"Will Dad agree to it?" Misty was momentarily stunned. Matthew was a man driven by vanity and profit.He might not readily accept the complications of taking a break from Cromer Academy. Would he agree?"Of course, he'll agree."Claudia smirked, a hint of something profound in her eyes.She spoke in a light, drifting voice, "Do you think we're the only ones wishing to ruin Hannah? Your dad ... he'd love nothing more than that woman to be forever beneath your feet."Misty's chest tightened at the revelation, instinctively asking, "Why? Hannah is his biological daughter. How could he …?""There are some things you're better off not knowing." Claudia's smile deepened, and she gently tousled Misty's hair.Her gaze carried a disturbing implication, and she softly said, "Rest assured, I will never let Hannah overshadow you. Your dad ..."Claudia headed to the study to exchange words with Matthew. When he returned in the afternoon, a subtle smile adorned his face.Misty underst
Peak Vista, the big shot among these companies, had Chris as its leader. When he spoke like this, who wouldn't echo his sentiments? Everyone nodded in agreement, raising their voices in unison."Ms. Emerson, it's not about refusing respect. It's just the way these matters unfold.""Don't worry. Once we're done here, we'll follow up and get everything sorted out for you.""The process is laid out, and we're all law-abiding citizens. We can't rush these things, can we?"Each sentence sounded pleasant, but there wasn't a trace of sincerity in those words. "Everyone, this isn't the way to handle things," Dennis stated. He wasn't a smooth talker, which might explain why he hadn't succeeded in making a film for so many years.Now, with a dark expression, he hardened his stance. "You've taken all the benefits, and now you're telling us this? Are you dissatisfied with what we've given?""Mr. Westwood, what are you saying? We're all following the rules. If you're not satisfied, fe
Around the messy table, Hannah sat calmly behind it. Hearing their words, she smiled lightly. She looked confident, as if she was holding the winning hand. "Please."She genuinely didn't care whether they stayed or left. Chris felt a growing unease.Initially, when he knew he had to meet her, he harbored a sense of disdain, thinking it wouldn't be a big deal.She was a lady from the slums and just 21 years old. What tricks could she possibly have? Establishing herself in the upper echelons of high society surely required a lot of effort.If she had such skills, why bother venturing into investments and networking? Why not enjoy the life of a wealthy socialite?However, Hannah repeatedly shattered his preconceptions, breaking his established impressions. She was beautiful. Truly beautiful. When she turned cold, her entire demeanor intimidated even Chris, a seasoned player.Witnessing her temper, no one would mistake her for a mere adornment."Ms. Emerson, we're all rather i
"Look at it this way: I'm just asking for your help recommending a couple of films. I see you as a friend and I trust your judgment. How can that be considered making things difficult for you?" Hannah said with an unwavering smile, her voice light as if they were having a casual chat.Chris couldn't help but sigh.Both parties were well aware of each other's thoughts.Especially in this not-so-private gathering, where heads of other cinema chains accompanied him. If he uttered these words today, anyone present could spread the news throughout the industry. How would he manage to face everyone after this?As Chris grappled with his dilemma, the heads of other cinema chains couldn't hide their frowns."Mr. Reynolds, why fear her?" someone whispered."Can the Winchesters stretch their influence into Peak Vista?""Exactly, just because she's married into the Winchesters, that doesn't mean Hopeldon becomes her family's territory.""These are business secrets. You can't just talk
After saying that, Chris waved his hand. He quickly got into the car and left.The others exchanged glances. They were hesitant to linger and scattered away like startled birds.Ms. Emmerson's strategies were truly superb and ruthless. She carried out her plans seamlessly, manipulating situations effortlessly and provoking fear.Setting aside the fact that these individuals were scared out of their wits, Dennis, still inside the private room, was nearly overturning the table in anger."Henry!"He was genuinely furious. The face that had always been somewhat cynical was now flushed with anger."That bastard! I thought we had the camaraderie of university friends. He actually stabbed me in the back!"Chris and the others recommended a summer film to Hannah before leaving. It was "Maple Love." Dennis was so angry that his mind was clouded, but Hannah remained calm and composed.She had anticipated this and now confirmed her suspicions. She leisurely started eating the food
What if the public liked cheesy love stories made by famous stars? What if they preferred something other than deep or realistic themes?Dennis had too many uncertainties.Seeing him like this, Hannah couldn't help but sigh.She knew Dennis had doubted himself for too long. Since graduation, he had been denied and failed repeatedly. He had shown commendable perseverance by consistently overcoming challenges, but it wasn't enough."Mr. Westwood, it's not that we don't have good movies. It's just that, in the current popularity-driven market, what the audience sees is the result of maximizing profits after capital calculations."The market naturally leaned toward profits. Hannah's expression softened. She smiled and added, "Do you know why I still want to invest in your movie? Because I believe that if we work hard, we can make something valuable. And you, you're the one who makes valuable things."As I strive to share this film with the audience, I want to enjoy it myself, t
Hannah couldn't help but reach for his handsome face, unable to suppress her smile. "Mr. Winchester, why are you so sweet?"Her heart felt soft and warm as she was overjoyed and deeply moved. She felt like she could never get enough of Darren."I'm only sweet to you."Darren's deep, dark eyes seemed filled with a profound affection that could drown a person. His voice was gentle as he spoke, "Are you feeling happier now?"With a hint of emotion, Hannah playfully teased him. "Mr. Winchester, thank goodness it's the 21st century."Facing his puzzled gaze, she widened her smile and added, "If you were an ancient monarch, you'd be razing cities just for your love!"Darren was so extravagant.Yet, the feeling of being cherished was addictive.It was as if, no matter how rough the road ahead was, someone was always willing to pave a smooth path for her."A monarch?"Raising an eyebrow, Darren revealed a trace of proud disdain. "If you can't even protect your own woman, what's the
Carefully considering in his mind, Chris, undoubtedly skilled enough to occupy his current position, tentatively asked, "So, are we still sticking with July 5th?""Sure," replied Hannah straightforwardly, adding, "We agreed to air the premiere of 'Maple Love' that day. Mr. Reynolds, don't let me down!"At this point, Chris no longer faced the dilemma of his receding hairline. He was beginning to feel sympathy for Henry and Starshine Entertainment. Why would they pick a fight with such a formidable star?Also, Hannah had impeccable management skills, making it impossible to control her. Now, with Darren's lavish display of affection, it seemed like they weren't leaving any room for grievances.He postponed the film premiere by a few days, intending to pave the way effortlessly for her.Hannah was not one to forget grievances, specifically saying that she wanted to see "Maple Love" on the day of its release. This was like throwing down the gauntlet!Before, Chris didn't dare