?Chapter 772:


    With a hint of reluctance, Francesca ceased her enthusiastic ordering.


    Reflecting on her performance in the film, Francesca was astounded by her own portrayal. Even though she had watched the yback during filming, the final version—with its polished color grading and powerful music—left herpletely stunned. Was that truly her performance? She had been incredible!


    “This role, Elena, is the one I hold closest to my heart. The writer who brought this character to life is an absolute genius!” Francesca smiled and gave Elena a yful wink.


    Meanwhile, Devonte was visibly nervous, shooting wary nces at Francesca. He was on edge as Francesca nearly revealed Elena’s secret identity as Lena. He hoped silently that Francesca would curb her words.


    Devonte’s eyelids gave a subtle twitch, but Francesca, fully immersed in the spirited chatter, remainedpletely unaware.


    Devonte couldn’t get her to stop, so he let out a sigh, heat rising through his body. He unfastened his suit and gently patted his face with a tissue. If Elena ever found out he was the one who gave away her identity, she’d absolutely make him suffer. Just imagining it made his smile turn bitter.


    Elena, catching Devonte’s anxious behavior, acknowledged Francesca’sments with a subtle nod.


    Encouraged by Elena’s response, Francesca took it as affirmation of her insights. She then suggested, “Elena, why don’t we go to Empire for some drinks after dinner?”


    Elena was aware that Francesca’s invitation for drinks was not solely about the beverages. She vividly remembered the attractive escorts who had served them during theirst visit.


    Sure enough, Francesca added, “There’s a new escort at Empire who’s quite the looker. It’s been forever since I’ve been there because of my schedule. We really should check it out.”


    Before Elena could react, Louis’s patience wore thin. Everyone was well aware of Francesca’s soft spot for the escorts at Empire. It was one thing for her to chase after her own flings, but now she was dragging Elena into it too.


    With a forced smile, Louis interjected, “Francesca, maybe focus on your meal a bit more.”


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    He then ced a piece of beef tongue on her te, suggesting, “You seem exhausted from all the chatter. This should help you recharge.”


    Francesca, caught up in her own enthusiasm, paused as she caught Louis’s stern look. She realized she might have overstepped. Her eyes quickly sought Devonte, who looked utterly dismayed.


    Acknowledging her blunder, Francesca quieted down and concentrated on her food.


    Louis, seeing that he had managed to quiet Francesca, nodded approvingly.


    While Louis was focused on moderating Francesca’s behavior, he hadn’t noticed Kiera’s distress as he served Francesca.


    Kiera bowed her head, tears brimming in her eyes. She thought Francesca was everything she wasn’t—graceful, self-assured, and effortlessly well-spoken… Meanwhile, she sat there too nervous to utter a word. She couldn’t find a way into the conversation and ended up just poking at the food on her te.


    Kiera kept to whatever dishes were close by, steering clear of anything that meant reaching out across the table. She disliked drawing attention to herself, feeling difort when noticed. The thrill she had felt in the theater had dissipated, leaving her heart heavy and her eyes moist with tears yet to fall.


    After the meal, Devonte hastily escorted Francesca away, anxious about how Elena might react if they lingered.


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