Stewart’s smile widened at the sight of her. “We’re having a small crew gathering,” he explained.

Asher’s recent social media post, while not widely noticed online, had ignited considerable discussion within the Blazing Sun team. Elva had rekindled the controversy surrounding leaked audition footage, blaming the crew for the intense backlash against Sandra and the damage to her reputation. Using this narrative, she advocated for increased screen time for Sandra. The team remained silent, but the tension was palpable.

Sensing the friction, Bart suggested a group dinner to foster camaraderie. Asher, drawn by the noise, emerged. His initial cool demeanor softened considerably upon seeing Elizabeth. Approaching her, he said, “You’ve finally arrived.”

Bart seized the opportunity to invite Asher. “Oh, you’re here too, Asher. Why not join us in our room?”

Asher had meticulously planned this rare dinner with Elizabeth, determined to protect their time together. Before he could decline, Godwin smoothly interjected a polite refusal: “Asher and Ms. Elizabeth need to review the script; they’ll have to excuse themselves. Please, enjoy yourselves without us.”

Stewart chuckled knowingly. “Ah, engrossed in the script, are they? That must make it awkward to join us. Elizabeth is quite a skilled actress, and perceptive too. Asher, you should guide her more—she’s brimming with potential.”

A faint smile touched Asher’s lips at Stewart’s praise. Reflecting on their previous collaboration, he replied, “Stewart, let’s arrange a separate dinner together.” His gesture, a subtle acknowledgment of Elizabeth's standing, transcended the usual industry deference to seniority.

Stewart sighed inwardly, recognizing Elizabeth’s true value—a stark contrast to Sandra, whose talent was overshadowed by her connections. Watching Asher and Stewart’s support for Elizabeth only intensified Sandra’s irritation.

She recalled an embarrassing incident where Asher had publicly refused to collaborate with her on a variety show. During the broadcast, while Sandra praised Katrina’s talents, the host suggested a collaboration between Asher and Katrina, citing their mutual admiration. Most would have politely declined, but Asher bluntly refused, stating that Katrina’s projects demanded a high level of expertise—a comment that humiliated Sandra.

What did it matter that Asher was a top star? Compared to a powerhouse like Elijah, Asher seemed insignificant. Sandra sneered. “Elizabeth, your luck is astonishing. With Mr. Rodgers as your benefactor and Mr. Burton clearing his schedule for rehearsals, you’re set for stardom. If everyone had such privileges, we’d be overwhelmed with celebrities.”

Her remarks subtly implied that Elizabeth relied on connections while mocking Asher’s deference to industry power brokers.

Asher’s face darkened. He retorted, “It’s rare to find such a remarkable partner. Some people fail to recognize genuine talent over mere mediocrity. Honestly, I should thank the Blazing Sun team for overlooking Elizabeth—it gave me the privilege to work with her.”

His blunt response stung the Blazing Sun crew. He felt they could criticize him, but not his idol. Sandra, caught off guard by his blatant disrespect, fumed silently. Elva, fearing Sandra’s outburst, intervened. “Mr. Burton, it’s admirable to defend your colleagues, but your comments seem unnecessarily harsh.”

Elizabeth, appreciating Asher’s support, quickly interjected. “Who started this demeaning conversation? Is it only the powerful who can speak without consequences? Did I miss the memo where Ms. Sandra controls the entire entertainment industry?”

“If she wishes, even a rising star would bow, and a top-tier celebrity wouldn’t dare disrespect her!” Elijah’s voice cut through the tension as he arrived.