"So, when do you plan on having a child with your husband?" Joann asked. “Please, don't take it the wrong way. I'm asking because it's crucial for me to plan out your career trajectory for the coming three years. If you're thinking of having a baby soon, I can't pack your schedule with too many performances.”

Even though it might seem like an intrusive question, it was something she should inquire about.

Claudia blushed and found it difficult to respond. "I haven't thought that far ahead."

As Joann looked at Claudia's red face, she couldn't help but smile.

However, she was apprehensive about teasing Claudia further, so she stopped and smiled instead.

As the waiter arrived with two freshly brewed cups of coffee, Joann took a sip from her cup. “If that's the case, I suggest you discuss this matter with your husband."

Claudia averted her gaze, focusing on her coffee cup. “I know."

"You'll have to participate in two more competitions next year. As a result, there may be numerous performances abroad in the first half of the year. Do you think you could handle that?"

Claudia responded confidently, "No problem."

"Alright. I've been offered numerous business shows in the last two months. There are two significant shows scheduled before the new year.

Would it be possible for you to decline one and accept the other?"

Either way, Claudia had become semi-retired this year. Her popularity was mostly abroad. If she were to pursue her career within the country, a significant portion of her international resources would go to waste.

But she had committed to participating in the upcoming competition next year, which would make it difficult for her to remain out of the public eye until then. However, this move could hinder a new career in the country.

Claudia pondered as she weighed her options. Then she finally said, "Okay."

Having worked as Claudia's assistant for five years, Joann knew her employer well. Claudia was very relieved about her work arrangement for herself.

They explored various aspects of the next three years. During this conversation, Joann made two assumptions. The first was that Claudia planned to have a child in the next three years, while the second was that she didn't plan on having one in the immediate future.

They had been chatting and planning for nearly three hours.

Since Claudia needed to return to her piano practice, Joann didn't ask her to have dinner with her.

As they walked together, Joann reminded Claudia, “Don't forget to discuss the topic of a child with your husband."

Having discussed the matter earlier, Claudia wasn't uncomfortable about the topic. "I won't.”

“Oh, and by the way, you should probably tell him about your little meeting with those two women today."

Embarrassed, Claudia said, "I'll tell him."

After all, she was going to have dinner with Xavier on Saturday.

As they arrived at the intersection, it was time for Claudia and Joann to part ways. Claudia headed towards the parking lot while Joann continued to the shopping mall, located on the other side.