Gradually, Clarissa settled in to her busy life.
All this while, she had been writing novels, going out, and raising Damian. Having gotten used to the slow pace of life, she would sometimes ask herself what was the point of working so hard.
Nevertheless, she steeled herself and got back to work.
Leading a busy and meaningful life left her little room for ridiculous thoughts. Her priorities changed along with it. Matters which used to agonize her were considered trivial now.
For example, she used to care about whether the Tysons liked her. But now, it just felt like a waste of time.
Unlike before, she no was no longer concerned by the comments posted by trolls online, regardless of whether they were paid or not.
“Clarissa, the more popular you become, the more detractors you will have.”
When one’s fame rises, it would always attract jealousy and envy.
While editing the movie script, Clarissa realized that there were a lot of changes to be made from the novel.
As Mandy was one of the screenwriters, she began to make idle chatter in the midst of their work.
“Clarissa, you’ve changed a lot. You’re now an author, a screenwriter, a boss, and even a director… you’ve come so far in life that it makes me jealous.”
Taking a sip of water, she replied with a smile. “To be honest, it’s really because I have many capable colleagues. Without you and Yael’s support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Mandy added with a smile. “Mr. Tyson is the most important one of all!”
Clarissa nodded in agreement. “That’s true. He does deserve most of the credit.”
“You know what they say, ‘Behind every successful woman is a supportive man…”
Just when Mandy laughed heartily, the others began their chitter-chatter curiously. They wondered how much of what was written in the novel was true.
After all, the real-life love story of a rich and handsome president was definitely a crowd puller.
More importantly, the story would be made into a movie. The novel alone was a beautiful love story and the dream of every girl. Given that any girl who read the story would feel her heart elevated, the movie would be a smash hit if all ladies alone went to see it.
“Clarissa, was it really love at first sight between you and Mr. Tyson?”
In the story, Clarissa left out the part where she was drugged. Hence, the first time they met was when Matthew appeared at Ellie’s place while she and Ellie were chatting.
It was a friendly meeting and could be considered love at first sight.
Faced with the question, Clarissa felt embarrassed and couldn’t resist giggling.
“More or less. Actually, don’t take the story seriously and insist on linking it to me. It’s all fiction. You shouldn’t think too much of it.”
“However, it just feels like you and Mr. Tyson. There’s no way we can perceive it as an ordinary novel…”
“Clarissa, since there’s no mention of a wedding, have you and Mr. Tyson not organized your wedding reception yet?”
“Clarissa, you must have one. Will Mr. Tyson be giving you a surprise? In the event you have one, can I be your bridesmaid?”
“Clarissa, does Mr. Tyson tell you he loves you every day? That’s really romantic…”
Peppered with questions, Clarissa felt as if she was about to explode.
Moreover, these were just the questions from her colleagues. Without a doubt, the barrage of questions the netizens had after reading her novel would definitely be overwhelming.
When the time comes to promote the movie, I don’t think I can get away with not commenting.
Given that there would definitely be an avalanche of questions waiting for her, the thought alone caused Clarissa’s head to hurt.
However, there were still some ways to go before it happened. Hence, Clarissa cast the frightening images aside and focused on her script.
…
Since Shermaine was let out of prison, there was no way for her to go back.
Although she was on bail and there was a time restriction, a lot of strings were pulled behind the scenes.
James and his wife had spent a significant amount of effort to secure Shermaine’s release. Once she was out, it made everything else a lot easier.
However, Shermaine didn’t work at her dad’s company like how he told her to. Instead, she asked her parents for some time and space because she was still keen on re-entering showbiz.
Given how mentally fragile Shermaine was, Kayla didn’t force her. Instead, she allowed Shermaine to do whatever she wanted.
Since she intended to return to showbiz, James provided her with the financial support needed to rebuild her connections.
However, James’ money wasn’t the only reason Shermaine sailed smoothly in showbiz previously. Matthew’s influence was also a major factor.
Hence, without Matthew’s support and the fact that she was an ex-convict, no one dared to hire her even if they were paid to do so.
Shermaine didn’t blame James for the fact that he was powerless to help her. Instead, she contacted her friends from before regardless of whether they were sincere or fair-weathered.
