Ch. 1151..1160
Chapter 1151 Who Is Tessa Reinhart?
The staff employee had no intention of providing more information. This led Leah to believe that he had simply miscounted. Moreover, the person who had the last private room was undoubtedly less famous than her but had deceitfully taken her dressing room through a sneaky ruse.
However, Tessa was unaware of this fact. She sat in her chair in front of the dressing table while her team applied her makeup. Suddenly, her phone began to ring next to her, and she looked down to see a message from Nicholas.
‘I’m on my way. I’ll be there shortly.’ When Nicholas learned she would be filming today, he planned to accompany her. A warm grin broke out on her face as she read the message.
She sat there with her phone in her hand and typed away with her long, slender fingers. ‘Okay. I’ll be waiting for you.’
Unexpectedly, the door behind her slammed open with a loud bang as she sent the message.
When they turned around, they saw a woman who appeared to be wearing a lot of makeup standing in the doorway. It was Leah and her team; they were the ones who had been shouting outside. There were even staff employees from production standing behind her.
Tessa showed a frown of displeasure. In addition, dissatisfaction shone on Alice’s face as well.
As Alice approached the newcomers, she gestured for Tessa’s team to keep doing what they had been doing. “What’s going on?”
“Please accept our apologies. Miss Stone was adamant about barging in.” The production staff employee immediately apologized and stated the reason for the intrusion.
Alice’s face clouded over.
After the staff employee noticed that she had an icy expression on her face, he quickly turned back to Leah and said, “Well, Miss Stone, you have looked at the room now. Let us leave now. This is not a place you can just barge into.”
After all, the occupant of the dressing room was not someone he could afford to offend.
Still, Leah did not share his concern and condescendingly corrected, “Why can’t I? Who is Tessa Reinhart? I’d never heard of her before. Why does she have a private dressing room while I don’t?”
Her anger intensified when she saw how lavishly the room had been decorated. The dressing room was rightfully hers, but some random person had occupied it instead.
The staff employee gaped. He was shocked that Leah did not know who Tessa was. “Do you not read the news? Miss Reinhart has been going viral lately. Everyone has been talking about her on the news. Do you actually not know who Miss Reinhart is?”
He was not the only person who was surprised. Alice and Tessa were shocked to hear that as well.
While Tessa did not think she was someone everyone should know, a celebrity should always pay attention to what was going on. Since Leah Stone was a celebrity, it was logical to expect her to know who Tessa was.
Unbeknownst to them, Leah had been filming in an area with no signal, and she had just finished filming today. Hence, she was unaware of the factors contributing to Tessa’s popularity.
When Leah sensed the shocked gazes, she arrogantly raised her eyebrows. “What? Is she popular?”
When she looked at Tessa, jealousy flashed in her eyes. The woman Leah beheld was the embodiment of all her unattainable ideals; she was as fair as snow and delicate as a porcelain doll. For years, she had stayed up late for filming, and as a result, no matter how well she took care of her skin, it would never be as flawless as it could have been.
In that instant, Leah was set in the assumption that Tessa was a new actress who was only famous because of her good looks and gossip articles.
An instant huff of disdain escaped her lips. “I don’t care how famous you are; according to the standards of this industry, a newcomer like you ought to be stooping down and making way for me.”
When the staff member heard that, his head began to pound. In his opinion, Leah was incomparably arrogant. How dare she issue a threat without identifying herself with the person she speaks with!
“Miss Stone, please stop fooling around. Filming is about to start. Please head back to your room and get ready.”
Chapter 1152 Respect
The staff employee tried to drag Leah out of the room, but she dodged his hand. She exclaimed, “Don’t touch me! There is no way I will share a dressing room with anybody!” Rejection was painted all over her face.
Annoyed by her attitude, he gave up on helping her out of the hole she was digging for herself. Then, he berated, “Miss Stone, do you know whom you are talking to? She—”
“I don’t care who she is. Despite my experience, I am considered less than a newbie in the production’s eyes. I do not even have my own dressing room. Who do you think I am? Well, I am telling you that I like this room. Tell her to leave immediately!” She was so arrogant that she did not even wait for him to finish before making her demands known.
Alice was not happy to hear that. Tessa raised her eyebrows as well. Leah is here to actually kick me out! Then, she glanced at Leah in the mirror while remaining where she was. Alice will be able to resolve this problem. Seeing how calm Tessa was, her makeup artist continued to work.
Alice stepped forward with a smile that did not reach her eyes. “Miss Stone, I am Tessa’s assistant. This dressing room was assigned to us by the production team, which means it is ours now. Don’t you think you are being rude by barging in like this?”
