Chapter 59: Isn't She Annabel?

Annabel glanced back as she walked toward the balcony, realizing Rupert hadn't followed. She then answered her phone.

"Rory, what's up?"

"Annabel, I'd like to meet you," Rory said gloomily.

After some consideration, Annabel agreed.

"Okay. Let's meet tomorrow at 10 a.m. at Blues Cafe." She had much to say to Rory.

"See you tomorrow, then," Rory said quickly. He wondered if he still had a chance with Annabel, now that she'd agreed to a date.

The following day was a weekend. Annabel left early; she was used to it. However, Rory arrived before her.

Blues Cafe was located on Douburgh's busiest commercial street, yet it offered a peaceful, pleasant atmosphere.

Rory drove toward the street, gripping the wheel tightly. Heather's car followed. She and her friends were out shopping.

Suddenly, Bella pointed to the car ahead. "Isn't that Rory?"

Bella was a huge Rory fan. She'd fallen for the tall, gorgeous man after seeing him on TV. Knowing he'd returned a few days ago, she'd tried everything to meet him, but to no avail. She never expected to see him this way.

"The car's too far ahead. I can't see him," Heather said discontentedly.

"Don't be silly, Bella. It's difficult to meet a superstar like Rory," another friend agreed.

"I have excellent vision. I'm sure it's him."

Unable to contain her excitement, Bella fixed her gaze on the car. Despite only seeing the back, she was confident it was Rory.

"Please, let's follow him! I want his autograph and a picture."

Bella was obsessed. Seeing Rory while shopping with Heather felt fated.

"If you want to follow him, go ahead. I don't have time." Heather, preoccupied with Rupert, had no interest in other men.

"All right, Heather. I'll go." Bella, aware of Heather's annoyance, couldn't resist her idol's allure. She exited the car and hailed a cab.

"Please, sir, follow the black car ahead," Bella said, pointing.

"Which car?" The driver looked in the indicated direction.

"The black car! Please hurry!" Bella urged nervously.

They were slightly late, and the taxi driver lost sight of Rory's vehicle.

Annabel found Rory waiting at Blues Cafe. He'd booked the entire place for privacy.

Rory sat in a corner by the window, his deep eyes fixed on the door until Annabel appeared.

"Annabel."

Rory stood and approached her. Annabel wore a beautifully cut white dress that flattered her figure. Her delicate features showcased her capable, graceful beauty. She was still the girl who made his heart race.

"Hello, Rory. I'm sorry I'm late." Annabel smiled as she approached.

"Don't apologize. I arrived early." Rory looked at her lovingly, pulling out her chair. "I ordered your favorite Mocha."

"Thank you," Annabel replied, sitting down.

"I haven't seen you in months. You're still stunning and charming," Rory complimented her. Even her sipping coffee was appealing to him.

Annabel blushed and quickly changed the subject.

"Why did you come back suddenly? I thought you signed with a major film company."

"I canceled the contract," Rory shrugged.

"What? Why?" Annabel was astonished.

"Isn't being a top movie star your dream? Why give it up?"

"That dream pales in comparison to love," Rory gazed intently at Annabel.

"I don't think you love Rupert. You did this on purpose, right? You want me to give up?"

"Rory, stop being childish!" Annabel was irritated.

"Whether I love Rupert or not is none of your business. Don't you know the consequences of canceling your contract like that?"

"I'll take responsibility," Rory said firmly. "Besides, I think my career will thrive better domestically. I plan to focus on the home market."

"It's not your decision to make! Why are you so impulsive?" Annabel scowled.

"It wasn't impulsive. I have a detailed strategy. I'll show you in a few days. You'll agree then," Rory said determinedly.

Annabel remained glum. Despite agreeing with his plans, she resented his unilateral action.

"You'd better show me as soon as possible."

"Even so, you shouldn't have made rash decisions or spoken carelessly to the media. I read the trending topics yesterday. Don't you think that was inappropriate?"

"No, I don't. Acting is my profession, but my life is more than that. What I want most is to share my achievements and happiness with the girl I love," Rory said solemnly. His dark brown eyes sparkled. He took her hand. "Annabel, you know who I'm talking about, right?"

Bella eventually found Rory's car in the parking lot and took the elevator to Blues Cafe. She paused by the door, looking around. The cafe was empty. She wondered if she was in the wrong place.

Disappointed, she turned to leave when she noticed a man and a woman in the corner. Even from her angle, she recognized the man's profile—it was Rory. And the woman looked familiar.

Bella gasped, realizing it was Annabel.