Chapter 5

Lily wasn’t wrong; Evelyn was a drama queen. Unsure how to respond, I exited the chat. Out of sight, out of mind.

Lily was still curious, "Why did she add you? Did she say anything?"

I sent her the video and our chat. Lily exploded, sending a barrage of memes: "Is she insane?" "I’ve never seen anyone so shameless!" "Evelyn's crazy!"

I replied, "I think I’ll just delete her."

"Don't! She'll think she scared you off. Keep her around. Let's see what other stunts she tries to pull."

"Okay, I’m off to bed. You should rest too."

"You can sleep after that? That girl’s nuts! Kai’s a fool for cheating on you for her."

"Seeing them together today, I was sad. But now, I feel relieved. Once a cheater, always a cheater. Thanks to Evelyn, I see Kai clearly now."

Lily said, "You’re so chill. I’d be cussing both of them out!"

I sent her a meme saying "I’m eerily calm right now."

"Don’t waste your energy on people who don’t deserve it," I advised.

Evelyn didn't provoke me again, though she often posted lovey-dovey pictures of her and Kai in her Moments, all of which were only visible to me. Realizing this, I decided to block her.

Back to Gareth, he officially joined my company as a signed actor. The company planned to film a spy drama "Misty Mist," and I secured a role for Gareth as the third male lead. He was thrilled.

"Sue, I’ve read the script. My part isn’t huge, but it’s a powerful role."

I encouraged him, "Do well, and you can aim for movies. Your career could skyrocket."

Most lead roles were taken by acclaimed actors, promising mutual success for the film. But a month before shooting, the female lead was replaced by none other than Evelyn. As a producer, I was the last to know.

The investor's representative apologetically explained, "Mr. Dawson insisted Evelyn play the role. He really wants her in this project. We hope you'll understand."

With financial backing from Kai’s company, I had little choice. Complaining would be futile.

I felt disheartened but professional, "Tell Mr. Dawson that any breach of contract fees must also be covered."

The rep readily agreed, "Of course, Mr. Dawson will handle all costs."

So, it was settled. With the closed training and filming schedule, Gareth would be in the crew for nearly half a year. I was increasingly busy and rarely had time to check in with him.

Two months into filming, Gareth messaged me, "Sue, can you come visit me on set?"