Now, Rose Pictures was no longer the small company it once was. Adrian held absolute power. No one in the industry dared oppose him.
So everyone clapped along.
Chloe’s acceptance speech came with tears.
“I never thought I’d win. Maybe it’s just luck. Thank you for your support—I’ll work harder and keep learning from all the seniors in this industry!”
She lifted the trophy, locking eyes with me, a flash of provocation gleaming there.
I stood to leave. The eyes of those waiting for a scene all turned toward me.
Adrian grabbed my arm.
“Sophia, do you really want to embarrass a young girl like this?”
I curled my lips into a cold smile.
“Not at all.”
Then I lifted my gown and walked toward the exit.
“Sophia!” Chloe ran to block me as she came down from the stage, her face full of guilt.
“I’m just a small-town girl from a humble background. I only just entered the industry. I don’t deserve this award. To me, you’re the one who truly deserves it.”
She lowered herself like a rookie seeking mentorship.
She pressed the trophy into my hands, lifting her wrist casually—revealing a ruby necklace.
It was the gift Adrian had crafted for my birthday last year.
I’d never even worn it, keeping it locked away.