"Really? The celebrated A Fond Dream is here? I'd love to meet her;

I've always admired her work!" Tess exclaimed, visibly excited.

In the industry, A Fond Dream was a renowned figure. Her first work had become a classic, yet she maintained a low profile.

“She's quite reserved, seldom seen in public. But I'm rooting for you in the audition," Saul encouraged.

Hearing this, Tess didn't insist on meeting A Fond Dream and put down her gift, but Saul promptly returned it. "Such exquisite jade suits you better."

"Thank you," Tess said, smiling.

Saul remained unswayed by flattery, even after all these years!

Still, Tess was resolved to land the role.

Outside, the other actresses lost hope upon seeing Tess. How could they compete? Some even left early, not wanting to waste their time.

“Effie, you're not leaving? Still hoping to audition for the lead?" a fellow actress asked Effie, deliberately raising her voice.

ALL eyes shifted. A trace of irony flickered in their gazes.

Tess, an award-winner, had her sights set on the lead role. Effie daring to challenge her seemed absurd to many.

"I'll give it a shot," Effie declared with a touch of grace.

Tess offered her a fleeting glance, a smile playing on her lips.

“It's good to be ambitious at your age. Best of luck."

Her words were encouraging but laced with faint condescendence.

Most didn't notice the undertone. "Tess is so kind, a true professional."

"“Effie's just wasting her time. I'd be shocked if she gets the part."

The whispers around Effie were mostly dismissive.

Unperturbed, Effie immersed herself in her script, dedicating herself to the role.

The auditions commenced.

Lilah observed each performance from behind Saul. As morning gave way to afternoon, the roles were quickly filled, except for the lead.

Saul turned to Lilah for her input.

"Who's better for the lead, Tess or Effie?"