Chapter 281

Adrian Valdemar felt the weight of gazes piercing his back like needles, each pitying sigh a fresh sting.

His fists clenched so tightly his nails dug crescent moons into his palms.

Failure. Again.

The uncontrollable trembling before the cameras had shattered him once more.

This role was the opportunity he'd dreamed of—more precious than he'd ever imagined.

The lingering intensity of his performance left his eyes burning. He ducked his head swiftly.

"Let's talk in my lounge," Lucas Sheridan's voice cut through the silence.

Sophia Laurent murmured assent.

Adrian trailed behind them in silence, shoulders hunched like a chastened child.

Inside the lounge, Lucas wasted no time. "Adrian's performance today isn't at the Young Marquis's standard."

His gaze locked onto Sophia. "This project is critical for all of us. It must be flawless."

The unspoken implication hung heavy between them.

Sophia glanced at the boy biting his lip raw and sighed inwardly.

She knew how far he'd come. His delivery and expressions were perfect—if only his body would cooperate.

She'd promised no interference in casting when securing the investment.

Yet she couldn't let this chance slip away.

"However," Lucas continued, "if he fixes that one issue, I'll give him another audition. As a favor to you."

Sophia's eyes brightened.

"No." Adrian's voice scraped like sandpaper.

He'd heard enough hollow praise. Minor roles in "River Banquet" and "Empress" were beyond him—how could he hope for "The Long Ballad"'s third lead?

Another audition would only deepen the humiliation.

Sophia's palm smacked against the back of his head.

"Are you insane? Turning down this opportunity?" She turned to Lucas. "Thank you. We'll regroup and return."

Lucas nodded. "His acting's actually solid. Just needs to conquer that camera fear."

Once the director left, Sophia frowned. "What happened today?"