’t you tone down the flirting? Act normal for once?”

“I used to be quite proper, you know,” Scarlett quipped playfully.

Natalie sighed, then glanced at Luca. “Didn’t you bring that anti-female-predator spray? If you did, use it on her to wake her up.”

Luca shrugged.

Natalie blushed, her expression turning annoyed. “You’re shameless!”

“Luca, is that spray real?” Scarlett asked, laughing until tears welled up in her eyes.

“No, it’s just a gimmick. But when I showed it to Natalie, she jumped and ran away,” Luca joked.

“Liar! I wasn’t going to do anything to you. Why would I be afraid of that thing?” Natalie retorted.

“Must’ve been my misunderstanding. I apologize,” Luca replied with a grin.

“Your apology lacks sincerity.”

“Forget it. Let’s play volleyball. Luca, join our team!” Scarlett said, linking arms with Natalie and Luca.

“We’re an all-girls team!” Natalie objected.

“Fine, I’ll join you,” Luca agreed nonchalantly.

Natalie was speechless.

On the court, there were over 20 people, an even mix of men and women. Many were familiar young stars: Ryan Reynolds, Shia LaBeouf, Chris Evans, Blake Lively, Kristen Stewart, and Lily Collins, among others.

Luca greeted them warmly. While the men looked slightly envious of his status, the women were all smiles.

“Let’s play first, chat later!” Scarlett suggested.

With that, the beach volleyball game began, filled with laughter and energy.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 589: "And You Still Think You Can Win Me Over?"

“Mr. Kelly, would you like some coconut juice?”

During the intermission, Luca lay back on a beach chair, resting his head on his arms and enjoying the cool breeze through the coconut trees. Blake approached with two glasses of juice in hand.

Blake Lively, twenty years old, had risen to fame with The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and Gossip Girl, becoming a rising star in the industry.

She had an impressive figure, standing at 5'10"—as striking as any professional model. Dressed in a sleek black swimsuit, her golden waves of hair cascading over her shoulders, she exuded youth, sensuality, and a touch of innocence.

“Thank you, Blake. You can just call me Luca,” Luca said with a welcoming smile.

“Luca, your volleyball skills are amazing. You’re as good as a professional player,” Blake said, sipping her juice through a straw. Her eyes lingered on his well-defined chest muscles and chiseled abs. There was something about his commanding, mature aura that made her cheeks flush.

Luca chuckled lightly. “Volleyball isn’t my strongest sport. I’m much better at soccer, tennis, and table tennis. My performance just now was average—it’s thanks to the great teamwork on your part.”

“Mr. Kelly, you play tennis too? I often practice at Beverly Park’s courts. Maybe we could play together sometime?” Blake tucked a strand of golden hair behind her ear, her gaze both hopeful and shy.

Luca gave her an easy smile. “Sure. I don’t often find skilled opponents. You seem agile—you’d make a great tennis partner.”

“I’m not that great!” Blake laughed softly, lowering her head to take a sip of coconut juice. Inside, her heart leaped with excitement.

She hadn’t expected Luca, the famous star, to be so approachable. His smile was even more captivating in person than in the media. The thought of playing tennis with him thrilled her to no end.

“What are you two talking about?”

Lily Collins came running over and looped her arm around Blake, positioning herself between them.

Eighteen years old and also from a star-studded family, Lily was the daughter of British musician Phil Collins and a socialite mother who chaired the Beverly Hills Women’s Club. She had gained widespread attention in 2006 after her breakout role in The Blind Side, thanks to her delicate features and princess-like demeanor.

“We were just talking about volleyball—strategizing for the next game,” Blake said quickly, casting a glance at Luca. Her cheeks turned a deeper shade of red. She hadn’t meant to lie, but tennis was a special plan just between her and Luca, and she didn’t want anyone else to know about it.

“Really, Lily,” Luca chimed in, ruffling the young girl’s hair. “I heard you’ve been preparing for the ACT. Decided on a college yet?”

“The ACT is no big deal. I’m aiming for USC. But hey, I was talking about you two! Don’t try to distract me, Luca. You’ve been chatting for ages, and it looks suspiciously like flirting!” Lily teased with a mischievous grin.

“Don’t be ridiculous! We’re not!” Blake protested, her face now burning.

“Ha! Your face says otherwise. Luca, I’ll let you in on a little secret—Blake is a big fan of yours. She’s been crushing on you for ages and—mmph!”

Before Lily could finish, Blake clamped a hand over her mouth, her face a bright crimson as she dragged her away.

“Luca, see you later!”

“Blake, let me go!”

Lily, small and slender, struggled but couldn’t escape. She resigned herself to being dragged off like an oversized Barbie doll. “Ugh, so unfair!”

Luca chuckled softly. These young women were certainly entertaining. Spending time with them brought a joy he hadn’t felt in a while. Hanging out with the likes of Ross, Scott, and Ed too often would eventually turn him into a grumpy old man.

“Enjoying the party, darling?”

Scarlett walked over, carrying two glasses of white wine. She moved with a sensual grace, her hips swaying effortlessly.

