Chapter 1176

Makiko settled back in her chair, savoring a sip of her steaming coffee as a smile graced her lips. "Cole, we don't need to fret about Wilder anymore. He's got

everything at work under control. But there's something important I need to talk to you about."

Cole sank into the seat across from her. "What's up?"

"It's about your dad's health. He's getting up there in age, and I could help him out a bit. What do you think?"

Makiko's gaze was mysterious, hard to read.

Cole's eyes dropped to his coffee cup, staring into the dark liquid like it was a reflection of his own shadowy life.

"I should probably chat with him first. I've heard Josefina's been helping him, and he's a bit wary of outsiders."

Makiko didn't flinch. "Whether he trusts me or not, that's on me. Letting me help, though, that's your call."

Cole gave a slight nod, like he was quietly agreeing.

Makiko felt a wave of relief wash over her.

Calix's fan meet-and-greet was a hit, the excitement buzzing all over the internet. Fans couldn't stop raving about him. But Josefina and the mysterious Oliver, with his hat and mask, were also causing a stir.

Even with his face hidden, Oliver's charisma was undeniable, sparking curiosity online. The trio quickly shot up the trending charts.

Calix chuckled, glancing at his phone. "Looks like my sister, her husband, and I are all making waves our own way. People are dying for Oliver's info and are lining up for Josie. Can't they tell they're already a couple?"

Scott chimed in, "Hey, good-looking guys and pretty gals sitting together might just be siblings. Good genes run in families, you know."

Calix shot back, "True, but you and me sitting together? No one's mistaking us for family."

Scott clutched his heart in mock betrayal. "Calix, I thought we were buds! Why throw me under the bus like that?"

Calix smirked, "As long as I keep the cash rolling in for you, I could probably get away with just about anything, right?”

Scott nodded, grinning. “You bet. Money's the only thing that doesn't hurt. It buys everything else."

Just then, Tristan walked in.

Calix's smile vanished. "What are you doing here?" his tone turned icy.

Since Daniela and Jennie had wronged Josefina, Calix had been giving Tristan the cold shoulder

Their friendship sank faster than stone.

Tristan sat down, glancing at Scott

ecould you give us a bet

need to tal alk to Calix about Something important

Scott looked to Calix, knowing he only took cues from him.

Tristan's voice softened. “Calix, I really need to speak with you.”

Calix sighed. “Scott, mind waiting outside for a bit?"

Tristan wasn't about to try anything here on set.

"Sure thing, Calix. Just shout if you need me," Scott said, giving Tristan a wary look as he left the trailer.

Calix tucked his phone in his pocket and fixed his gaze on Tristan. “Alright, spill it.”

Tristan pulled out a small white packet, revealing some fine white powder.

Calix's eyes narrowed. “Are you trying to poison me?"

Tristan started to explain, but Calix cut him off, dripping with

accusation. "Tristan, I thought you were a friend. But you want to treat me like I'm already dead?"