Exit the Catfights Enter the Empire novel Chapter 27

"You're right about that, but his weakness came with a ridiculous price tag. Fifty million dollars just to buy a supporting actress role."

Director Abner's movies leaned heavily toward serious dramas, which meant fewer lines for female characters. Even though it was the second female lead, her screen time was comparable to a minor extra in any other movie.

Throwing fifty million dollars at such an insignificant part was an astronomical flex—something only Xavier Farrell could pull off.

Xavier glanced at Declan like he was looking at an idiot. "With Abner's golden reputation attached, even if this movie tanks critically, we're guaranteed to break even."

In other words, it was a totally risk-free investment.

"Uh..."

Declan had been so blinded by the massive dollar amount that he had forgotten Abner was basically a walking box office guarantee.

The only reason Abner struggled to secure funding this time was because his chosen genre wasn't considered highly commercial. However, Declan had read the script, and it was undeniably brilliant.

"Even so, Vickie is the one reaping all the benefits. With a project like this under her belt, she's going straight to the A-list. She'll be a genuine superstar."

"This is just the beginning."

Declan couldn't help but sigh. "I finally understand why Evelyn has been so resentful all these years."

Xavier didn't love Vickie, yet simply because she resembled Valerie, he spoiled her endlessly—to the point where his actual wife was pushed to the sidelines.

What woman wouldn't be deeply affected by that?

Xavier was about to reply when the elevator dinged. He stepped out just as the doors to the opposite elevator opened, revealing Evelyn.

She was briefly surprised to see him. It was peak business hours for Farrell Group, so Xavier should have been buried in work at the office.

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