She took her seat across from Asuka, who did a double-take upon spotting Logan.
"Whoa, who's this little charmer?" Asuka flipped her gaze between Matilda and Logan with playful suspicion. "Don't tell me he's yours..."
"I'm Logan, my mom's knight in shining armor," Logan declared with a beaming smile. His features were delicate and charming as he greeted Asuka, "Nice to meet you, Asuka!"
"How could there be such a gorgeous kid!"
Asuka, either used to or ignoring Logan's introduction, turned to Matilda in awe, "Oh my God, your son is adorable!"
Matilda offered a modest smile and called over a waiter to order a hot cocoa for Logan before thanking Asuka for the compliment.
"Sorry I'm late, folks..."
Their conversation was interrupted by a new voice. Matilda froze for a second upon seeing the man approaching them; his face was eerily familiar...
Remarkably similar to her best friend Criss...
Eugene approached with a friendly grin, "Pleased to meet you, Ms. Thompson. I'm Eugene, the managing editor at Cosmo. Asuka told me about you, and I thought it'd be great to meet..."
Matilda managed to suppress her surprise, responding courteously, "Pleasure to meet you, sir."
"Well, our company is looking to produce a one-minute commercial, part of a collection with some high-end brands. I've been scouting for talents, and Asuka recommended you..."
Eugene paused, tentatively adding, "Would you be interested in giving it a shot?"
After a moment's consideration and a glance at Logan, Matilda replied with a polite smile, "I'm sorry, but I'd prefer not to be too public... so, um, sorry."
Eugene looked slightly disappointed, "But the theme of our collection fits your style perfectly, Ms. Thompson. Are you sure you wouldn't like to try? It could open new doors for your fashion career. Asuka mentioned you were in design, so it's all within the same circle, which could be beneficial for you."
He was earnest, leaving Matilda feeling somewhat apologetic, "Maybe I'm not as skilled as Asuka has suggested. I'm more of an outsider. I can work behind the scenes as a designer, but walking the runway? I doubt I can match a professional model's standards."
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