Chapter 256 The Moment of Truth
"Hmm," Hera mused, placing her fingers on her chin as she considered the Director’s suggestion. "Fine by me. But what would I get in return if my friend passes the screening?" Hera looked at the Director with a sly smile, like the cunning little fox she was.
Seeing her like that, the Director blinked a few more times before bursting into hysterical laughter at the audacity of someone asking him for a reward when even her manager couldn’t openly negotiate with him. "Alright, what do you want in return?" he asked Hera, his eyebrow raised, though his eyes remained stern and intimidating.
"How about this: if my friend manages to amaze you and you choose him, I’d like you to make him a star. But if we lose, I’ll give you the $100 million, and I’ll star in a music video of your choice. How does that sound?" Hera proposed, wearing a thoughtful expression.
"Well then, let’s consider everyone inside the recording studio as witnesses. Anyone who backs away will be kicked out of UE," he said nonchalantly, but his seriousness was palpable. He wanted to impress upon Hera that not everything was child’s play just because she had money and could do as she pleased.
For Hera, losing wouldn’t be a major loss since the money was Rafael’s, and gaining a favor with someone else’s money would bring her satisfaction. Even if she lost, starring in the music video would still provide exposure. So, she felt she could only win, regardless of the outcome—though not everyone would understand her perspective.
Hearing the Director mention the possibility of someone being kicked out of UE was enough to make Logan’s knees buckle. Outwardly, he kept his head lowered and fidgeted with his thumbs, his nervousness and fear palpable.
Even Betty grew apprehensive as she listened to both sides escalate their stakes. While Hera had a powerful backer, Betty wasn’t sure if this backing could resolve things if they went wrong. Despite this, she couldn’t dissuade Hera, who was known for her strong-willed nature and steadfast opinions. All Betty could do was purse her lips and hold her breath, uncertain of how things would unfold.
The Director passed the CD to his assistant so they could play it loud and clear for everyone to hear.
As the assistant placed the CD into the player, a palpable sense of nervousness and anticipation filled the air. Even the Director, despite trying not to show it, couldn’t help but feel the tension mounting in the room.
Moments later, a cool and refreshing voice resonated from the speakers. His tone was clear and evocative, carrying a range of emotions. It was accompanied by a melancholic melody and poignant lyrics that depicted a young man’s yearning to break free from the constraints holding him back, akin to a bird in a cage longing for the freedom of the open skies and lush landscapes beyond.
The song unfolded with a melodious beauty, its lyrics resonating with both profound meaning and captivating beauty. As the music filled the room, tears welled in everyone’s eyes, and goosebumps prickled their skin. The singer’s voice captured the raw emotions embedded in the song, evoking a poignant response that was undeniably moving and profoundly beautiful.