“Miss Mercer, you’re as talented as you are beautiful. It’s truly impressive.
The venue was too crowded to get close, so I wanted to talk to you here. I hope you’ll forgive the intrusion.”
“You flatter me. I’m just an amateur, really. I only joined the arts festival to try something new.”
“You’re too modest. Not just anyone can take first place.”
“Here’s the thing. We at Porter Entertainment are interested in signing you, Miss Mercer. If you’re willing, we can offer you the best resources in the industry.”
“Thank you for the offer, but I have no intention of becoming a celebrity. Music is just a hobby for me.”
Mira knew she and Mara would have to deal with the Mercer Group eventually, and she didn't need to rely on anyone else. While Shane was an enemy of the Mercer Group, working with him would be like making a deal with the devil. The man was ruthless, and Mara was just a pawn in his game.
“From what I hear, the Mercer family favors Mara. Even if you joined Mercer Vision Entertainment, you wouldn’t get any special treatment.”
“I know. I won’t be going there. From now on, I’ll be focusing on my studies.”
With that, Mira excused herself.
She was still too weak. In terms of funds, team, and ability, she was no match for the Mercer Group or Shane. It wasn't the right time to show her hand.
Back in the car, Mira told Kieran, “That was Shane. He wants to sign me.”
Kieran clenched his jaw. “Did you agree?”
“No.”
He let out a breath of relief. “Good. Don’t ever accept, no matter how good the offer is. The guy puts on a respectable front, but he’s a terrible person.”
The young man’s name was Gavin Hale. Not only was he a great singer, but he was also a talented songwriter and a decent actor. He, too, had been an artist under Porter Entertainment, in the same company as Lania. He had just been pushed out and was feeling dejected and a little self-destructive.
In her past life, a scout from another company had discovered and signed him two months from now. Before long, he became a nationwide sensation.
Mira, of course, intended to make the first move and snatch up such a promising talent.
Mira and Kieran didn't interrupt him, listening from the side until he finished his song. Only then did Kieran approach him.
“Hi there, young man. My name is Kieran, and I’m the head of Solflare Studios. I just heard you sing, and you’ve got a great voice. Would you be interested in developing your career with our company?”
“Solflare Studios? Never heard of it.”
He looked at them with a mix of confusion and defiance.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Too Late to Hold Me Back