She accepted however they treated her. In fact, she would interact with them cordially, as if she had become a totally different person.
And just like that, there were people who began to comment about her online.
I had assumed that Shermaine would remain arrogant. Unexpectedly, she seemed to have changed. She wasn’t just well-mannered, she even took all the insults thrown at her in her stride. To be honest, people do turn over a new leaf. Given how much Shermaine has changed and the fact that she had been punished, shouldn’t we give her another chance? After all, I can’t wait to see her act again. In truth, her acting skills are really good, certainly better than the starlets we get nowadays.
I agree with what the person above has said. We should focus on her acting. As long as it’s good, I can accept her.
Exactly. Just look at all those celebrities who are unfaithful and hooked on drugs. After some time, they return to the fold popular as ever. Furthermore, Shermaine has served her time in prison and repented. She certainly has shown more remorse than those who verbally claimed to have done so. Do support her, please. Hopefully, she would be able to start afresh and focus on acting.
Gradually, the wave of support for Shermaine online began to gain traction.
However, there were still many who objected. But they didn’t manage to turn the tide.
As time passed, Shermaine’s old movies began to garner attention. There were even movie critics who praised her for her performances.
At the same time, her fan base began to grow again. However, those that joined really liked her and didn’t care about her past.
Given the low-profile nature of the fan events, they began to grow organically instead of making a splash.
Consequently, Shermaine’s reputation began to climb gradually.
After all, humans were forgetful animals.
Time would wash away the sins of the past. As long as one repented, one would be given another opportunity.
“Shermaine, to be honest, it’s not going to be easy for you to rejoin the showbiz. Anyway, I have a suitable role for you, but it’s a minor one. If you are interested, I will give you the contact. However, if you don’t…”
“Sure, thank you.”
With a grateful smile, Shermaine accepted eagerly.
Given how humble she had become, no one could bear to bully or ridicule her anymore.
After receiving the contact, Shermaine continued chatting with her friend. Meanwhile, there were some other friends who joined them, and the topic of their conversation shifted.
“Recently, Clarissa’s popularity seems to be sky-high. I’m really envious of her for having such a wonderful husband who is supportive of her movie.”
“Me too. Her novels have always been excellent. Furthermore, this is an urban romance movie. Hence, I think it will definitely be a hit…”
“Exactly. I heard from my friend that Clarissa is in the casting process for the movie. Why don’t we give it a try?”
“Definitely! If we fail to land the lead, we could still be selected for a supporting role. Everyone expects the movie to sell out even before the shooting has started. Not because it’s going to be award-winning, but because it’s based on Clarissa and Mr. Tyson’s relationship. All the roles available look interesting…”
“You’re right…”
While they were discussing it excitedly, Shermaine hung her head in silence. Sipping her wine, she simply smiled as she listened to them.
“Shermaine, have you heard about the movie they are talking about? You can…”
Before the friend finished, it dawned upon her what Shermaine’s relationship with Clarissa was. Feeling awkward, she just wanted the ground to open up and swallow her whole.
However, Shermaine wasn’t the least bit offended. Instead, she replied, “Mmm-hmm, I heard about it and also think that it will be wildly successful. If it’s possible, I would like to join the audition too. It’s just that I’m not sure if they are willing to accept me.”
“Really? But you have turned over a new leaf. I’m sure they are magnanimous enough not to hold a grudge. Besides, you really are a good actress and second to none.”
“Not necessarily, I have not acted for a long time and still have a lot to learn. However, I will definitely attend the audition when the time comes. As of now, I’m going to seize every opportunity I can. Given that I’m starting afresh, I can’t be picky. All that matters is someone casting me…”
“Don’t be so hard on yourself, Shermaine. I’m sure you can make it…”
Shermaine’s humility triggered everyone into giving her encouragement.
Looking as if she was touched, her relationship with them gradually improved.
By the time Shermaine got home after the gathering ended, she went back to her usual routine, which was surfing for the latest news. Coincidentally, most of it was about Clarissa, her latest novel, and the contents of her movie.
Furthermore, as part of the publisher’s promotional tactics, they put out a short excerpt which by itself generated a significant amount of buzz.
Just as expected, many were waiting with anticipation.
Smiling, Shermaine was also one of them.
