Job offers for Blake, Reese, and Sophia were pouring in. From early morning, Bianca and Diana worked tirelessly, barely stopping until 2 o’clock in the afternoon.
New emails kept coming in, and Bianca’s phone constantly rang, and there was no free moment. She and Diana exchanged tired smiles, finally understanding the satisfaction of being this busy.
Sophia had a good sense of self-evaluation. Invitations for variety shows and movie roles, which Bianca thought suited her, were forwarded to Sophia directly for her to consider personally.
As for Reese, even though she received tempting offers for lead roles in web dramas and supporting roles in new movies, Bianca turned them down after careful thought. She understood that Reese, being new, needed time to develop her acting skills. Rushing into big roles too soon could backfire, so Bianca focused on steady growth over instant fame.
Reese understood Bianca’s approach and followed her guidance, dedicating herself to preparing for her upcoming competition. She quietly worked on her acting skills and often sought advice from Sophia.
Blake was in even higher demand than the others. Most of the unread emails were about him, with record companies, ad agencies, and film and TV companies all eager to work with him.
Diana rubbed her temples, feeling a slight headache, and moved her chair next to Bianca. In a tired voice, she asked, “How many more do you have left?”
Just as exhausted, Bianca looked at the endless red notifications on her screen and let out a deep sigh.
Finally, after handling the most urgent tasks, the two of them decided to escape to a shopping mall, turned off their social media apps, and took the rest of the day off.
Bianca led Diana up to the men’s clothing section on the second floor. “It’s getting colder, and my boyfriend doesn’t have enough warm clothes. You’ve got a great eye for style. Help me pick a few things for him.”
Diana rolled her eyes as Bianca dragged her along. “Alright, alright, do we have to remind us single folks? We just got off work, and now I have to dive into all this lovey-dovey stuff. Seriously?”
But despite her grumbling, she started picking out clothes for Dave.
Bianca knew Diana’s complaints were just talk, so she smiled and let it slide.
Then her phone buzzed with a new message on her personal number.
Expecting it to be Dave, she quickly checked, but the name on the screen made her frown. It was Skylar.
Skylar’s message was short: “Bianca, my engagement party is next Tuesday. You’re invited.”
Bianca was a bit surprised. Skylar was getting engaged? She wondered who could be worthy of such an impressive woman.
Though they’d only met once, Bianca felt it was right to attend, so she typed a warm reply, congratulating her and confirming she’d be there.
Just as she was about to hit send, Diana leaned over. “Who’s got you so focused? I’ve been trying to get your attention.”
Bianca showed her the screen, and Diana’s eyes widened. “Skylar Larson… the judge from Star Search?”
Bianca nodded. “Yeah, but we’re not that close; we’ve only had a couple of short chats.”
Diana scoffed. “Not close, yet she invites you? Sounds like she just wants to show off. Probably marrying into money.”
Bianca offered another view. “I wouldn’t say that. She’s always come across as fair and honest on the show. Plus, she’s distantly related to Dave, though they don’t seem all that close.”
Diana, still unimpressed, dragged her toward a women’s clothing store. “Let’s find something amazing for you to wear. You’re going to be the highlight of that engagement party!”
Bianca blinked, caught off guard by Diana’s enthusiasm. “There’s no need to go all out; it’s her day, not mine. I shouldn’t steal the spotlight.”
“You’re missing the point!” Diana insisted. “She’s related to Dave; his family will be there. Even if they don’t know you now, they’re bound to see you and Dave together eventually. You want to make a good impression! Imagine if someone remembers you looking less than your best?”
Diana’s argument made Bianca pause. She definitely didn’t want to make a bad impression on Dave’s family.
Seeing the sense in it, Bianca gave in. “Okay, let’s take a look.”
The variety of clothing in the women’s section was overwhelming for Bianca, but Diana moved confidently through the racks, pulling options with cautious eyes. “This one’s perfect… Oh, this one would look amazing with your skin tone… And you’ve got to try this one; it’ll show off your figure beautifully!”
After trying on outfit after outfit, Bianca was worn out, while Diana, still full of energy, stood holding more clothes without a sign of fatigue.
Bianca checked her phone, but there were no new messages.
Diana noticed and nudged her. “Didn’t we agree to take half the day off? Forget about work for now. We can deal with it tomorrow.”
Bianca sighed. “The production team suddenly apologized. I wanted to thank Mr. Wilson from Phoenix Entertainment. I even tried going to his office, but he wasn’t there, and he hasn’t answered my texts.”
Diana wrapped an arm around Bianca’s shoulder. “Our company’s working with Phoenix Entertainment, so it makes sense he’d help us out. He’s the head of a major company-this is probably just routine for him. You sent the message, so he’ll see it eventually. He’s probably just swamped. Don’t stress over it.”
Bianca thought about it and felt instantly more at ease.
In the executive office of Phoenix Alliance Group, Justin gathered his courage, knocked softly on the door, and stepped inside.
The office was spacious, with large windows, and Dave stood by one of them, gazing out.
Justin approached slowly. He’d submitted his resignation a few days earlier but hadn’t received a response. He’d been at home, feeling uncertain, until Dave personally called him in today.
Stopping a short distance from Dave, Justin looked down nervously, then straightened up and asked, “Have you made a decision about my resignation?”
Dave turned to face him.
After ten tense seconds, Justin grew increasingly anxious.
“I know what’s going on,” Dave said at last, his tone cold and direct, sending a shiver down Justin’s spine.
“It’s all settled. You’re staying at the company, and no one can make you leave unless I allow it,” Dave said, ignoring Justin’s surprised expression. “You mentioned feeling overwhelmed, so I’m giving you two days off. Take the time to rest, then come back ready to work.”
Justin frowned, knowing the situation wasn’t as simple as Dave made it seem. He had no idea of the sacrifices Dave had made behind the scenes.