Leah sensed that she was being patronized when Tessa refused to leave her seat and instead sent an assistant to speak with her.
“What? You are not even famous, yet you are throwing your weight around? Don’t you know you have to respect your seniors?” She ignored Alice and directly spoke to Tessa as contempt blazed in her eyes.
Alice’s face darkened when she saw Leah’s continued brazen behavior. “This has nothing to do with you. Please leave right away.”
“Why should I leave?”
Leah crossed her arms before her chest and smirked at Alice. “You should be the ones leaving.”
Hearing that, Alice decided to save her energy and direct her response to the staff employee instead. “The production assigned this room to Tessa,” she said with a cold huff. “Well? What is your response to this?”
“The room is Miss Reinhart’s, Miss Alice,” he replied. “I will get Miss Stone to leave right now.” The staff employee smiled apologetically when he saw how angry Alice was.
When he turned to Leah, he coldly barked, “Miss Stone, please leave. You have severely distracted them from their preparations.”
“Why should I leave? This dressing room should have been mine in the first place. What right do you have to give it to some nobody? They are the ones who have to leave!”
Leah shouted in anger. By then, his face was also twisted into an unpleasant look of fury.
As for Tessa, she merely narrowed her eyes as she guessed what was going on.
Leah was deliberately picking on the weak. After all, the other private dressing rooms were occupied by other famous celebrities. She would never dare to anger them. Still, her stubborn behavior was quite repulsive.
“Miss Stone, as my assistant said, the production team assigned this room to me. Please learn to respect others. Your crude behavior is a disgrace.” Tessa waved for her makeup artist to stop, then stood and turned around to glare at Leah.
Perhaps, she had subconsciously picked up some behaviors from Nicholas after spending so much time with him, but a solid and powerful aura was currently radiating from every pore in her body. Everyone looking at her felt a wave of oppressive energy bore down on them.
Even Leah was shocked. When she snapped back to her senses, she was embarrassed by her reaction. She had actually been frightened by a newbie. Moreover, she would be laughed out of the industry if anyone heard about it.
“What a joke,” she said, scoffing. “You are a newbie. How can you speak of respect to me? Do you even know the rules of the trade?” Leah shot Tessa a disdainful look and would make Tessa know how respect worked in the entertainment industry.
Chapter 1153 Evan Doncan
While Leah expected a specific reaction from Tessa, she got something entirely different. Tessa replied, “I don’t know what the rules are, so I just obeyed what I have been told.”
Her patience was wearing thin, so she turned to command Alice, “She is too noisy. Send her out, Alice. I still have to get changed.”
“Got it.” Alice nodded and turned to the hair and makeup team. “Get these people out of here,” she ordered. Leah’s face immediately darkened when she heard that.
“How dare you kick me out!” Her bark was directed at Tessa. “Why wouldn’t I dare?” Tessa coldly shot back. “This room is mine, after all!”
Leah was beyond herself with anger when she saw how blunt Tessa was with her. “Let us see just whose dressing room this is!”
She then sat down on the couch. With her arms crossed before her chest, she started threatening the production staff employee. “You have two choices; kick this woman out, or I will not attend the filming.”
The staff employee was already angry at Leah for the trouble she was causing and for being late to rehearsal. Now that he was being blatantly threatened, that anger increased dramatically.
“My apologies, Miss Stone,” he nonchalantly replied. “I am unable to make that decision.” “Why are you still wasting your breath, then? Get your manager over here!” Leah screamed at him.
He smirked. “I will report this to my manager right away. Please do not regret this decision.”
He then left the room. Leah frowned when she heard that. The production team has sole responsibility for this mess. Why must I feel regret for my actions? At that thought, she decided to calmly wait for the manager.
Tessa was waiting as well. She wanted to see what the production team would do.
Soon, a middle-aged man in a suit entered the room. Leah recognized him as Evan Doncan, the studio’s general manager. He was someone with power and authority.
“Mr. Doncan, I did not expect you to come—” Leah stood up with a charming smile as she spoke.
To her surprise, he ignored her and walked over to Tessa. “My sincerest apologies, Miss Reinhart, for my employee’s inability to stop random people from disturbing you,” he said with a groveling expression.
When Tessa saw that, the stern expression on her face faded slightly since the studio was on her side. “It’s okay. Please resolve this soon, though. I have to prepare for filming.”
“Of course. I will get it sorted right away.”
He respectfully nodded to her before barking at the other production staff employees. “What are you doing? Hurry up and get Leah Stone out of here!”
