Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 410 Aiming to Get Married

At present, Zelena is left to fend for herself. Her strategy of boosting her profile through reality television was proving effective.

While her commercial appeal couldn't quite match that of Violeta and her two companions, Zelena still managed to maintain a high level of visibility and buzz.

For entertainers, awards are not the sole measure of success; staying relevant and maintaining public interest are crucial.

Even if an artist doesn't win awards, they can sustain a career with strong public attention.

High levels of buzz are also essential for reaching the status of a top star.

Eugene inquired, "Could you give us a brief summary?"

Violeta smirked and said, "If Zelena were describing it, she'd probably claim that I've stolen 18 years of a glamorous life that was rightfully hers. She'll likely use this situation to stir up even more hype." Aster, listening in disbelief, asked, "What do you mean, stole 18 years of her glamorous life?"

Eugene frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Unfamiliar with the backstory between Violeta and Zelena, Violeta provided a brief overview of their bitter rivalry from their time at Toland University. Eugene and Aster were taken aback by the depth of their conflict.

Aster mused, "Hmm, it seems Zelena is quite suited for the entertainment industry. Those who are willing to employ any tactic often replace success." Eugene asked, "Violeta, why didn't you mention this earlier?"

Violeta shrugged. "There was never an opportunity to bring it up."

Eugene responded, "It's fortunate you mentioned it now. If she had plotted against us, we would have been caught off guard."

"We need to prepare ourselves for any potential scandals involving Toland University and the 18-year life swap. It's bound to cause a commotion."

With years in the industry, Eugene had seen plenty of jealousy, intrigue, and betrayal.

There were no permanent allies, only enduring interests.

Even among close friends, financial disparity could breed envy, let alone in the entertainment industry.

In the competitive world of entertainment, Violeta's success led to others hoping for her downfall.

"It's better to be proactive rather than wait for others to strike first."

"Aster, investigate any potential dirt on Zelena. Let's gather some leverage we can use if necessary, so she knows the consequences of cyberbullying." "We need to have some leverage over Zelena to protect ourselves."

Violeta had no objections to Eugene's plan but added, "And also look into Hattie. Their friendship is only surface-level."

The relationship between Hattie and Zelena was indeed complex.

When one was in a position of power, they would discard the other without hesitation.

When both were struggling, they would join forces to undermine others.

Violeta was aware of Hattie's future

Ra

plans. She aimed to secure a wealthy partner to facilitate Benson's return from abroad in few years. This was likely to lead to internal conflicts within the Ridges.

QUMS

Although Hattie, with her mother Hannah's support, held a comfortable position and appeared to hold no grudges, she was far from saintly.

If she harboured a dislike for someone, she would not hesitate to act out.

Currently, Violeta's success is so significant that Hattie can't do anything for her.

The entertainment industry and the fashion world had different priorities. While the former valued artistic achievement, the latter placed a higher emphasis on commercial success and influence.

Hattie envied Violeta's endorsements intensely.

Nevertheless, Violeta had won the Best Supporting Actress Award, and Hattie had nothing comparable.

Even though Hattie might aggressively pursue opportunities, brands tend to overlook her.

Recently, Tracy had faced online abuse, and Violeta suspected that Hattie and Zelena were behind it, possibly funding trolls to harass her.

This had nearly pushed Tracy to her breaking point.

While Violeta had been able to predict Zelena's moves during their university days, she was now uncertain about how many influential connections Zelena might have gathered in her favour. One thing was clear: Either Violeta or Zelena would have to exit the industry. It was a matter of who would be the first to bow out.

Eugene noted "Hattie's team is very

eager to ingratiate themselves with

brands. I suspect her ambitions lie

more in the fashion industry than in acting She's been pursuing ou resources quite aggressively

QUMS

"You're right, Eugene," Violeta replied with a light chuckle. "In fact, Hattie's ambitions go beyond the fashion industry. She's aiming to get married!"