Chapter 327 + 25 BONUS
“I’ve changed because of you,” Michael said, his eyes sparkling with unmistakable warmth. If it hadn’t been for Debra, he might still be the same struggling actor, clawing his way up in the industry. But in just six months, he had skyrocketed to stardom. Because of Debra, he could now afford to take care of his grandmother and give her the life she deserved. To him, Debra was a beacon of light in his darkest times, illuminating his life.
Debra kept her thoughts to herself. She didn’t tell Michael that the debt the Frazier family owed him from her past life didn’t warrant such a profound statement.
The car pulled up outside the Maple Hotel. Michael stepped out, opening the car door for Debra. This chivalrous act caught the attention of many high-profile women nearby, their eyes lighting up at the sight of him. He was known for being low-key, never attending parties or dinners, so seeing him in person was a thrill.
Debra leaned in, whispering, “Act a bit aloof. Or people might get the wrong idea about you.”
In response, Michael took her arm, tucking it into his own. Debra looked down at their entwined arms, taken aback. Michael smiled, his voice calm as he said, “Isn’t this the best cover? Scandalous girlfriend.”
Debra’s mind flashed back to their past rumors. She was the only woman who had been linked to Michael before, and now, appearing together like this, it was hard not to fuel speculation, especially with so many reporters present.
“Are you crazy?” Debra hissed under her breath. “Don’t you want to stay in the entertainment industry anymore?” She remembered the rumors from her marriage to Juan about how they had painted Michael as a kept man. Now, with her impending divorce, new rumors could tear Michael apart.
She tried to pull her hand away, but Michael’s grip was surprisingly strong. She struggled briefly but eventually gave up, aware of the many eyes already watching them. To the onlookers, they looked perfectly matched, their outfits coordinated in a way that made them appear as a couple.
In the hall, Joe approached Juan and whispered, “Sir, the guests have arrived.” Juan’s gaze fell on the entrance, where Debra and Michael entered hand in hand. Michael was his usual charming self, greeting the guests with ease, while Debra stood beside him, looking every bit like his arm candy.
“Michael?” Juan murmured, recognition flashing in his eyes. He remembered the rumors from before, but he hadn’t paid much attention at the time, seeing Michael as just an actor and a pawn in the hands of the wealthy. But now, seeing Michael again, Juan suddenly felt a sense of unease.
The reporters were quick to notice Juan’s interest in Debra and started snapping photos. Debra squinted against the flashing lights, uncomfortable with the sudden attention. Michael let go of her hand and went over to the reporters. He placed his hand over one of the camera lenses and whispered something to the photographer. The photographer’s face changed, and he hurried away.