Episode 112

In reality, screenwriters of Katrina's caliber were exceedingly rare in the entertainment industry. Sandra's claim was transparently false; even if she had found such a screenwriter, securing an audience with them would be nearly impossible.

Elizabeth responded with a calm smile. "I'm quite satisfied with my current show's screenwriter."

"Wow, I didn't realize you were so loyal," Sandra said, her surprise seemingly genuine, yet her tone carefully calculated. A mischievous glint sparked in her eyes as she continued, "If I'm not mistaken, wasn't Soren Rodgers also a screenwriter? Though his work hasn't quite hit the mark. I suppose you're working with one of his scripts this time. Given your close relationship, it makes sense you'd want to support him. My apologies for being presumptuous."

Elizabeth instantly recognized Sandra's intention: to subtly undermine her reputation by suggesting an inappropriate relationship with Soren.

"What? You're associating with another man? Elizabeth, you're already married!" Kailee hissed, her expression contorting with exaggerated shock. She darted furtive glances around the room, clearly desperate to avoid drawing attention to Elizabeth's marital status.

Elizabeth's face darkened. "My personal affairs are none of your concern," she responded coldly, her composure unwavering. She recognized Kailee as a pawn in a larger game, too naive to understand the manipulations.

"You!" Kailee huffed, stamping her foot. She turned to Billie, her lips pursed in a dramatic pout. "Auntie, look at how she's behaving!"

Billie, who had remained silent, finally spoke. Her stern voice cut through the tension. "You might claim it's none of my business, but it certainly is mine."

Billie's blatant favoritism toward Kailee was absurd; her bias was so transparent it was almost comical. Elizabeth had long suspected Billie prioritized family loyalty above all else. However, she realized the dynamics were far more complex. Even Cory seemed desperate to marry his daughter into a powerful family. It was, apparently, family tradition.

Elizabeth remained silent, lowering her head in demure submission. Billie's reprimand was sharp and calculated. "You're bringing embarrassment to our family. I don't care about your private conduct, but here, in public, as a Norris family member, you must maintain our reputation. You represent our image and must be cautious. This isn't a casual luncheon. It's inappropriate to be seen with a stranger, let alone follow him here. Now, come with me."

"I'm sorry," Elizabeth apologized, her tone respectful and seemingly obedient.