Luca wrapped an arm around her slender waist, paying no mind to the curious stares from the crowd. Among those stares, he spotted Ryan Reynolds. Not far away, Ryan was whispering with Lily Collins, while Blake stood nearby, flustered.

Luca found the whole situation amusing. Scarlett was Ryan’s ex-wife, and soon after their divorce, Ryan had married Blake. And Blake herself had once dated Leonardo DiCaprio. Luca’s involvement added another twist to the already tangled web—who knew how things would unfold?

“What’s on your mind?” Scarlett leaned against him, her voice soft.

“I heard Ryan’s been pursuing you,” Luca remarked with a smirk.

“True. Why, does that bother you?” Scarlett teased, her eyes sparkling.

“Of course. A man’s desires are boundless, and I am the manliest of men.”

“Haha! I’ve certainly noticed that,” Scarlett laughed, planting a kiss on his shoulder. “But I didn’t accept his advances. After dating so many men, I’ve realized that a year with any of them can’t compare to a single day with you. You’ve spoiled me for anyone else.”

Luca smiled, his hand gently caressing her waist. “That means a lot to me. But you know who I am—I don’t want my presence to disrupt your life.”

“Don’t worry. For now, having you is enough for me. I’m not thinking about anything else,” Scarlett murmured.

Luca nodded slightly. “If you ever need anything, just let me know. No need to hold back between us.”

“Got it,” she replied with a smile.

Scarlett leaned down, wrapping her arms around his neck, and whispered softly in his ear, “I need your help right now. How about we do it here?”

“A live broadcast?”

Luca chuckled.

“Yes, what do you think?”

Scarlett acted immediately.

Slap!  

Luca smacked her on the butt. “Stop teasing. I don’t want to see our butts all over the internet.”

“Well, when everyone’s gone later, how about we do it here?”

Scarlett’s voice was syrupy, her body writhing like a seductive snake.

Luca raised an eyebrow. “We could give it a try!”

“Alright then. I won’t bother you chatting with those little girls anymore. If you keep one or two of them for the night, I won’t mind either.”

Scarlett kissed him deeply, wiped the wine stain from the corner of her mouth, and swayed her hips as she walked toward the tennis court.

Luca shook his head. Was he getting a bit too indulgent? If this were ancient times, he’d probably be like Emperor Ling of Han or Emperor Yang of Sui.

“Luca, the game’s starting!” Scarlett called out.

“Coming!”

Luca stood up but suddenly felt something was off with his swim trunks. He glanced down and quickly sat back down.

“You guys go ahead; I’ll rest for a bit longer.”

“Alright!”

The game began in the distance, a mix of men and women playing together. As Luca watched, he realized the group seemed even more carefree without him, their laughter echoing freely.

He sighed inwardly. Wealth, fame, and status brought many benefits but also created barriers. It was hard to interact with them like an ordinary person.

“Luca, why aren’t you playing? Are you feeling too weak?”

Natalie walked over with a fruit platter, placing it on the stone table.

“Of course not. My body’s in great shape—I could play for another two hours no problem.”

“Really? But I just saw your knees shaking.”

Natalie teased with a playful smile as she sat down.

“Come on, my knees are fine. You want to know the real reason?”

“What’s the reason?”

Natalie’s curiosity was piqued.

Luca didn’t say a word; he simply stood up.

“Ah!”

Natalie let out a startled cry, her eyes wide in shock. She stared for three seconds before quickly turning her head away, her face flushed like a steamed shrimp.

“Luca, you jerk!”

“Yes, I’m a jerk. Now do you understand my dilemma?”

Luca sat back down, casually picking up a bunch of grapes and eating them leisurely.

Natalie huffed, glaring at him with embarrassment and annoyance. “You’re disgusting. That’s harassment!”

“No, it’s just a joke between friends. For example, you look amazing in that bikini.”

Luca’s eyes slowly scanned her from her toes, up her slender legs, and further to the blue sports skirt and white tank top that accentuated her lithe curves.

“What... what are you looking at?!”

Natalie’s face flushed even redder. His gaze felt like a ticklish weed brushing over her, and she pressed her skirt down, giving him a swift kick before storming off in a huff.

Luca shook his head. So many thoughts, yet she still dreams of having my body. Poor thing—I feel sorry for her impatience.

(End of Chapter)  

*Chapter 590: Strange Sounds from the Forest*

In the evening, everyone gathered on the beach for another barbecue party.

Music, beer, barbecue, string lights, beautiful women in summer outfits, and young men dancing in the center of the crowd — this was the life meant for young people.

Luca enjoyed his barbecue, a contented smile gracing his face.

“Brother Luca, I heard you’re a street dance master. Why don’t you come show us your moves?”

Lily Collins, wearing a trendy hat, danced energetically with a few boys in the center. Her cheeks were flushed, and sweat glistened on her face.

“You guys dance. I prefer being an audience member,” Luca replied with a smile. Despite being close in age to everyone there, he often felt like an elder among them, compelled to act more composed.

“Come on, Brother Luca!”

“Lily, don’t push him. Someone’s legs are probably too shaky to dance,” a voice teased from the shadows.

