Episode 100

Elizabeth absorbed her friend's diatribe, her resolve hardening. She would carve her own path. "Men are too fickle to depend on," she thought. "I have to make it on my own. Any success a woman wrangles through a man like Elijah, I'm determined to earn independently!"

Mid-conversation, her phone buzzed. It was Soren, confirming her audition time for the male lead.

Three days later, at Silver Elephant Media, a breathless Ruby burst in, her anxiety easing only upon seeing Elizabeth lounging in reception. "You waited until the last minute to tell me about this big deal! Lucky for you, I was free."

Elizabeth offered a comforting smile. "It's merely an audition. Nothing's set in stone yet."

Ruby settled beside her. "For a project of this magnitude, even the audition is crucial. How did you land such a coveted spot? Katrina Spencer's screenplay, no less! Even our agency's premier star might not snag a chance. Was it that connection you made investigating the mastermind during that viral moment?"

Elizabeth pressed her lips together. "I am Katrina Spencer."

Ruby, as her manager, had to know eventually. She rolled her eyes dismissively. "Sure, and next you'll tell me you're married to the wealthiest man alive?"

Elizabeth was momentarily speechless. She was Katrina Spencer. Retrieving the copyright contract from her phone, she handed it to Ruby. "I'm dead serious."

Ruby skeptically took the phone, her expression shifting to shock as she scrutinized the document. Looking up, she asked in astonishment, "You're actually Katrina Spencer?"

Elizabeth nodded. "Yes."

"Why keep such a significant secret? And why bother with these ridiculous auditions for 'Blazing Sun'?" Ruby's composure finally cracked. Elizabeth had the advantage, yet she had allowed Sandra to belittle her.

Elizabeth thought back to leaving home with no clear direction, only a determination to do something—a decision that led her to Ruby. "Initially, I lacked confidence," she explained. "I wanted to start small, hone my abilities."

Ruby sighed wearily. "Well, it's not too late to change course."

A sudden recollection prompted Ruby to pull an envelope from her bag. "This is for you."

Curious, Elizabeth accepted it. "Who's it from?"