Just as Samantha was marveling at the coincidence, Layla opened an app on her phone and turned the screen toward her.
A viral video from a blogger played—a montage of the stage play's most powerful moments set to dramatic music. It was an emotional piece.
The caption read, "This fallen princess's tragic acting is next-level! #JedoAcademyoftheArts #FinalPerformance #OurLandRemains."
There were almost ten thousand shares and 130 thousand likes.
The comments section was a full-blown spectacle, with new comments sprouting up by the minute.
"Wow! The actress is stunning. She looks like an angel."
"I'm mesmerized!"
"I need this woman's biography in 3 minutes."
"The future of entertainment is here!"
"With this face and talent, she should debut right now and rise to stardom!"
"Imagine seeing this performance live. It gave me the chills!"
"How dare you all just comment on her looks? Where are your morals? Your decency? And while we're at it, what's her phone number?"
The flood of enthusiastic praise kept pouring in.
Layla shot Samantha an exasperated look. "If I hadn't stumbled on this video, I wouldn't have even known about your performance! So that's why you suddenly asked if I was free yesterday?"
Seeing that there was no way to deny it, Samantha nodded.
"Sorry. I didn't want to interrupt your work. It took you so much effort to sell the villa, and I couldn't risk messing that up for you. I promise I won't hide it from you next time!"
Layla leaned in. "Why aren't there any opportunities? What if one fell into your lap right now? Would you take it?"
"What opportunity?"
"Ever seen 'The Backyard'?"
"That ensemble female-led drama? Of course I've seen it. It's so warm yet empowering. The show was so popular!" Samantha's eyes lit up, her words tumbling out.
"Exactly. The director, Keith Hodges, is prepping a new series called 'The Palace.' He's viewing properties with me tomorrow. Want me to arrange an introduction?"
Samantha was excited. She was indeed lacking opportunities now. But tomorrow?
Her glow dimmed as she remembered Leonardo's reminder. She had to attend the Garrett family's event. The timing clashed.
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The readers' comments on the novel: Her Tears Are His Weakness
This doesn't have an ending...