Chapter 32

This time, Vivian managed to pull off a slightly better performance. Just enough to scrape by.

Yet the distance between her and Serena's acting remained vast. A chasm that couldn't be ignored.

The director and screenwriter immediately huddled for a private conference. Their hushed tones carried the weight of impending decisions.

Julian, though not part of these discussions, found Vivian first. His warm smile held genuine admiration. "You were brilliant today."

Vivian's eyes flickered to the soda can in his hand. Her lips curved in a distracted half-smile.

When the silence stretched, Julian leaned closer. "I mean it. This isn't about the drink."

Adrian materialized beside them like an unexpected frost. His sneer cut through the air. "I didn't find her performance particularly impressive."

Julian knew Adrian wasn't just any critic. He was the financial cornerstone of their entire production.

The actor despised how Serena relied on such monetary influence.

Though he loathed Adrian's susceptibility to flattery, Julian wouldn't risk the project for pride.

He took a deliberate sip, choosing diplomacy over confrontation. His gaze deliberately avoided Adrian's.

Serena sauntered over then, her eyes zeroing in on Julian's drink as if it were a smoking gun. "How interesting," she purred. "Ms. Hartley bought Mr. Montoya a soda."

She hadn't anticipated Vivian's stolen drink ending up with another man.

To any outsider, this would look like blatant infidelity right under Adrian's nose.

Noticing Adrian's darkening expression, Serena barely concealed her smirk. "Had I known a simple soda could win your favor, Mr. Montoya, I'd have brought you one too. Adrian, darling, should I fetch you something?"

Adrian scoffed, his mocking gaze sliding to Vivian. "I don't consume such garbage." His voice turned razor-sharp. "You frequent such refined establishments, Ms. Hartley. How... flexible of you to accept whatever comes your way."

Though his words ostensibly criticized the drink, the barb aimed straight at Julian.

The implication was clear - after discussing divorce, she'd immediately taken up with a minor celebrity. How utterly desperate.

Internally, Vivian rolled her eyes.

When it came to acting, Adrian outclassed Serena by miles. His skills were so polished, he could've been professional.

His public coldness toward her was merely strategic - avoiding marriage rumors.