Chapter 175 Perpetrate a fraud
Julia Weaver flipped through the document, the terms laid out clearly.
A ten-year contract entailing a ninety-ten profit share with the company, no scandals outside of company-arranged events, and a clause stating that all projects must be accepted without question.
The contract was domineering, almost draconian, making Julia hesitate a bit.
"Mr. James... don't you think that ninety-ten split is a bit low..."
"I only get ten percent, this..."
James lifted his eyes from the computer screen, comforting her, "Don't worry, the company covers all your needs—food, housing, clothing, transportation. We'll deliver the latest fashion, handbags, and luxury jewelry to your house every season on schedule."
"Oh, and I had someone purchase a place for you this afternoon, here's the key."
He paused momentarily, then pulled out another key.
"And this one's for your car."
The sudden influx of gifts caught Julia off guard.
"This..."
James smiled.
"You don't have to sign the contract right away. How about I show you your new place first? You're going to love it."
James led Julia out of the office and drove to an upscale gated community. There, security was tight with round-the-clock guards, ensuring privacy and keeping the paparazzi at bay.
With a click, James unlocked the door.
The two-story mansion, roughly three thousand square feet and fully furnished, was move-in ready.
"Check out the upstairs."
Julia hurried up the stairs.
"To your right is a walk-in closet."
She swung open the door.
It was filled with neatly arranged clothes fitting for all seasons, designer bags of all shapes and sizes, and a shoe rack that nearly touched the ceiling.
"Over here we have the jewelry," James tapped on the glass display, "Right now, LuxeLure is the hottest brand internationally. Unfortunately, their latest release is a limited edition—only fifty sets sold nationwide. The company managed to snag a few, but those went straight to our A-list talent."
Listening to James, a wave of envy surged through Julia.
It was clear what this was—
The best picks for others, and the leftovers to them, wasn't it?
"Thank you, Mr. James, I'm very pleased with all of this."
Julia's words did not match her inner feelings.
James was a veteran in the industry; he could see right through Julia's little scheme.
He added with a smile, "You know, these aren't bad either, Juliet Weaver. Put in a little effort, and maybe you'll receive the next new release at your place."
"Okay," Juliet Weaver replied obediently. "Mr. James, I'll sign the contract."
James leisurely passed the contract to her.
After signing, James spoke in a low voice, "Now, what you need to do is to keep a low profile."
"I'm aware of the stuff that's been happening in your live streams and your past. I'll have the PR team clean things up for you."
"For the next month or at least, no matter what's being said online, do not respond."
"Also, try not to go out much during this month. Just stay home."
"In one month, I'll show you a brand new... Juliet Weaver."
Listening to him, Juliet felt a surge of anticipation.
"Alright!"
That night, James posted a video.
The video only showed a woman's fair neck and shoulders, but her singing voice was captivating and melodious.
James commented: "Not bad at all, very appealing, she's got potential."
The reputation of James, the top-notch agent, was not for naught—the comments started pouring in once he shared the video.
"OMG, could this be James' new signee?"
"What kind of heavenly voice is this?! Way too delightful!"
"Who is this person?"
The comments piled up frenetically and approached the eight-thousand mark when someone finally hit the nail on the head.
"This has got to be... Juliet Weaver, right?"
Once the name Juliet Weaver was mentioned, the crowd went wild.
"How could it be her, don't joke around!"
"I also think it's Juliet Weaver. Doesn't Juliet sing with a mole on her neck? Haven't you guys noticed it? Plus, she sang this song in a live session before, but she just learned it so it was pretty average then."
"Wow, that mole's placement is spot-on!"
"No way, it can't really be Juliet Weaver, can it?"
"God, I never thought Juliet Weaver could sing so beautifully!"
"Is my Juliet about to blow up?"
James watched as the comments piled up like a mountain before directing the PR team to cease their manipulation.
"Didn't expect Juliet Weaver to still have some die-hard fans. Despite the blur, they're still here to support her. That's commendable."
"Mr. James, do we still need to pad the comments?"
James couldn't help but smirk. "No, let them talk. This is exactly the buzz we need."
"No need; too many likes will stick out like a sore thumb. This is enough. Oh, and could you have some of the first-tier stars share the post?" James paused before adding, "Especially Grace. She's with The Curtis Agency, carries more weight."
"Sure thing, I'll let Grace know."
At that moment, Grace was home chatting with her grandfather.
Her phone buzzed.
She flashed an apologetic smile at the old man, checked her phone, and shared the content without hesitation.
She didn't have much choice; she was under James's wing, and some orders just had to be followed.
"How come Luann and Myron haven't arrived yet?" the elder asked languidly.
Grace put away her phone and gently massaged her grandfather's legs. "No rush, Granddad. Maybe Luann Weaver is still getting the hang of her new role as Creative Director."
Vito Curtis nodded in agreement. "Fair point."
After a moment, he added, "But Grace, when you see Luann, remember to call her sister-in-law, alright?"
A muscle twitched in Grace's cheek.
At twenty-six, the idea of calling someone younger than her 'sister-in-law' was irritating.
Just then, the servants' voices were heard from outside.
"Master Myron, Mistress Luann."
With a yawn, Luann Weaver leaned heavily on Myron Curtis, practically being dragged in.
"Grandfather."
After Luann greeted him, she looked at Grace and said nothing.
Grace's brow furrowed slightly as Vito Curtis nudged her arm gently. He was fond of her but wouldn't stand for such disrespect.
So, Grace reluctantly stood up and said stiffly, "Brother, Sister... Luann."
Luann responded with a detached hum, while Myron outright ignored her.
Vito Curtis subtly cleared his throat. "Go upstairs and call down Alvin and Emma."
"Yes," a servant replied.
Behind a closed door, shouts and the clamor of a heated game erupted.
"Argh! I'm done for death...Get me a shield!"
"Dang it, I’m down! Bro, avenge me! Take him out!"
"What are you doing? Follow him!"
