So, she could finally stand shoulder to shoulder with her senior crush. But so far, Patty's promises had been all talk and no action.
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Allison, sporting a sun hat, sunglasses, and a face mask, fit right in with the tourists on this pleasantly warm day. Dressed casually, she was just another face in the crowd—sun hats and sunglasses were practically the tourist uniform here.
By the time she, Emma, and Paige started their hike up Silver Mount, it was already 10:45 in the morning.
Silver Mount was a popular tourist spot in Silvertown, complete with places to eat and rest.
Paige mentioned needing to grab some water and headed off to a nearby convenience store.
Allison and Emma ventured further into Silver Mount, which was buzzing with activity. It felt like a traditional chapel, packed with people eager to have their fortunes told. A young monk announced, "Master Yunhua is giving a Zen talk in the back room. He'll be available for fortune readings around 2 PM. You'll need to wait a bit if you want his insights."
Just then, Paige returned, carrying a bag from the store. "Hey Emma, Allison, over here," she called, waving them over.
They regrouped, and Paige handed out water bottles. "I heard Master Yunhua is the best," she said. "That's why there's such a crowd today. Everyone's here for a fortune reading. Let’s draw our fortune sticks first, then I'll queue up. You two can find a spot to chill, and I'll call you when it's our turn."
"Thanks, Paige. You're a lifesaver."
A company that size couldn't be perfect. Despite a calm exterior, it was rife with scheming and infighting, with talent battling for resources. Even a star like Kayleigh had lost a high-end endorsement to Amaya, who was supported by Kenneth and had a newcomer launched under her name.
"Patty's definitely making a move for power," Emma speculated. "She must be really prepared. If she weren't, she'd be asking for your help like Charlie did. But lately, Patty's been pretty assertive about the resources behind you, even suggesting a hands-off approach. She wouldn't dare unless she had something up her sleeve."
After a pause, Emma glanced at Allison. "Are you considering helping Charlie?"
"It's all about mutual benefit," Allison replied, her tone light and breezy, her eyes fixed ahead behind her mask and sunglasses. "I don't like feeling controlled. I value my freedom. Patty betrayed me first. Charlie is someone I can work with, but not too closely. Emma, how would you feel about becoming the third agent at Epic Entertainment?"
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