Elaine embraced Sophia tightly, looking up with wide eyes. “Mommy, don’t be afraid. I’m here! Aunt Bianca said you were amazing and strong once. I believe you can find that strength again. I’ll always be on your side!”
Sophia felt a warmth in her heart, however brief. The darkness seemed to recede, a ray of light breaking through, dispelling the fear and despair.
An unseen strength lifted her from the depths.
Gratefully, Sophia looked at Bianca.
Since Elaine’s birth, Sophia hadn’t danced.
She had only shown Elaine her vulnerable side.
Now, she had to show strength, proving to Elaine that resilience could overcome adversity.
“Elaine, would you like to see me dance?” Sophia asked, locking eyes with her daughter.
Elaine nodded eagerly. “Yes, Mommy! You’ll be the most amazing dancer!”
A spark ignited in Sophia’s eyes. She smiled. “Okay.”
With determination, Sophia stood up and turned to face the crowd.
“Sophia, we love you!” cheered the crowd as Sophia looked back at them. They were really excited.
Sophia smiled warmly at them, speaking gently but confidently. “Your support means everything to me. Today, I want to dance for you. Your loyalty over the years has helped me become who I am,” she said gratefully.
She took off her windbreaker, revealing a light green dress underneath.
Music started playing in the park. Surrounded by the calming melody, Sophia swayed her hips and tapped her feet, dancing with energy.
As the music played, she began to dance. At first, her movements were unsure after years of no practice. Each mistake made her feel embarrassed, and she wished she could disappear.
But catching a glimpse of Elaine and her loyal supporters nearby, Sophia gathered her resolve. She pushed through her fear, continuing to dance despite her mistakes. Gradually, her confidence grew along with her grace.
Sophia’s arms moved smoothly, captivating the spectators who had gathered around to watch.
As the music ended and her dance finished, the crowd burst into applause.
Standing there, illuminated by the sunset, Sophia seemed to radiate, soaking in the crowd’s cheers and admiration.
In that moment, Bianca witnessed Sophia’s brilliant spirit shining brightly again.
Videos of Sophia’s dance went viral online, sparking lively discussions. People had mixed opinions-some praised her skills.
“Wow, Sophia’s dancing is impressive! She moves like a professional!”
Others admired her humility.
“She’s a star, yet she danced with us in the park like she’s one of us. I’m her fan forever now!”
But there were also critics.
“Sophia has an audition tomorrow, right? Dancing in the park seems like she’s chasing fame. It’s beneath an award-winning actress to act like an internet celebrity craving attention.”
“Let’s see how her acting holds up in the audition. That’s what really matters.”
Due to public pressure, Natalie had expected Sophia to embarrass herself and withdraw from the audition.
To her surprise, Sophia’s impromptu dance in public was a success.
Despite being a celebrity, Sophia chose to engage with the crowd through her park dance. Natalie found it shameful.
After watching the video, Zoey scoffed, “Sure, Sophia might get some attention before the audition with this stunt. It looks like she’s not confident about her acting.”
“What’s the use? She won’t outshine me at the audition tomorrow, anyway!” Natalie said confidently.
Camille walked in and glimpsed Sophia’s dance on the laptop. Her expression tightened.
“That can’t be…” she murmured to herself.
“Ms. Dupont, what’s the matter?” Natalie asked, noticing her reaction.
Camille composed herself and said calmly, “It’s nothing.”
She thought she had seen someone in the video who looked like her mentor, Ruby Garcia.
Yet, it was impossible. Ruby lived in Mubluosia. Camille had visited her at her villa before coming here, and besides, Ruby had been hired as an acting coach for a movie. She was supposed to be in Mubluosia, not in a local park.
It had to be a misunderstanding.
Camille pushed the thought away with a shake of her head.
Natalie took Camille’s hands, confidently saying, “Don’t worry. Tomorrow, I’m going to impress everyone and make you proud!”
****
In the park, Sophia happily interacted with her fans, posing for photos and signing autographs, her relaxed demeanor winning them over.
Later, with the help of security, Sophia and her companions managed to escape the crowd’s excitement and headed toward the roadside.
Just then, a black car pulled up in front of Sophia, its window rolling down.
Michael was behind the wheel, his dark sunglasses covering his eyes, revealing only a hint of his striking features. His gaze moved from Sophia to Ruby beside her.
“Ms. Garcia, may I offer you a ride home?” he asked.
Recognizing Michael, Ruby smiled warmly. “Thank you, Michael,” she accepted graciously and settled into the car’s back seat.
Bianca observed with curiosity, noting the evident connection between Ruby and Michael.
Given Ruby’s status, it wasn’t surprising that she was associated with prominent figures.
Sophia, momentarily taken aback, was guided into the car by Bianca.
Elaine nestled between Bianca and Sophia, her eyes wide with excitement. “Wow, this car is so fancy!”
“Elaine, please sit properly and be quiet,” Sophia scolded. Elaine pouted and leaned against Sophia, feeling upset.
Michael glanced at Elaine through the rearview mirror, his expression hidden behind his sunglasses.
In a casual tone, he asked, “Ms. Garcia, when did you return to the country?”
Ruby replied, “Just a few days ago. By the way, Michael, don’t you live in Blosa? What brought you to Edenfield?”
Michael smiled faintly. “I have some projects in Edenfield that needed my attention, so I decided to stay for a while.”
Ruby chuckled softly. “Ah, I see. I thought you were here for that young man from the Evans family.”
The Evans family? Bianca’s thoughts immediately turned to Dave after hearing it.
Since Dave hadn’t apologized to her yet, Bianca couldn’t help but pout in disappointment.
“I haven’t seen him in years. I wonder how he’s doing now. I heard he’s become quite successful,” Ruby sighed.
Upon learning that the individual in question was notable, Bianca doubted any connection between him and Dave. After all, Dave was just an ordinary person in her eyes.
Michael glanced at Bianca through the rearview mirror, then cleared his throat and reassured Ruby, “He’s doing well. No need to worry.”
Ruby nodded gently. “You two aren’t getting any younger. Don’t let your career consume all your energy. It’s time to think about settling down. I know a few young ladies from influential families-educated, well-mannered, and understanding. How about I introduce them to both of you someday?”
“Thank you for your kindness. But I’ve already found someone special. I appreciate it, but please don’t go through the trouble,” Michael replied casually.