Chapter 161

Serena Blake never expected Nolan Reed to be so heartless.

She had dated many men, but with Nolan, she had genuinely fallen in love.

Now, waves of humiliation crashed over her, and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.

[Nolan is such an insensitive jerk. How could he say something so cruel?]

[Is this how you treat a woman?]

[Why not? Our Nolan isn’t obligated to help her.]

[Exactly. Serena can’t achieve anything on her own—always relying on men.]

[How dare she ask Nolan for help after that embarrassing sulfuric acid incident?]

[Nolan’s right. Women should stand on their own. Look how independent Aria and the others are.]

[Am I the only one who thinks her crying is totally fake?]

[You’re not alone.]

[Definitely not...]

Nolan’s firm rejection caused Serena’s luck to dwindle further.

With Dorian Blackwell and Logan Price’s downfall, her fortune suffered a devastating blow.

Without the boost of luck, the audience’s favor toward her plummeted.

Aria Bennett noticed immediately—Serena’s aura had weakened yet again.

A faint smile curved Aria’s lips, her eyes glinting with satisfaction.

At this rate, the so-called "female lead" would soon be no threat at all.

As much as Nolan usually annoyed her, Aria had to admit—this time, he’d done well.

Seeing Nolan remain unmoved, Serena could only leave in frustration with her trainees in tow.

She ended up finding work at a local martial arts studio to earn money.

Though her luck had faded, she still fared better than most—the studio paid decently.

Unfortunately, her reputation with the audience was beyond repair, and her career took another hit.

After performing for over an hour, Nolan earned a few hundred dollars.

Aria and Damian Cross, overwhelmed by customers, worked for three hours before wrapping up.

Their efficiency was remarkable—each pocketing several hundred.

When Audrey Lane finished her shift, the group gathered to discuss dinner plans.

"Should we buy groceries and cook, or eat out?" Audrey asked.

Missing Aria’s cooking, Nolan suggested, "How about we cook at home?"

But Damian shook his head. "We’re only here once. Let’s try the local specialties. Everyone’s exhausted—cooking would be too much."

He didn’t want Aria to overexert herself.

Realizing his oversight, Nolan inwardly cursed himself.

As much as he disliked Damian, he had to admit—the man was more considerate.

"Then let’s go for local cuisine," he conceded.

Aria, appreciating Damian’s thoughtfulness, smiled. "I’d love to try the regional dishes too."

Audrey linked arms with Aria. "It’s my first time here—let’s enjoy a proper meal!"

They chose a well-reviewed restaurant and had a pleasant dinner together.

Caleb Monroe’s group also dined out, but their atmosphere was noticeably strained.

Afterward, the production crew announced a night market event in the town square.

They had coincidentally arrived during the town’s monthly lantern festival.

Red lanterns hung brightly, casting a festive glow over the streets.

The riddle-solving area prohibited phone use to prevent cheating.

Audrey and Vivienne Archer eagerly dragged Aria around.

"That bunny lantern is adorable!" Audrey gazed longingly at the prize.

Vivienne pointed at a phoenix lantern. "This one’s gorgeous too—but you’d need to solve thirty riddles to win it."

Aria grinned. "You want them? I’ll get them for you."

Their eyes lit up. "Really?"

"Of course." Aria winked. "Watch me."

Riddles were child’s play for her.

In no time, she secured the bunny lantern for Audrey and the phoenix for Vivienne.

Both women were overjoyed.

Later, during paper-cutting and sugar-blowing activities, Aria helped them win more prizes.

"Aria, you’re amazing!" Audrey gushed, admiration shining in her eyes. "Perfect scores on riddles, masterful paper-cutting and sugar-blowing—is there anything you can’t do?"

Vivienne sighed in awe. "Today’s been eye-opening."

Aria chuckled modestly. "I picked up some traditional crafts as a kid."

"Some? You’re practically a master!" they exclaimed in unison.

"You could thrive on these skills alone, even without acting."

"Seriously, what can’t you do?"

Even Caleb and the others went from stunned to numb.

While others participated in the festival, Aria was here to showcase her brilliance.

Undeniable talent.