Chapter 170
The makeup artist’s voice broke through her musings, grounding her in the present.
Elizabeth nodded briskly and handed the woman a small box of candies.
“Here, try these.
They’re great for your throat and taste amazing.”
The makeup artist accepted them gratefully, unwrapping one and taking a bite.
The film crew’s collective commitment to quality created an unusually harmonious atmosphere.
By the shores of Jade Lake.
Elijah had rushed to the location upon hearing about potential tourist area developments.
He had long harbored interest in this region, previously thwarted by government resistance aimed at protecting water resources.
Yet, he had never truly abandoned his vision.
Dressed in pristine white, he paused mid-stride, one leg elevated on a step, his gaze drifting contemplatively across the landscape.
Oscar, the person in charge of the development project, approached, gesturing toward a cluster of bungalows.
“Mr.
James, observe—mostly guesthouses with minimal tourist traffic.
Primarily accommodating business travelers, and even that market struggles.
Recent landslides have devastated several establishments.
The local population remains unaware of impending policy changes, still hoping for demolition compensation.”
Oscar, typically a commanding presence, transformed into pure deference in Elijah’s presence.
Elijah remained silent, his narrowed eyes scanning the horizon.
Their collective gaze settled on a woman in a white dress, walking barefoot along the lakeshore.
Beside her stood a slender man, creating a tableau of unexpected beauty.
Scarlet Gray, Oscar’s ambitious daughter, followed Elijah’s gaze.
“Oh, that’s Asher Burton!” she exclaimed.
“And the woman with him must be a starlet.
Aren’t they stunning together? Such a perfect pair!”
She turned to Elijah, emboldened.
“Don’t you think so, Mr.
James?”
Elijah’s lips curled into a faint sneer.
“Hardly,” he replied coolly, straightening up and tearing his gaze away.
Scarlet blinked, startled by his response.
“Even someone as beautiful as her doesn’t catch your eye? What kind of woman would impress you, Mr.
James?”
Irritation flickered in his eyes.
“Someone with substance,” he answered curtly.
Oscar, recalling earlier conversations about his daughter’s academic excellence, beamed.
Scarlet blushed, interpreting the comment as a potential compliment.
Oscar continued lavishing praise, “A man like Mr.
James, truly exceptional, would never be swayed by mere appearances.”
Elijah’s discomfort grew, and just as he prepared to respond, a sudden loud noise erupted, capturing everyone’s attention.