Chapter 42

"Caleb, you don't look so good," the director patted Caleb Monroe's shoulder, half-joking. "Should we ask Ms. Bennett to take another look at you?"

Caleb grinned, lowering his voice mysteriously. "Already did."

"She said I've got good news coming my way soon." He rubbed his hands together, eyes sparkling with excitement.

The director paused before realizing his old friend was helping build Aria's reputation. He played along with a laugh. "If it comes true, you're treating us!"

"Absolutely!" Caleb agreed readily.

"Get some rest then. I'll call you for lunch." The director turned to Serena Blake standing nearby. "Serena, you should rest too."

Caleb waved her off. "Yeah, Serena, I just need a nap. No need to fuss over me."

Serena's smile stiffened before she nodded. "Rest well, Mr. Monroe."

As she left, Aria's sharp eyes caught a wisp of white mist dissipating from Serena's form. She narrowed her eyes, understanding dawning.

This transmigrated heroine's luck truly fluctuated with her progress. In the past life, Serena had climbed the entertainment industry ladder by maxing out favorability with Caleb and others.

Now? Aria smirked. Trying the same trick again? Not a chance.

Serena stepped out, frustration churning in her chest. Spotting Aria nearby worsened her irritation.

Why did this woman keep ruining her plans? Serena bit her lip, vowing silently to find a way to kick Aria off the show.

At lunch, trainees showcased their skills. Those who could cook dazzled before the cameras, their popularity soaring.

The afternoon passed leisurely—some sketched landscapes, others hiked, while a group played cards in the courtyard, savoring the rare countryside tranquility.

The farm owner generously contributed two mini pigs. Hesitant to waste such premium ingredients, everyone begged Aria to take charge.

Her roast pig emerged crispy outside, tender inside, its aroma irresistible. Rave reviews poured in, live comments exploding with praise.

Only two found no joy in the meal.

Nolan Reed stared at his portion, heart souring. These delicacies used to be his exclusive privilege, now shared with so many.

Serena might as well have been eating sawdust. Each spotlight on Aria twisted the knife deeper.

On the return bus, everyone still reminisced about the roast.

Next morning at breakfast, Caleb's phone rang. Hanging up, he rushed to Aria, ecstatic.

"Incredible! Ms. Bennett, you're amazing!" He nearly danced. "Director Hayes just offered me the lead in his new film!"

Gasps erupted. Director Hayes's projects were industry gold—everyone wanted in, yet Caleb landed the prize.

Jonah Pierce and others gazed at Aria with newfound awe. Her divination skills were frighteningly accurate.

Serena's stomach dropped. This woman was downright unnatural.

Damian Cross sipped coffee calmly, long since acquainted with Aria's talents.

Nolan swelled with quiet pride. He'd known Aria studied metaphysics since childhood, but never realized her mastery.

The director stroked his chin, considering asking for a reading himself.

As preparations for departure began, the internet erupted.

An exposé accused Aria of betrayal—claiming after cozying up to top agent Adrian Foster, she abandoned agent Grant Mercer who'd nurtured her career, switching representation without regard. It listed resources Mercer secured for her, condemning her ingratitude.

Propelled by trolls, the exposé skyrocketed to #1 trending. With the ongoing reality show keeping Aria's popularity high, the timing was perfect.