Chapter 116: Classical Beauty

As the daughter from a prestigious family. Clara Bennett, the esteemed young lady of the Bennett family, had etiquette and poise training almost as one of her compulsory courses, an opportunity that children from working-class backgrounds could hardly enjoy. Although she sometimes felt very weary of it, every time she thought of her responsibility and took each practice seriously. She understood that this was the only way to prove to those who might secretly discuss her poor upbringing, that even after losing maternal love, she could still become an excellent person under the guidance of her father and brother. After hearing Clara Bennett’s account, Ethan Smith was very satisfied. Initially, he even planned a series of courses for her, inviting professionals for targeted coaching, but now it seemed that such extensive efforts were unnecessary. After all, what was presented in front of him was already an image that fully met the character’s requirements. At the same time, George Taylor, who was always calm and well-informed, only now recovered from the shock brought by the previous scene. Even someone like him, who had been through the entertainment circle for many years, never thought he would one day fall into a brief state of awe due to someone’s performance. Looking at Clara Bennett in front of him, he felt a bit more admiration, and slowly walked over, saying gently, "Very nice, you look particularly beautiful in the cheongsam, like a classical beauty walking out of a painting." Clara Bennett smiled slightly and responded politely, "Thank you for the compliment, Taylor. Your outfit today is also particularly handsome, appearing quite dashing." While carefully observing George Taylor’s attire, Clara couldn’t help but recall the scenario last night when she was using William Foster’s voice to immerse herself into the male lead’s role. That situation filled her with novelty and curiosity. Seeing George Taylor in this outfit now, she couldn’t help but let her imagination run wild, an interesting thought popped up in her mind. What would William Foster look like wearing this outfit? Would he appear even more spirited? George Taylor noticed her change in expression and smiled, asking, "Have you seen the script? We are discussing what to shoot for the first scene, why don’t you join us and take a look?" Clara Bennett shook her head and replied softly, "I won’t participate, it’s fine to follow the arrangements. As a newcomer, I feel there’s no need to discuss these matters too much." She understood that the director would notify them in advance about which scenes to shoot, so she only needed to carefully review the relevant parts the night before. Seeing this, Ethan Smith chimed in, "You’re the female lead, come over and discuss together. Everyone’s opinion is important." The screenwriter had a special liking for Clara Bennett from the start, now nodding repeatedly in agreement, "Rose! You’re our female lead, of course, we all listen to your suggestions!" Hearing this, George Taylor jokingly teased, "It seems that the screenwriter values you over me, the male lead, and wants to hold you in the palm of their hand." As he spoke, he gently wrapped his arm around Clara Bennett’s shoulder, signaling her to follow, "Come on, let’s go and discuss." Seeing no way to refuse, Clara Bennett followed George Taylor. All the way, everyone surrounded Clara Bennett, vying to hear her opinions, seemingly ignoring Nell Sue on the other side. Nell Sue stood in the corner, her expression almost twisted, her heart burning with rage, feeling an unprecedented coldness. Her hatred for Clara Bennett skyrocketed instantly, making her the number one object of disdain. This feeling came so quickly and fiercely, filling her heart with resentment in an instant. This woman was simply too hateful! Every time she thought of Clara’s complacent expression, Nell Sue felt an indescribable irritation, like a thorn in her heart, hurting with every move. Although Nell Sue liked to put on the guise of innocence, her features and personality determined that she couldn’t shine as brightly as Clara Bennett. Not only did Clara possess naturally beautiful looks, but she also had the ability to navigate social situations with ease and charm, something Nell Sue thought she could never emulate. Most of the time, she showed the side of hard work and understanding. After all, she knew that in this industry, beauty alone was far from enough, and only through continuous effort and sincerity could one gain recognition and support. Therefore, she most disliked Clara Bennett’s type that was socially adept and attention-grabbing! Every time she saw people praising Clara’s excellence, a wave of uncontrollable anger and envy surged in her heart, as if those praises reminded her of her shortcomings. Earlier, during Clara’s performance, Nell Sue silently cursed her for being pretentious. "What are you pretending for? So fake! Drama queen!" Every internal curse was a manifestation of Nell Sue’s emotional outburst and a venting of her inability to compare with Clara Bennett. Nell Sue initially hoped Clara would make a fool of herself, but instead, she found that the director and others bought it, making her even more angry and jealous. Seeing Clara win everyone’s favor with seemingly fake methods while standing aside, being unnoticed, this comparison severely bruised Nell Sue’s pride. Watching everyone surround Clara Bennett, Nell Sue almost gritted her teeth: is there no one else here besides me? The anger in her heart transformed into a slight smirk at her mouth. "Is everyone blind? I’m right here, still a beauty!" Thinking this way, a hint of unwillingness flashed in her eyes. As she fumed, director Ethan Smith finally looked over, glancing at her a couple of times. At that moment, Nell Sue seemed to grasp an opportunity, hurriedly putting away all negative emotions, revealing a reluctant yet eager smile, hoping to get attention and an invitation to join the discussion. However, Ethan Smith directly said, "Who are you again? Which role do you play? Go change and get ready for the shoot, why are you standing here?" These words were like a cold shower, extinguishing all of Nell Sue’s hopes and enthusiasm instantly. Nell Sue wished she could just find a hole and disappear! Her face turned red with embarrassment! The whole scene paused for a moment, the sense of shame seemed to stretch time. She stammered, "I... I’m Nell Sue, that day—" Seeing her falter, Clara Bennett kindly chimed in to cover for her: "Director, perhaps you’re too busy to remember. Miss Sue auditioned with me and is now playing the third female lead. I think her current look is quite fitting, very suitable for the role." Ethan Smith responded casually, "Oh, so she’s the third female lead. Alright, everyone get back to work, don’t waste time." Clara Bennett gave Nell Sue an ’apologetic’ smile, which only fueled Sue’s anger, her dissatisfaction nearly overflowing. Nell Sue glared at her fiercely, turned and left the scene. Her steps were firm, as if each step was taken on a platform of anger. It was suffocating!