Chapter 30

The writer looked at me with compassionate eyes.

She was on the verge of tears, unable to believe that the character she had imagined for years had finally come to life.

"I might not have the authority to choose the actor," Celeste said confidently, "but all I can say is… I think you would be perfect for my Elara."

Gina, the vice director, nodded in agreement. "I don’t have much to say because your performance has exceeded my expectations, Mrs. Cole."

Still immersed in the character’s emotions, I tried my best to wipe away the tears in my eyes, but a bright smile had already formed on my lips.

"Thank you," I said politely.

Their compliments boosted my confidence and silenced the doubts that had been filling my head for the past few days.

Matthew clapped again, grinning. "I rarely compliment actors during auditions, but right now my mouth would itch all day if I didn’t say this—you’ve made me want to see this movie right now."

The producer, Diego West, couldn’t help but smile. "We can’t officially accept you yet, but just so you know, you’re definitely our top candidate."

"What do you think, Mr. Lloyd?" Diego asked Zephyr, who had been silent the entire time.

Zephyr leaned back in his chair. He rarely smiled at work, but when his eyes landed on me, the corner of his mouth lifted. "She’s perfect."

As the only one who knew about our relationship, Gina could only sigh inwardly and think, Our boss’s heart has been stolen.

"I think that’s all, Samantha," Matthew said with a smile. "We’ll contact you later with the results."

I nodded. My heart was filled with happiness and relief, but I knew I had to remain calm in front of everyone.

Their words meant a lot to me, but I couldn’t celebrate just yet—not before the results were confirmed.

"Thank you for your time," I said politely.

I gave them a smile before leaving the room.

"How’s the audition going?" a staff member greeted me as I stepped out.

I smiled back. "It’s great. Thank you for asking."

I no longer wore my mask, so everyone could clearly see that I was Samantha Cole.

The other auditioners could only sigh, knowing they didn’t stand a chance if I made a comeback.

But instead of resentment, I could see admiration—and even excitement—on their faces.

"Samantha! Are you making a comeback?" someone shouted from across the room.

Suddenly, two women approached me with a pen. "Samantha, we’ve been your fans since your first appearance. Can you sign our shirts?"

"Samantha, why did you decide to make a comeback?"

"What about your married life? Didn’t you say you wanted to focus on your family?"

"Samantha…"

People quickly gathered around me, bombarding me with questions until my head began to ache.

I appreciated their enthusiasm. It meant they still remembered me. But this… this was too much for someone who had been isolated for years.

"I appreciate your enthusiasm, but can you please give me some space?" I tried to politely push them away, but they only pressed closer.

My back hit the door just as it suddenly opened from behind me.

I braced myself for a fall—but instead, I collided with someone’s body.

The familiar scent of cedarwood filled my senses, grounding me instantly.

"If you don’t step back, security will escort you out," Zephyr said firmly, his voice commanding.

For some reason, the crowd immediately obeyed, as if they instinctively feared what would happen if they didn’t.

It was natural. As an Alpha, his presence alone was enough to make others freeze.

The crowd stepped back, creating a path for me.

"Wait for me in my office," Zephyr whispered.

I nodded and made my way through the crowd.

When I reached the elevator, I leaned against the wall and took a deep breath.

I had always been able to handle crowds before, but after five years of staying home, I felt overwhelmed.

For a moment, I wondered if I could really become a celebrity again.

No.

I immediately pushed those thoughts away.

If others didn’t doubt me, then I shouldn’t doubt myself.

I straightened my back as the elevator stopped at the top floor. The executive receptionist greeted me immediately.

"Good afternoon, Mrs. Cole."

I blinked in surprise. It felt like she had been waiting for me.

"May I go to Mr. Lloyd’s office?" I asked hesitantly.

The receptionist, Zoey Adler, smiled. "Of course, Mrs. Cole. Mr. Lloyd told me to let you in whenever you arrive."

I laughed softly. "Thank you."

I wanted to hide away from everyone as soon as possible, so I quickly went into Zephyr’s office.

But to my surprise, there was a large bucket of flowers and boxes of chocolates waiting for me behind the door.

I froze, my eyes widening at the sight.

I hadn’t expected something so… sweet.

I walked over and picked up a card from beneath the flowers. The handwriting made it feel even more genuine.

For someone who shines brighter than these flowers. Thank you for your hard work. - D

My heart fluttered.

I had received many gifts from Rowan before—but this was completely different.

Those gifts were empty, given out of obligation.

This… felt genuine.

The flowers and chocolates were so beautiful that tears filled my eyes.

Is this what they call tears of joy? I wondered.