Chapter 135

Sophia Laurent stood before the door and pressed the bell lightly.

Footsteps echoed from inside, followed by a brief pause.

"Who is it?" A clear female voice came through the door.

"It's me, Sophia Laurent."

The sound of a turning lock. A sliver of light revealed a delicate face. Scarlett Ashcroft's brows were slightly furrowed, surprise flashing in her eyes.

"Ms. Laurent?" She opened the door wider. "What brings you here?"

Sophia met her gaze directly. "May I come in?"

Scarlett glanced over Sophia's shoulder, confirming she was alone before stepping aside.

The apartment was modest but impeccably tidy. Sunlight streamed through floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating potted plants on the coffee table.

"Have a seat." Scarlett offered a glass of water.

Sophia took it and cut straight to the chase. "I'd like to invite you to star in a new production."

Scarlett's fingers twitched.

Since the incident, she'd been completely blacklisted at Lowell Entertainment. Three months without a single audition.

"Is this... Lowell Entertainment's arrangement?" she asked cautiously.

Sophia shook her head. "Pearl Group."

Scarlett's eyes widened.

"Pearl Entertainment, to be precise." Sophia clarified. "I want you to join us."

Scarlett's breathing quickened.

"But my contract—"

"I know about the breach fee." Sophia interrupted. "Just tell me if you're interested."

Scarlett's nails dug unconsciously into the armrest.

Six years ago, she'd signed that contract full of dreams. Now at twenty-four, she'd hit rock bottom in her career.

"The breach fee... is twelve million." She forced out the number.

Sophia's expression didn't flicker.