Chapter 161

Lily Green never expected Michael Johnson to be so heartless.

She had dated many men, but with Michael, she had genuinely fallen in love.

Now, waves of humiliation crashed over her, and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.

[Michael is such an insensitive jerk. How could he say something so cruel?]

[Is this how you treat a woman?]

[Why not? Our Michael isn’t obligated to help her.]

[Exactly. Lily can’t achieve anything on her own—always relying on men.]

[How dare she ask Michael for help after that embarrassing sulfuric acid incident?]

[Michael’s right. Women should stand on their own. Look how independent Lucy and the others are.]

[Am I the only one who thinks her crying is totally fake?]

[You’re not alone.]

[Definitely not...]

Michael’s firm rejection caused Lily’s luck to dwindle further.

With Julian Powell and Liam Parker’s downfall, her fortune suffered a devastating blow.

Without the boost of luck, the audience’s favor toward her plummeted.

Lucy White noticed immediately—Lily’s aura had weakened yet again.

A faint smile curved Lucy’s lips, her eyes glinting with satisfaction.

At this rate, the so-called "female lead" would soon be no threat at all.

As much as Michael usually annoyed her, Lucy had to admit—this time, he’d done well.

Seeing Michael remain unmoved, Lily could only leave in frustration with her trainees in tow.

She ended up finding work at a local martial arts studio to earn money.

Though her luck had faded, she still fared better than most—the studio paid decently.

Unfortunately, her reputation with the audience was beyond repair, and her career took another hit.

After performing for over an hour, Michael earned a few hundred dollars.

Lucy and Ethan Smith, overwhelmed by customers, worked for three hours before wrapping up.

Their efficiency was remarkable—each pocketing several hundred.

When Olivia Davis finished her shift, the group gathered to discuss dinner plans.

"Should we buy groceries and cook, or eat out?" Olivia asked.

Missing Lucy’s cooking, Michael suggested, "How about we cook at home?"

But Ethan shook his head. "We’re only here once. Let’s try the local specialties. Everyone’s exhausted—cooking would be too much."

He didn’t want Lucy to overexert herself.

Realizing his oversight, Michael inwardly cursed himself.

As much as he disliked Ethan, he had to admit—the man was more considerate.

"Then let’s go for local cuisine," he conceded.

Lucy, appreciating Ethan’s thoughtfulness, smiled. "I’d love to try the regional dishes too."

Olivia linked arms with Lucy. "It’s my first time here—let’s enjoy a proper meal!"

They chose a well-reviewed restaurant and had a pleasant dinner together.

Robert Lee’s group also dined out, but their atmosphere was noticeably strained.

Afterward, the production crew announced a night market event in the town square.

They had coincidentally arrived during the town’s monthly lantern festival.

Red lanterns hung brightly, casting a festive glow over the streets.

The riddle-solving area prohibited phone use to prevent cheating.

Olivia and Vanessa Knight eagerly dragged Lucy around.

"That bunny lantern is adorable!" Olivia gazed longingly at the prize.

Vanessa pointed at a phoenix lantern. "This one’s gorgeous too—but you’d need to solve thirty riddles to win it."

Lucy grinned. "You want them? I’ll get them for you."

Their eyes lit up. "Really?"

"Of course." Lucy winked. "Watch me."

Riddles were child’s play for her.

In no time, she secured the bunny lantern for Olivia and the phoenix for Vanessa.

Both women were overjoyed.

Later, during paper-cutting and sugar-blowing activities, Lucy helped them win more prizes.

"Lucy, you’re amazing!" Olivia gushed, admiration shining in her eyes. "Perfect scores on riddles, masterful paper-cutting and sugar-blowing—is there anything you can’t do?"

Vanessa sighed in awe. "Today’s been eye-opening."

Lucy chuckled modestly. "I picked up some traditional crafts as a kid."

"Some? You’re practically a master!" they exclaimed in unison.

"You could thrive on these skills alone, even without acting."

"Seriously, what can’t you do?"

Even Robert and the others went from stunned to numb.

While others participated in the festival, Lucy was here to showcase her brilliance.

Undeniable talent.