Leah was shocked to hear that. She soon snapped out of her shock and spat out with a dark look on her face, “Mr. Doncan, aren’t you afraid I will refuse to film if you chase me out?”
Evan let out a bark of laughter in response.
As the studio’s general manager, most celebrities treated him with respect. Leah was merely an irrelevant celebrity, yet she had the guts to threaten him. Just where did that audacity come from?
“Sure.” He immediately shot back in a mocking tone. “If you refuse to film, you should pay the penalty for breaking our contract. You are free to do as you please.”
Leah’s eyes widened with disbelief. She did not expect the production team to treat her this badly just for a new girl. At that moment, she felt utterly humiliated. Her entire body was trembling as all rational thoughts fled her mind.
She shot Tessa a sinister glare that looked like she wanted to eat Tessa up. Then, she let out a string of curses. “You absolute whore! Tell me, whose bed did you climb into for the entire studio to be on your side? You sure are good at this!”
Tessa’s eyes darkened as Leah insulted her.
Chapter 1154 You’ve Lost Your Mind
“What? You want to know whom I slept with to get to where I am, right? Fine by me. I’ll tell you, but before that, you have to pay the price for what you said!”
After finishing her sentence, Tessa raised her hand and slapped Leah across the face. Leah covered her face in pain and looked at Tessa angrily. “How dare you hit me!”
“You seem to be asking for it. So, why wouldn’t I dare to?” Tessa looked at Leah contemptuously with unconcealable disgust in her eyes.
Leah was furious. “You b*tch!” She raised her hand to return the slap, but Tessa grabbed Leah’s wrist before it even came down upon her.
Seeing this, Alice breathed a sigh of relief. If Tessa was injured right under her nose, Sofia would reproach her. By then, she wouldn’t even be able to explain what happened to Nicholas.
Evan also had the same thought. He felt that it was too dangerous for Leah to be so close to Tessa now, so he quickly called out to the staff around him, “What are you all doing standing there in a daze? Hurry up and pull Leah over here!”
The staff quickly nodded and stepped forward. Seeing this, Tessa let go of Leah’s hand to make it easier for the staff to do as they were told. “What are you doing? Let me go!”
Leah was dragged so hard by the staff that she staggered backward after struggling angrily to free herself. Seeing that she was struggling violently but was already some distance away from Tessa, the staff let go of her. Having regained her freedom, Leah became even more furious with Tessa. She felt that it was because of this woman that the crew treated her like this.
Thinking of the topic just now, she deliberately provoked Tessa and said, “Didn’t you say that you wanted to tell me whose bed you got into to get here? What? Do you not dare to speak now?”
Leah thought that she had to get Tessa’s scandal and then expose it to the paparazzi so that she could ruin Tessa’s reputation!
Tessa sneered and said, “I have nothing to say. But I’ll tell you right now that I’m sleeping with the president of the Sawyer Group. Do you have any objections?”
President of the Sawyer Group?
Leah was dumbfounded. How was it possible? That person had such a high status. How could it be possible for him to fall in love with a girl who was a nobody?
When Leah came back to her senses, she immediately taunted, “You’ve lost your mind, right? The president of Sawyer Group? Whom do you think you are to be able to get involved with him?”
As soon as these words came out, the others in the lounge couldn’t stand it any longer.
One of the staff reminded her, “Miss Stone, I think you should hold your tongue. This is the wife of the president of the Sawyer Group, and she is also a violin musician who has just returned to the country. The production team spent a lot of money to invite such a distinguished guest like her. Please be sensible and apologize now.”
“The wife of President Sawyer?” Leah looked at Tessa in shock. She was so shocked that she completely forgot about apologizing.
At this moment, a friendly greeting sounded outside the door.
“Hello, Master Kieran.”
When everyone heard the voice, they all turned their heads. In the corridor, a lot of female stars had come to watch the fiasco all of a sudden. However, among these people stood two important men with extraordinary appearances and completely different temperaments.
One was cold and aloof while the other was roguish like a playboy who broke many hearts. These two were no doubt Nicholas and Kieran, who had arrived late.
Kieran responded to the surrounding female stars in a friendly manner. On the other hand, Tessa was surprised to see the two brothers. She had no idea how long the two of them had been here and whether they had seen how ferocious she was just now.
Nicholas stood outside the door with a dour expression. He had actually arrived with Kieran some time ago, and he had heard Tessa being insulted as soon as he arrived. Fortunately, just as his anger was gathering, Tessa handled it herself.
