SWNOVELS Chapter 156
Stewart’s smile widened upon recognizing her.
“We’re having a little crew gathering,” he explained.
Though Asher’s recent post hadn’t caused much online stir, it had certainly sparked discussion among the Blazing Sun team.
Elva had reignited the controversy over the leaked audition footage, shifting the blame onto the crew for the relentless backlash Sandra faced and the damage to her reputation.
Using this narrative, she pushed for additional screen time for Sandra.
While the team remained silent, it was evident that emotions ran high, and the atmosphere was tense.
Sensing the growing friction, Bart suggested a group dinner to rebuild camaraderie among the crew.
Attracted by the noise, Asher emerged, his initial frosty gaze sweeping over the group.
However, his expression softened noticeably upon spotting Elizabeth.
Walking up to her, he remarked, “You’ve finally arrived.”
Seizing an opportunity, Bart approached Asher.
“Oh, you’re here too, Asher.
Why not join us in our room?”
Asher had carefully planned this rare dinner with Elizabeth, determined not to let anything disrupt their time together.
Before he could decline, Godwin smoothly interjected with a polite refusal.
“Asher and Ms.
Elizabeth need to review the script, so they’ll have to pass.
Please, enjoy without us.”
Stewart chuckled knowingly.
“Ah, engrossed in the script, are they? That must make it awkward to join us.
Elizabeth is quite a skilled actress, and perceptive too.
Asher, you should guide her more—she’s brimming with potential.”
A faint smile played on Asher’s lips at Stewart’s praise for Elizabeth.
Reflecting on their previous collaboration, he replied, “Stewart, let’s arrange a separate time to have dinner together.”
In the entertainment industry, respect wasn’t solely a matter of age, and his gesture was a nod to Elizabeth’s standing.
Stewart sighed internally, recognizing Elizabeth’s value—a stark contrast to Sandra, who lacked talent and was propped up by connections.
Watching Asher’s and Stewart’s support for Elizabeth only deepened Sandra’s irritation.
She recalled an embarrassing moment when Asher had publicly declined to collaborate with her on a variety show.
During the broadcast, while Sandra praised Katrina’s talents, the host mentioned Asher’s admiration for Katrina, suggesting a potential collaboration to celebrate their mutual respect.
It was meant as a polite suggestion, one most would decline diplomatically if uninterested.
Yet, Asher had bluntly refused, noting that Katrina’s projects required a high level of expertise—a comment that left Sandra humiliated.
What did it matter if Asher was a top star? Faced with a powerhouse like Elijah, Asher seemed insignificant.
Sandra sneered disdainfully.
“Elizabeth, your luck is astonishing.
With Mr.
Rodgers as your benefactor and Mr.
Burton clearing his schedule for rehearsals, you’re set for stardom.
If everyone had such privileges, we’d be overwhelmed with celebrities.”
Her remarks insinuated that Elizabeth leaned on influential connections while mocking Asher’s submission to industry power players.
Asher’s face darkened with irritation.
He retorted, “It’s rare to find such a remarkable partner.
Some people fail to recognize genuine talent over mere mediocrity.
Honestly, I should thank the Blazing Sun team for overlooking Elizabeth—it gave me the privilege to work with her.”
His blunt response stung, offending the Blazing Sun crew present.
In his mind, they could criticize him, but they had no right to slight his idol.
Sandra, caught off guard by Asher’s blatant disrespect, fumed silently.
Elva, worried that Sandra might lose her temper, intervened.
“Mr.
Burton, it’s admirable to defend your colleagues, but your comments seem unnecessarily severe.”
Elizabeth, valuing Asher’s support, quickly interjected.
“Who started this demeaning conversation? Is it only the powerful who can speak without consequences? Did I miss the memo where Ms.
Sandra controls the entire entertainment industry?”
“If she wishes, even a rising star would bow, and a top-tier celebrity wouldn’t dare disrespect her!” Elijah’s voice cut through the tension as he suddenly appeared.