Chapter 239: I'll Kill You
After a protracted silence, Christopher finally spoke, his voice barely audible. "Hurt?"
I shook my head gently. "It hasn't hurt for a long time."
Christopher shook his head in return, his expression earnest. "No, I mean, did it hurt then?"
I licked my lips, recalling the moment. "It was bearable. That wasn't the most painful thing I've endured."
Christopher's voice grew thick, almost nasal. "I remember you were scared even of needles during blood tests."
I chuckled softly. "I used to be afraid of pain, but not anymore."
Life had put me through so much that physical pain now seemed like the simplest, most straightforward experience. It no longer held the same terror.
During my deepest bouts of depression, shortly after arriving at Fantasia Federation, I had secretly stopped taking my medication. My emotions ran wild, rendering me numb to pain. Before I could even register it, the blade had already sliced my skin.
As I reflected, the car smoothly came to a stop at the parking corridor. The driver stepped out to open my door. I gathered my handbag, lifted the hem of my dress, and got out. Looking back at Christopher, I said, "Thanks for the ride. I'm off to find Ms. Ortiz now."
Without waiting for a response, I strode away in my high heels, a sudden realization dawning as I turned. I was no longer who I used to be.
Entering the banquet hall, I scanned the elegant crowd. Most were recognizable celebrities and directors, though a few fresh faces hinted at new stars being groomed by notable patrons.
Madison stood casually with a wine glass in hand, her unassuming spot surprisingly crowded with admirers. She had been watching the entrance and quickly spotted me. "Hope, over here!" she called out, waving.
I approached with a smile. "Ms. Ortiz," I greeted her, finally noticing her dress in detail—it was one of my designs for Fashion Week. "This dress..."
Madison gave a casual smile. "That's right! It's your design. It arrived from overseas just yesterday. How do I look?"
I admired her sincerely. "It fits perfectly!"
A nearby woman, whom I didn't recognize, chimed in. "Ms. Ortiz, is she a fashion designer?"
Madison laughed, draping an arm around my shoulder. "What do you think?" she teased, before formally introducing me. "Juniper went to great lengths to bring this genius designer back from abroad for me—Dave's student, Hope Royston."
Her introduction was strategic, allowing curiosity to build before delivering the details, subtly elevating my status through her words.
Actress Patricia Torres, gave her a playful look. "Madison, I knew your dress today was above your usual style. You've found such an amazing designer and didn't introduce her to me? Planning to dazzle us all on the red carpet at the end of the month?"
Clearly, Patricia and Madison shared a camaraderie that permitted such banter, something few dared with Madison.
Madison raised an eyebrow. "It's not too much to shock you once in a while. But I'm not hoarding her services. She takes orders—but be warned, it's not cheap."
For an actress of Patricia's caliber, money was a mere formality. Madison's subtle introduction was only to smooth my passage into this glittering world. Almost immediately, Patricia exchanged contact with me.
I glanced at Madison with gratitude, but before I could express it, Patricia playfully patted my shoulder. "Hope, I rarely see Madison vouch for anyone. Spill, are you her secret love child?"
Madison, with a mock exasperation, lightly tapped Patricia's head. "Patricia! I have half a mind to believe you're the source of those scandalous rumors about me."
Just then, Christopher approached, wine glass in hand, his gaze occasionally drifting toward me. "Ms. Ortiz, it's been ages."
Madison, perceptive as always, noted Christopher's interest but didn't call it out directly. "Mr. Valence, I didn't expect you here tonight," she remarked, curiosity lacing her words. "When did the show business catch your eye?"
Christopher's smile was composed. "I'm looking for potential investments. Just wondering if you are open to collaboration?"
The implication was clear: RF Group sought a foothold in the entertainment world. Christopher was extending Madison the courtesy of prior notice, respecting her veteran status.
Madison's smile widened. "Mr. Valence, you're too kind. Every industry has its nuances and skills."
Watching this interaction from afar, Sarah seethed. Madison was laying down red carpets for Hope, and even Christopher seemed captivated. She wondered resentfully, Why her?
As Juniper exited the restroom, she noticed Sarah nearby. "Sarah, why don’t you join us? Your mother was asking for you."
Sarah clutched her stomach theatrically. "Juniper, I suddenly feel unwell. I need to use the restroom."
Juniper nodded, concerned. "Alright. Call me if you need anything."
"Sure," Sarah muttered, hurrying into the restroom.
Inside, she leaned against the door, opening her palm to reveal a small packet of white powder. Her phone's sudden ring startled her. She glanced at the caller ID and smirked. "Hello, are you here?"
A cold male voice responded, "Something came up. I can't make it. Is Jerry with her today?"
Sarah frowned. He cared so much about Jerry! It must be jealousy.
Yet, she knew how she'd secured her current status. Smothering her irritation, she replied, "No, it's Christopher."
"Christopher!"
"Yes."
"I see."
Sarah pressed on, "Should I do anything?"
The man's tone turned dangerously low. "What are you plotting?"
Sarah persisted, "She's always with Jerry or Christopher. Doesn't that anger you?"
The warning was icy. "Stay out of it. Remember your place. If you harm her, I'll personally ensure you regret it."
Despite their long acquaintance, his threats chilled Sarah to the bone. "I didn't mean any harm. I understand." She compliantly answered and ended the call.
After composing herself, she exited, heading back to the banquet hall. Passing the beverage area, she hesitated, summoning a waiter and pointing to a glass of juice. "Deliver this to the lady in the mermaid dress near Ms. Ortiz."
"Certainly," the waiter nodded.
Sarah watched him walk away with satisfaction. That packet of powder, procured with such effort, was about to yield results.
Christopher's interest in Hope? Sarah didn't mind lending a hand. When Christopher realized her "help," he'd surely be grateful.
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