Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 145

Niall is currently single and not engaged to anyone.

Hattie found him particularly interesting, not just because of his present status but also because of the potential he possesses for the future.

She saw it as a great opportunity to get to know someone like Niall.

When Hattie and Benson moved from Harbor City to Quinston for school, Hannah advised Hattie that networking in the capital would be crucial, especially with business magnates.

This way, when Hattie entered the entertainment industry, she would have a robust support system.

In the entertainment industry, it was widely recognised that making it without connections or a solid background could be extremely difficult. While hard work alone could sometimes lead to success, it often resulted in a much more challenging path.

So, why not take a shortcut if one presented itself?

Hannah had chosen to have children, betting on the support of the Ridges for life; after all, children were valuable assets.

Like her mother, Hattie harbours significant ambitions.

"Zoren is also at Toland University and is close to Liam. Benson, Liam is better connected in Quinston than you, so we must carve out our own successful path," Hattie noted.

Benson, seated and contemplative, responded, "I plan to finish my studies next semester and then head abroad."

Surprised, Hattie asked, "Abroad? Have you discussed this with Mom?"

Gazing out at the sea, Benson replied evenly, "Liam will graduate and join the company before me. Without taking a shortcut and just following the usual path, I can't compete with him. I don't aspire to enter the entertainment industry as a star. My goals are different."

Originally, when they both started at Toland University, Benson genuinely wanted to major in finance.

However, opting directly for finance would have raised suspicions after he just reintegrated into the family.

Hence, he chose to study performing arts with Hattie.

Although he considered it a waste of time, it was just a ruse to mislead the Ridges.

Next semester, he plans to study finance abroad and return ready to take on a significant role.

"Hattie, I've already talked it over with Mom. She's arranged a school for me abroad," he concluded.

Hattie lowered her gaze. "Okay, Benson, it looks like we won't be spending much time together soon.

"It's fine," Hattie said with a smile, her lips curling up, "I have no doubt that by the time you return, I'll have made it big in the spotlight, and my influence will surely be of help to you."

"Of course."

At that moment, the siblings exchanged a look, their eyes alight with shared dreams for the future.

Then, Benson stood and left.