?Chapter 481:


    Turning his attention back to Elena, Kenton’s tone grew gentler. “It’s settled then. Just a short scene.” He passed the script he was holding to Elena. “Just these lines. Have a look.”


    Elyse couldn’t stand it. Watching Elena receive Kenton’s approval was more than she could bear. She shouted in front of all the actresses auditioning, “Mr. Pearson, this isn’t fair! We all auditioned using the same script, but you’re giving her a different one. That’s favoritism! Have you already decided to cast her as Rylee? If so, why go through the trouble of auditions? Why waste everyone’s time?”


    Elyse’s usation stung the other actresses deeply. They had all diligently prepared for this opportunity, only to hear that the decision might already be made. It felt like a joke.


    Many actresses without powerful connections or support resented the idea of roles being given to well-connected individuals simply because of favoritism.


    The atmosphere in the audition room became tense and unpredictable.


    “Great, another instance of favoritism!”


    “They already chose someone but still let us audition? That’spletely unfair!”


    “Are we just clowns here to amuse some wealthy girl?”


    “So, Mr. Pearson is part of backdoor deals and favoritism too. The entertainment industry is just corrupt…”


    On the second floor, Francesca and Louis were standing by the railing. Francesca raised her eyebrow. “Louis, your cousin is making things difficult for your sister. Shouldn’t you step in?”


    Louis always donned a smile, but now his face was expressionless, making him look more like Elena. “Elyse never learns, daring to frame Elena again…” He flicked his cigarette butt away and started heading downstairs.


    Meanwhile, Kenton was livid at the usation of favoritism. “What are you talking about? Do you think a venue this size doesn’t need funding? Do you think holding auditions isn’t costly in terms of time and resources? If I had already chosen someone for the role, why would I bother with all this? If you don’t want to audition, then leave! And that applies to anyone else who feels the same—anyone who doesn’t want to be here is free to leave!”


    Kenton was furious because A Dream Within a Dream was a novel he cherished deeply, and Lena was the author he admired more than anyone else. From the initial stages of nning the film to the approaching start of production, he had carefully overseen every detail, investing his whole heart into the endeavor.


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    While Elena’s appearance was exactly what Kenton envisioned for Rylee, he wasn’t about to simply hand her the role.


    The scene chosen for Elena’s audition was the movie’s emotional climax, where Rylee faced the betrayal of her sect and stood alone in defiance. Although it only had one line, the moment required deep emotional intensity and powerful expression. This audition piece was significantly more challenging than those assigned to others.


    Elyse, however, was not just spreading groundless usations but also stirring unrest, throwing the set into chaos. If not for her ties to the Harper family, her connection to Louis, and her friendship with Theo, Kenton would have dismissed her from the set long ago.


    Elyse was taken aback by Kenton’s harsh words. “I…”


    Elyse believed she was destined to be the female lead of A Dream Within a Dream. How could Kenton suggest she leave? Her fists clenched so tightly that her nails pressed into her palms. She felt a mix of panic and rage. That wretched Elena! What kind of influence did she have over Kenton to win his favor?


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