Chapter 2043


    Chapter 2043


    Ivy took on the role primarily for the paycheck, never genuinely intending to be a celebrity. Yet, as


    she delved deeper into the world of showbiz, she began to grasp the reality of the industry and realized


    that this decision might just be a life-changer.


    Fear crept up on her.


    But then…


    “I’m in too deep to back out now, ready or not,” Ivy muttered, “I’ve signed the contract, and the penalty


    for breaking it is through the roof. I’m already drowning in debts; if I add a breach of contract fee to the


    pile, I’d be paying it off for the rest of my days.”


    “You know I’ve told you a thousand times, you don’t have to pay me back.” Balfour’s voice was gentle


    but firm. “As for the penalty fee, if you decide to drop out of the film, I’ll cover it.”


    Ivy was taken aback by his offer. Leaving the production had not even crossed her mind, but she could


    not let Balfour shoulder that cost even if she did consider it.


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    She already owed him more than she could bear; she could not pile on more.


    “No, Balfour. I appreciate it, but no thanks.”


    Having made up her mind, she smiled and said, “I promised Colton I’d see this movie through. I will live


    up to that promise, keep my word, and give it my all. Plus, the character of Valor is too captivating to


    just walk away from.”


    “Alright then.”


    Balfour had note to persuade her to quit. Seeing that she was not frightened off and was standing


    her ground despite the challenges, he did not press further.


    “I should get going. Remember, if you have any troubles, just call me.”


    His words were a promise that the Howard family had her back; for any problem she could not handle,


    Balfour would step in to


    sort it out.


    Ivy paused, touched by his offer. Though she did not dare to rely too heavily on his help, his support


    warmed her heart.


    “Thanks, Balfour,” she said sincerely.


    Without lingering, Balfour left after giving her a few more tips.


    As the door closed behind him, Ivy felt an unexpected tug at her heart, a wish to keep him with her a


    little longer. But knowing he had a mountain of work waiting for him, she did not want to hold him up


    and instead sent him off with a smile.


    After Balfour left, Ivy closed the door with a sigh. These were her battles to face, after all.


    She had barely sat on the couch when she noticed Balfour’s phone on the coffee table. His phone was


    undoubtedly crucial for him; she could not dy. Grabbing the phone, she dashed out.


    Worried about wasting his time, she kept her eyes glued to the elevator numbers, almost ready to


    sprint down the stairs.


    Exiting the elevator, she bolted out and raced toward the hotel entrance at breakneck speed.


    Upon reaching the door, Ivy froze, her gaze locked on the scene before her.


    Balfour had not left. He was standing right there, and in his arms was Giselle.


    Giselle rested against Balfour’s chest. Her head bowed, tears streaming down her cheeks, looking


    utterly forlorn.


    An ufortable feeling washed over Ivy. Just moments ago, this man had stood before her, offering


    care and assurance that she need not worry about anything, that he was there for her.


    But now, the very same man was holding another woman in his arms.