Episode 37
While Sophia’s suggestion was logical, Sandra recalled how her previous impatience had only led to complications. Sometimes, it was wiser to let events unfold naturally.
Ruby felt a pang of unease about Elizabeth’s welfare as the latter settled alone into the hotel. Acting quickly, she arranged for Elizabeth to move that very night into an apartment directly across from her own.
At her new doorway, Elizabeth paused, her gaze lingering on the identical unit across from hers. With a curious tone, she asked, “Why do you have two apartments here when you live alone?”
The location was prime, situated in the bustling heart of the city, where the price of a single apartment could rival that of a luxurious suburban estate. Elizabeth pondered Ruby’s financial acumen, intrigued by how effortlessly she could make such extravagant purchases.
Ruby shrugged with practiced ease. “I like choosing my neighbors, and who knows what kind of peculiar people I’d otherwise end up next to. Securing the entire floor just seemed like the smarter option. Luckily, there are only two apartments per level.”
It struck Elizabeth that Ruby wasn’t just well-off—she likely came from a background of significant affluence. After a moment’s thought, Elizabeth simply said, “Thank you.”
Ruby waved away her gratitude. “No need for thanks. Once you start earning, you can pay rent,” she remarked casually.
Her proposal was straightforward, carrying a reassuring undertone. Furthermore, the rent Ruby suggested was surprisingly lower than what Elizabeth had been paying at the modest hotel.
Their discussion was interrupted as Ruby’s phone vibrated. Answering the call, Ruby’s demeanor grew increasingly serious with each word she heard.
Once the call ended, she opened Twitter. What she saw next caught her off guard.
The trending section was ablaze with news about Elizabeth and Sandra, headlined by a dramatic post labeled, “Breaking!”
#SandraElizabeth
#SandraHospitalizedDueToWorkRelatedStress
#ElizabethTheMostImpressiveNewActress
As Ruby pieced it together, the situation became apparent. Paparazzi had captured Sandra making yet another exhausted trip to the hospital.
While fans rallied with concern, others uncovered details about the production crew discreetly organizing a second audition. Balancing a jam-packed schedule and relentless rehearsals had driven Sandra to her limits, ultimately landing her in the hospital.
The more netizens investigated, the more startling the revelations became. Sandra, amidst all this, was competing for a role against an unknown newcomer.
Although Sandra’s performances were often deemed adequate—enough to avoid disrupting a scene—she had a loyal fanbase and significant backing from industry heavyweights. Typically, landing a role was almost a given for her.
Until now, Sandra had always secured lead roles since her debut. The possibility of her not being the top choice this time, especially against an emerging actress, sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry.
Sandra’s supporters were outraged:
“This is absurd! If her rival were an established star, it’d be understandable. But Elizabeth Campbell? Who even is she? How did she end up auditioning alongside Sandra? Something shady is going on here!”
“Sandra is incredibly talented and well-connected. She shouldn’t even have to audition for a lead role. And yet, here’s this unknown upstart with neither fame nor notable credits. There’s definitely some manipulation happening behind the scenes!”
