Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 654 No Need to Maintain the "Pure" Image

Nonetheless, the film proved to be exceptionally crafted, featuring breathtaking landscapes that could easily be captured in stills, making for stunning wallpapers.

Consequently, the box office numbers remained impressively high.

Before its theatrical run concluded, it amassed over three billion dollars in revenue.

Hattie's performance garnered significant acclaim, thrusting her into trending conversations. As it was her first film, many were skeptical about her abilities, especially given that her earlier roles had been rather average. However, her portrayal in "Whisper to the Mountain Spirit" received outstanding reviews.

This achievement was primarily attributed to Hannah's close involvement, which included developing intricate backstories for her character.

A great deal of effort was dedicated to seamlessly integrating Hattie into the film's leading lady, resulting in widespread praise.

If "The Golden Ages" had also debuted this year, there was a possibility that the two films would vie for the spotlight.

At next year's awards ceremony, Violeta would be pitted against Hattie in a significant competition.

However, it was evident that Hattie wasn't focused on such matters. She had been preoccupied with chasing after money and had recently participated in an e-commerce livestream to promote various products. Initially, she had attracted a good number of quality followers from "Whisper to the Mountain Spirit."

Yet, due to Hattie's series of reckless decisions that tarnished her own reputation, it was only a matter of time before she faced a downfall.

Once Violeta returned to her duties, the company began reallocating resources back in her favor.

Evelina finally managed to replace a moment to relax and even visited the hospital for a stomach check-up, but the emotional burden weighed heavily on her.

It felt like there were no dark clouds over her while Violeta was away.

However, when Violeta returned, a shadow seemed to creep back in.

With a cake placed before her, Evelina could have indulged herself, but now, Violeta was the first to take a slice, leaving Evelina feeling disappointed.

Violeta wasn't being greedy; she was merely choosing her favorites, as her energy was limited. In contrast, Evelina forced herself to push through, even when she had no appetite.

Yet, many brands that had long collaborated with Violeta were bound by fixed contracts that Evelina couldn't easily take over.

The opportunities available in the company mainly involved scripts, commercial performances, filming, and appearances on variety shows.

Since her debut, Violeta had not participated in a single variety show.

On one hand, it was because she disliked them, believing that actors should maintain an air of mystery.

On the other hand, the world of variety shows was a paradise for Zelena.

The entertainment world was a haven for Violeta.

For Zelena, variety shows represented her safe space.

Just as Violeta had walked away from Marina Media without a second thought, she had no intention of glancing back.

Of course, she wouldn't give Zelena any chance to undermine her in a realm where she thrived.

At the end of the month, an online anniversary celebration for a brand was scheduled, and Violeta received an invitation to appear live for two hours.

Eager fans made reservations in anticipation of the broadcast's start.

Zelena was also invited to this anniversary event, which meant Violeta would be sharing the spotlight with her.

Although Zelena had been active in the industry for several years, she hadn't produced any remarkable works. Her fanbase was primarily built on her persona in variety shows.

Some fans cherished her bubbly and adorable nature; others admired ber sharp, confident aura; some were captivated by her looks; and many simply grew accustomed to seeing Zelena on their screens.

Additionally, she had a talent for comedy during her appearances.

While filming, she didn't come across as overly serious and was willing to take risks, which won her many fans.

However, in recent times, Zelena had started to intentionally flirt with the male guests on the shows.

It seemed she had accepted that her romance with Nolan would never materialize.

Previously, Zetena had resisted the producers' attempts to pair her with male guests for publicity because she genuinely desired a relationship with Nolan and didn't want him to view her as someone who would flirt indiscriminately.

BUT

But now that her chance with Nolan had vanished, she felt no need to maintain the "pure" image she had cultivated for him; sometimes, stirring things up was essential to keep her popularity alive and her name in the spotlight.

Recently, Zelena had been linked romantically with Wayne Rhodes, a well-known male movie star.

Wayne had achieved fame at a young age and was now in his 40s, a decade older than Zelena.

Having spent years in the public eye, he also held a significant position as the vice president of the Film Association, making him an influential figure among male actors in the industry.