Chapter 303: Everything Changed

With Tobie acting as a mediator, Zayn Piquet, the director of “Tears of Rivers,” brought the contract to Olivia’s new company the very next day. Initially, Zayn hadn’t paid much attention to Tobie’s recommendation of Olivia until Tobie showed him an edited clip from the show at Borealia Military Academy. The scene featuring Olivia sparring with Felix immediately captivated Zayn, prompting him to take a chance and extend a direct offer for the lead role.

“Mr. Tobie mentioned your skills, and I was skeptical,” Zayn admitted openly, “but after watching that footage, I knew you were the lead actress I needed.” Especially after learning about Olivia’s decision to invest in the project, Zayn was overjoyed.

“Mr. Zayn, you’re too kind. It’s an honor for me to work with you,” Olivia responded warmly, her voice sweetened by the prospect of a profitable project.

“This is the contract we drafted yesterday. If everything looks good, we can sign today,” Zayn said, handing the papers to Olivia. Olivia reviewed the contract and found no issues. Just as she was about to sign, Zayn’s phone rang.

“Excuse me, I need to take this call,” he said before stepping out of the office. When Zayn returned, his expression had noticeably darkened.

“Ms. Olivia, we might have a problem with this collaboration,” Zayn said with a furrowed brow.

“What do you mean?” Olivia inquired.

Zayn sighed heavily. “I just received a call. Starlit Entertainment has purchased all rights to this production.” His face showed sincere regret. “I’m sorry, but Starlit Entertainment has their own plans for casting.”

Jared was stunned. They had been moments away from signing the contract, and now an unexpected twist disrupted everything. Knowing it was a quality project, Jared instinctively wanted to negotiate, but Olivia spoke first. “It’s alright. Although it’s unfortunate, we can look forward to future opportunities together.”

Zayn, relieved by Olivia’s understanding, still felt guilty. “I truly believe you’re perfect for this role, so I’ll try to negotiate with them…” Olivia nodded calmly, though she knew Starlit Entertainment’s aggressive tactics made Zayn’s efforts likely futile.

After seeing Zayn off, Jared was visibly frustrated. “Olivia, don’t worry. Even if we can’t work with ‘Tears of Rivers,’ other production teams still want to collaborate. Some of them are promising. I’ll reach out right away.”

However, when Jared contacted the previously eager production teams, the responses shocked him. “Sorry, we’ve already cast our roles.” “We reconsidered and felt Olivia might not suit the character.” Some didn’t even answer, having blocked Jared’s number entirely.

Jared was stunned. Just yesterday, these teams had been enthusiastically calling and texting, earnestly inviting Olivia to join their productions. But overnight, everything suddenly changed, as if they had all conspired to cancel their agreements at the same time.

“Olivia…” Jared turned toward her, overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events.