“What?” Jemima spun around and shot Wiley a confused look. “He said that?”
Wiley nodded. “Yes, he did.”
“Tssk…” Jemima scoffed. A bimbo bitch, he had called her. “And you said you never saw his face?”
“Yes, Ma’am,” Wiley swallowed at the thought of how scary the man in the dark was. He couldn’t even take his phone as he had stormed out immediately after releasing him.
Jemima approached him. “Not even one tiny detail?” She could guess randomly since she was well acquainted with many high-ranking men in the entertainment world.
“He was twice or four times my height… Well, that might be too much, but he was really huge and terrifying.”
“And?”
“He is scary. His voice was deep and cold. He is terrify-”
“I get the part that you were scared of him; you just don’t have to repeat it,” Jemima cut in. She seemed to think for a while. “Definitely a powerful man since his aura got you shivering like a hen in winter.”
“Sorry, Ma’am.”
“Get me the list of broad, powerful men in our company. Also, the judges for the award night. Be concise with it.”
“What if he isn’t in our company? I’m thinking we should just keep our eyes on Tatiana for now. The man would definitely come around,” Wiley shrugged.
“Hmm, then how did he get to know your name? Still, give me the list of judges. And don’t take your eyes off Tatiana,” Jemima said, and Wiley nodded. “Very early tomorrow, I’ll see our president.”
Come to think of it, she was quite close with the interviewer for tomorrow. Maybe she could play some tricks.
___
[7:00 am… CRYSTAL’S INTERVIEW SET]
The room was lit with a warm, golden glow. The floor and walls were sparkling clean, the air alive with the gentle murmur of the crew.
The Crystal interview was well-known all over Australia. Though many artists wished to be interviewed by them, they feared going there because of Crystal’s reputation for asking tough questions that could make or break your career.
One mistake could lead to your downfall.
But… many artists who managed to get through it were exposed to many opportunities and exposure that changed their lives.
They are strict and fair, which is why they stand strong. Their questions are strictly about the artist’s profession.
Tatiana was nervous; it was normal to be. She knew what she was about to do. She had heard of their honesty, which was why she agreed to participate.
“Are you sure about this?” Cassius asked as they bathed together, his fingers trailing down her back as the running water fell on them.
“Hmm. Why do you ask?”
He wrapped his arms around her and whispered, “They are quite difficult, Rebel. I know you know that, but I can’t help but worry a little.” Tatiana smiled.
“I’ll be fine. I’m prepared for this,” she said, then kissed him. She needed that energy from him. Cassius didn’t disappoint. He kissed her back and gave her the warmth she wanted.
Jemima was the first to be interviewed. She was wearing a long, flowing, elegant, rich green gown that matched well with her jewelry and accentuated her body.
She made sure she looked extra beautiful; she needed to be the spotlight of today’s interview.
“Have you sent it to her?” Jemima asked Wiley, referring to the questions she had prepared for Tatiana-questions that would make her spill her secrets.
She sent them to Ciara, the host.
“Yes, Ma’am, and she has seen them. But I haven’t gotten a response from her,” Wiley explained.
“Good.”
___
The host sat with a lovely smile, well-dressed in a professional suit. She greeted, “Good morning, everyone, and welcome to today’s exclusive interview. I’m your host, Ciara, and joining me now is the talented and stunning Jemima Robert.”
The screen revealed Jemima.
“Jemima, thank you for taking the time to chat with us today,” the host greeted.
“You’re welcome,” Jemima smiled, her one-sided dimple revealed to the camera.
The host started, “Congratulations on your latest movie release! How does it feel to have your film out in theaters alongside other notable releases?”
“I’m thrilled to share my movies with people, and I think it’s great that there are many different types of movies coming out at the same time. It makes things more interesting!” Jemima responded professionally.
“Your movie explores themes of sacrifice. Can you share your inspiration behind this subject matter?” the host asked again.
“Our set wanted to create a film that would spark meaningful conversations and not just focus on spectacle,” Jemima responded.
Her words indirectly criticized other works.
The interviewer’s smile was composed professionally, and she asked more questions. Jemima answered calmly, but one could sense her criticizing other works indirectly.
“Who does she think she is? Better than others? Tssk!” Jolene’s face was red with anger.
Tatiana stepped out, looking beautiful in her blue gown, slit on one side of the thigh. How does every gown suit this woman?
“How’s it going?” Tatiana asked.
“You seem to have another enemy.”
“My movie was released on the same date as hers. She won the Best Actress award last year. She’ll feel threatened. I just hope she won’t humiliate herself,” Tatiana said.
“She’s doing it already,” Jolene mumbled, and they both returned their gaze to Jemima.
Tatiana’s eyes met Jemima’s for a breathless moment. They both smiled at each other.
‘Wait till you get yourself humiliated, Tatiana,’ Jemima thought to herself.
“What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?” the host asked again.
Jemima nodded. “Of course, I’m looking forward to working on more meaningful, impactful stories that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.”
Another criticism!
“How do you handle the pressures of fame?”
“I focus on my craft and surround myself with supportive people who value integrity and talent, not just… physical appearance or fleeting connections.”
The interviewer this time forced a smile. All the answers Jemima gave were criticisms of others. She cleared her throat, one more question to go.
“And the last question, Jemima: What advice would you give to young actresses just starting out?”
“Always prioritize your art and your values. Don’t compromise yourself for short-term gains or… questionable relationships. I believe one should earn their place through hard work and dedication, rather than relying on… other means to get ahead.”
Jemima indirectly suggested to the audience that Tatiana got famous in the blink of an eye by lowering herself for quick fame-things like sleeping with powerful men.
It was clear, even the Netizens started reacting!
Is she jealous!?…
Jemima disappointed me. She has been criticizing other works the whole time. Who does she think she is?…
Other means to get ahead? Does she mean Tatiana did something to get famous!? It could be true…
What exactly did Tatiana do? I can’t wait to find out!…
Isabella was almost like this! Did you remember her end?…
The commenter above should watch it. Tatiana is innocent, and if you’re so upset about it, hit your head on the wall!…
Fans from both parties argued online.
Jolene’s head almost exploded in anger. Damn you, Jemima, keep disgracing yourself! she cursed inwardly.
However, Tatiana remained calm.
The host thanked Jemima and watched her leave. She let out a secret breath of relief. Jemima sure made her jealousy obvious!
She recalled the text Jemima had sent her and sighed.
The set went on a two-minute break to allow Tatiana to step in. The host inwardly prayed Tatiana wouldn’t make things awkward too.
“Welcome back, Australia. We have another guest. She is the talk of the town, and her movie has been going viral. Tatiana Karen.”