Evan also saw Nicholas’ gloomy face, and he was so frightened that he nearly peed himself. He immediately stepped forward to greet Nicholas tremblingly.
“President Sawyer, you’re here.”
Nicholas gave him a cold look, nodded slightly, and stepped into the lounge.
Chapter 1155 Your Performance Is Canceled
When Tessa saw the man approaching slowly, she immediately gave him a sweet smile. “You’re here.” Nicholas’ icy facial features softened instantly. He nodded slightly, took her into his arms, and asked with concern, “Are you okay?”
“I’m fine.” Tessa smiled and shook her head. Nicholas nodded, helped her adjust the loose hair around her ears, and then turned to reproach Evan. “The Sawyer Group supported your station because we think that the quality of your programs has always been very good and the people whom you have invited are also commendable. However, you really let me down this time!”
This was a very serious matter. The implication was that if Evan didn’t handle this well, it would affect the future investments from Sawyer Group.
Evan naturally understood and quickly apologized sincerely, “President Sawyer, please calm down. This matter is indeed a mistake caused by our TV station. I will deal with it now.”
Nicholas snorted softly but did not speak; he was obviously waiting for Evan to deal with things. Seeing this, Evan wiped off the cold sweat that didn’t exist on his forehead, turned around, and said to Leah sternly, “Your performance is canceled for the evening program. Take your assistants with you and leave immediately!”
Hearing this, Leah changed her expression drastically. This program was a resource that she worked so hard to get, and it was pertinent to her because this program had a high exposure rate. Not to mention, it would give her a chance to become famous. Now that the TV station wanted to disqualify her, she was unwilling to leave.
“Mr. Doncan, I know I was wrong. Please be benevolent and forgive me.”
She looked at Evan pleadingly, making up her mind not to lose this opportunity.
Evan was indifferent to her words and said coldly, “It’s useless for you to apologize to me for this matter. Even if you want to apologize, you’re apologizing to the wrong person.”
Leah understood what he said and glanced at Tessa who was standing beside her with a hint of hatred in her eyes. This b*tch has a high status but didn’t say anything about it just now. She must have deliberately wanted to harm me!
Even though Leah was angry in her heart, she could only suppress her anger at this moment and humbly walk toward Tessa. “Miss Reinhart, I was blind to see the truth and had offended you just now. I apologize and I implore you to ask Mr. Doncan to take back what he has just said.”
Although she was speaking to Tessa, Leah was looking at Nicholas pitifully. Moreover, Leah half-bent her legs in a calculating manner to expose her curvy figure in the best way in front of Nicholas. She felt that if Tessa, a woman who relied on her appearance, could win Nicholas’ favor, there was no reason why Nicholas would not be interested in her since she also had a good figure that was no worse than Tessa’s.
To her surprise, Nicholas didn’t even glance at her. Tessa, on the other hand, saw through Leah’s actions and was so furious she laughed. Sure enough, you are a shameless woman! You even want to seduce my husband in front of me.
Evan was even more frustrated about it. Why is this idiot still being all flirtatious at this moment? Who does she think President Sawyer is?
Seeing that Nicholas and Tessa’s faces were turning uglier, he hurriedly stepped forward and roughly pulled Leah aside before scolding, “Okay, now that you’ve apologized, get out!”
Watching Leah being chased out by the security guards, both the stars in the nearby lounges and the crowd watching the fun fell silent. They did not sympathize with Leah’s fate. Leah relied on her qualifications and tried to find someone to bully, but she failed hard. So, she deserved it.
However, when they thought of Tessa, they felt that her status was too enviable. She was the young mistress of the Sawyer Family, and this title itself was extremely influential. After all, considering the power of the Sawyer Family, it was not an exaggeration to say that they were the most important family in Southend.
As for Evan, when he saw that the annoying Leah had been dealt with and the matter had come to an end, he rubbed his hands and drew closer to Nicholas and Kieran.
“Master Nicholas, Master Kieran, it’s hard for me to entertain you well here. Why don’t you two come to my office?”
“No, the main purpose of my visit today is to see my wife,” Nicholas refused.
Chapter 1156 When Will You Compliment Me?
Kieran waved his hand while saying, “Well, you don’t have to worry about us. Just go about your business.” Hearing this, Evan had no choice but to leave with the other staff sensibly. Before leaving, he was very prudent, closing the lounge door to prevent other people from prying or eavesdropping.
Now, only Tessa, Nicholas, and Kieran, alongside Alice and the makeup team were left in the lounge. “President Sawyer, Master Kieran. Please have some water.”
