Chapter 125

The tension in the room was palpable. Vivian used her argument to push for more screen time for Serena. The crew stayed silent, but their expressions betrayed their frustration. The air crackled with unspoken words.

Gregory, sensing the brewing storm, suggested a team dinner to ease the tension.

Sebastian appeared, drawn by the commotion. His sharp gaze swept over the group before softening when it landed on Vivian. He moved toward her. "You're here," he murmured.

Gregory seized the opportunity. "Sebastian! You should join us for dinner."

Sebastian had been looking forward to a private meal with Vivian. Before he could decline, Harrison smoothly intervened. "Sebastian and Ms. Hartley need to go over the script. They'll have to skip dinner tonight."

Julian chuckled knowingly. "Ah, so absorbed in the script? Vivian is quite the talented actress—perceptive too. Sebastian, you should mentor her more. She has incredible potential."

A faint smile touched Sebastian's lips at Julian's praise. "Julian, let's arrange a separate dinner soon," he offered.

In the entertainment world, respect wasn't just about seniority. His invitation was a nod to Vivian's rising status. Julian sighed inwardly, comparing Vivian's genuine talent to Serena's reliance on connections.

Serena's irritation flared as she watched Sebastian and Julian side with Vivian. She recalled the humiliation when Sebastian had publicly refused to work with her on Spotlight Night.

During the show, when Serena had praised Vivian, the host suggested a collaboration between them. Most would decline politely, but Sebastian had bluntly stated that Vivian's projects required real skill—a thinly veiled insult that left Serena seething.

What did it matter if Sebastian was a top star? Next to someone like Adrian Blackwood, he was nothing. Serena scoffed. "Vivian, your luck is astounding. With Mr. Vaughn backing you and Mr. Hartwell clearing his schedule for rehearsals, fame is guaranteed. If everyone had such privileges, Hollywood would be overflowing with stars."

Her words implied Vivian relied on powerful connections while mocking Sebastian's deference to industry elites. Sebastian's expression darkened. "It's rare to find a partner like Vivian. Some can't tell talent from mediocrity. Honestly, I should thank Blazing Horizon for overlooking her—it gave me the chance to work with her."

His bluntness stung, offending everyone from Blazing Horizon. They could criticize him all they wanted, but they had no right to insult his idol.

Serena, caught off guard by his directness, clenched her fists. Miranda, fearing Serena would lose control, stepped in. "Mr. Hartwell, defending your colleague is admirable, but your words are unnecessarily harsh."

Vivian, unwilling to let Sebastian take the heat alone, countered, "Who started this conversation? Only the privileged get to speak now?"

The room fell silent.

The battle lines were drawn.