Chapter 123

Isabelle Laurent wasn’t exaggerating Rebecca’s struggles—she genuinely knew the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry.

Rebecca had suffered, but in this ruthless world, those who had it worse were already broken beyond repair. Yet Rebecca was different—resilient, sharp, and unyielding. That was why Isabelle saw potential in her, believing she could rise above the chaos.

Still, caution lingered.

She continued, "Even though she initiated the conversation, who knows what Rebecca is truly like now? A decade in this industry changes people. She was even blacklisted at one point. The external battles are hard enough—what if she becomes her own worst enemy?"

Evelyn Sinclair snapped out of her thoughts and mused aloud. "Isn’t that the risk with every artist we sign? You never really know until you work with them. If it doesn’t work out, we can always terminate the contract. I trust you won’t let the terms be unfavorable."

Isabelle chuckled. "So, does that mean you approve of me signing her?"

Evelyn frowned slightly. Why was Isabelle constantly seeking her opinion? She had already made it clear—Isabelle should trust her own judgment. She knew nothing about these matters.

Just then, Nathan Blackwood gestured for her attention, signaling he had something to say.

Evelyn pressed the phone closer to her ear, listening intently. Nathan leaned in, his breath warm against her skin as he whispered, "She wants to know—if she signs Rebecca, will you back her up?"

The sensation sent a shiver down Evelyn’s spine, making her squirm. In her slight movement, her lips accidentally brushed against Nathan’s—cool, firm, and unexpectedly electrifying.

Evelyn barely registered the contact, but Nathan stiffened, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he took a deliberate step back.

Meanwhile, Evelyn grasped Nathan’s implication perfectly. The man was sharp—a true businessman, always thinking steps ahead.

She sighed. Isabelle had been circling the real issue—Rebecca was a lightning rod for controversy. Without powerful backing, even the innocent got crushed. The entertainment industry wasn’t about justice—it was about who had the deepest pockets.

Isabelle knew Rebecca was trouble. But with Evelyn Sinclair, the Blackwood family’s lady, behind her? She’d be unstoppable. The more scandals, the higher she’d rise.

But if Evelyn refused, signing Rebecca would be career suicide.

That was the real reason for tonight’s call.

Hearing about the wives’ alliance drama, Isabelle had nearly backed out. But Evelyn’s unexpectedly positive reaction made her test the waters again.

"You want me to support her? That’s… complicated."

Nathan’s brow twitched. Anticipating her next words, he cut in smoothly.

"Remember, you’re Mrs. Blackwood. My resources are yours. Back whoever you want."

Evelyn blinked, surprised by his sudden generosity. Still, she muttered under her breath, "What if we divorce someday—"

Nathan nearly groaned. Could she at least pretend to believe in our marriage?

Across from them, Margaret and Genevieve coughed pointedly.

Margaret quickly interjected, "Don’t worry, Evelyn. If fate has brought this girl to our attention, it’s for a reason. Consider it charity—we’ll take the lead."

Decision made, Isabelle ended the call.

Curiosity piqued, everyone began researching Rebecca on their phones during the ride home.

They preferred Evelyn’s unfiltered take over biased media reports—and she didn’t disappoint.

Damn. This is tragic.

Her beauty is a curse.

From a young age, Rebecca developed faster than her peers, making her a target for boys’ teasing and girls’ jealousy. Thankfully, her loving family shielded her from lasting damage.

But her first real horror came in sixth grade—a predatory teacher cornered her. She fought back, striking his head and escaping. Her parents stormed the school, demanding justice.

The school? They silenced it. Called her a liar. Claimed she fabricated the story for attention or revenge over grades.

With no proof, her parents—ordinary, honest people—could only transfer her to another school.

Margaret and Genevieve were livid. Then Genevieve stumbled upon an old article—

A teacher had publicly smeared Rebecca, calling her "precocious," claiming she had seduced him.

Rosalie’s grip on her phone tightened. "We can’t let this bastard get away with it!"

Margaret cleared her throat. "Let’s not jump to conclusions. Investigations exist for a reason. What if he’s the predator? How many kids has he hurt?"

Yes! Margaret gets it!

Nathan glanced at the article and nodded. "I’ll have someone look into it."

Before he could finish, Evelyn made a small sound of surprise.

"No need. He’s already been dealt with."

Everyone turned. Evelyn’s brow was furrowed slightly.

When she saw the rumors, she remembered that vile teacher. Fueled by rage and fear for other victims, she’d turned to the wealthy patron she’d been entangled with back then.

The man hadn’t bothered with legalities—he’d sent thugs to break the teacher’s limbs, leaving him crippled.

Silence filled the car.

Then Genevieve muttered, "What about those junior high boys who tormented her? They deserve payback too."