Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 258 Unfair Advantage

After uttering those words, she swiftly exited the game, powered down her computer, slipped into her shoes, and dashed downstairs.

"Niall!"

Niall had just arrived home, shedding his coat. He glanced up at Violeta on the second floor. "What's up?"

"Have you found the person I asked you to find?"

Niall's gaze softened. "Yes. They're leaving the day after tomorrow, and dinner plans are already set."

A smile brightened Violeta's face as she hurried downstairs and embraced Niall tightly. "That's wonderful! Niall, you're incredible, thank you!"

Niall tousled her hair. "No need for all the formality."

"Vio, you needn't start networking so early, especially while still in school. You've only just begun your second year next semester, and Mum and Dad want you home a few more years."

"Niall, I just want to broaden my horizons beyond class. Besides, an actress's prime is brief. I should be creating more at my peak," Violeta asserted.

Niall smiled gently. "Fair enough. But remember, Violeta, whether you're eighteen, twenty-eight, or thirty-eight, every age is your best."

"Yeah, I understand." Violeta nodded.

She knew her family meant well. Yet Violeta was determined not to lag behind Zelena, especially after being overshadowed in her previous life. She refused to waste any time this time around. Zelena would be leveraging every resource in their circle. Hattie, with her connection to Hannah, had already surged ahead of everyone in their class.

break presented the perfect

believe in waiting for fate. Last time, she underestimated Zelena, and

resolved to stay one

life, Violeta vividly remembered that in her sophomore year, there were two productions whose crews were almost as talented as Nolan's in 'Night On the River.' They rivalled the explosive popularity of that year's

Belongs To You,' while the other was an engrossing mystery series called

period martial arts films,

was widely known that Wade's projects were rare gems, and his casting choices were notoriously selective. With no certainty that Wade would consider her, Violeta knew she couldn't bet all her

a role in a noteworthy production. That's why she was

surely turn to

build her network, both by aligning with Hattie and by

on

strategically leverage her family's connections when necessary to

'The Legend of Blind Detective' presented promising opportunities. Choosing either would be a smart move

would be a smart

the two projects were very different: one was a sweet romance,

strong reputations, Violeta had a preference

build a career based on solid acting skills

a strong start was crucial, as it

fit into a high-profile, star-driven career, she was determined to be known for her

Violeta had witnessed many stars rise and fall, learning that fame was

or fabricated, genuine achievements, once earned,

Violeta remembered,

Blind Detective' was a