Helen smiled, making a conscious effort to acknowledge everyone around her.
As she turned, she spotted Mia approaching with Arabella.
"Ms. Terzian, I loved your original novel! I wish you continued success with your writing!" Arabella said, extending her hand for a shake.
"Thank you! With you as my female lead, I'm sure the audience will love it," Helen replied sincerely.
Having navigated the ups and downs of the entertainment industry, Arabella perfectly embodied the tenacity and determination of the novel's protagonist. The director clearly had an eye for talent.
Helen subtly glanced at Mia, who stood quietly behind Arabella. In the three months since they last met, Mia had grown into her role, exuding the confidence and poise of a seasoned agent.
Mia must have put in significant effort to help Arabella secure this role.
"Your agent looks quite young, Ms. Beaumont," Helen remarked boldly, her gaze fixed on Mia.
"Thank you for the compliment, Ms. Terzian," Mia replied with a delicate smile, her response impeccably poised.
Helen felt a surge of satisfaction. "I won't hold you any longer. Afternoon tea is on me, everyone! Keep up the good work!"
"Thank you, Ms. Terzian!"
With that, the professional crew moved ahead in an organized manner.
An hour later, Helen stood in front of the screen, intently watching the actors' performances and their emotional intensity.
After the scene wrapped up, she made her way to the staff area to grab a refreshing cup of lemonade. Once she finished it, she settled into a chair, enjoying the warmth of the sunlight.
Just as she was about to doze off, she felt the light above her soften. When she opened her eyes, she found herself staring into Chandler's warm, tender gaze.
Startled, she jumped up and quickly stepped back, putting some distance between them.
Helen sighed, a trace of frustration in her voice. "What's happened can never truly vanish; it simply exists in another form. Loving someone is most meaningful when you can support each other. If that's not possible, then forgetting each other isn't so bad either."
"But some stubborn people can't forget, and they don't know how to let go," Chandler said, taking a step closer.
Helen stepped back, increasing the distance between them. "I'm afraid they'll only end up exhausting themselves. Mr. Newton, you don't strike me as someone who complicates his own life."
"Are you hoping I'll forget the past, Ms. Terzian?" Chandler asked, his gaze steady.
"I'm just a novelist, for goodness' sake. You need to chart your own course, Mr. Newton. And just so you know, the men's lounge is at the other camp across the way; I hope you won't get confused again next time."
With that, Helen hurried toward the lounge, eager to distance herself from him.
She effectively disappeared for the rest of the afternoon, determined to avoid any further interaction with Chandler.
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