As Wyneth surveyed the marks on her skin, memories of last night flooded her mind.Hayden, that seemingly emotionless man, was not what he appeared to be. What had started as a drunken act of heroism had led to an outrageous encounter with him. And to top it off, she had signed her name on the divorce agreement with a flick of her wrist, in a daring act of defiance.Wyneth could not resist the urge to scratch at the reflection of the marks on her skin in the mirror with her fingertips, wondering if she should just pack her bags and leave the planet altogether. But she told herself, 'Enough of these thoughts. What's done is done. It's time to focus on the task at hand.'She quickly freshened up, changed into her clothes, and headed out the door.Two hours later, at Stello Studios, Wyneth emerged from the dressing room, her face adorned with bold, bright makeup and her lips painted a daring shade of red. Layers upon layers of red chiffon cascaded around her, with even the waistband a
Wyneth's face showed a hint of unease, as she realized that the leading lady in Le Palais was none other than Gigi.'Is it too late for me to back out of playing Lucienne?' Wyneth asked herself in her mind. Freshly divorced from Hayden, she joined Le Palais as the third female lead, which could be seen as a bold move to prove a point."Allow me to make introductions," Matthew said, brimming with warmth, a far cry from the aloofness one might expect from a famous director. "This is Gigi, our star actress in Le Palais. Her brother, Jake, happens to be financing the drama. Gigi, this is Wyneth, the up-and-coming actress playing Lucienne."In the entertainment world, Gigi had a reputation for being sweet, innocent, and easygoing. With so many people from the production around, she would never show her true colors. Graciously, she extended her hand to Wyneth. "Hello and welcome to the Le Palais team."Wyneth looked at Gigi's delicate hand and shook it gently. "Thank you."The exchange
Tears welled up in Gigi's eyes as she fully immersed herself in the role of Le Palais' protagonist, Catherine."They all once trusted you, considered you a friend, and even risked their lives for you! And now, look at what you've become!" Gigi was not holding back in this scene, unleashing her full power. 'They want me to go easy on Wyneth? Not a chance!' Gigi was determined to outshine Wyneth, embarrass her in front of everyone, and force her to flee in disgrace. Feeling triumphant, Gigi purposely chose this challenging scene.Matthew, watching from the monitor, furrowed his brow.Shaun, concerned for Wyneth, was about to speak when a clear, icy female voice cut through the air."Isn't it all thanks to you that I've become like this?"Everyone's attention was immediately drawn to the voice.Compared to the emotional Gigi, Wyneth, who portrayed Lucienne, stood with a cool, emotionless expression, her eyes as frosty as a moonlit lake. She let out a derisive laugh. "You sought to d
Gigi's eyes smoldered with an intense unwillingness to accept defeat. She could not allow herself to be upstaged.'Wyneth is merely a supporting actress, and although stunningly beautiful, if her acting skills surpassed mine, then what would the future hold for me?' The more Gigi dwelled on it, the more panic rose within her. 'One more shot, just one more, and I can reclaim my status!'The room fell silent. Deep down, everyone knew Gigi was not sick—she had just been outshined by Wyneth. But no one dared to say anything when her brother was a major investor. So, everyone pretended to show concern for her."Gigi, if you're not feeling well, you really should head back and rest.""Yeah, don't overdo it."Hearing this, Gigi realized they were sidelining her. Just as she was about to protest, Matthew decisively waved his hand."Since Gigi isn't feeling well, let's wrap up today's rehearsal.""Matthew, I..."Keira held her back, and Gigi reluctantly bit her tongue. She managed to fo
"Who's the lead actress in 'Le Palais'?"'Le Palais's lead actress?' Dexter whipped out his phone to search, clueless about the Hamilton family's drama or Wyneth's plan to divorce Hayden. Upon discovering the leading actress's identity, he promptly informed Hayden."Mr. Hamilton, it's Gigi, Mr. Kane's sister."Dexter pondered Hayden's inquiry. 'Is he curious about the cast of Le Palais? Or concerned the leading actress might mistreat his wife? After all, his wife plays a villainess in the drama.'Hayden was surprised that Wyneth played a supporting role for Gigi after being humiliated at the Hamilton residence. 'Until the previous night, she might have been capable of such a thing. But since then, she has changed. Is it merely a coincidence?' he wondered, pocketing his phone. "Any other plans this afternoon?""We have a two-hour meeting, Mr. Hamilton. Should we visit your wife on set?" Dexter asked, his face alight with excitement. "We have plenty of time. Let's head to the set."