Alice served water for the two of them. Then, a few of them chatted for a while. Seeing that it was almost time for her to get ready, Tessa broke free from Nicholas’ arms and said, “Continue chatting with Kieran first. I’m going to get my hair done.”
Nicholas nodded. Soon, Tessa returned to the dressing table. Before this, her makeup was already quite complete. After all, she was pregnant, so she couldn’t put on too much makeup and could instead have something light. So, after getting her hair done, she went to change into her costume.
Subsequently, Tessa came out of the changing room and immediately stunned everyone with her beauty. The costume prepared for her by the makeup team was a golden court dress, and the full skirt concealed Tessa’s belly so that it was not very obvious to the eye. Besides that, the golden color also made Tessa’s entire temperament nobler.
“Mommy, you’re so beautiful.” Gregory was the first to come to his senses, and he happily trotted toward Tessa.
On the other hand, Tessa was a little surprised when she saw him. “When did you come?”
“When you were changing clothes just now. It was Mr. Andrew who sent me here.” Gregory happily held Tessa’s hand and responded with a soft voice.
At this time, Kieran also stood up and praised, “Tessa, your outfit tonight will amaze everyone.”
“My mommy is very beautiful. So, of course, she will amaze other people.” Gregory proudly raised his chin as he praised Tessa. It was as if he had eaten honey and all his words became very sweet. Tessa was praised so much by him that she kept smiling.
Then, Kieran teased Gregory and said, “I didn’t know you’re so good at complimenting others. When will you compliment me?”
“Hmph. I only compliment Mommy and not others.” He turned his head away haughtily.
Before long, he began worrying about Tessa again. “Mommy, are you tired?”
Tessa bowed her head and met the little boy’s caring eyes. At that moment, she felt warmth in her heart.
“I’m not tired. Thank you, Greg, for your concern.”
As she spoke, she stroked the little boy’s short, black hair.
When Kieran saw the scene in front of him, he felt very warm. He smacked his lips and said, “Why do I suddenly feel that getting married is not a bad idea? Having children and a wife sounds pretty good.”
Nicholas glanced at him sideways but ignored him, then got up and walked toward Tessa. He said thereafter in a worried voice, “Are you really not tired? Don’t push yourself too hard.”
“I’m really not tired, so you don’t have to worry.” Tessa knew that the man cared about her, so she smiled sweetly.
Just as Tessa and the others were talking and laughing, there was a knock on the door outside the lounge.
“I’m going to open the door.” Alice, who was next to them, sensibly got up to open the door. When she opened it, she saw a pretty young actress standing outside with fruits in her hands.
“Who are you looking for?” Alice didn’t know this woman, so she looked at her suspiciously.
The woman smiled and introduced herself. “Hi, I’m Kieran’s friend. My name is Felicity Bones.”
When Alice heard that Felicity was looking for Kieran, she immediately let Felicity in.
“Master Kieran, she’s here for you.” She turned back to the lounge to report as Felicity followed closely behind her.
As soon as Felicity entered, she saw Tessa and others sitting side by side on the sofa. She greeted them accordingly, “President Sawyer, Master Kieran, Miss Tessa.”
Nicholas and Tessa nodded slightly in response. Kieran, on the other hand, was a little surprised as he asked, “Felicity, why are you here?”
“I heard you’re here, so I came over to say hello. I happened to have some fruits, so I thought I’d send some to Miss Tessa, who is pregnant now. Eating more fruits is good for the baby.”
Chapter 1157 Die-Hard Fans
Felicity spoke while gesturing to the fruits in her hands before turning to look at Tessa. “Speaking of which, you and I will perform back-to-back in a while, so we can go together later.”
Tessa looked at Felicity, who took the initiative to be friendly, and felt that this person was intelligent. When Tessa’s eyes fell on the fruits, the smile on the corner of her mouth became even more prominent. The fruits looked very expensive and were obviously not prepared by the TV station. It was more likely that Felicity specially asked someone to buy the fruits.
Besides, Felicity didn’t show up during the fiasco just now, but now, here she was, at the right time.
Although Tessa didn’t care for such an individual, for Kieran’s sake, she let Alice accept the fruits before stating, “Thank you, Miss Bones, for your kindness, but the performance is subject to change at any time. It’s too early to decide this now.”
She declined Felicity’s invitation because she didn’t want to deal with such a fake person. Felicity also noticed her intention and was a little disappointed, but she didn’t mind much. “You’re right. I didn’t think it through.”
