Upon returning home, Charlotte went to her room and had a good sleep.
Kingsley was absent from rehearsals for the next two days, and Zelda also maintained a low profile during this time.
Without Kingsley's heavy pressure, the atmosphere at the rehearsal site became much more relaxed.
Carolina once again treated everyone to coffee during breaks on set. It seemed as though the events of the previous two days had been forgotten by all.
However, Charlotte couldn't shake her worry for Kingsley.
She had kept track of his schedule for the past three years and knew that he would occasionally take a few days off when feeling out of sorts. But Kingsley had never taken a leave during rehearsals until now, marking this as the first time.
As she recalled the day Kingsley left in a somewhat off mood, Charlotte couldn't help but fret.
"Charlotte, what's wrong? You don't seem too happy," Sherry asked, concern evident in her voice, as they sat eating lunch on the school lawn.
"It's nothing. Let's eat quickly; we have to head to the rehearsal site later," Charlotte replied, forcing a smile before taking a sip of her coffee.
Ben observed this scene as he approached.
He saw Charlotte, delicate and bright, sitting quietly nearby, lost in thought, holding a cup of coffee. The sunlight filtering through the leaves cast fragmented shadows on her, turning her into a picturesque scene.
Ben found himself instinctively slowing his steps, reluctant to disturb her peace.
However, as he approached, Charlotte noticed him and her warm, soft eyes momentarily hardened with suspicion.
Fortunately, her guard quickly softened, replaced by surprise. "Ben?"
Charlotte was puzzled by Ben's sudden appearance. She had deliberately chosen this secluded spot to be alone with her thoughts, not expecting any interruptions.
"Sorry to intrude," Ben said, flashing a gentle smile. "I noticed you were missing after this morning's rehearsal, so I came to check on you. Is everything alright?"
He stepped forward and sat beside Charlotte, maintaining some distance and regarding her with concern.
"It's okay," Charlotte softly smiled and remained silent.
Meanwhile, Sherry observed the two with interest, wisely refraining from interrupting their conversation.
"If you encounter any problems during rehearsal, feel free to reach out to me. I have some experience and can offer advice," Ben offered with a smile. "And of course, if you need assistance in other areas, don't hesitate to ask. Consider me a friend, and I hope you won't feel obliged to be formal with me."
Charlotte gazed at his genuine and sincere expression, her eyes forming a curve as she smiled. "Thank you, I appreciate it," she replied.
Ben seemed momentarily bewildered before chuckling, "You're so cute!"
In Ben's eyes, Charlotte resembled a little princess, exuding a delicate and gentle demeanor, both well-mannered and captivatingly adorable.
"Hmm?" Charlotte arched her eyebrows slightly, a hint of amusement flickering in her expression.
At home, no one ever commended her like that. Her parents often referred to her as a cunning little fox, while her older siblings described her as sweet yet mischievous.
However, outside the confines of her home, many people praised her being cute. Yet, it all felt like an illusion.
Observing Charlotte's cheerful demeanor, Ben felt encouraged to initiate further conversation. The two conversed effortlessly, seamlessly blending as if they were old friends.
As the afternoon rehearsal approached, Ben reluctantly remarked, "I need to prepare for rehearsal; Let's talk later."
Charlotte, feeling indifferent, simply smiled and rose from her seat. Sitting for too long had left her legs slightly numb, causing her to wobble upon standing.
Quick to react, Sherry attempted to steady Charlotte, but Ben, who had been attentively observing, swiftly reached out to support her arm.
Charlotte steadied herself, surprised by Ben's action.
Embarrassed, Ben withdrew his hand, blushing, "I apologize... that was unintentional."
"It's alright," Charlotte reassured him with a slight smile. "I should thank you actually."
She didn't particularly enjoy physical contact with strangers, but she understood that this was merely an accident. Besides, Ben's behavior didn't make her feel offended.
Ben nodded and gazed into her eyes once more.
He noticed a diminished sparkle of laughter in Charlotte's eyes, causing him to somewhat regret his impulsion.
"Why don't you head over there first, and I'll catch up with you later," Ben said gallantly.
Although their current location was in close proximity to the rehearsal site, it was situated in a secluded area. Walking out together would inevitably stir up rumors.
In the past, Ben wouldn't have given it a second thought. But now, standing before him was Charlotte.
Charlotte, who made his heart flutter, unconsciously compelled him to consider everything for her. He found himself instinctively assuming responsibility for her well-being, and he didn't want anything to hurt or trouble her.
As if sensing Ben's good intentions, Charlotte's expression softened considerably. Her gratitude this time seemed more sincere. "Thank you. You've put a lot of thought into this. I'll head over now. Please keep an eye on the time."
Ben nodded, smiling.
Charlotte and Sherry swiftly made their way out of the desolate area.
Observing Charlotte's departure, Ben lingered for a while, unable to tear his gaze away from her retreating figure.
Once they were out of earshot, Sherry teasingly regarded Charlotte before flashing a knowing smile. "He's into you!"
"What?" Charlotte was taken aback, clearly caught off guard by Sherry's assertion.
"I'm certain Ben has a thing for you. He can hardly take his eyes off you. Haven't you noticed?" Sherry remarked with a grin.
Charlotte sniffed, a furrow forming on her brow. She hadn't considered it from that angle, but if it were true...
Upon reaching the shooting location, they still had five minutes to spare.
Charlotte turned towards the rehearsal site's restroom.
After rinsing her arms under the cool water for three minutes, she managed to suppress the unease gnawing at her mind. She was particularly sensitive to the touch of strangers.
Fortunately, this time it was merely accidental contact, and Ben was more of a friendly acquaintance, so her discomfort was bearable.
Back on set, Charlotte resumed her usual demeanor.