Chapter 42

Natasha and Wendy had obviously just arrived, carrying their swimsuits and still in their regular clothes. Wendy's skin had tanned a bit since the SAT, likely from spending more time outside. It gave her a healthy glow, and she radiated with the vibrant energy of a teenage girl. On the other hand, Natasha remained unchanged—as if beauty itself favored her. Her skin was even fairer than Bailey's, with a rare, cool-toned paleness that seemed to glow under the bright lights. Soon, Wendy spotted Stephen and called out to him. Before he could respond, Natasha snapped, "Didn't you say you couldn't swim and were afraid of water?" Natasha was genuinely upset when she saw Stephen there in his swim trunks. Moreover, his upper body and hair were still wet, clearly from having just been in the pool. Stephen shrugged helplessly. "Natasha, let's not state the obvious." Natasha was clearly hurt by his remark; she huffed and turned away immediately. However, Stephen remained unfazed, not wanting