Chapter 518

The sun cast golden rays through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Kingsley Studios. Inside the executive conference room, Vivian Hartley sat poised, her manicured fingers resting lightly on the polished mahogany table. The air was thick with tension—her contract renewal negotiations had taken an unexpected turn.

The success of Ambermyst and the revelation of her true identity as Katrina Spencer had sent shockwaves through the industry. Kingsley Studios, which had once treated her with indifference, now scrambled to secure her loyalty.

When they discovered she was married to Adrian Blackwood, the CEO himself had stepped in, offering an S-tier contract—reserved only for A-list stars. Vivian, though rising in fame, wasn’t quite at that level yet.

It was obvious why they were bending over backward. The Blackwood Group held massive influence in entertainment, with investments spanning blockbuster films and luxury endorsements. Even if Vivian had been a nobody, they would’ve rolled out the red carpet just to stay in Adrian’s good graces.

The CEO, Soren Rodgers, inwardly cursed his earlier misjudgment. He had assumed Vivian was merely some executive’s kept woman when the Blackwood Group discreetly covered her breach fees. Never had he imagined she was Mrs. Blackwood. His oversight had inadvertently handed their rival, Ivory Phoenix Productions, a golden opportunity.

Across from him, Vivian remained unreadable. Her expression was cool, her posture flawless. The same man who had once dismissed her now wore an ingratiating smile.

"Vivian," he began smoothly, "if there are any terms you'd like adjusted, we're happy to accommodate. Additionally, considering Lydia’s inexperience, we’re considering assigning you a more seasoned manager. I recall an unfortunate incident where Serena Whitmore was cast over you due to a managerial oversight. With a more experienced team, such mistakes wouldn’t happen again."

Lydia, standing nearby, paled. Before she could speak, Vivian lifted her chin slightly.

"Lydia has been exceptional," she said, her voice calm but firm. "I wouldn’t have made my comeback without her."

Her words were a quiet rebuke—a reminder of how little Kingsley Studios had valued her before.

Soren’s smile faltered. He hadn’t expected such steel from someone so young. No wonder she was Adrian Blackwood’s wife. A man of his stature wouldn’t settle for anything less than formidable.

"Of course," he backtracked hastily. "If you're satisfied with Lydia, she’ll remain your manager—"

Vivian didn’t let him finish.

"Thank you for the consideration," she interjected smoothly. "But I’ve decided not to renew my contract. My focus may shift toward family matters."

Soren’s composure cracked. "Please, don’t worry about scheduling conflicts. We can be flexible—just as we have been."

Vivian shook her head. "There’s no need for exceptions. Contracts should be honored, not bent for special treatment."

She rose gracefully, her movements deliberate. "I appreciate Kingsley Studios’ early support. Even if we part ways now, I’m open to future collaborations."

Defeated, Soren had no choice but to concede. "Consider us family. If you ever write another script, we’ll double whatever Ivory Phoenix offers."

Vivian gave a polite nod. "I’ll keep that in mind."

The meeting was over.

As she walked out, Lydia hurried after her, relief and gratitude in her eyes. "You didn’t have to do that for me."

Vivian smiled faintly. "Yes, I did."

Behind them, Soren slumped into his chair, already dreading the board’s reaction.

He had just lost the most valuable asset Kingsley Studios never truly had.