Chapter 331

"He promised me those resources, and now he's backing out. What kind of man does that?"

Sophia Lowell stomped her foot in frustration.

At the vanity, Vivian Ashcroft was carefully lining her brows. She burst into laughter. "A weasel, that's what."

Sophia's anger deflated instantly. "You're absolutely right. Total weasel behavior."

"Relax, my schedule's packed anyway." Vivian set down her brow pencil and took Sophia's hands. "I don't need those resources. And don't go confronting him—who knows if he's just stringing us along?"

Sophia frowned. "But those opportunities were yours. With them, you could transition into serious acting instead of relying on variety shows."

If Ethan Roscente hadn't interfered, Vivian would be filming right now. A hit variety show coupled with solid acting credits would have cemented her status.

Instead, she was stuck hopping between reality shows. Without substantial roles, her popularity would fade as quickly as it came.

Though Vivian always claimed she had a knack for entertainment and didn't mind quick cash grabs, Sophia knew the truth—this girl lived for acting. Even for minor roles, she'd meticulously craft character backstories. How could she be content as just a variety star?

Sophia dialed Ethan's number without hesitation.

"When are you delivering those promised resources to Vivian?"

Silence stretched for several seconds before his deep voice responded, "Pause the meeting."

Sophia rolled her eyes. Of course she knew he was in a meeting—so what? He'd broken his word first.

Footsteps echoed, followed by the click of a lighter. She could practically see him standing by the floor-to-ceiling windows, exhaling smoke.

Go ahead, smoke yourself to an early grave.

"I've been swamped these past few days." A slow exhale. "This isn't a phone conversation. Come to the office."

"What's so complicated? Just have the producers contact Vivian's agent."

"You think it's that simple?" Amusement colored his tone. "The directors need to conduct risk assessments."

"What risk assessments?"

"Evaluating whether an artist carries liabilities. No one hires problematic talent, no matter how perfect the fit." He rarely explained things so patiently. "Business is business."

Sophia immediately vouched, "Vivian's completely clean."

"Who knows?" His voice turned teasing. "She's unhinged."

"That's prejudice!" Sophia's voice rose sharply.

Ethan chuckled low. "In your eyes, am I really that despicable?"

"Aren't you?"

After a beat, he sighed in resignation. "Fine, you're my祖宗. Whatever you say goes."

Sophia's ears burned. "W-who's your祖宗..."

"I say you are."

The indulgent tone made her heart skip a beat.