Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Aileen observed Violeta with a discerning eye. "Eugene must be the luckiest man," she said. "You're far more striking in person than in any photograph."

"Thank you," Violeta answered, her voice steady.

Aileen then inspected Violeta's makeup closely. "Who did this?"

The makeup artist hesitated, "Is there a problem, Aileen?"

Aileen's gaze was unyielding. "The eyeliner needs to be extended. Give it a more fox-like effect. Add a few more clusters of false lashes. The camera tends to wash out the makeup. Does Eugene want you to go for a pure look like Lydia? No, your features call for something sharper, more intense. Don't squander your natural advantages."

"Reapply the makeup," Aileen instructed firmly.

"Understood, Aileen."

Well, isn't she a no-nonsense person?

The makeup artist swiftly got to work, removing and then reapplying the makeup.

Time passed quickly, and after forty minutes of meticulous adjustments, Aileen was finally satisfied.

The shoot commenced only when she felt the results were right. Violeta, accustomed to patience, observed as Aileen, though kind, was direct and precise. With her extensive experience, Aileen had an uncanny ability to pinpoint any shortcomings, demonstrating what true professionalism looked like.

Under Aileen's expert direction, Violeta's images transformed into something extraordinary.

Her poised exterior was at odds with the raw ambition and desire that shimmered in her eyes, creating a captivating and potent presence.

Aileen, clearly pleased, remarked, "The promotional photos Apex did for you were dreadful. Trust me, darling, I've seen those."

"That's it for now. You'll have to wait for the final images," Aileen said.

"I must commend you, Violeta. Your versatility is remarkable. I look forward to seeing you on the cover of Elle someday."

Elle, one of the foremost fashion magazines, remained a step beyond Violeta's current reach.

However, Aileen believed Eugene had discovered a talent surpassing Lydia's.

Violeta's potential seemed boundless.

Violeta thanked her with a warm smile. "This collaboration has been truly valuable. I appreciate all your advice, Aileen." Aileen, absorbed in reviewing the photos, replied, "It's nothing. I owe Eugene a favour."

The shoot had come to an end.

As Violeta had her makeup removed, Aster gently draped a coat over her shoulders.

They expressed their gratitude to the staff before making their exit.

To their surprise, as they stepped out of the studio, they discovered that the live stream next door had just concluded.

A throng of people emerged from the studio, including the creative team behind the film.

Violeta encountered the film's director.

"Violeta," he greeted warmly.

Violeta stopped and offered a courteous smile. "Hello."

The director, clearly impressed by the success of 'The Quiet Ode', which was also common knowledge in the industry, extended his hand.

"I hope we can collaborate in the future. Are there any opportunities?"

In the presence of so many

onlookers, Violeta couldn't decline outright. She shook his hand gently. "If a promising project comes along, why not, Director Cress?"

Director Cress chuckled and then turned to Nolan, who had just entered the room. "Nolan, I understand you and Violeta are from the same school. Is this your junior?"

Standing by the doorframe, Nolan was a striking figure in the crowd.

Earlier, he had glimpsed Violeta through a crack in the door and wondered if he was imagining things. But now, there was no mistaking it.

The corridor was dimly lit as Nolan stepped forward. His warm gaze remained fixed on Violeta. With a smile, he said, "Yes, it's been a while, Violeta."

"It has indeed been some time, Nolan," Violeta replied, surprised to see him here.

Their encounter was unexpected, but in an industry as close-knit as this one, such meetings were inevitable.

Since their last encounter, Nolan's fame had skyrocketed with his recent film, and Violeta had joined the cast of 'The Quiet Ode'. Nearly a year had passed since they last saw each other. en FindNovel

As Violeta locked eyes with Nolan, a surge of contemplation washed over her.

It was remarkable how swiftly fortunes changed. In her previous life, she would have felt entirely out of place mingling with people like them.

What once seemed beyond reach now appeared almost commonplace.

Polly emerged from the live-stream studio, and her assistant quietly informed her that Violeta was outside.

Polly stepped into the corridor and scanned the crowd. Her gaze settled on Violeta, deep in conversation with Director Cress and others.

The attention Violeta received was

no surprise; her status as

a rising e

star was evident. Even in the

subdued light of the corridor, her

beauty shone through.

The entertainment industry was rife with fleeting stars, but Violeta had achieved a level of success that many could only dream of.

Even if her rise was brief, it was a height that few reached.

Most actors would never experience the kind of breakthrough that catapults them into the limelight.

Polly's attention drifted to Nolan, and she noticed an unexpected softness in his expression. It was a side of him she seldom saw outside of filming.

An emotion she couldn't quite name stirred within her.

Violeta addressed Director Cress, "I shouldn't take up more of your time."

Director Cress nodded, "Very well. You're free to go."

With a polite nod, Violeta turned and made her way out of the studio.