Chapter 329

The revelation of Vivian Hartley's true identity eliminated the need for intermediaries at Ivory Phoenix Productions. Face-to-face collaboration would allow her to refine concepts with direct team input, incorporating diverse perspectives into her creative process.

This was a golden opportunity to blend her artistic vision with commercial viability.

Vivian's first visit to the planning department caused an immediate stir. Staff members who'd imagined "Vivian Hartley" as some middle-aged male recluse now gaped openly. Even surrounded by celebrities daily, her natural beauty stood out.

Without cosmetics, her flawless complexion and delicate features appeared sculpted from marble. Dressed simply in distressed jeans and a cropped white tee, her high ponytail completed the effortlessly chic look of a college coed rather than a literary sensation.

"Ms. Dawson," a junior editor stammered, "could we discuss some nuances from your last novel?"

Vivian flashed an easy smile. "Absolutely. My afternoon's clear." She perched casually on an office chair, radiating approachability.

The team scrambled to arrange seating, notebooks at the ready.

Then Vivian abruptly stood.

Silence fell as she crossed to the water cooler, filled a paper cup, and returned to her seat.

Flushed with embarrassment at their oversight, staff members ducked behind laptops and notepads. Vivian merely sipped her water. "Let's focus on the new project first. We can analyze older works later."

The session unfolded beautifully, revealing layers of complexity in Vivian's writing that previous email exchanges had missed. Her ability to weave subtle symbolism into commercial fiction particularly impressed them.

But beyond talent, her demeanor captivated the team. Unlike the aloof genius they'd envisioned, Vivian engaged even the greenest intern with genuine interest. When discussing plot points, she listened as intently as she spoke, making each contributor feel valued.

By meeting's end, the staff had transitioned from admiring the pseudonym to respecting the woman behind it.

Unnoticed through the glass partition, icy eyes tracked Vivian's every movement from the lounge area.

As the clock struck four, enthusiasm showed no signs of waning. Left unchecked, this might evolve into dinner plans and late-night brainstorming.

Vivian gracefully intervened. "Let's pause here. I'll be visiting regularly now that the cat's out of the bag." She gathered her bag with finality. "Family obligations call."

Her strategic phrasing neatly preempted any social extensions.

The unseen observer's lips curled as Vivian exited.