Chapter 220

In this industry, you got nowhere without a powerful backer. Every starlet had a sponsor or two, but Yesenia's was clearly someone none of them dared to cross, which only fueled their curiosity. If he turned out to be some fat, greasy old man, they'd have something to laugh about for weeks.

As they chatted, a sleek Maybach sped toward them, coming to a smooth stop right in front of Yesenia.

The chatter died instantly, all eyes fixed on the car, waiting to see who would emerge. The door opened, and a tall man in a black overcoat stepped out.

Yesenia's face lit up. "Clifford!" she cried, rushing toward him.

When the man turned, his sharply defined features came into view. In the darkness, his indifferent eyes seemed exceptionally cold, like those of a god observing mortals without a trace of emotion.

The other women stopped smiling. They'd all seen that face before—on television, in newspapers, or at exclusive business galas. Clifford didn't move in their circles, so none of them had ever dared to approach him, but everyone who mingled with the elite knew his name.

It was him. Yesenia's sponsor was that man.

Wanting to show off, Yesenia looped her arm through his. "Why did you drive yourself? How long did it take?"

Clifford played along, wrapping an arm around her waist. "Only two hours. Have you been waiting long?"

"Not really. I dressed warmly, but my hands are a little cold."

He took her hand in his. "Let's get in the car."

With a blissful smile, Yesenia leaned into him. Under the envious stares of the other actresses, she slid into the Maybach, and they drove off into the night.

In the car, Yesenia was triumphant. "Clifford, you have no idea! I heard them whispering that my backer

was some old ugly man, maybe net

even bald was so furious! Did you see the looks on their faces when you showed up? It was priceless! They stood there freezing with me for ages just to eat their words. Let's see if they dare gossip about me behind my back again!"

She chattered on excitedly while Clifford drove, a faint, indulgent smile on his lips.

"Hey, why aren't you saying anything? Aren't you happy for me?"

"I drove two hours to get here, and now I have to drive two hours back. Do you think I'm happy?" he countered.

His response only made her laugh more. "That just proves you love me! Thank you, darling!"

Clifford let out a noncommittal chuckle.

An idea sparked in Yesenia's eyes,

"You must be tired from all that

driving Why don't we just get a hotel room for the right instead of going back?"

She looked at him expectantly.

"Fine. I'll get a room for you."

Her smile vanished. "What do you mean, for 'me'? Aren't you staying?"

"I have to work tomorrow morning. No time."

"Liar. Is it really because of work?" Yesenia's playful mood was gone, replaced by a sharp intensity as she stared at him. "I already told you, don't expect anything from you even we've shared a bed, so why do you always..."

"Yesenia," Clifford interrupted, cutting her off.