Episode 23
At this, Sandra hesitated briefly, then offered a gentle smile. “We’ll see what fate has in store. After concluding his phone call, Elijah turned to Oliver with a directive. “Find the production team that Sandra auditioned for and inform them that the Norris Group is willing to invest. However, this is conditional on Sandra securing the lead role,” he stated firmly.
The director experienced a surge of conflicting emotions upon hearing the proposal.
The original book, rich with lavish scenes, had been pared down due to financial constraints—a constant irritation. Now, the prospect of fresh funding from the Norris Group seemed like a miraculous fix.
Yet, the dilemma lay in the team’s preference for Elizabeth as the lead. Choosing Sandra only for financial gain could tarnish his reputation, making him appear tyrannical.
After much contemplation, the director decided on a diplomatic approach. He reached out to the agents of both Sandra and Elizabeth, suggesting another audition.
This would level the playing field, allowing the injection of funds to be introduced more seamlessly should the talents of the two actresses prove indistinguishable.
As the day of the pivotal second audition arrived, Elijah and Sandra were seated together in the plush interior of a sleek, black Maybach.
Sandra, bubbly and full of confidence, turned to him. “Elijah, once we’re finished with the audition, how about we grab a bite? It’s been a while since we caught up,” she suggested brightly, confident of her impending success with Elijah’s support.
Receiving no immediate reply, she glanced at him, seeking his engagement.
However, Elijah seemed distant, his attention absorbed by something outside the window.
Following his gaze, Sandra’s eyes landed on Elizabeth.
Elizabeth was a vision in the crowd, her presence almost radiant. Dressed in a simple white sweater and casual jeans, she exuded effortless elegance, turning a basic outfit into a statement of chic sophistication.
She seemed to glow, effortlessly overshadowing everyone around her. Even the sun appeared to dim in comparison to her radiance.
