Chapter 524

Olivia Sinclair was far from naive. Within moments, she detected the subtle tension in the air. It was their first day of filming, and none of the cast members had been properly introduced yet. While Olivia had managed to review the guest list beforehand due to her connections with the director, what about the others? Maybe it was just first-day jitters.

When the production crew discreetly asked if she needed clarification about the unfolding dynamics, Olivia shook her head with practiced grace. Asking questions now would appear unprofessional. The window for inquiries had closed. Besides, it seemed insignificant compared to the bigger picture. Hand in hand with little Isabelle, Olivia moved through the room, greeting each guest with genuine warmth.

Their arrival sparked smiles across the room, though not all expressions reflected genuine delight. Victoria Ellington and Miranda Graves stood apart, their stiff postures and guarded expressions setting them apart from the others. When Olivia's gaze landed on Miranda, recognition flashed in her eyes. Miranda was the young woman Olivia had encountered during her visit to the Montgomery estate with Alexander. At the time, Olivia had tried to offer sincere advice, but Miranda remained convinced she'd been deliberately deceived. That unfortunate encounter had left Olivia with reservations about Miranda's character.

Miranda recognized Olivia immediately and instinctively retreated behind Victoria, as if seeking protection. Victoria merely arched a perfectly sculpted eyebrow and struck a pose that radiated superiority, her protective stance toward Miranda speaking volumes about their alliance.

A bright-eyed college student approached Olivia with an enthusiastic greeting. "You must be the brilliant businesswoman everyone's buzzing about online. The media doesn't do your beauty justice. I've been following your negotiations with Sinclair Enterprises - your strategic moves are absolutely masterful."

The young woman had an infectious energy, with rosy cheeks and sparkling eyes that held a childlike wonder. When she smiled, deep dimples appeared, instantly brightening the atmosphere around her.

Flattered by the genuine compliment, Olivia returned the smile. "The media tends to exaggerate. It's lovely to meet you in person."

The girl's eyes widened in surprise. "I didn't expect you to be so down-to-earth! I'm Charlotte Bennett, a sophomore at Crestwood University. I'm here for the incredible learning opportunity. Everyone here is so accomplished - you're barely older than me, yet you've achieved so much!"

Charlotte's enthusiasm bubbled over as she continued showering the group with compliments. Olivia chuckled. "I'm actually quite a bit older than you look. I have a daughter."

"Isabelle, come say hello to everyone." Isabelle approached with a radiant smile, greeting each person with perfect manners.

Victoria, who had maintained a cool distance until now, visibly softened and gently brushed Isabelle's cheek with her fingertips. Miranda, however, remained silent, shrinking further behind Victoria.

Charlotte couldn't contain her excitement as she scooped Isabelle into an enthusiastic hug. "Oh my stars! You're absolutely precious! I've never seen such an adorable little angel. You're simply delightful!"

Completely at ease with the attention, Isabelle giggled in Charlotte's embrace. "When I grow up, I want to be famous like you! I'll light up the entertainment world and be as glamorous as you are."

Charlotte laughed and gently corrected her. "Oh sweetheart, I'm not famous yet! First focus on your studies. I'm at Crestwood University - maybe you'll join me there someday."