Chapter 208

Tristan Cole's gaze lingered on Aria Bennett, a flicker of admiration flashing in his eyes.

She was far more captivating in person than in photographs.

He rose slightly and gave a polite nod. "Miss Bennett."

Aria returned the gesture. "Mr. Cole."

Turning to Director Gideon, she said, "I'll go get ready for makeup now."

Director Gideon chuckled. "We're shooting promotional stills today, so expect multiple outfit changes."

"No problem." Aria smiled faintly before walking away.

Tristan watched her retreating figure, his lips curling into an intrigued smirk.

Inside the makeup room, Aria dialed Malcolm Rhodes's number.

"Master Bennett?" Malcolm's voice came through the line.

"Mr. Rhodes, a major new investor showed up on set today. Were you aware?"

Malcolm's tone turned serious. "Sebastian Cole suddenly injected capital. He's now the primary investor."

"That man has a complicated background and a notorious reputation as a playboy. Be careful."

He hesitated before adding, "I suspect... he might be targeting you."

Aria's eyes glinted. "Understood."

Hanging up, she stepped out of the makeup room.

Serena Blake was distributing drinks with her assistant in tow.

Watching Serena approach Tristan with a coy smile and a beverage, Aria scoffed.

Another target acquired?

To her surprise, Tristan remained indifferent, refusing even to accept the drink.

Aria pondered this.

It seemed the protagonist's halo had dimmed considerably.

Then she remembered the original plot.

Today was the day Tristan would be ambushed.

In the story, Serena would "coincidentally" rescue him.

She couldn't let that happen!

During the promotional shoot, Aria's performance dazzled everyone.

Serena glared at the proofs, her face darkening.

Storming over to the photographer, she snapped, "Did you deliberately make me look bad?"

The photographer didn't mince words. "Miss Bennett simply outshines you. Should I photoshop you into a goddess?"

Serena trembled with rage.

Director Gideon arrived and immediately berated her.

"One more outburst and you're replaced!" he warned sharply.

Serena bit her lip, tears streaming down her cheeks.

But inwardly, she vowed: Just wait until I'm famous. You'll be the first one I blacklist!

Seeing Tristan head toward the restroom, she quickly wiped her tears and followed.