Later, when she saw that Tessa didn’t intend to entertain her, she was sensible enough to take her leave. However, not long after she left, someone else knocked on the door again. Many people either brought food for Tessa, or toys for Gregory. Of course, some people even made a special trip over just to say hello to Kieran. Waves after waves of these people came, causing Tessa and the others to not be able to hold a proper conversation.
In the end, Nicholas was annoyed and ordered, “Alice, don’t let anyone in again.”
Alice nodded.
Afterward, there were still people who wanted to appear in front of Nicholas and Kieran, but they were blocked by Alice. Knowing that Nicholas and the others would no longer see guests, the people outside stopped coming.
Looking around the lounge that was finally quiet, Tessa also heaved a sigh of relief. Until now, she was still fearful when she thought of all the stars who came before. All of them had their motives as they tried to one-up the other.
She patted her chest and sighed. “These trickeries in the entertainment industry are too complicated. I’m already feeling physically and mentally exhausted from what happened just now. Sure enough, I am not suitable for the entertainment industry.”
Nicholas looked at her and laughed a little. “Even if you intend to advance in this field in the future, no one will dare to provoke you.”
At 8.30PM, the program officially began. Gregory and Kieran went to the audience section while Nicholas accompanied Tessa behind the scenes to prepare for the performance. As Tessa’s slot was in the middle, the two sat backstage and watched the other performers’ program first. 20 minutes later, it was finally Tessa’s turn to go on stage.
Nicholas sent Tessa to the stage, lowered his head, and kissed her forehead lightly, then said softly, “I’ll wait for you here. Good luck.”
Tessa smiled sweetly and nodded. Afterward, under the introduction of the emcee, she gracefully stepped onto the stage while lifting her skirt slightly. A big round of applause sounded from the audience the moment the white lights shone on her. In fact, there were quite a few fans of hers who came just to watch her.
“Oh my God. She’s even more beautiful in real life than in the photos! I want to be a die-hard fan just for her looks alone!”
“I really love her! She’s so beautiful and talented! Where else can you find such a woman?”
Hearing the cheers below the stage, Tessa pressed her finger against her lips, gesturing for everyone to keep quiet. The fans and the rest of the audience were very cooperative and fell silent.
At this moment, Tessa began to perform. Soon, the melodious sound of the violin came forth. It was light and joyful, like a group of little elves prancing about. The audience couldn’t help but allow themselves to be submerged in the enthralling music that came into the world.
Many people at the scene felt that there was a difference between those with true skill and those who tried to use music to gain popularity. This performance was simply on a different level than any other. At the end of the performance, Tessa put down her violin and bowed to the audience.
The audience burst into applause again. At this moment, Drew came over from backstage and greeted Tessa.
“Miss Reinhart, you play the violin so well that it feels like my ears are being baptized by music.”
Chapter 1158 I Just Want to Do What I Can
“Mr. Duquais, you’re too kind,” Tessa thanked him humbly. Drew shook his head and said with a smile, “I’m not. If you don’t believe me, you can ask the audience if the performance was good.”
After speaking, he pointed the microphone toward the audience. The audience immediately responded enthusiastically. “It was great!”
“It was awesome! Encore!” Among them, Gregory shouted so much his neck turned red.
Listening to the audience’s positive response, Drew joked, “It’s impossible to play another piece, but I can let Miss Reinhart stay on stage for a few more minutes.”
As he spoke, he looked at Tessa mischievously. Tessa knew that he was intentionally enhancing the atmosphere, so she cooperated and replied, “Then, you have my thanks, Mr. Duquais.”
“No need. You just need to answer a few questions honestly.”
As practiced during the rehearsals, Drew began to ask questions. “I heard that you’re now recognized as a true genius in foreign countries. I wonder what you think of that, Miss Reinhart?”
“I think this is just a form of encouragement that everyone is giving me. I still have a lot to learn. Only by continuing to learn can I be worthy of the title everyone gave me.” Tessa spoke very modestly, which made everyone feel content.
Drew praised her again. Then, he directed the topic to Tessa’s solo performance. “I heard that you’re preparing a solo performance recently. Where do you plan to hold it?”
“Well, I will hold a solo performance in the country soon, and I have decided that all the proceeds from the performance will be used for public welfare. I’d like for the proceeds to go to a relief fund for children with congenital diseases.”
In fact, she had just discussed this with him on the phone before she came to the stage. As soon as these words came out, there was thunderous applause again at the scene.
“As expected of my idol! She handles everything beautifully.”
Fans off the stage praised Tessa for being very generous. After all, the amount of the proceeds was not small. Drew vaguely heard some fans’ praises and looked at Tessa with admiration. “Miss Reinhart, you have a great appeal. I hereby thank you on behalf of those children.”
