Episode 40

Elizabeth texted Camille, explaining her predicament. Camille replied almost instantly: “Do we really need to investigate further? I’m sure Sandra is behind all this!” However, she proceeded to verify her hunch. Moments later, Camille sent a shocking screenshot confirming Elizabeth's suspicions.

Armed with this evidence, Elizabeth forwarded the details to Ruby. Ruby, who had been attempting to downplay the situation, reacted strongly. A flurry of voice notes followed:

“We have the leverage to expose her now. I remember some off-the-record footage from the auditions. I'll get on it. Once we have those videos, we can really put Sandra in her place.”

“By the way, is there some hidden grudge between you two? Why does she keep targeting you? From the moment you entered showbiz, she's been trying to surpass you, and now this! It seems she's trying to force you out of the industry, probably feeling untouchable with Mr. Norris's backing. But don't worry, this time I'll ensure she faces consequences. We can't let her walk all over us!”

The second audition, involving only two candidates and significant financial stakes, had led the director to forgo proper documentation—a fact Sandra likely anticipated, knowing Elizabeth had no way to prove her innocence. Elizabeth shared this with Ruby.

Ruby smiled knowingly. “How about we dig up Sandra’s first audition record? Even with more actresses involved, her unremarkable performance still won her the lead role. If that gets out, it would definitely cause a stir and maybe even teach her a lesson.” Elizabeth, trusting Ruby's strategic mind implicitly, said nothing further.

Just then, she received an unexpected message from her lawyer, who handled her script deals: “Ms. Spencer, are you still awake?” The contract had been finalized.

Elizabeth was startled. “No, what’s going on?” she replied, puzzled.

The lawyer, calm but direct, explained, “Silver Elephant Media, the company that purchased your script, wants to meet with you.”

“Why?” Elizabeth asked, suspicion coloring her voice. She preferred to avoid complicated social interactions, having delegated all script-related dealings to her legal team to avoid direct contact with buyers. This unexpected meeting request piqued her curiosity.

The lawyer continued, “They’re very excited about your screenplay and are preparing to compete with another drama, ‘Raging Sun.’ Sandra Nash has already secured the lead role in that project, and since other contenders are committed, they're keen to give audition opportunities to any actresses interested in the female lead. They value your perspective as the script’s creator and want you there.”

A realization dawned on Elizabeth. The character in her script was a reflection of herself—no one could portray that role as perfectly as she could. Sandra had not only stolen her husband but also her role, while simultaneously trying to ruin her reputation. It was clear Sandra was attempting to suppress her. While Elizabeth had been compliant in the past, she had her limits. Faced with dwindling opportunities to fight back, fate had finally presented her with an opening.