Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 553 Ambitions

"I have some exciting news, Vio. You're going to be an aunt soon. Elaine is expecting," Irene announced.

"Really? That's amazing! Mom, that's one less worry for you," Violeta replied, her face lighting up with delight.

Irene was overjoyed. As she approached retirement, she looked forward to spending time at home with her grandchild.

Niall, now in his thirties, was about to become a father, and the baby would surely become the Whites' cherished little one.

Violeta shared the enthusiasm, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new family member.

Filming was paused for the New Year, and the crew had set up a projector to show the Spring Gala.

Even though only a few people watched, the festive spirit was what mattered.

Wrapped warmly in layers, Violeta lounged on a chair beside Kaylee. Kaylee was munching on cashews while Violeta used her fan account to send gifts to her followers.

The sudden flurry of activity from her previously quiet supporters caused quite a buzz among her fans.

After sending out the gifts and exchanging New Year's wishes, Violeta quietly slipped away.

Kaylee commented, "Vio, I see Tracy is also performing in this year's Spring Gala."

Violeta glanced at the screen. "Oh, she is."

Tracy was performing with a group of sketch comedy actors. The performance was lackluster; the jokes seemed somewhat awkward.

Kaylee continued, "Her show, Sea Breeze, did really well. I heard you swapped scripts with her."

Violeta nodded. "Yes, the script was swapped with 'The Island"."

Kaylee sighed. "That's a pity."

Violeta shrugged. "That's how it goes-gains often come with losses."

Kaylee asked, "When is our film supposed to come out?"

Violeta replied, "I think it's set for National Day."

Although Violeta was taking a break from the big screen, she still had a film awaiting release, which was a rare opportunity for exposure.

Kaylee said, "I'm curious about how it will perform. I hope it does well."

While Kaylee wasn't overly ambitious, a successful film would help her gain much-needed recognition. Despite being in the industry for several years, she still hadn't landed a standout role. Violeta reassured her. "Don't worry; it won't be too bad. Kay, if the film does well, what's next for you?"

Kaylee smiled. "I'm not sure. I suppose I'll just keep acting."

Violeta probed further, "Don't you have any ambitions to win the Best Actress Award?"

Kaylee laughed. "Of course, every actor dreams of winning awards But it's not easy. I'm not expecting the Best Actress award-just getting Best Supporting Actress would be wonderful, haha." Narugi

As they chatted, Kaylee's phone rang.

She picked it up and saw a New Year's greeting along with a sizable transfer.

The sender's profile picture looked familiar.

Violeta glanced over and teased, "Wow, Zoren's quite generous. I should have him send money transfers in the group chat." Kaylee blushed. "Vio... "

Zoren's career was thriving, and his pet food collaboration with the family's chain stores was booming.

A small transfer was nothing for him.

Violeta stirred up the group chat, urging Zoren to send money transfers.

Before long, Zoren joined the chat, typing, "Vio, do you really need these small amounts from me?"

Violeta responded, "Of course! Who wouldn't want a bit more money?"

Prompted by Violeta's playful nudging, Zoren sent a money transfer to the group chat.

Thinking it was boring to do such a thing alone, he tagged several others.

"Hey, hey, hey, stop being so quiet. Get in here and send some money transfers too!"

At Hillside Villa, situated at the foot of a picturesque mountain, Jasper reclined in a chair, engrossed in his phone.

Evelina, wearing an apron, meticulously arranged a fruit platter.

She skewered toothpicks into the apples, then glanced at Jasper, who was absorbed in his phone. She pursed her lips and approached him with the fruit.

"Jasper, would you like some fruit?" she asked gently.

Jasper didn't look up, still focused on his phone. "Just leave it on the table."

Evelina set the platter down,

hesitating as she tried to replace the et

right moment to speak. Jasper's indifference made it challenging to start a conversation.

Taking a deep breath, Evelina sat down next to Jasper. "Jasper." "Hmm?" he replied, barely glancing up.