He bowed to Tessa, who quickly waved her hands. “Actually, I just want to do what I can.”
“I understand what you mean, Miss Reinhart. It just so happens that I also have good news about you. I’ll take advantage of this moment to announce it.”
As Drew spoke, he suddenly winked at Tessa before announcing loudly, “Actually, when you were performing just now, I received a notice from President Sawyer that the Sawyer Group will set up a brand-new foundation which will be named after you. The foundation will invest 100 million every year as an aid fund for children with congenital diseases.”
As soon as these words came out, loud applause broke out again at the scene. There were even quite a few female fans who were envious of Tessa. Drew looked at the lively scene and took the microphone to build momentum for Tessa again. “100 million a year is not a small sum. It’s clear how much President Sawyer loves Miss Reinhart.”
“President Sawyer is amazing!”
The fans in the audience shouted almost in unison.
Gregory also clapped vigorously and shouted, “Daddy is amazing!”
Among these people, Kieran was probably the only one who felt a little frustrated. He felt that his brother was simply too unrestrained now. It was fine to show off affection at home, but Nicholas was even showing off at the TV station now, causing Kieran to be frustrated as a single man.
Hearing cheers coming from all directions, Tessa blinked as she was surprised. However, after feeling surprised, she felt even more touched because she never thought that Nicholas would do this for her.
After the show, the other stars who were performing tonight were eclipsed in the end. The protagonist tonight was destined to be Tessa. Although some people were not happy about it, no one dared to make trouble after witnessing Leah’s incident. If someone became the protagonist based on their own skills, no matter how covetous others were, there was nothing they could do.
Chapter 1159 This Is Public Knowledge
After the show ended that night, Gregory followed Kieran home. Now that she was done with her performance, Tessa removed her makeup. She also allowed Alice to get off work. Then, she followed Nicholas back by car.
On the way back, Tessa thought of what the host announced on the stage before and hugged Nicholas happily. “Why don’t I know anything about the fact that you created an aid fund in my name?”
She knew that the reason why Nicholas did this was undoubtedly to create a positive image for her. Nicholas gazed back at Tessa and smiled slightly. “Since you want to do such a thing, then I want to do it for you too.”
Hearing this, Tessa felt like she had fallen into a pot of honey; even the air she breathed smelled sweet. “Why are you so nice to me?”
She couldn’t help rubbing Nicholas’ chest affectionately. Nicholas let out a deep laugh. He sounded very pleasant as he said, “Because it’s you, so it’s worth it.”
The smile on the corner of Tessa’s mouth became even more prominent when the man’s nice voice sounded in her ears again. “Furthermore, helping those children is what the Sawyer Group has been doing all these years.”
Nicholas hugged Tessa and talked about the company’s past arrangements in detail. “In fact, the Sawyer Family invests a lot of money in charity every year. This is public knowledge. Since you also have the heart to do this, I’ll have to help you too.”
After hearing Nicholas’ words, Tessa nodded, and the smile on her face widened more. It didn’t take long for this incident to make the news after the two of them reached home The next morning, just as Tessa woke up, she received a call from Alice.
“Tessa, your popularity has risen again. Your fans on social media have exceeded 5 million. According to this trend, it will only take two days for you to break through 10 million followers.” On the phone, Alice’s voice sounded a little excited.
Tessa was also very happy when she heard those words. Seeing her hang up the phone, Nicholas immediately leaned over and asked, “What good thing has happened to make you smile so happily?”
“Alice called me just now and said that last night’s performance was on the news and that I was also on the trending searches on social media. My fans have exceeded 5 million.” Tessa happily shared this news with Nicholas.
After that, she hugged Nicholas and said sweetly, “Half of the credit goes to you, so thank you.”
After she finished speaking, she couldn’t help kissing Nicholas. As the news on the Internet fermented overnight, more and more people fell in love with Tessa.
‘Tessa is such an inspiring and excellent person.’
‘It is impossible for ordinary people to take out such a large amount of money so easily.’
‘In any case, I am now a fan of Tessa.’
Of course, while some people praised her, others bad-mouthed her. Some keyboard warriors who hated the rich were also being sour grapes on the Internet.
‘She is the young mistress of the Sawyer Family, so she isn’t short of money, okay?’
‘There is nothing to praise her about. It’s merely spending money to buy a good reputation. This is what the rich usually do.’
‘Besides, she’s just announcing it. Who knows whether she’ll really give the money away later?’
