“Lilah, you..." Saul's words faltered as he considered Lilah's acumen.

He marveled silently at how someone capable of producing intricate works must surely possess a keen insight into people's souls.

Unperturbed, Lilah continued, "You need to personally meet with the two actresses. Decide for yourself who truly embodies the essence of your leading lady."

Saul deliberated in silence before finally conceding, "Alright, I promise you. Have Effie meet me tomorrow morning. I'll handle the auditions myself."

"Okay."

The moment the line went dead, Effie, who had been eavesdropping, could barely contain her admiration. She rushed to Lilah, enveloping her in a warm embrace, her words tumbling out in a rush of excitement. “Lilah, you are truly the shining star of the Harris family. Without a doubt, the best among us."

Lilah's laugh was light, amused. "Flattery will get you nowhere, dear. I've merely opened a door for you. The stage is yours, but you must dazzle them-no regrets, understood?"

While her voice radiated confidence, Lilah harbored her own uncertainties. Why did Saul suddenly decide to change the cast?

Effie came from wealth and influence. Who could possibly outmatch that?

“I understand, Lilah. I'll heed your advice from now on." Effie clung to Lilah before turning to Gerard, who had been quietly observing the exchange. "Gerard, you're blessed to have such an intelligent and beautiful girlfriend. Having Lilah not only enhances our family's brilliance but assures our ascendancy."

Gerard merely nodded, his response a simple affirmation. "Indeed."

He couldn't argue with that. Lilah's beauty and intellect had not only captivated him but had also proven indispensable.

As Effie's praises spiraled into extravagance, Lilah cut her off, her tone firm yet friendly. “Enough, Effie. Let's eat before the food gets cold."

Taking the hint, Effie redirected her enthusiasm toward the meal, loading her plate with vigor. "You're right, as always. A good meal today lays the groundwork for tomorrow's victories."

Her laughter filled the room, as hearty as her appetite.

Lilah felt a surge of relief seeing Effie's mood brightening. At the same time, Gerard, with a keen eye, observed that Lilah had been favoring vegetables over meat during the meal. With a considerate gesture, he speared a few choice cuts of meat onto her plate and urged with a gentle tone, “Lilah, make sure you have some protein."

He was genuinely concerned; not only for Lilah's dietary needs but also for the fact that Effie seemed to be making quick work of the meat platter herself.

Lilah, with a warm smile, nudged him playfully. "Gerard, don't forget to eat as well."

“I'm more than satisfied just watching you enjoy your meal," Gerard replied, his smile spreading infectiously.

Meanwhile, Tess basked in the warmth of her home, her mood soaring as she scrolled through the glowing praise from her online followers.

Her delight was palpable, filling the room like sunlight.

Just as she was reveling in the euphoria, her phone buzzed with a call from her agent.

She greeted the call with a smile playing on her lips. "Hello."

Her agent's voice carried a mix of urgency and discomfort. "Tess, Saul just got off the phone with me. Tomorrow, you and Effie will be vying for the same role. It's a head-to-head audition now. Be on your toes."