Chapter 9

Chloe’s face was alight with undisguised triumph.

Her demeanor was arrogant, yet her voice remained sweet and soft:

"Adrian said if the production team isn’t willing to give me even such a small role,

"Then he might have to reconsider playing the male lead."

Director Miller instantly struggled to suppress his anger, glaring at Adrian in the doorway.

Adrian, however, looked completely unfazed, a faint smile in his eyes as he leaned against the doorframe.

He was clearly indulging Chloe’s mischief.

Director Miller’s face was ashen with rage.

After a long moment, he could only manage a furious "This is absurd!"

He couldn’t bring himself to tell me to leave, but he was powerless.

I picked up my violin, stood, and said flatly, "Just give it to her. I don’t mind."

Chloe’s smile grew even wider, more triumphant.

Director Miller stormed off, fuming.

I slung my violin case over my shoulder and walked out.

As I passed Adrian, I couldn’t help but say, "She’s not right for you."

It wasn’t a critique, but an uncontrollable urge to warn him.

I said it and moved to leave.

But Adrian suddenly reached out, his palm gripping my arm.

When I looked down, I saw the veins bulging on the back of his hand.