Chapter 215

Damian Cross's arrival sent waves through the entire film crew.

"Isn't that the legendary Damian Cross?" a production assistant gasped behind her hand.

"Oh my god, he actually came to visit the set!"

All eyes followed the tall, elegant figure until he walked straight toward Aria Bennett.

Makeup artist Nora Finch tugged her assistant's sleeve excitedly. "See? I told you they were close!"

Serena Blake stood in the corner, her nails digging into her palms. She glared at Aria's direction, eyes burning with barely contained fury.

"Why her..." she muttered through clenched teeth.

Director Gideon immediately called "Cut!" and approached with a frown. "Serena, what's that expression? Do it again!"

Snapping out of her trance, Serena forced a smile.

Damian's assistant began distributing drinks, instantly lightening the atmosphere.

"Thank you, Mr. Cross!"

"Miss Bennett must be really special!"

Director Gideon greeted Damian warmly. "What brings you here today, Mr. Cross?"

Damian smiled faintly. "Just passing by." His gaze remained fixed on Aria, who was filming a scene.

Understanding immediately, the director exchanged pleasantries before tactfully excusing himself.

Damian waited patiently until evening when filming wrapped.

"Hungry?" He took Aria's bag. "I booked that private congee place."

Aria looked surprised. "The members-only health cuisine restaurant?"

"Mmm." He opened the car door for her. "Heard it's your favorite."

The car turned into a quiet alley, stopping before an elegant establishment with a traditional sign reading "Cedar Table."

Upon entering, they encountered two elderly gentlemen.

"Ah, young Damian!" one greeted cheerfully while eyeing Aria curiously.

Damian nodded politely and quickly ushered Aria into a private room.

"Who were those..." Aria frowned slightly.

"Retired officials." He poured her tea. "Don't mind them."

Meanwhile, outside the room:

"Old Cross, your future daughter-in-law is stunning!" the man exclaimed into his phone.

A loud thud came through the receiver. "I'm on my way!"

An hour later, as they exited, they nearly collided with a cane-wielding gentleman.

"Father?" Damian blinked in surprise.

The older man feigned astonishment. "What a coincidence!"

Aria studied the energetic elder, then Damian, and immediately understood.

"Mr. Cross." She greeted him gracefully.

The elder's eyes lit up. "Excellent! You must visit us soon!"

He winked at his son, but Damian cut in, "We're leaving, Father."

In the car, Damian explained, "My father means well, but he's overly enthusiastic in his old age."

Aria smiled. "He's lovely."

She retrieved an exquisite wooden box from her bag. "Your promised gift."

Inside lay a smooth mutton-fat jade pendant on velvet.

"I carved it myself," she admitted shyly. "It's amateur work..."

Damian immediately put it on. "I love it."

Under the deepening twilight, they said goodbye at Aria's doorstep.

"I'll be traveling next week," Damian mentioned suddenly.

Aria nodded. "Stay safe."

Meanwhile, across town in an upscale club:

Tristan Cole swirled his drink. "That Aria Bennett, I'm telling you..."

Ezra Vaughn narrowed his eyes. "You're serious?"

"Absolutely!" Tristan slammed his glass down. "I saw it with my own eyes!"

The men exchanged knowing glances.