After spending six months around him, she didn’t dislike him as much anymore. In fact, when he didn’t show up for some reason, she felt a little disappointed. She had grown used to having him around.
These days, Brandon had become bolder. He didn’t hide how much he missed her and would show up just to see her.
Right then, he appeared outside Bianca’s office. As he walked in, he said, “Bianca, Diana, I’ve got news. Ms. McGee is holding a business cocktail party in three days. She’s inviting all the entertainment companies in Edenfield.”
“Really? Where’s it going to be held?” Bianca asked, her eyes lighting up.
“No official word yet,” Brandon replied. “But I found out that Ms. McGee went straight to the Lawson Group after landing. I don’t know why, but I think she might be planning to host the party through them.”
He glanced at Diana and asked, “Do you think Ms. McGee came here for Blake?”
Diana rolled her eyes. “Blake already said he’s done being an artist. What, is he changing his mind now?”
As Bianca listened to their conversation, she started to feel anxious. “Well… we can’t really be sure. If she’s persuasive enough, maybe she could get him to change his mind.”
But the thought only made her more anxious. “If Blake’s involved, then this party won’t be just any simple event. They might be planning to use the Lawson Group to find the right company to team up with.”
“Bianca has a point,” Diana said, agreeing with her. She turned to Brandon with a raised eyebrow. “Didn’t you see that coming?”
Brandon looked puzzled. “Me? Didn’t I just say it might be the case?”
He pouted a little, clearly feeling wronged.
Diana laughed at the look on his face, unable to help herself.
A few days later, Bianca received an official invitation from the Lawson Group. It wasn’t just for CEOs of entertainment companies, but many well-known artists were also invited. Reese and Sophia were among those formally asked to attend.
But Bianca wasn’t surprised. She had already expected it. Both Reese and Sophia had strong reputations in the industry. Reese was currently the most popular star, while Sophia was the movie queen who had won multiple Best Actress awards.
However, Sophia had a prior engagement on the same day as the party, so she might not attend. She was still abroad finishing a short film, and that had to come first.
Since nearly every entertainment company in the country had been invited, it was no surprise that Phoenix Entertainment was on the list too.
Bianca quickly called Reese to talk about the party. “Reese, you need to be ready. Make a strong impression on Ms. McGee. You’ve still got three days to prepare.”
“Don’t worry, Bianca. I’ve got it,” Reese replied before ending the call.
As soon as the line went dead, her expression turned cold. Her fingers tightened around her phone as she sank into thought.
Not long after getting the invitation, Dave contacted Bianca. They decided to attend the party together.
He found it strange that the Lawson Group rushed to hold a cocktail party for Brenda McGee. But after checking into it, he didn’t find anything urgent or unusual. So for now, he decided to just keep an eye on things.
Brenda was known for being unpredictable. Maybe she just suddenly felt like working with Lawson Group.
“It’s unexpected,” Dave said, “but at least we have more time to get ready.” He looked through the event details and added, “This is just a welcome party. It won’t decide which company she’ll work with.”
“I know,” Bianca said. “But making a strong first impression still matters. I’m planning to take Reese dress shopping in the next few days.”
“Let’s go the day after tomorrow,” Dave suggested.
“But we’re rivals now,” Bianca said with a teasing smile. “Dealing with Phoenix Entertainment isn’t easy.”
“That might not be true. The most in-demand artist right now is with Emerald Artists Agency,” he replied.
Then Dave changed the subject. “Just remember, you’ll owe me a thank-you later.”
“You act like you’re waiting for one every day,” Bianca said, her tone turning serious. “This time, we’re on the same level. Don’t go easy on me.”
Dave chuckled. “Even though Justin runs Phoenix Entertainment under Phoenix Alliance Group, it’d be pretty embarrassing if he lost to someone who used to work for him. So you better root for yourself.”
Bianca grinned. “Exactly!”
Meanwhile, Reese showed up at Blake’s place. She wore a bright yellow evening gown decorated with blooming roses, the color making her glow even more.
“You look absolutely stunning today, Reese,” Blake said gently.
Reese’s heart skipped a beat. She took a deep breath to compose herself. “Thank you.”
Blake looked at her, worry in his eyes. “Are you sure about this? You can still say no.”
“I’m ready, Blake,” Reese said, cutting him off. She pressed her lips together as she already made a decision.
Blake let out a long sigh. “Okay. I’ll find a way to repay you.”
Reese didn’t say anything.
Then, Blake took out a small box and gave it to her.
“What’s this?” Reese asked, confused.
“It’s a gift. A pair of earrings. I thought they’d look good on you,” Blake said with a faint smile.
Reese looked at them carefully. “How did you know I couldn’t decide on earrings?”
Blake just smiled and didn’t say anything.
Just then, Reese’s phone rang. It was Bianca.
“Reese, where are you? How’s everything going?”
Hearing Bianca’s voice, Reese paused and looked at Blake before replying, “Bianca, I’ve already picked the dress. Now I’m just choosing earrings.”
“Need help?”
“No, I’m almost done here.”
As they talked, Reese took a quick photo and sent it to Bianca. She was wearing a blue deep V evening gown with glittering sapphire earrings.
Bianca texted back, “Those earrings aren’t just pretty—they’re stunning. You look amazing. Send me the bill later.”
"Thanks a lot, Bianca. I really appreciate your help."
Reese then turned to Blake and said softly, "I have to go now."
Blake nodded with a gentle smile. "Okay."
As she walked away, his smile slowly disappeared. He lowered his head and adjusted his sleeves, his expression turning serious.
Suddenly, Reese turned back, rushed over to him, threw her arms around his neck, and kissed him.
Blake stood there, stunned by what Reese had just done.
She let go of him gently, her cheeks turning red as she looked away. “We’re even now. I don’t want anything else.”
She meant it. No regrets.