Chapter 58

Ethan stood in the conference room, flipping through the new product materials his team had prepared. His eyes scanned the advertisements and posters, but his expression quickly turned dissatisfied. "I don't like these models," he said, his voice firm. "They look so ordinary. Why would people buy our product to see them?"

The production manager, who had been waiting for feedback, spoke up. "We tried to get some of the top models, but they're all busy right now. It's hard to get their dates, especially given our company's current... situation."

Ethan's gaze snapped up, and he locked eyes with the manager. The unspoken truth hung in the air, and Ethan's face fell as reality hit him. He sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly as the weight of his company's struggles bore down on him. The manager looked down, avoiding eye contact, as if uncomfortable with the awkward silence that followed.

Ethan's gaze shifted to his assistant, Rachel, his eyes narrowing in annoyance. "Why is Lily not here in this important meeting?" he demanded, his voice laced with irritation. "After all, this mess was made by her. She kicked Sarah out from this project."

Rachel, sensing Ethan's growing anger, chose her words carefully. "She's busy with the production team, working on the project advertisement and photo shoot," she replied, her tone neutral.

Ethan's face darkened, his jaw clenched in frustration. He gritted his teeth, the sound audible in the sudden silence. "Working on the advertisement and photo shoot?" he repeated, his voice low and menacing. "She's more concerned with upcoming projects than fixing the mess she's created."

****

In the studio, the cameraman and the team were busy filming the product with model Natalia. She was stunning, with a youthful glow and a perfect body. However, as Lily watched the scene unfold, she couldn't shake off the feeling that something was missing.

Despite Natalia's beauty and professionalism, Lily felt unmoved. She watched for a few more moments, then suddenly stepped forward, her voice firm and commanding. "Wait, wait, stop the camera roll!"

The team froze, looking at Lily in surprise. Natalia paused, her eyes locked on Lily's.

Lily approached Natalia, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Natalia, we know you're doing your best, and you're beautiful—there's no doubt about that. But, you know, as an audience member, you failed to convince me that this product is really good for my skin."

The team gasped, exchanging nervous glances. The cameraman hesitated, unsure of what to do next. Natalia's face showed a mix of surprise and concern, her eyes searching for direction.

Lily's smile seemed to diffuse some of the tension in the room, and the team's shoulders relaxed slightly. "Look, you have to convince the audience, okay?" she said, her voice gentle but firm. "After our three product failures, we can't take a chance. The company's reputation is at stake."

Natalia nodded hastily, apologizing. "Yes, ma'am, I'm sorry. I'm trying to—"

Lily cut her off with a wave of her hand. "Wait, let me show you," she said, striding confidently in front of the camera.

The cameraman, lost in the moment, forgot to stop recording. The camera continued to roll, capturing every move Lily made. The team watched in silence as Lily took center stage, her presence commanding attention.

Mia watched her best friend with pride, a warm smile spreading across her face. Just then, Ethan walked into the room, but the dim lighting, with only the center light shining down on Lily, created a dramatic effect. Ethan's eyes were drawn to Lily, who was standing confidently in front of the camera, the product held elegantly in her hands.

As he watched, Lily's natural charisma and poise shone through, captivating Ethan's attention. He couldn't help but notice how radiant she looked, her features highlighted by the spotlight. For a moment, Ethan forgot about the tension between them and was struck by Lily's beauty and presence.

Lily stood confidently in front of the camera, the product held elegantly in her hands. With a warm smile, she began to speak, her voice filled with conviction.

"Imagine having skin that glows with health and vitality. Introducing our new skincare product, designed to nourish and protect your skin. With its unique blend of natural ingredients, this product will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple."

As she spoke, Lily's hands moved gracefully, showcasing the product's features. Her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm, and her tone was persuasive.

"Our product is not just a moisturizer; it's a skin rejuvenator. It will help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and leave your skin looking radiant and youthful. And the best part? It's suitable for all skin types."

Lily's passion for the product was infectious, and she seemed to genuinely believe in its benefits. She held the product up, and the camera zoomed in on it, highlighting its sleek packaging and natural ingredients.

"Try it for yourself and see the difference. Your skin will thank you," she said, her voice filled with confidence.

The camera captured every detail, from the product's texture to Lily's glowing skin. The team watched in awe, mesmerized by her presentation. Even Ethan, who had walked in mid-shoot, was impressed by Lily's conviction and charisma.

The director was stunned, his eyes wide with amazement. Lily had delivered the advertisement pitch without any script or prior dialogue, and yet, it looked incredibly believable. The way she spoke about the product, with such conviction and passion, made it seem like she truly believed in its wonders.

As she finished, the room erupted in applause. The team cheered and whistled, impressed by Lily's natural talent and charisma. Ethan, too, found himself clapping along with the others, a small smile on his face.

Lily smiled, looking pleased with herself, and walked back to Natalia. "See, it's all about believing in the product," she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "You have to feel it, not just say it."

Natalia nodded, looking inspired. "Thank you, ma'am. The way you did it, you have a natural quality of modeling and acting, ma'am. I thought you should be the one doing this advertisement."

The director, who had been watching the exchange, walked towards Lily and nodded in agreement. "She's right. You have a certain presence that would work perfectly for this product."

Lily shook her head, refusing the idea. "No, I'm not interested. I don't want to be in the advertisement."

But the director persisted, a persuasive smile on his face. "Ma'am, Natalia is young, but you... no one would guess you're in your late 20s. You look like a teenager. I'm requesting you, just for one product. You're perfect for it."

Lily raised an eyebrow, surprised by the director's flattery. She looked unsure, and for a moment, it seemed like she might consider the offer.