Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 424 Exposure

Did Hattie really think she could threaten her?

How laughable.

Zelena had the Blake family's backing. Even if things went south, she was still a wealthy young lady who could live comfortably even if she retired from the entertainment industry. But Hattie?

She carried a lot of baggage, not to mention her unsavory background as an illegitimate daughter.

If that were exposed, her fanbase would be shaken to the core.

However, this matter couldn't be easily exposed. Once it was out in the open, the consequences would be far-reaching.

After all, the Ridge family was one of the prestigious families in Quinston, with considerable influence.

This was a scandal involving a prominent family.

Hannah has been in the entertainment industry for many years.

If Zelena exposed this, she could kiss her career goodbye.

Many veteran artists in the industry, though publicly unmarried, weren't truly single.

Most were secretly married or had illegitimate children abroad.

When Hattie debuted, she did so under the title of a second-generation star. Her mother was Hannah Leid, but her father's identity was only disclosed as a wealthy businessman.

As for who this wealthy businessman was, many in the industry knew. But no one wanted to be the first to expose it.

Zelena's threat to Hattie was just to keep her in check, not to truly expose her background.

The call ended abruptly.

Hattie was furious.

"Zelena is playing a dangerous game."

Her assistant wrung her hands. "What should we do, Hattie?"

Hattie's eyes narrowed. "She won't dare say anything."

But Zelena's audacity was a problem. Hattie decided to inform Hannah.

Hannah listened, then frowned. "Weren't you and Zelena friends? Why is she suddenly trying to steal your role?"

Hattie rolled her eyes. "Because I took the script for 'The Moon Belongs to You' from her when 'Blind Detective' fell through."

Hannah's memory was jogged.

"Ah, yes. But didn't she film 'Spring Isn't Blooming' after that?"

Hattie sighed. "After my debut, I was too busy to help her. I didn't connect her with anyone or take her calls. Maybe she's holding a grudge."

Hannah chided, "Hattie, haven't you

heard the saying 'help someone to the end'? You should have helped her secure the role in 'Spring Isn't Blooming' after taking her script. Otherwise, of course, she'd hold a grudge." t Narugi

Hattie hadn't considered that at the time.

She hadn't expected Zelena to land a role and debut successfully.

"Mom, it's too late for regrets. What should we do now?"

Hannah advised, "In this industry, it's better to have one more friend than one more enemy. Even if you didn't want to help her, you should have at least pretended. Learn from this!"

Hattie nodded reluctantly.

"I understand. Mom, Zelena's trump card is getting her family to invest. How about you invest in me?"

Hannah immediately refused. "Where would I get that kind of money?"

Being a celebrity might seem glamorous, but the expenses were high.

Hannah had saved some money over the years, but she couldn't guarantee 'The Chosen One' would be a hit, so investing was a risk she wasn't willing to take. She wasn't fond of spending money without a guaranteed return.

Moreover, Hannah's lifestyle was expensive. She was used to spending lavishly.

When she was younger, the industry wasn't as lucrative as it was now, and the pay was low.

Now, artist fees and appearance rates were high, but she was older and couldn't compete with the younger newcomers. Her connections were her only advantage. Hattie suggested, "Then how about asking Dad to invest?"

Hannah scoffed. "He might be

willing, but he wouldn't dare. If that old hag at home replaces out he's giving you money, our chances of returning to the Ridge family are over.

"Besides, the recent difficulties in securing fashion resources are her doing. She is already becoming suspicious of us."

Hattie grew increasingly disheartened. "Then what can I do? Just watch Zelena take the role?"