Third Person's POV
A week had passed since the sweet and romantic wedding. Only a few exclusive media outlets provided a general overview of the grand ceremony, leaving the eager public somewhat disappointed due to the lack of detailed coverage.
However, given the Chavez family's reputation for discretion, it was nearly impossible to extract more private information from them.
Blake and Catherine were now officially husband and wife.
People's addresses for Catherine had shifted—some called her Mrs. Chavez, others referred to her as Luna Catherine.
Initially, Catherine felt uneasy with the new titles, but adopting his surname brought an unprecedented sense of security, as if cementing a lifelong bond.
Leo and Sunny had also resumed their regular work routines. The rivalry between Leo and Nebula Media was officially underway.
On this day, Samuel arrived outside Harley's residence.
Having failed to secure a private meeting, Samuel grew anxious and stationed his team outside Harley's home.
In the evening, a black sedan pulled into the community. One of Samuel's staff, quick-eyed, recognized Harley's agent's vehicle.
"Samuel, Harley's back. Shall we proceed?" the staff member asked.
Samuel stood up immediately, fixing his gaze on the approaching car. Harley and a young man stepped out, engaged in conversation as they headed toward the elevator.
"Let's go!" Samuel waved his team forward, striding purposefully toward Harley.
Seeing Samuel and his entourage block their path, Harley and his agent halted.
"Mr. Hicks, I'm Samuel, the current vice president of Nebula Media. May I have a moment to discuss a collaboration?" Samuel smiled, extending his business card.
Harley's agent glanced at the card, courteously inquiring, "So you're from Nebula Media. What's this about?"
"Uncomfortable discussing this here. How about we grab dinner and talk things over?" Samuel said with a grin.
Harley's expression remained cool.
After exchanging a glance with his agent, the agent quickly interjected, "Harley's been filming for three nights straight. He's exhausted and needs rest. Let's reschedule for another day. Today, he really needs to unwind."
"Mr. Hicks, wouldn't you like to hear our offer first? Signing with our company could elevate your career to new heights. Aren't you curious?" Samuel persisted.
Harley nonchalantly replied, "Acting is merely a hobby for me. I'm not particularly interested in fame or fortune."
"Wow, what a disposition! Mr. Hicks, I've heard you're a one-of-a-kind actor with a strong personality. Meeting you today confirms that. I've always admired your spirit. Let's be friends!"
Samuel flattered shamelessly.
"Making friends with someone like Samuel? I'm afraid I'm not worthy. Please leave," Harley said indifferently, turning to leave.
The agent, however, looked hopeful—joining a major company like Nebula would undoubtedly boost Harley's career and his own earnings.
"Samuel, I'll discuss this with Harley. He's just tired and a bit irritable. No hard feelings," the agent mediated.
"No problem. We were too abrupt today without an appointment. Next time, we'll book a proper venue and talk about future opportunities," Samuel said, his smile warm and accommodating.
"Of course. Sorry to trouble you today. Let's schedule for another day!" the agent nodded politely.
Samuel and his team left. The smile on his face momentarily flickered with disdain.
"Humph, a bit of fame and he becomes so arrogant, not even giving me the time of day. Let's see how far he can go!" Samuel fumed, his companions echoing his sentiments.
"Exactly! Harley really thinks he's something. Nebula's a tier above his current rag-tag company. No vision at all; he's bound to fail sooner or later."
"Samuel, since he's this high-minded, why bother with him?" someone else complained.
"It's all about his potential. If we don't act fast, Leo's people might poach him. Let's swallow our pride for now. I believe Harley's not foolish enough to spurn us. He'll come around," Samuel said with determination.
Meanwhile, Harley and his agent entered the apartment—a spacious four-bedroom, two-bathroom residence Harley had recently moved into.
As soon as they stepped inside, Harley's expression darkened. "Why did you accept his business card?"
"Don't be mad, Harley. This Samuel used to be Leo's right-hand man. Now he's jumped to Nebula. He's capable; maybe he can boost our careers," the agent cautiously reasoned.
"His reputation is shady, and you know it. Leo trusted him, yet he still betrayed him. I won't risk working with someone like that. What if he sells me out one day? My future would be ruined," Harley said. Having navigated the entertainment industry, he was wary of every step, unwilling to associate with those of dubious character.
"Harley, sometimes you have to take risks for wealth. Samuel might not be trustworthy, but that doesn't mean we can't collaborate," the agent pleaded.
"I won't work with him!" Harley stated firmly.
"Why? There must be a reason," the agent pressed, surprised.
Harley narrowed his eyes. "Because of someone. I don't want that person to blame me in the end."
"Who? Someone I know?" the agent asked, puzzled.
Harley took a swig from a wine bottle and replied indifferently, "You don't need to know. Just remember not to contact Samuel."
The agent stole a glance at Harley's face, noticing a flicker of sorrow.
Boldly, he ventured a name, "Is it because of Catherine?"