Vivian knew that one of her biggest failures in her previous life was her complete reliance on Nathan's resources. This time, she would create a path independent of him.
She looked at the script again. It was for The Burning Winter, a film directed by one of the most respected and impartial figures in the industry, Li Lin. If she could land the lead role based solely on her ability, Nathan would have no leverage over her.
Closing the script, Vivian's gaze hardened.
"This time, no one will pull my strings."
She stood by the window, the sunlight warm on her skin, but her expression was cold and resolute.
"Nathan Reid, Emily White… This time, you can plot and scheme all you want, but you'll never control me again."
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Vivian Lin stood in front of the mirror, silently gazing at her reflection. Her younger, more familiar face stared back at her. This face had once been praised as a "natural screen star," yet it was ultimately ruined and discarded like a broken doll.
But this time, she would wield it as her weapon, tearing apart those who had used her.
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The audition hall was bustling with activity. Aspiring actors gathered in groups, chatting and exchanging nervous laughs. Vivian sat in a corner, quietly flipping through her script. The cacophony around her felt distant, like an echo of her past life.
"She'll probably get the role if Nathan Reid is backing her."
"Backing? He's probably laying the groundwork for her career, just like he does with all his protégés."
The murmurs were familiar, almost laughable. Vivian's lips curled into a cold smile.
"Backing me?" she thought bitterly. "This time, I'll pave my own way."
When her name was called, she stepped into the audition room with measured confidence.
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The audition proceeded flawlessly. Vivian's performance was precise, with every line and gesture infused with emotion. She felt the subtle shift in the room, sensing the impressed silence from the judges, especially Director Li Lin.
As she exited, a familiar figure waited near the door.
Nathan Reid.
Standing tall in his tailored suit, he exuded the same air of effortless charm as he had in her previous life. His gentle smile was disarming, his voice warm as honey.
"Vivian?" he called, feigning surprise. "I didn't expect to see you here."
Vivian turned, her expression perfectly controlled. "Mr. Reid," she said, her tone polite yet distant. "I didn't realize you were involved with this production."
"I'm just here for some investment discussions," Nathan replied casually, his gaze lingering on her. "But I heard you were auditioning. How did it go?"
Vivian allowed a faint smile to cross her lips. "It went well, I think. The director seemed satisfied."
"Of course he was," Nathan said smoothly. "With your talent, I'm sure you'll get the role. If you ever need any help or advice, you can always come to me."
Vivian glanced at the coffee cup he handed her, the same gesture he had used to start her downfall in the previous timeline. She accepted it, her fingers brushing against the warm surface as her lips curved into a smile.
"Thank you, Mr. Reid," she said softly. "I'll keep that in mind."
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That evening, Vivian met Kevin Zhou in a discreet hotel meeting room. He was already seated when she arrived, his expression skeptical.
"You really intend to keep working with Nathan Reid?" Kevin asked bluntly, his brows furrowed.
"On the surface," Vivian replied, taking a seat across from him. Her voice was calm, but her eyes gleamed with icy determination. "I need his trust and resources. But beneath that, I'll dismantle him piece by piece."
Kevin leaned back, his expression darkening. "You know this is dangerous. He's not just another investor."
"That's exactly why I have to do it," she said, her tone unwavering. "He used the same tactics to destroy countless others in the industry. This time, I'll use his own tools against him."
Vivian reached into her bag and pulled out a folder, placing it in front of Kevin. "These are documents on one of his subsidiary companies. It's new, and I suspect it's being used for money laundering. I need you to investigate this and confirm my suspicions."
Kevin flipped through the papers, his brows lifting slightly. "How did you even get this?"
"In my previous life, he once let something slip. It was a small detail, but enough for me to connect the dots. I've already pieced together the rest—you just need to verify it." Her voice was steady, her conviction unshakable.
Kevin studied her for a moment before nodding. "Fine. I'll look into it."
Vivian's lips curved into a faint smile. "Good. While I keep up appearances as his obedient protégé, you'll find me the cracks in his empire."