Chapter 238

Phoebe didn’t know how long she had been crying before finally getting up to wash her face. She walked into the living room and casually picked up a plush toy placed on the cabinet. Opening the back of the toy, she retrieved an old key hidden inside. This was something Percival had entrusted to her before he passed away, telling her that one day she would need it.

From what Ximenez and Joel had mentioned, it seemed that, aside from the seal, this key was also necessary to access Percival’s stored belongings. The Horoscope Association had a dedicated storage facility for horoscope masters and the wealthy elite to store their horoscope artifacts, antiques, and other valuables. Each storage unit required a unique method to unlock; anyone attempting to force it open or use tricks would suffer a backlash from the ancient defensive formations guarding the facility. As a result, it was considered the safest storage location in the country, although, of course, the storage fees were astronomical.

Phoebe pondered for a moment. She decided to retrieve the items during the next variety show filming. The Horoscope Association’s headquarters were in Galuwa. She had a strong feeling that someone was watching her, but making a special trip to Galuwa wasn’t necessary—it wasn’t a matter of urgency. Rubbing the old key, Phoebe placed it back inside the plush toy, along with the seal. She also tucked an aura-concealing charm inside. Carrying these items around was inconvenient, and leaving them in a safe or drawer at home wasn’t secure either. By hiding them inside a plush toy and displaying it openly in the living room as a decoration, she ensured no one would suspect where the valuables were. After taking a deep breath to compose herself, Phoebe finally left for the film set.

The historical drama was in the middle of production. Milton, the actor she had brought in, played the second male lead, while she played the third female lead. Her role didn’t have too many scenes—it would take about two weeks to complete filming. This drama had received a significant investment from Brenda; after receiving her variety show earnings, Phoebe herself had also invested one million dollars.

When she arrived at the set, filming hadn’t started yet. The director was talking to Maddox, which took her by surprise. ‘Why is he here?’ At that moment, both Spencer and Maddox noticed Phoebe’s arrival. Maddox smiled and waved. “Pheebs!”

Phoebe walked over. “What are you doing here?”

Maddox grinned. “I’m playing the third male lead.”

The director chimed in, “The previous actor for this role dropped out, and I’d been searching for someone with the right look. Then your agent reached out, saying Maddox was interested in the role.” He added with a chuckle, “Of course, I had to grab the opportunity immediately!”

Maddox fit the character perfectly—handsome, with a slightly roguish yet aristocratic demeanor. Since he was a top-tier celebrity, his participation would bring in significant viewership. Not only that, but his acting skills were solid, and since he had volunteered for the role, the director saw no reason to refuse. Given Phoebe’s major investment in the project, he didn’t mind sharing the details with her.

Phoebe smiled. “I see.” She turned to Maddox. “What made you want to take this role?”

Maddox didn’t hide his reason. “I heard you were in this drama, so I got curious and read the script. I ended up really liking the third male lead’s character, so I volunteered.” The truth was, he had joined the drama because of Pheebs. Otherwise, his agent had a pile of lead roles waiting for him, which he had all turned down. The thought of spending time with Pheebs and filming together made him genuinely excited.

Phoebe nodded. “The script is indeed well-written. You do suit the character quite well.”

Maddox extended his hand. “Then I’ll be counting on you, Pheebs!”

Phoebe shook his hand and smiled. “Likewise, let’s look out for each other.”

Spencer, watching from the side, finally understood what was going on. So Maddox was here for Phoebe. No wonder he had been confused about why a top-tier celebrity would suddenly accept a third male lead role.

To give them space, Spencer said, “You two chat. I’ll go set things up so we can start shooting soon.” The opening ceremony had already taken place, and Phoebe had even picked the lucky filming date for them. At this stage, they were focusing on scenes involving the third male and female leads.

Once Spencer left, Maddox quickly pulled out his phone and sent a message. Then, he turned to Phoebe and started discussing the script, even asking for acting advice. About ten minutes later, Maddox’s assistant came running over, handing him a bag. Maddox thanked him, then took out a box of cooling eye masks and handed it to Phoebe. “I noticed your eyes were a little swollen, so I asked my assistant to get you something for the swelling.”

Phoebe was momentarily stunned. She hadn’t expected Maddox to be so observant and considerate. Smiling, she accepted the box. “Thank you, I actually do need this.” She had cried a lot earlier, and her eyes still felt a bit puffy. She had to admit—being cared for like this felt really nice. After all, even her ex-boyfriend, Reece, had never been this thoughtful.

Maddox smiled warmly. “No need to thank me.” Then, he hesitated for a moment before cautiously asking, “Did something happen? Do you need any help?” In his eyes, Phoebe was a strong woman. For her to cry so much that her eyes swelled, something serious must have happened. He was worried and even felt a pang of heartache for her.

Phoebe gave him a reassuring look. “I’m fine. I met an acquaintance of my mentor today, and it made me miss Percival, so I cried for a bit.” She trusted Maddox enough to be honest with him.

Maddox sighed in relief. “As long as you’re okay.”

Phoebe went to apply the eye masks in a private room. After a while, the swelling in her eyes was mostly gone. The stylist then took her to change into costume and get her makeup done. Today, she had scenes to film.

When she finally stepped onto the set, everyone was stunned—their eyes filled with astonishment. She was wearing a red cheongsam, perfectly accentuating her graceful curves. Her hair was styled in elegant, wavy finger waves popular in the Republican era. With her crimson lips and captivating aura, she radiated confidence and beauty, overshadowing everyone around her. As she walked forward in high heels, surrounded by Republican-era architecture and extras in period costumes, it felt as if she had stepped out of history itself.

Spencer’s eyes lit up with excitement. He had always thought Phoebe’s bold beauty and strong presence suited this role, but seeing her transformation today, he was completely convinced—she wasn’t just acting; she was the character. With a chuckle, he remarked, “I can already tell—when this drama airs, Phoebe is going to stun countless viewers.”

Maddox was also in awe. “For sure. I’m already completely mesmerized.” No matter how she dressed, Pheebs always looked stunning—each style bringing out a different kind of charm.

The cameras rolled, and the scene officially began. Phoebe’s acting was seamless, slipping into character instantly without the director’s guidance. She played a lounge singer in this scene—her outward identity masking a deeper secret. As she took the stage and began singing, her sultry elegance and enchanting voice captivated everyone. The entire set felt transported to the Republican era. Maddox, playing the playboy noble, was instantly smitten with her character. Their chemistry ignited the screen.

At this moment, Maddox was completely mesmerized by Phoebe—as if he had fallen for her in an instant, completely devoted. After the singing performance, it was time for Phoebe and Maddox’s scene together. Maddox was completely drawn in by Phoebe’s performance. He was so immersed in the role that he didn’t even snap out of it until the director finally called “Cut!”

Meanwhile, Spencer wasn’t just captivated by Phoebe’s stunning appearance and aura today—he was also blown away by her acting skills. He was confident that this drama would attract a massive audience, purely because of Phoebe’s role alone. That was more than enough. He even made a mental note—when releasing promotional stills, he had to include several solo close-ups of Phoebe.

Over the next few days, Phoebe reported to the set daily, fully focused on her work. But a…