Chapter 409

Stop wasting time here. Go help promote Director Richard and Emily's new drama.

"River Banquet," the highly anticipated collaboration between internationally acclaimed director Richard Lowell and rising star Emily Lowell, promises to be this year's most breathtaking visual spectacle!

...

On the set of "Empress," Adrian Valdemar stared at the live promotional stream of "River Banquet" on his phone, veins throbbing at his temples.

"That old man has no shame!"

His teeth clenched, knuckles cracking under the force of his grip.

"Emily's mediocre skills don't deserve Sophia's support. Who's riding whose coattails here?"

Scarlett Ashcroft gently tapped his shoulder, offering a glass of water.

"Calm down. We're up soon."

The entire "Empress" crew had poured their hearts into this project.

She and Adrian had bonded over their shared dedication on set—a group of artists who treated acting as life itself.

At the stage cue, Adrian's eyes lit up.

If Richard could publicly prop up Emily while undermining Sophia, why couldn't he retaliate?

No rules against speaking the truth.

Adjusting his collar, Adrian strode confidently toward the spotlight.

He completely missed Sophia Laurent slipping into the back row, oversized sunglasses obscuring her face.

Since the pregnancy scandal broke, he'd avoided facing her.

But the press instantly spotted the unexpected guest.

Gasps rippled through the venue.

Today was "Empress'" promotional event—Sophia's sudden appearance as an outsider sent shockwaves through the crowd.

After a stunned beat, camera flashes erupted like fireworks.

This marked Sophia's first public appearance since the pregnancy rumors surfaced.

The atmosphere electrified.

Director Lucas Sheridan fought back a grin.

Sophia's star power was undeniable.

With her presence, she could dominate the entertainment industry effortlessly.

Pity she was genuine aristocracy—born with golden opportunities most could only dream of.

"Thank you all for coming. Unlike traditional female-led dramas, 'Empress' meticulously crafts every detail to..."

Lucas launched into the film's unique features.

Though journalists itched to question Sophia, they dutifully took notes.

The box office battle between "Empress" and "River Banquet" had become the season's hottest topic.

Ever since Lucas and Richard's public feud, the rivalry had escalated dramatically.

Richard's fans viciously attacked Lucas, dismissing him as an unqualified reality TV director dabbling in cinema.

Lucas' supporters had swallowed their fury long enough.