Laughter erupted from the crowd.

Luca’s face darkened. That voice had to belong to Natalie. Ever since he had teased her earlier that afternoon, she had been like a porcupine, taking jabs at him whenever possible.

“Fine, I’ll dance!”

Not wanting to be labeled as timid, Luca set down his drink and stepped into the center of the dance floor. A round of enthusiastic applause erupted immediately.

The music started, and as the intense rhythm kicked in, more than ten people began street dancing, showcasing styles like Locking, Popping, Breaking, Hip-Hop, and Reggaeton.

At first, everyone displayed their unique moves. But as time went on, some dropped out, either out of energy or faltering. In the center, however, Luca danced more fiercely, his movements growing as intense as a storm.

With his tall, muscular physique and seamless transitions between high-difficulty moves like windmills, Thomas flares, and floor sweeps, Luca exuded both rhythm and power.

He quickly became the focal point of the entire party.

The applause and cheers from the audience were relentless.

“This guy works in an office all day, but who knew he could dance like that?” Natalie murmured.

“Yeah, Luca’s physical fitness is incredible — almost superhuman,” Scarlett said, leaning on Natalie’s shoulder and teasingly licking her earlobe.

Natalie shivered. “Stop being ridiculous!”

“Haha, you’re still so sensitive,” Scarlett chuckled, draping an arm around Natalie’s shoulder. “Natalie, don’t you want to see something amazing?”

“See what?” Natalie asked.

“Luca’s... skills,” Scarlett replied slyly.

“How would I see that?” Natalie shook her head. “I’m not interested.”

“Really? I’ll let you in on a secret. Luca and I have plans for later... under the palm trees on the lounger...” Scarlett whispered mischievously into Natalie’s ear, causing her face to flush and her body to heat up.

“Enough!” Natalie interrupted, trying to regain her composure.

Scarlett smirked. “If you want to watch, you can hide nearby. I won’t tell Luca.”

“I’m not interested, and I won’t go!” Natalie declared.

“Suit yourself.” Scarlett stretched lazily, excitement flashing in her eyes as she turned to cheer for Luca with the others.

“Brother Luca, you’re amazing!”

As the music neared its end, Lily Collins dashed over like a gust of wind, embracing Luca like an adoring fan.

Luca crouched suddenly, placed his hands on her slender waist, and lifted her high above his shoulders in one swift motion.

“Wow! So cool!”

The crowd erupted into enthusiastic shouts and applause.

“Ahhh!”

Lily screamed in surprise, wobbling precariously on his shoulders before toppling forward.

“Careful!” someone shouted.

Before anyone could panic, Luca caught her smoothly, cradling her like a princess.

Applause and cheers resounded even louder from the crowd.

“Wow, Brother Luca, you’re incredible!” Lily gushed, throwing her arms around his neck and impulsively kissing him.

Luca froze. This was too much! They weren’t even in the same generation.

Quickly putting her down, he led her out of the crowd and handed her a glass of juice, urging her to calm down before things got out of hand.

“See? Lily can be so bold. Why can’t you?” Scarlett asked Natalie.

“What does this have to do with being bold?” Natalie replied, shaking her head.

“It has everything to do with it. You’ve always asked me about Luca. Don’t tell me you’re not interested?”

“Of course not! He’s just a playboy. I only asked because I was curious about how someone like him could be so successful. That’s it!” Natalie said firmly.

“Fine, I won’t bother you anymore. I have a date with Luca. Join us if you want.” Scarlett stretched with a playful smirk and walked off, leaving Natalie biting her lip in frustration.

As the night deepened, more people began leaving the party. After bidding farewell to the last group of guests, Natalie found herself drawn to the shadowy palm grove in the distance.

The rustling leaves and strange sounds carried by the night breeze made her heart race. After hesitating for a moment, she finally stepped into the forest.

Under the faint moonlight, she spotted two figures on a lounger about six meters away. Natalie froze, her eyes wide as she stared in disbelief.

Suddenly, she heard a soft breath behind her. Whirling around, she saw a familiar face peeking out from behind a tree trunk.

“Lily? What are you doing here?” Natalie whispered in surprise.

But Lily seemed mesmerized, her gaze fixed on the distant figures, completely unresponsive.

“Lily?” Natalie waved a hand in front of her.

“Ah!” Lily yelped in surprise.

“Who’s there?”

“It’s Natalie! Don’t mind her; let’s continue,” a sultry, playful voice replied from the shadows.

“Fine!”

The strange sounds resumed.

“Shameless!” Natalie muttered before storming off, dragging a blushing Lily with her.

By the poolside, Natalie jumped into the water with a splash, followed closely by Lily, whose face was still flushed.

“Lily, stay here tonight. You shouldn’t go back. That guy’s trouble,” Natalie advised.

“But Brother Luca isn’t that bad...” Lily murmured softly.

Natalie sighed, shaking her head, unsure how to persuade her any further.

As they climbed out of the water, Natalie resolved to wait upstairs until things quieted down. But deep down, she couldn’t help but wonder what Scarlett had meant earlier.

(End of chapter)