Chapter 6

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Becky turned to Freen with an eager grin, asking if she could hit up the mall to grab some new books. After all, she had devoured every single book in her own personal library. And that wasn't an exaggeration – Becky had an insatiable love for reading across all sorts of genres.

But today, Becky had a specific book in mind. One that would serve as a guide for her new mission: becoming wife material for Freen. She wasn't quite sure where to begin, and that's why she needed this book.

"Hey, what's the exact book you're searching for?" Freen asked with a hint of annoyance as they continued to scour the shelves. Hours had gone by, and Becky still hadn't found what she was looking for.

Becky's eyes lit up when she finally spotted it after half a day of searching. "This is the one!" she exclaimed.

"'Balancing it All?'" Freen read the title aloud, raising an eyebrow in confusion. Becky eagerly clutched the book and headed to the counter for Freen to make the purchase.

Freen was still puzzled by Becky's odd mood. If she remembered correctly, that book was about a woman juggling life as both a mother and an actress. Did Becky want to be an actress too, on top of becoming a wife? Freen couldn't help but wonder.

As they approached the cashier, the girl taking payment glanced at Freen's card. "Miss Chankimha?" she inquired. "Are you the famous author?"

Becky looked at Freen, bewildered. Freen had forgotten to mention her own profession to Becky. Perhaps Becky had heard about it somewhere, but she seemed genuinely confused.

"No, I'm just her assistant," Freen fibbed.

"Then you must be Ms. Chankimha! You're even more beautiful in person. Your stories kept me up all night," the cashier gushed, offering to give Becky the book for free. Freen insisted on paying for it, though.

Exiting the bookstore, Becky shot Freen a stern look. "Why did you do that? You should've told her you're Freen," Becky scolded.

Freen was taken aback. It was the first time Becky had been angry with her. Surprisingly, Freen didn't mind it. No one had ever scolded her before – not even her editor, since Heng was terrified she might quit if he did.

"Why are you giving me that look? Next time, just be honest. What if someone mistakes me again and starts asking things? It could reflect badly on me," Becky chided, clicking her tongue.

"There won't be a next time because I'm not using my card to pay again," Freen laughed, ruffling Becky's hair.

They headed to a restaurant, and Becky delved into her new book. She was so engrossed that she inadvertently ignored the waiter.

"Why are you hiding from someone? Are you on the run?" Becky blurted out, causing heads to turn their way.

"Definitely not," Freen replied swiftly, apologizing for Becky's loud voice.

"Then tell me, why didn't you reveal that you're Ms. Chankimha to the cashier?" Becky asked, setting the book aside. She noticed the food in front of her but put it out of her mind for the moment.

"Because I value my privacy and prefer not to be recognized everywhere," Freen sighed, motioning for Becky to start eating. "I'm an author who appreciates tranquility. I'm not fond of unsolicited conversations and I dislike small talk."

"Sorry," Becky said, her head lowered.

"No need to apologize. You're an exception since you live with me. I can't just pretend you don't exist," Freen said warmly, a sweet smile on her lips. "But I dislike it when people pry into my personal life, asking about my favorite this and that. It doesn't really add any value."

"They're your fans, Freen," Becky responded. "I read that in one of your books. They're your admirers. Just seeing you brings them joy. It's like you're their source of happiness."

"So knowing me makes them happy?" Freen questioned.

Becky nodded slowly. "They want to understand you so they can gift you things that make you happy in return. Your presence makes them happy, and they want to reciprocate that energy. So, next time someone introduces themselves as a fan, don't push them away. Remember, your readers are what make you who you are. Don't be so mysterious." Becky chuckled, focusing on her meal.

Freen was about to start eating when Becky took the initiative to cut her steak with a fork and knife. She looked at Becky, brows furrowed.

"Enjoy your meal," Becky grinned.

Freen was touched by Becky's gesture. This was the first time someone had truly cared for her, not because of her fame, but for the person she was.

"Thank you," Freen murmured, diving into her food. She tried to suppress her smile, but it was impossible. Becky's presence overwhelmed her in the best way.

"Don't worry. From now on, you can leave everything to me. I've got this book," Becky said, showing off her recent purchase. "I'll take care of everything, and you can focus on your work."

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