Chapter 157

Grace had heard of Brian Hart before. The Hart family controlled numerous businesses in the entertainment industry; some even claimed Brian held the power to make or break a person's career. His influence was undeniable.

She'd heard Sean mention him during their relationship. While the Stevens family was wealthy and influential in the city, they paled in comparison to the aristocratic Harts. Sean, therefore, was not in Brian's social circle.

Other rumors, originating from gossiping women at the Sanitation Service Center, painted Brian as aloof and difficult, yet perpetually surrounded by girlfriends. He'd launched many of them to fame, but breakups were swift and decisive, even ruthless. However, despite being called the "Crown Prince" of the entertainment industry, he never cheated. He was faithful to his partners, however briefly their relationships lasted, which is why he avoided online condemnation. These were consenting adults, and the women involved all benefited significantly. Many women, therefore, aspired to a relationship with him, hoping to reap the rewards of his attention, even if fleeting.

Grace never expected Brian to burst into her apartment in the middle of the night, seeking an unremarkable silver bracelet. Its importance to him was evident.

Later, at the Sanitation Service Center, while returning her tools, Grace overheard the girls discussing Brian's latest breakup: "Alas, the Crown Prince and Emily broke up again. It seems he's dating a third-rate celebrity."

"Who is she? She actually replaced Emily?"

"She hasn't been revealed yet, probably in a few days. But it's not so bad for Emily. Without the Crown Prince, she wouldn't have become a top star so easily! So, she gained a lot too."

"I really hope I meet the Crown Prince someday. Even one night with him, I'd be happy."

"In your dreams," another girl retorted, laughing.

The young women laughed and gossiped, browsing online forums. Grace wondered what they'd think if they knew she'd encountered Brian in the middle of the night.

"Grace, what's wrong?" Claire asked.

"Nothing," Grace replied, regaining her composure. She returned her tools, changed out of her work uniform, and donned casual clothes. Looking at the scar on her right palm—a souvenir from Thanksgiving night when she'd grabbed a broken mirror to wake herself—she was relieved it hadn't damaged the tendons.