Chapter 298

"Vivian, what do you think?" His intense gaze sought her opinion.

Vivian paused, stirring her iced tea with a straw before responding coolly, "I'm fine with whatever the team decides."

"Then it's settled," Damien stated firmly. He'd made this special trip because the buzz surrounding Vivian's secret identity was reaching fever pitch. Revealing it on Spotlight Night would maximize the impact.

Across town, Serena lounged on a designer sofa, wrapped in a cashmere throw while scrolling through her phone. Gregory Thornton, the director, approached with an ingratiating smile. "Serena, Spotlight Night wants some of our cast for their next episode. We thought you and Julian would be perfect."

Serena didn't even glance up from her game. "Not interested. Ask someone else."

Her preoccupation with Vivian and Adrian's growing closeness had drained her completely. The last thing she wanted was to appear on some vapid variety show.

Gregory blinked in surprise - this was a coveted opportunity. Seeing his hesitation, Miranda Graves interjected, recognizing the promotional value. "Serena darling, this could really boost our show's ratings. Think of the exposure!"

With an irritated sigh, Serena tossed her phone aside. "I said no. Why should I be the only one promoting this project? Adrian financed the whole thing. Now I'm supposed to market it too? What exactly are the others contributing - just being pretty set decorations?"

Her blatant disregard for teamwork, despite her financial stake, left Gregory cold. "Fine," he replied evenly. "If you won't go, I'll send the supporting actress with Julian instead."

Miranda continued pressing. "If you're worried about Vivian, remember Mr. Blackwood invested heavily in you. Shouldn't you show some return on that investment?"

"That's none of his concern," Serena snapped.

Miranda couldn't help but wonder - what exactly did Adrian see in this spoiled brat?

Meanwhile, Vivian had agreed to unveil her secret identity, and Damien moved quickly. He immediately called Mr. Pembroke, Spotlight Night's executive producer. "We've confirmed Sebastian and Vivian will appear, Mr. Pembroke," he announced.

Mr. Pembroke's response was lukewarm at best. "Right. Noted."

He couldn't understand why the head of Ivory Phoenix Productions kept pushing this unknown actress. Initially, the network had resisted including Vivian - an untested newcomer with rumors swirling about her faking a relationship with Sebastian. Even after those rumors were disproven, some stubborn viewers still believed them.

Having both appear together would make it seem like the producers were chasing cheap publicity. Spotlight Night didn't need help with ratings - they were more concerned with maintaining their prestigious reputation. But Damien had insisted, even threatening Sebastian's withdrawal if Vivian wasn't included. The network had reluctantly agreed.

Damien smirked at Mr. Pembroke's indifferent tone. He couldn't wait to see the man's reaction. Casually, he added, "Oh, one more thing - Vivian isn't just the lead actress."

"She's also the renowned screenwriter Vivian Hartley, and this is her original work."

"Vivian... Wait, Vivian Hartley?" Mr. Pembroke nearly choked on his coffee, hastily setting down the mug as hot liquid splashed onto his hand. Eyes wide, he sputtered, "You can't be serious! Everyone knows Vivian Hartley is some middle-aged recluse. There's no way she's that stunning young actress!"