As Wyneth walked away with a straight face, Gigi was left fuming. 'That shameless woman!' she exclaimed to herself, her anger escalating. 'How can anyone be as shameless as Wyneth?'Her assistant reminded her in a hushed tone. "Gigi, let's go find Mr. Hamilton. We can't let Wyneth hold us up any longer."Gigi realized her priorities and nodded. 'Hayden is the most important thing right now. Once I become Hayden's wife, I'll find a chance to deal with Wyneth.' With that, she quickly gathered her skirts and rushed out.Hayden's sudden appearance on set was causing a stir among the crew, including Matthew. "Why is this big shot coming to the set?" someone whispered. "Did he invest in this production?"Matthew could not help but think of what happened last night at the hotel. 'How could it be? Is Mr. Hamilton really interested in Wyneth?'His thoughts were interrupted by a sweet, charming voice. "Hayden."He looked over to see Gigi approaching Hayden with a skip in her step and a pla
"Real ones don't beat around the bush. Where's Mr. Hamilton's wife?" Dexter's voice was low, barely audible.Matthew strained to hear him. "What?"Dexter was about to speak, but he felt a piercing gaze coming from behind him. The familiar sense of pressure crept up on him, and he immediately straightened his shoulders. "What I meant was, where's that newbie actress from last night?"Matthew furrowed his brow, searching his memory. "New actress?" he repeated. And then, in a flash of insight, he exclaimed, "Oh, you mean Wyneth?"'Isn't he here to visit Gigi?' Matthew wondered. 'Why is he asking about Wyneth now?'As Matthew finished his sentence, he sensed a slight relief from the intense pressure that had been suffocating him. It seemed like he had given the right answer. "Bad timing, guys. Wyneth just left after signing her contract," Matthew said bluntly. 'I remember when Wyneth left, she even said to me that she was leaving. So, it must be true, right?'"Left?" Dexter's eyes wi
Gigi blabbered on the phone about Hayden dropping by her workplace. Jake could not believe it. After all, he had known Hayden for years and had never seen him be the type to visit someone at work. And Gigi was not exactly Hayden's type either. It turned out that Hayden was there to look for Wyneth.Jake prodded. "Did you get turned down? She didn't want to see you? Is that why you're seeking my help?"He recalled the strange tension between Hayden and Gigi the night before, but he did not expect it to escalate this quickly. He leaned closer to Hayden and asked inquisitively, "So, does the chick not want to talk to you now?"Hayden's icy glare sent chills down Jake's spine. "Did you just call her a chick?"Jake shrugged nonchalantly. "What's wrong with that? She's young. Can't I call her that? You're too uptight."Jake did not want to annoy Hayden any further. "Alright, I'll help you out this time. I'll gather the entire cast and crew for dinner tonight, even the extras. I guarante
"I heard," Hayden sighed, thinking she might tell him not to touch her."What do you think?" Wyneth asked."Me?" A small smile formed on Hayden's lips as he gently kissed her. "It's whatever you want."Wyneth's eyes sparkled. "So, you'll listen to me?"Hayden hesitated. "Except...""What?" Wyneth's tone shifted to annoyance. "You aren't backing out, right? You just said it's up to me.""It's not that I'm backing out," Hayden said, "I just have one condition. I'll listen to you any other time, but there's one thing I can't do.""What thing?" Wyneth asked.Hayden leaned in and whispered in her ear. Wyneth's face turned a shade of pink, and she pushed him away, gasping."You're such a creep!" she exclaimed.Hayden took her wrist, drawing her close and kissed her earlobe. "What's the matter? Isn't this okay for us? Don't you think so?" As he kissed her, he began to unbutton her collar. His voice was low and smooth. "Just listen to me this one time. For everything else, whatever y
On the ride home from the hotel, tears rolled down Wyneth's cheeks nonstop. This time, though, she was not alone by the car window. She was nestled in Hayden's arms. He wiped away each tear, comforting her all the way."Don't cry. It's just a mix-up, okay? He said he's fine and will be around for a long time," Hayden whispered.Despite his soothing words, Wyneth's tears did not cease. Seeing this, Hayden, filled with concern, gently asked, "Is this not what you wanted?"Confused, Wyneth looked up. "What are you talking about? I'm beyond happy he's alive."Hayden smiled, gently wiping her eyes. "Then why are you still crying?""I'm crying because..." Wyneth bit her lower lip, with Hector's words echoing in her mind.She had always been upset, believing her father had not wanted her years ago. But just as she was about to leave, Cindy pulled her aside. "Wyneth," her mother said gently, "your dad did want you. When I divorced him, I had just one demand.""What was it?""I wanted o
Everyone was silent. Just before entering the private dining room, Wyneth blurted out, "Is he really dying?" Hearing this, Andrew's steps halted. Before he could answer, she added, "How long does he have? Why didn't anyone say anything before?"Andrew sighed and turned around. "Is that why you're here?" Wyneth pursed her lips. A wave of uncertainty washed over Andrew. 'This mom and daughter,' he thought, 'they're here because they got it all wrong. Mom is acting differently toward Dad, too. She was all tough before, but now she's gone soft, probably thinks Dad is dying. And Dad? He's just laughing, like he's having a good time with all this mess.' Andrew hesitated, then said, "Let's talk inside." He chose to hold his words for now.Hayden and Wyneth walked into the private dining room. Cindy was passing dishes to Hector. As they entered, every pair of eyes turned their way. A divorced couple and six sons stared at Hayden. Used to the predictable world of leadership, Hayden now ventur
