Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 340

"Should we stay downstairs or head up now?"

Felix had already circled the area twice in and Alpha, scanning the growing crowd.

Aster looked uncertainly at Violeta, seeking her decision.

Violeta, her gaze steady, replied, "Let's go up."

In the world of celebrity, Alpha was the preferred choice for transporting stars.

Delaying their ascent would only attract unwelcome attention and invite speculation.

Moreover, a scheduling clash wasn't a crisis.

"Very well."

Felix parked the car and assumed his role as a bodyguard.

Aster opened the door and stepped out first, with Violeta following, her coat pulled tightly around her.

The throng of reporters and fans at the entrance had been waiting for Nolan, but Violeta's arrival presented them with an unexpected opportunity.

"It's Violeta!"

A reporter's keen eye caught sight of her, and a shout went up.

Instantly, the crowd surged forward. Felix held an umbrella to shield them from the press and the barrage of flashing cameras. Aster, guiding Violeta, navigated through the mass of people, trying to clear a path.

"Violeta!"

"Look this way, Violeta!"

"Violeta's schedule is clashing with Nolan's…"

"Violeta!!!"

The cacophony of voices followed them as they entered the building.

Once inside, a disconcerted Aster said, "I should have anticipated this. We should have arranged for more security. It felt like they were ready to swarm us."

Violeta, however, remained composed.

Her past experiences had accustomed her to less-than-ideal attention. In the industry, the real threat lay in obscurity.

"Let's go up," she said, offering Aster a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

"Right," Aster replied.

The trio took the elevator, and as they reached their floor, the waiting staff quickly approached, eager to welcome them.

"Ms. White, you've finally arrived. I feared you'd be caught outside," said the staff member, relief evident in his voice.

Aster replied, "We nearly didn't make it. It was a close call."

The staff member sighed. "Nolan's team is live-streaming from here today. You see, there weren't so many reporters and fans around before."