‘Since she is so rich, why didn’t she use that money to treat her grandma’s illness before? I think Tessa is just like what the previous commentator said. She’s only trying to gain a good reputation.’
Seeing these spiteful comments, Tessa’s fans immediately spoke up.
‘I believe Tessa will definitely do what she says.’
‘So what if she isn’t short of money? Having a lot of money and being willing to help others are two different concepts.’
‘Tessa is such a righteous person, yet there are still people who insult her and say that she refused to treat her grandma. I don’t know what’s inside your heads.’
‘Besides, the president of the Sawyer Group has already said that an aid fund will be established under Tessa’s name with an annual investment of 100 million. Even if you don’t believe Tessa, surely you believe the president of the Sawyer Group.’
After someone brought up this matter, the image of the Sawyer Group improved too. However, there were still some critics who still attacked the matter on the Internet.
Chapter 1160 Just a Fantasy
‘It’s common knowledge that such funds are never transparent. They say that there’ll be an annual investment of 100 million, but no one knows how much will be given out in the end.’ ‘Yeah! So many similar issues have been exposed over the years.’
The fans were exasperated when they saw this. Fortunately, not long after, some netizens dug up all the good things the Sawyer Group had done over the years.
“You guys, open your eyes and see for yourselves. The Sawyer Group is different from those other terrible companies. As long as they make a promise, they will implement it.”
When this post came out, more and more netizens supported the Sawyer Group. After all, every year, the Sawyer Group spent hundreds of millions just for public welfare. And no matter what kind of disaster happened, the Sawyer Group would immediately allocate funds to help the victims.
‘Oh my god, I didn’t even know that the Sawyer Group has done so many good things over the years.’
‘Some people have to eat their words now. They previously said that the Sawyer Group is just telling lies. Hmph, the Sawyer Group just doesn’t bother to show off their generosity. Look at the news above! Even top government leaders praise Sawyer Group for being a conscientious company.”
Then, the netizens tagged the keyboard warriors one by one who had previously slandered the Sawyer Group. After reading this post, many people realized that it was no wonder that the Sawyer Group had been able to stand firm in Southend for so many years. It turned out that they had done so many good things without anyone’s knowledge.
That night, Stefania and Tobias came to Dynasty Gardens. They came to see Gregory, and they also came to celebrate Tessa’s successful performance. During the dinner, the family talked and laughed, and the topic unknowingly came to what people were talking about on the Internet.
“Now the Internet is full of praises for the Sawyer Group. This time, you’ve helped gain a good reputation for the Sawyer Group, Tessa, ” Stefania praised Tessa sincerely.
Tobias, who was next to them also nodded in approval. “Because of this incident, the company’s shares have increased in value. You have done a good job.”
Hearing the compliments from the two elders, Tessa felt a little flattered. However, she felt that the reason why the matter developed so well was due to Nicholas. So, she didn’t dare to take all the credit and quickly shook her head to explain, “Actually, I didn’t do anything. It was all Nicholas’ decisions that caused the positive results.”
“But if it weren’t because of you wanting to do it, I wouldn’t have made such a decision, so this is all because of you. You don’t have to be so humble.” Nicholas held Tessa’s hand and looked at her affectionately.
As their eyes met, Tessa felt that she was about to sink into his tender gaze. She pursed her lips and smiled, but she didn’t refute him. No matter whose credit it was, as long as she could do some good things for the Sawyer Family and Nicholas, she would be happy.
Stefania and Tobias also felt a lot of emotions when they saw the way the two looked at each other. In the past, Nicholas was not so considerate of others, and it was only since he met Tessa that he became like this.
In the next two days, Tessa’s name still occupied the social media trending list, and her fans had almost exceeded 10 million.
Just as Tessa’s fame was rising, Leah, on the other hand, was having a hard time. Someone had leaked the news that she was canceled that night. As the incident involved Tessa, it quickly made the headlines.
‘Oh my god, Leah is too arrogant! She even asked someone to drive Tessa out.’
‘Although the entertainment industry places importance on hierarchy, Tessa’s achievements are not much lesser than yours, right? How could you have the cheek to ask her to make room for you? What’s more, this position is already arranged by the TV station in advance.’
‘Besides, if we’re talking about experience, even ten Leahs can’t compare to one Tessa, who is already an internationally-acclaimed musician.’
Right now, Leah was badly criticized by netizens. Many of her fans even became haters.
‘For a long time, I thought that even though the idol I was a fan of hasn’t made it big yet, she was always working hard to make progress. Now, it seems that my thought was just a fantasy.’