In the end, Wyneth decided to stay. She could see the honesty in Matilda's words and knew she was sincere. Recognizing Matilda as not her birth mother made Wyneth realize she should not hold her to the same expectations. With acceptance, she focused on building her future with Hayden, freeing herself from doubts and reservations.With Wyneth's decision to stay, Matilda's heart swelled with joy and immense honor. Realizing Wyneth's sincere intentions, not merely chasing the Hamilton family's wealth, transformed their relationship. Matilda's newfound warmth toward her was evident. Gifts, once withheld, now freely flowed into Wyneth's room. At auctions, Matilda eagerly bid on items for Wyneth. During jewelry store visits, Matilda generously bought her gifts, swiping her credit card without hesitation, and welcoming her nearly as a daughter.Wyneth received a call from her mother. Even after so many years, her mom, Cindy, was still bossy. "Your father isn't doing well. You should come to
Just at that moment, a knock sounded from outside."Sir, your mother is back," someone said.Hayden could feel the person in his arms stiffen, her body tensed. "Don't worry, I'm right here," he reassured her softly."Your mother heard that Ms. Walford is here. She wants to see her," the voice from outside continued.'Meet me?' Wyneth bit her lower lip lightly. 'Why does she want to see me? To insult me again?'"She hasn't eaten yet. She can meet her after eating," Hayden said, gently turning down the request for Wyneth. Outside, everything fell silent."Won't this offend your mom?" Wyneth's voice filled with concern as she asked.Hayden looked at Wyneth, pausing for a moment before speaking. "I know she's been mean to you," he said. Wyneth's eyes widened in surprise. "I'm sorry." He bent down and lightly kissed her forehead. "You've been treated unfairly." Seeing her blink, he added, "Let's eat first. After that, I'll go with you."Wyneth was a bit nervous, but not as anxious a
Hector was speechless as Cindy mistakenly thought he was ill. Seeing her worried face, he felt the misunderstanding might not be so terrible. He shared a look with Andrew. His eldest son caught on immediately, giving a subtle head shake. Understanding the signal not to mislead Cindy any further, Hector hesitated before gently asking, "Can I see her? Even just a glance?" It had been many years since he last saw his daughter up close, and she had not called him "Dad" in all that time.Cindy, lost in thought, stared at Hector before finally nodding as if admitting defeat. "Fine, I'll call her."Later, Wyneth fell asleep. Upon waking, she found herself on the large bed in Hayden's bedroom. She saw Hayden sitting at the sofa, busy with a computer.Hearing her movement, Hayden immediately got up and walked toward her. "Awake? Thirsty or hungry? Want something to eat first?"Having slept through lunch, Wyneth was hungry, so she nodded. "Sure."After Hayden left to give some instructions,
'He shifts moods so fast,' Wyneth thought as she stared at her unattended ringing phone.Observing her delay, Hayden asked, "What's going on?"In his mind, a thought flickered, 'She seems reluctant to take the call. Perhaps there's tension with her eldest brother?'"He's calling now; must be about him," Wyneth whispered."About your dad?"They had decided to be together, and Wyneth did not hide anything from him. "Yeah, my dad."Hayden did not utter a single word."I don't like him," Wyneth softly said, staring at her ringing phone. "Answer it for me and say I'm asleep," she whispered to Hayden as she cozied up to him. Without a word, Hayden picked up the phone and conveyed the message before ending the call.After ending the call, a curious Hector asked, "Well? Where is she?"Understanding the situation, Andrew said, "She didn't answer the phone; she's asleep."Despite hearing the words, Hector felt something was off. He sighed, "She really doesn't like me.""Don't worry, D
"Trouble recognizing faces? What do you mean?" Hector Spencer asked.Andrew sighed. "Dad, he's Wyneth's ex-husband."Hector's eyes widened in surprise. "He is? No wonder I didn't recognize him. I must've barely seen him before.""Is that what's bothering you?" Andrew asked."What else would it be?" Hector replied, still taken aback.Andrew sighed. His dad, Hector, was good at many things and never stayed mad at people. But there was one funny thing about him: he could never remember faces of people outside their family. "You don't mind?" Andrew asked.Smiling, Hector replied, "Mind what? She's told everyone, so she must be ready. I've never been the dad she favored. If I object now, won't she dislike me even more?"Andrew was left speechless by this. He had not expected Hector to have no objections. "Seems like someone doesn't need your approval."Changing the topic, Hector asked, "What about your mom? Is she back?" He had been living alone for many years.Andrew exhaled. "I t
Everyone rushed to check out Wyneth's Facebook and, sure enough, they saw her admitting to the relationship, along with a freshly taken selfie.At first, Wyneth only wanted to write a post. But after Hayden tasted the joy of going public with their relationship, he suggested taking a wefie for the official announcement. Feeling his excitement, Wyneth agreed. They posted the wefie on Facebook, captioned "Officially Together". Yet, Hayden was not done. He captured another photo, this time holding her hand, eager to share their love with the world.Since Hayden was not a celebrity or idol, he had no fan feelings to fret over. Eager to declare his love, he did not hold back. His photo captured his sharp features and dark, gem-like eyes that shone under the camera lights. The image showcased his palm holding Wyneth's fair, slender hand. Their contrasting hands highlighted his affection, radiating warmly from the photo.After the photo came out, everyone was shocked. This included fans, p