Chapter 65

Nathan Blackwood and Vanessa Sterling arrived last, greeted warmly by the crew as they entered the bustling set. After brief exchanges and polite nods, everyone returned to their stations, resuming the flurry of styling preparations.

The director, Preston Whitmore, and producer, Donovan Sharpe, pulled Nathan and Vanessa aside for a quick discussion.

Meanwhile, hushed whispers spread among the crew about the undeniable chemistry between the two stars. Observant onlookers caught them exchanging knowing glances and soft smiles, fueling speculation that something deeper was brewing between them.

A few nostalgic staff members, reminiscent of their days shipping celebrity couples, couldn’t help but grin at the sight of Nathan and Vanessa standing so close.

The atmosphere shifted abruptly when the door to the nearby dressing room swung open. Julian Blackwood’s group had been notably absent during the earlier greetings—specifically, Evelyn Sinclair had yet to make her appearance.

Now, it was clear who was about to step out.

Evelyn emerged in a breathtaking sapphire mermaid gown that instantly commanded the room’s attention. Though her makeup was still un, her statuesque figure—pale skin, sharp shoulders, and a slender waist—enhanced by the dress’s silhouette, made her presence utterly mesmerizing.

She was a natural scene-stealer, prompting silent admiration from the crew. Even without refined acting skills, her sheer magnetism was undeniable.

But not everyone was impressed.

Julian looked uneasy, Nathan’s brow furrowed, and Vanessa stiffened in surprise.

Before Vanessa could gather her thoughts, Nathan, standing nearby, arched a skeptical brow and addressed Evelyn. “Wasn’t this gown prepared for Vanessa? Miss Sinclair, did you perhaps mistake someone else’s wardrobe for your own?” The implication hung heavily in the air.

All costumes had been meticulously sorted and delivered earlier. How could such a mix-up happen? Nathan recognized the dress—it was meant for Vanessa’s shoot. It couldn’t have ended up on Evelyn unless it was intentional.

His expression darkened. He firmly believed no one, regardless of connections, had the right to undermine others—especially not someone he felt compelled to protect. Vanessa’s past struggles, often confided to him, had left him hyper-aware of any perceived slights against her.

As Nathan’s accusation rippled through the room, confusion spread among the staff. Even his manager, Maxwell Thornton, looked baffled.

This unexpected clash between the seasoned actor and the rising star was something no one had anticipated. Isn’t that dress Evelyn’s own? many wondered, recalling her earlier excitement about it.

Marcus Donovan quickly stepped in, chuckling nervously. “Ah, Mr. Blackwood, perhaps there’s been a misunderstanding? This gown was purchased by our artist herself. Did it happen to match one of Ms. Sterling’s? What an odd coincidence!”

The words snapped Vanessa out of her daze. Her shock deepened as she realized the newcomer was none other than Evelyn—the woman from that day. A storm of emotions flickered across her face: confusion, embarrassment, and a flicker of resentment.

Then, Evelyn—equally stunned—pointed at Vanessa and blurted, “It’s you! You’re Vanessa!”

The tension in the room thickened, every eye darting between the two women, sensing drama unfolding.

What’s going on? Do they have history? Did Nathan mention a dress earlier? Wait… something’s off.

Vanessa scrutinized Evelyn, noting her visible discomfort. She probably doesn’t even realize what she’s done. She thinks she’s accidentally crossed someone.

A smirk tugged at Vanessa’s lips. Fine. I’ll play along—for now.

Nathan’s gaze shifted to Evelyn, who seemed genuinely flustered. Is she really this socially unaware, or is she banking on Julian’s influence?

Despite the brewing storm, Vanessa remained the picture of grace. Outwardly composed, she masked the turmoil churning inside her—memories tied to that dress resurfacing painfully.

“It’s fine,” Vanessa said smoothly, her tone laced with quiet sarcasm. “She clearly admires the dress, and honestly, it suits her better. Let’s call it a misunderstanding.”

Her last remark, dripping with irony, was whispered just loud enough for Julian to catch. He stifled a laugh.

The crew exchanged awkward glances, torn between amusement and secondhand embarrassment.

“Actually, I should apologize,” Nathan conceded dryly, addressing Evelyn with a tight smile. “I assumed you’d taken Vanessa’s dress by mistake.”

Still missing the point, the crew collectively thought, struggling not to laugh.

Evelyn remained flustered, and Nathan couldn’t fathom her prolonged awkwardness. Does she not understand basic professionalism?

“Let’s… ensure clearer communication moving forward,” he added stiffly.

The sentiment hung awkwardly in the air as everyone processed the bizarre confrontation, unsure whether to intervene or simply watch the spectacle unfold.