Chapter 344

Vivian's face drained of color as she stumbled backward, her voice trembling with disbelief. "What? Sebastian? That's impossible! I thought you two weren't that close?"

She had mentioned Sebastian earlier, confident he would never attend a variety show for Vivian. Everyone knew about Sebastian's notorious aloofness and his difficulty connecting with people in the industry, especially those linked to negative rumors about him. Even if they had good on-screen chemistry, that wouldn't be enough for him to risk potential gossip.

Before Cassandra could fully comprehend this shocking development, the host had already activated the large screen.

Sebastian's face appeared, greeting Vivian, the other guests, and the audience warmly. "I'm currently tied up with prior commitments outside Crestwood, so I can't be there in person today," he explained with a charming smile. "But since this is Vivian's first variety show appearance, I trust you'll all take good care of her."

"Thank you all in advance!" he added with a slight bow.

Sebastian's endorsement instantly shifted the audience's perception of Vivian. Throughout the exchange, Vivian maintained her composed demeanor, showing no signs of arrogance despite the dramatic change in atmosphere.

Cassandra was so furious she nearly cracked a molar, finally forcing out through gritted teeth, "So, Sebastian and Ms. Hartley are actually quite intimate, aren't they?"

Her comment was barely audible on set, but Sebastian - having been briefed about Cassandra's antagonistic behavior toward Vivian - watched her intently through the video call.

"We've always shared a special bond," Sebastian countered smoothly. "Vivian has been an incredible mentor and support to me throughout my career. I consider her guidance invaluable."

The cameras captured Cassandra's face twisting in barely concealed rage before she managed to plaster on a strained smile. "How... enlightening," she murmured through clenched teeth.

The unexpected appearance of A-list actor Sebastian Hartwell guaranteed a ratings bonanza for the show. The host, receiving frantic signals from the producers, seized the opportunity to ask more probing questions.

Out of respect for Vivian, Sebastian answered each query thoughtfully. With his endorsement, previously silent audience members now felt emboldened to voice their opinions.

"I find Vivian genuinely authentic, while Cassandra comes across as painfully artificial. Half the time I can't even follow her pretentious rambling," one audience member remarked loudly.

"Has everyone forgotten Vivian's performances? I saw her scenes trending on Instagram - she completely outshone Serena in every scene they shared," another added.

"Sebastian famously avoids the spotlight. If he's publicly supporting Vivian, that speaks volumes about her character," a third person chimed in.

Meanwhile, Serena slipped into the hallway for air. Leaning against the window, she gazed down at the television station's back parking lot. Among the rows of vehicles, a sleek silver luxury car immediately caught her attention.

Miranda, standing beside her, noticed the car too. "Serena, did you ask Mr. Blackwood to pick you up?" she inquired curiously.

"Why would I do that?" Serena replied with a frown.

After a moment's consideration, Miranda suggested, "Perhaps Mr. Blackwood couldn't find you at the agency and came here instead. I'll arrange for some paparazzi shots to post on celebrity blogs."

"Fine," Serena answered distantly, an uneasy feeling settling in her stomach as if anticipating impending disaster.

As the show progressed, Sebastian was engaged in a fascinating discussion with the host when a commanding presence appeared at the edge of the stage. Adrian had come straight from his office, dressed in an impeccably tailored silver-gray suit that accentuated his striking features. The stage lights highlighted his aristocratic bone structure as he stood with an air of detached elegance that commanded immediate attention.