Everything was finally set, and now they waited for Natalie. Both she and Victor had to change into different outfits for the various themes of the photoshoot: sweet romantic twist, casual elegance, boldness and passion, and young romance.
For the first theme, Victor wore a perfectly tailored suit that fit him like a glove, making him look like a high-class gentleman ready to court a lady. The moment he stepped out, every woman on set was left speechless, their gazes filled with admiration and adoration.
"He’s so handsome. Only the most beautiful woman would do justice to this photoshoot."
"But the model left...."
Whispers filled the room, only to die down into complete silence as a figure emerged from the dressing room.
"Who is she?" murmured a few onlookers, unable to look away.
Natalie walked in, wearing a floor-length gown in a soft blush pink. The off-shoulder dress with its deep back accentuated her slender frame, while the silk fabric flowed gracefully as she moved. Her makeup was light, highlighting her natural beauty, and her hair was styled in a loose, elegant bun. She wore simple diamond studs in her ears, and her neck was bare, drawing attention to her delicate collarbones and the graceful curve of her neckline. Her feet were adorned with delicate strappy heels in a neutral shade.
Victor felt as if he were in a trance the moment he laid eyes on her, unable to tear his gaze away.
Ignoring the murmurs and the eyes on her, Natalie walked over to Victor. "Don’t blame me if I can’t pull this off," she said softly.
"You can," he replied, his voice unwavering. "You just don’t realize it yet." He offered her his hand as they stood before the set.
"This scene should evoke a sense of intimacy and perfect chemistry between the couple," Theo instructed from behind the camera.
Natalie glanced at him, a little confused. "What am I supposed to do?"
Victor chuckled softly, the sound low and warm. "Leave it to me," he murmured, pulling her closer with one arm around her waist. "Instead of glaring at me, show some love in your eyes."
"Can’t do it, at least not when I’m looking at you," she countered sharply.
"Then, do you manage it when you look at your husband, or does he get that killer gaze from you too?" he teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
"He and you are different," she replied curtly, her words implying more than she intended—that she did look at her husband with love.
"Then pretend I’m him and look at me that way," Victor suggested smoothly. "And we’re good to go."
Natalie hesitated, then took a deep breath and shifted her gaze to his face, imagining Justin instead. Her eyes softened almost involuntarily, the tension in her expression melting away. He was truly handsome, and despite how much he annoyed and infuriated her, Justin Harper was the only one she ever wanted to look at with such affection.
Victor immediately noticed the change in her gaze and, seizing the moment, he gently brushed away a few loose strands of her hair, his hand lingering longer than necessary. To the others, it appeared professional and intentional, but to him, every touch was genuine. He was savoring the closeness, the feel of this woman in his arms.
Theo began snapping photos, while Victor expertly guided Natalie through each pose and expression.
For the second theme, they changed into casual, relaxed outfits—light blue long-sleeved sweatshirts paired with white pants. Instead of standing, the setting shifted to a cozy couch. Victor sat casually, his fingers gently caressing her hair, while Natalie lay with her head on his lap, a book resting in her hands. The scene radiated tranquility and comfort, capturing the essence of companionship.
For the third theme, the atmosphere changed entirely. Natalie was handed a bold, mid-thigh length red bodycon dress with an open back, highlighting the graceful lines of her spine.
"I’m not wearing this," she protested immediately, shaking her head.
"Ms. Natalie, you would look stunning in it," the designer pleaded. "There’s no one here but trusted members of the team."
Scowling, Natalie reluctantly put it on, feeling exposed and self-conscious. Her long, slender legs drew immediate attention, and despite her discomfort, she stepped out of the dressing room—her back concealed by a jacket draped over her shoulders.
"Everyone, out!" Victor suddenly commanded, his tone brooking no argument. He noticed her unease and, more than that, didn’t want anyone else to see her in such an intimate state.
Only Theo and Ella were allowed to remain, for obvious reasons.
"An exposed back," she muttered irritably.
"I don’t mind," she shot back. "Because I feel nothing."
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