She chastised herself for not leaving a larger financial cushion for emergencies. With mounting financial concerns—rent, daily expenses, and her grandmother’s medical bills—Elizabeth felt the weight of her past decisions. She had neglected her acting career the previous year, and her scriptwriting had stalled. But now, with renewed purpose, she planned to refocus on both acting and writing. Fortunately, she had reconnected with her former agent, Ruby Curtis, the night before, and Ruby, though cautious, had agreed to meet that day.

“Elizabeth?”

As Elizabeth finished her preparations, a soft knock preceded Ruby’s voice. Opening the door, Elizabeth found Ruby standing confidently in a sharp gray business suit, her professional demeanor a stark contrast to the novice Elizabeth had once been. When Ruby first took Elizabeth under her wing, she was an industry outsider, overlooked for lacking big-name connections. But in just two years, Ruby had propelled several unknowns into the spotlight. Everyone seemed to be advancing except Elizabeth, who had paused her career for love, clinging to a past that no longer served her.

“Ruby,” Elizabeth greeted, ushering her in and gesturing toward a chair.

Ruby sat down without hesitation, her voice laced with dry humor. “I thought you’d acquired a wealthy husband and abandoned this crazy industry. Yet, here you are. Did your dreams of luxury crumble, sending you scurrying back to me?”

Elizabeth hadn’t spent much time under Ruby’s tutelage before prioritizing love over her career; their connection had been brief. When Elizabeth announced her departure from the industry, it was solely for her new love and their marriage plans. The man, from a wealthy family, preferred to remain out of the public eye. Ruby had reluctantly let Elizabeth go, though unhappy about it. But now, two years later, Elizabeth found herself calling Ruby, seeking guidance to return to the limelight. Ruby was surprised, but given Elizabeth’s beauty and past talent, she agreed to meet.

Elizabeth, aware of her mistakes, remained silent as Ruby’s sharp words filled the room. Noticing Elizabeth’s quiet regret, Ruby paused to light a cigarette. Crossing her legs, she continued, “I had high hopes for you. With your looks and talent, you could have been a star. But what path did you choose? Before even landing a role, you were ready to throw it all away for love. Did you ever consider the realities of marrying into wealth? It might have worked out, but now…”

Elizabeth winced as Ruby alluded to Kristopher and Lise. Lowering her gaze, she whispered softly, “Ruby, you’re right. I was foolish, but I’ve learned. My career deserves my full attention now. Let’s put the past behind us. I’m ready to focus on acting again.”

“What if love blinds you again?” Ruby asked, her concern veiled by pride.

Elizabeth raised her hand solemnly, her eyes filled with determination. “I swear, it won’t happen again!”

A faint smile touched Ruby’s lips, and the conversation shifted. Ruby spent several hours with Elizabeth, assessing her skills in various roles. Seeing her talent remained intact, Ruby began planning her comeback. Before leaving, Ruby offered some final advice. “With your beauty and talent, don’t settle for smaller roles. But remember, you’re starting over, so leading roles won’t come immediately. I’ll find auditions for you, even in smaller productions. Focus on honing your craft—don’t let me down.”

Elizabeth nodded eagerly, her determination evident.