Jack nodded. “Of course, I’m sure Ms. Smith won’t mind either.”

Chapter 35

Jack was shrewd and aware of the recent online drama involving Daphne, Yvonne, and Wilson. He disliked working with actors surrounded by negative publicity, as it risked his productions. However, given Wilson’s wealth and influence, he couldn’t reject Yvonne. Therefore, he went along with Daphne.

Daphne played hardball immediately, ordering a six-figure bottle of wine, causing Yvonne’s expression to darken. Wilson leaned over and whispered reassuringly, “Don’t worry, I’ll transfer the money to you later.”

Daphne joined their whispered conversation with a smile. “Wilson, let me remind you that we’re not divorced yet. Every penny you have is our marital property, so if you don’t want me to take Yvonne to court, drop the idea of spending money on her.”

Wilson was about to glare at her, but she turned her attention to Jack. “Mr. Harrington, I’ve been thoroughly studying the female lead’s character profile these past few days, and I’m confident I can portray her well.”

She continued, “I heard you’re having trouble casting the lead role. Would you consider me?”

Daphne cut straight to the chase, ignoring Wilson and Yvonne’s irritation. Her only focus was advancing her career.

Ava, her experienced manager, seized the opportunity. “Daphne has starred in several major films with impressive box office numbers. Mr. Harrington, here’s her resume.”

Before the resume reached Jack, Daphne heard a contemptuous sneer. “She can pull it off? The female lead is the wealthy Ms. Louise Appleton. Take the seafood dining scene, for example; someone from her small-town background couldn’t possibly pull it off. Yvonne would be more suitable.”

Wilson knew Daphne’s background better than anyone. During their seafood feasts, she would eagerly devour shellfish, disregarding etiquette. He used to tease her about being unrefined.

Back then, when they were deeply in love, even his teasing felt sweet to Daphne. Nevertheless, she now understood he had always looked down on her.

She retorted, “Wilson, if I remember correctly, it’s been ages since you’ve had seafood with me. How would you know whether I can display proper etiquette?”

“That’s easy to prove,” he replied, clapping his hands to summon the server. “Bring us some king crabs.”

Jack watched their mounting tension uncomfortably, unable to intervene. Wilson had a point—his female lead needed to appear elegant and well-mannered. Therefore, despite sympathizing with Daphne, he couldn’t risk compromising his production.

Ten perfectly prepared king crabs arrived. Yvonne confidently picked up the seafood utensils, provoking Daphne.

She taunted, “Daphne, don’t force yourself if you can’t handle it. There are plenty of good roles out there. You don’t have to pursue ones that don’t suit you.”

Daphne remained silent. More than Wilson’s humiliation, she was disappointed to realize he had discussed the script with Yvonne. Even during their seven-year marriage, she had never received such treatment. He truly cherished Yvonne deeply.

As Daphne’s trembling hands reached for the utensils, the door opened. Someone said, “Daph, you forgot your phone.”

Sebastian entered, witnessing the scene. Wilson’s expression soured.

He asked, “You again? What are you doing here?”

Sebastian had planned to return the phone and leave, but he was intrigued by the unfolding drama. He pulled out the chair beside Daphne and sat down, asking, “Having a feast without inviting me?”