Chapter 228

Chapter 228:

“What can we do? We can’t afford to upset Tatiana right now. That’s just the way this industry works. People always follow the powerful, so it’s not surprising they behave like this. We just need to grab the opportunities we get,” Maxine Campbell explained.

“But…” Maxine’s assistant began, but Maxine quickly interrupted as she noticed Madisyn nearby, greeting her, “Good morning, Miss Johns.”

“Good morning, Maxine,” Madisyn responded warmly. “Is everything okay?”

Maxine was surprised. “Miss Johns, you know who I am?” It was her first time meeting Madisyn in person, and with a large roster of artists in the company, Maxine was both thrilled and honored that Madisyn recognized her.

“Of course, I know every artist in the company. Besides, you’re quite attractive,” Madisyn said with a smile.

Blushing, Maxine replied, “Thank you, Miss Johns. You’re quite attractive yourself. I almost thought you were a star when I first saw you!”

“Are you having issues with Tatiana?” Madisyn inquired. Maxine hesitated, then sighed, not wanting to speak ill of anyone, but her assistant, feeling protective, chimed in, “Tatiana has been picking on Maxine relentlessly. She’s sabotaged some of Maxine’s better opportunities out of jealousy since Maxine is naturally more beautiful.”

Madisyn looked at Maxine closely. Maxine and Tatiana indeed belonged to the same category of artists, both radiant and charming, but Maxine’s features were more refined and natural, while Tatiana appeared to have enhanced hers through surgery. If Maxine had been in the industry first, Tatiana might have struggled to find opportunities.

After a brief pause, Madisyn advised, “Concentrate on improving your skills. Your talent is your best asset. The company will make sure you get fair opportunities.”

“Thank you, Miss Johns,” Maxine said, feeling a mix of gratitude and skepticism. Given Tatiana’s persistent antagonism, she doubted the company’s support would suffice.

Jared was indeed efficient. When Madisyn reached her office later, she found he had already sent over a new endorsement deal with a well-regarded domestic brand.

After thoughtful consideration, Madisyn chose Maxine from the company’s roster of artists to be the ambassadress. Maxine was at the pinnacle of her career, nearly at the status of a top actress, known for her impeccable reputation and integrity.

Having made her choice, Madisyn turned her attention to other matters, unaware of the tension unfolding in a studio. Arriving at the studio and encountering Tatiana, Maxine suddenly felt overwhelmed.

Her assistant, clearly frustrated, approached Lachlan Castillo. “‘Mr. Castillo, what’s happening? We had an understanding that today’s shoot would feature only Maxine!”

Lachlan, grinning eagerly, replied, “The effect of featuring two stars together exceeds having just one. Plus, pairing with Tatiana could elevate Maxine’s public image. Why not take advantage of that?”

The assistant was poised to argue, but Maxine intervened. “Exactly how are we supposed to film this?”

“You’ll position yourself in the background while Tatiana takes the lead. You’ll be supporting her in this scene,” Lachlan explained.

“So, I’m merely a prop?” Maxine’s face fell.

“In a way, yes. But even if you are merely in Tatiana’s shadow, your exposure might increase,” Lachlan replied, unaware of the absurdity of his remark.

Tatiana, seated nearby and getting her makeup done, seemed aloof and self-assured. She closed her eyes, looking completely at ease.

Observing this, Maxine tightened her grip while her assistant’s irritation mounted. They were faced with this scenario yet again! Tatiana consistently snatched the best roles from Maxine, relegating her to supporting roles.

Tatiana’s arrogance had soared ever since she began dating Corbett. She wormed her way into most of Maxine’s significant opportunities, and given Corbett’s influence, brand owners typically yielded, not wishing to offend him.

“I’m sorry, I cannot accept this,” Maxine said resolutely. “Our agreement was for a solo shoot.”

At that, Tatiana casually remarked, “If you opt out, that’s your choice, but be aware of the penalties, as the brand has the final say.”

Maxine’s expression darkened further. The contract was blatantly unfair. As an artist, her leverage was minimal. If she accepted the arrangement, she would have to be a prop for Tatiana. On the other hand, rejecting the arrangement meant the shoot would proceed without her, featuring only Tatiana. Who would willingly give up such a hard-earned opportunity?

Lachlan added, “Maxine, do you have any other endorsement deals coming up? Landing this one was tough. I’d advise you to proceed with the arrangement.” His tone carried a dismissive undertone, as if challenging her to defy the setup.

“Well, if you’re so desperate, I suppose I can leave this opportunity to you,” Maxine retorted sharply.

The room fell silent, taken aback. No one anticipated such a response from Maxine. After a pause, Tatiana opened her eyes, offering Maxine a cold smirk. “Maxine, it seems you’ve grown more audacious recently.”

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