The Enticing CEO's Chosen Bride novel Chapter 2007

Cicely had always thought that Seth's "a while" meant just a few days, but three days had passed since her arrival, and there was no talk of going home.

Emiliana, busy with her latest acting role, hadn't been on set recently, but she was still keeping up with her shifts at the restaurant.

Sometimes, during the lunch rush, she'd play a couple of tunes on the piano, filling in for Cicely. Cicely would treat her to lunch in return.

Today, upon entering the restaurant at midday, Cicely noticed the waitstaff looked unusually grim. Knowing Cicely had been getting along with Emiliana, they approached her with hushed voices: "Cicely, Emiliana's been with the manager for a while now. Looks like she might be getting the boot."

Cicely frowned, confused. "What happened?"

The waiters shook their heads. "Not sure, but Emiliana seemed off from the moment she walked in. She missed a few notes while playing, and some patrons complained. Our clientele is pretty particular, and a mistake here and there is forgiven, but repeated complaints? The manager was livid."d2

Another server, who had been at the same get-together a few days earlier, joined the conversation with a worried look. "I heard that Emiliana's role got snatched by someone else."

Cicely's brows knitted together. It was clear to everyone that Emiliana had pinned all her hopes on this role.

"Weren't the roles already cast? Did some bigwig step in?"

The servers exchanged glances, a mix of anger and sympathy in their eyes. "In showbiz, what's abnormal has become the norm. Now, anyone can act, and if they're terrible, it's because some women have sugar daddies backing them. Poor Emiliana, even a minor role in the background isn't safe. With all the money those people have, why not fight for the lead roles? Just bad luck."

Cicely's expression darkened. "What's the name of Emiliana's production, and her character?"

"Don’t you remember? We talked about it at the party – 'Era of Elegance,' a period drama. Emiliana's character is named Sue, a clever maid close to the female lead's strategist. Though a servant, her intelligence is unmatched, and she meets a tragic end at the hands of the villain. It's the kind of role that wins audience's hearts and leaves them grieving."

Era of Elegance? Sue?

"I see." Cicely murmured thoughtfully, then headed towards the dressing room.

Upon opening the door, she found Emiliana sitting on the floor, leaning against the locker, lost in thought.

Hearing Cicely enter, Emiliana quickly stood up. "You're here."

Cicely walked straight up to her, stopping only inches away. She lifted Emiliana's chin, examining her face closely.

Emiliana, caught off guard by her sudden move, stammered, "Cicely, you—"

"Have you been crying?"

At Cicely's question, Emiliana pursed her lips tightly, barely holding back her tears.

"This face is still marketable. How about I become your provider?"

Emiliana's expression froze in surprise. "What?"

Cicely withdrew her hand and tossed her bag onto a nearby chair. "If it's really about money, I can get that role for you."

Emiliana was even more shocked.

Cicely smiled slightly, "Don't want to be with me? Then how about you consider me your 'fairy godmother'?"

Emiliana was still stunned. "Ci... Cicely? What are you talking about?"

"I'm saying I'm loaded. If this role truly hinges on financial backing, I might just sponsor you."

Emiliana paused, her eyes widening in astonishment. "You... no... that's not possible!"

"What's not possible? You think I can't do it?"

Emiliana shook her head. "Even if you could, it's not right. I can't repay you. I don't dare to take on too much. I live within my means and I don't want to be in debt. Being in debt feels terrible, especially when it's such a large amount."

"No investment, no return. In this business, financial intervention is the norm. Without backing, you're just waiting to be pushed out. Are you really going to let go of a role you worked so hard to get?

“Emiliana, no one's going to pity you. Roles aren't irreplaceable – if not you, then someone else. But miss this chance, and it won't come back. You won't find another me. Each choice is a crossroads in life; ambition is necessary."

Just like there wouldn't be another Seth. She wanted to secure her place by his side. Every step she took was aimed at that turning point. People always need to have ambitions, just like her now, getting what she desired.