Chapter 340

Gasps rippled through the studio as Serena Whitmore's face appeared on the massive LED screen. The audience erupted in excited murmurs.

"Cassandra actually knows Serena Whitmore?" someone whispered in disbelief.

Vivian Hartley adjusted her earpiece casually. "Serena, we're doing that segment where we invite someone close today. Are you available?"

The screen showed Serena rubbing sleep from her eyes, her silk pajamas slightly rumpled. "Give me twenty minutes? Just rolled out of bed - haven't even brushed my teeth yet."

The host fanned herself dramatically. "Serena Whitmore without makeup is still more stunning than most of us at our best!"

From her position near the edge of the set, Vivian noticed every calculated detail - the perfectly tousled bedhead, the strategic lighting angle. She exchanged a knowing glance with Julian Montoya, who had also subtly retreated from center stage.

They gravitated toward each other, discussing scene blocking techniques in low voices while the chaos continued around them.

When Cassandra finished her call, the host practically bounced toward Vivian. "Now Vivian, who will you be inviting today?"

The female MC, clearly impressed by Cassandra's connection, gave Vivian a patronizing smile. "Don't stress if you don't have industry friends yet. Bringing someone from your personal life is completely fine."

Julian suddenly spoke up. "Why not call Sebastian Hartwell?" His gaze lingered on Vivian's composed expression - serene as a winter rose untouched by the surrounding storm.

A male guest nearly choked. "Sebastian Hartwell? The Sebastian Hartwell?"

Recognition flashed across an audience member's face. "Wait, isn't she starring opposite Sebastian in that new drama?"

"She's even more breathtaking in person, no wonder she got cast with him!"

But not all comments were kind. "I heard she's been clinging to Sebastian's coattails for publicity. Is that what she's trying to do now?"

"Sebastian takes his craft seriously, while she's just using him as a stepping stone. Disgusting."

Cassandra added fuel to the fire with saccharine concern. "I've heard you two are close. If you called, he'd definitely come, right?"

Vivian found herself trapped. Agreeing would confirm the opportunist allegations. Refusing would suggest their relationship wasn't genuine.

Realizing his blunder, Julian tried to backtrack. "The ice-breaker activities work best with good friends. I forgot Sebastian rarely does variety shows."

Cassandra smirked, tossing her hair. "Serena canceled three meetings for me. Surely Sebastian would do the same for you?"

Vivian's voice remained steady. "Sebastian and I are professional colleagues. His participation would be a favor, not an obligation. As someone new, I'd rather not impose."

The host quickly intervened. "Vivian, have you decided who you'll invite?"