Chapter 525 Life-Size CutoutConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .
James looked surprised. "I didn't think you'd be interested in something like this."
Chloe simply smiled and didn't elaborate.
Later that night, back at Urban Lane, Candy, unusually skipping her usual return to Glory Villa, joined Chloe on the couch for a TV marathon. The drama featured the latest popular leads, both stylish and with pretty solid acting chops.
"Chloe, when did you start watching romance dramas?" Candy asked, puzzled.
She recalled that Chloe used to avoid them.
"Who doesn't like a handsome guy?" Chloe replied, her eyes twinkling as she watched the male lead on the screen.
It had been ages since she'd been a fan of anyone. Her last celebrity crush was back in middle school, when she was still a little starstruck.
"Chloe, you're not... interested in this actor, are you?"
Chloe took a bite of her apple. "Maybe a little."
She had first noticed this actor through the drama everyone was talking about. She'd done some research and found out he was quite hardworking. From behind-the-scenes clips and fan videos, it was clear he was dedicated. Although this wasn't his first big break, he was known for his versatility, a rare trait in the industry.
"If I remember correctly, he's with Bright Moon International, right?"
Chloe nodded.
Candy's eyes lit up with realization. "Oh, I get it now. No wonder you agreed to go to James' anniversary party. It's all for this young star."
Chloe grinned, not bothering to explain further.
Who wouldn't jump at the chance to see a star up close?
On the night of the anniversary party, James presented Chloe with a stunning gown that perfectly suited her grace and figure.
The dress, adorned with a Van Gogh painting, added a touch of artistic flair to her look.
As she walked beside James and spotted the massive portrait of herself displayed at the entrance, her lips twitched in shock. "Care to explain this?"
No one had mentioned that her likeness would be so prominently featured.
"As the head of the Security
Department, you've kept the
company safe. This is my waynet
honoring you. You're the hero of our company this year!"
Chloe raised a hand in protest. "Please, don't.
"Get that portrait down."
James shook his head with a grin. "Not a chance."
James had spared no expense on the life-sized cutout, and it hadn't even been on display for long.
Reluctantly, Chloe followed him into the banquet hall, which was awash with dazzling lights and filled with a sea of glamorous people.
Celebrities she'd only ever seen on TV were now right before her.
The sheer extravagance of the event was overwhelming, and Chloe felt like she was stepping into a glamorous dream.
Candy waved a hand in front of
Chloe's face. "Hey, wake up! The star
you're interested in hasn't shown
yet, so don't bother searching."
Chloe blinked in surprise. "How did you know?"
"I did a bit of homework before you got here."
Chloe felt a wave of gratitude toward Candy, appreciating her thoughtful gesture.
Wesley, standing quietly next to Candy, looked visibly relieved.
He had feared Candy might be moving on, but it seemed she was just helping Chloe.
Just then, Michael approached, and Wesley raised his glass in a sympathetic toast. With James' arrival, the party officially kicked off.
James took the stage and delivered a passionate speech that made everyone think he was about to make a big announcement, maybe even enlist in the military.
After a few dramatic coughs, James finally declared the party open and stepped down from the stage.
He strolled over to Chloe, glass in hand, and said, "There's a big shot over there who's eager to meet you."
Chloe raised an eyebrow. "What kind of big shot?"
"The kind who could make you a lot of money. Interested in going over?"