Chapter 264: Casual Conversation
Beauty was common, but encountering someone like Jover, with her distinctive aura, was rare.
Many, especially those privileged from a young age, sought conquest and pleasure, finding joy in dominance and destruction. Among them were those with malicious intent, willing to do anything to possess her—even just her body.
Maggie recalled the bribery of Joyce's assistant, two years later. The owner, unwilling to offend an influential person, allowed the management company's complicity. The assistant tricked Joyce into drinking a drugged beverage; then, the manager lured her to her death.
Joyce was drugged and, in a calculated plot, met a tragic end. She was violated.
Afterward, Joyce spoke to no one. She isolated herself for a week and then acted as if nothing happened. Maggie didn't remember the exact date; it was long ago. Mia discovered Joyce's condition. Her health was poor, but Mia didn't initially tell Maggie. Only when Maggie noticed something was wrong and questioned Mia did she reveal the truth.
This recollection brought a pang of heartache to Maggie. Ironically, none of the three had happy past lives.
However, Joyce later thrived. Her career boomed. The extent of her effort, sacrifices, and endured hardships remained unknown, but she ultimately made her assailant pay. He died on the street. Exposure of his evil deeds sparked online condemnation. His funeral was disrupted, and his grave was moved from Aquapolis. Joyce's path was arduous, a constant struggle.
Maggie considered their differences: Joyce, patient and calculating; Mia, spoiled and capricious, yet open-minded. Both she and Joyce hoped Mia would remain pampered, protected, wealthy, and loved, living the vibrant life they envisioned. But none of them achieved their wish.
Maggie's contemplation was interrupted by Joyce and Mia. "Maggie, what are you thinking about?"
16:23 Mon, 27 May MG B
Chapter 264: Casual Conversation
"Joyce, how many years are left on your agency contract? Do you plan to renew?" Maggie faced their worried gazes but offered no explanation. She hoped some things would remain unknown to them.
Reflecting on herself, Maggie felt resignation. If she couldn't change her own fate, what about Joyce's and Mia's? No, it could be changed. She was alive; the Camerons' fate differed from the past. She could make a difference. Sierra was about to take the bait. At least this time, she wouldn't be blinded or scarred.
Joyce pondered before replying softly, "Less than three years. The terms are too strict, too many traps. I'm not renewing." The entertainment industry kept her on edge, fearing mistakes and schemes.
"I've seen online disputes about artists and their companies. Since you have a good image and they have nothing on you, they might try to exploit you before you leave. Be careful," Maggie advised.
Joyce froze, her expression solemn. Time was on her side, though she hadn't considered it. Other companies had already contacted her.
"Don't reveal you're not renewing until you've signed with a new company," Mia suggested.
"We might be overthinking this," Joyce replied, her eyes like a misty forest.
"Cut it out. How many good people are in those companies, especially now that you're successful and without backing?" Mia retorted.
"I know, I'll be careful," Joyce smiled, warmth dispelling the autumn chill.
Maggie fell silent, needing to consider other things.
"Do you plan to return to Aquapolis? Any good scripts?" Maggie asked, needing to strategize, knowing the popular films and shows of the next few years. In her past life, before her blindness, she remembered them clearly. Even afterward, Mia constantly discussed them, even taking her to the cinema.
Chapter 264: Casual Conversation
Later, perhaps to combat loneliness, she'd turn on the TV. Maggie felt confident in this area.
"I'm filming a movie in Aquapolis. A supporting role, less than two weeks. No further plans, but I'm reviewing scripts," Joyce said. Their faces glowed as they chatted and ate.
"What roles? Tell me! Any directors with good taste?" Mia asked eagerly, listening attentively.
"A romance film. I'm the male lead's unattainable first love," Joyce explained. The film wasn't particularly appealing to her. It centered on Chris, a struggling musician, living in a basement and working odd jobs to pursue his dream. He auditioned for a large entertainment company, saw a girl dancing, and was captivated. Elizabeth became his inspiration, and he saved to buy an expensive suit to impress her.
The passage has been cleaned up for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and overall flow. Some stylistic choices were made to improve readability. The "Send Gifts" and "70" at the end seem out of place and were removed.