His offer startled me. I recalled that winning the show meant a starring role in a drama. Did he think I was doing this for acting?
Since when did he care about me?
I studied his expressionless face and replied flatly, "Thanks, but I want to improve my acting skills through this show."
Christian's face twitched slightly at my response, and after a moment of silence, he asked, "Do you have acting skills?"
His condescending tone annoyed me, and I shot him a sidelong glance, retorting, "None of your business."
Since that day, Christian had stopped sending anyone to find me, seemingly forgetting his promise to my father to take me to the company daily.
But I was too focused on the crucial moments for the male and female leads to pay him any mind.
On the day the show started, the female lead, an amateur, quickly drew attention with her impressive acting and joined the male supporting actor, Raphael's team.
Meanwhile, I lacked her charisma and experience, earning the lowest score. Fortunately, my prior investment in the program saved me from elimination.
As I pondered which team to join, Raphael unexpectedly chose me.
Surprised, I met his calm gaze.
His eyes were steady, making me wonder if he had missed my poor performance.
Then, he smiled lightly at me.
Raphael's smile made me question everything, and I searched my memory for any crossover between us in the novel, ultimately finding none.
Uncertain of Raphael's motives, I was nonetheless pleased to be on the same team as Elsie and him, which would help with our mission.
After leaving the program building, I spotted Christian waiting in his car.
Sitting in the car, I felt a weight on my legs. It was a bag of my favorite chocolates.
As I reached for one, I noticed his careless smile.
I unwrapped a chocolate and offered it to him, saying, "Here, I'll give you one."
As expected, I saw his brows furrowed tightly the next second. "You're the only one who likes this sweet, cloying snack."
I rolled my eyes and bit into the chocolate, its sweetness lifting my spirits.
Reflecting on the past, I remembered how I had to follow Christian for the mission. Whenever he ignored or rejected me, he'd ask someone to buy me chocolates.
Eventually, everyone learned of my fondness. When Christian impatiently rejected me, his friends would take out a piece of chocolate and comfort me, "Don't feel bad. Christian is just like that."