Chapter 102: Connections and Conversations

An awkward silence descended upon the room as Beatrice's reminder of the media frenzy hung in the air. Mariana shifted uncomfortably in her seat, the weight of potential tabloid fodder settling on her shoulders. "So, does that mean everything I do will be twisted and turned by the media?" Mariana finally asked, a hint of worry lacing her voice. Beatrice chuckled softly, dispelling the tension. "Not everything, Mariana," she reassured her. "The media loves a good story, especially when they can manufacture drama. But in this case, there's no juicy narrative to be spun. You earned this role fair and square." Daphne chimed in, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Besides, wouldn't it be a more interesting story if you, the unknown newcomer, had to pay Beatrice a fortune to secure the role?" Beatrice let out a hearty laugh. "Now that," she admitted, "would certainly grab headlines. But the truth is far less sensational, my dear Daphne. Finding the right actress for this role proved to be