Chapter 109

• The director beamed as he approached Lily and Rose after the intense scene. His excitement was evident as he clapped his hands together.
• “Lily, my dear, you were phenomenal!” Director Young exclaimed, his laughter warm and genuine. “You’re a true gem, a treasure for this production!” He then turned to Rose with an encouraging smile. “And you, Rose, did an excellent job too. The reaction during the slap—it felt so raw and real! I’m truly proud of you.”
• “Thank you, Director Young,” Rose replied, her voice polite, though her clenched fists betrayed her frustration. Real? Of course, it was real! she fumed inwardly. How could it not be when that slap wasn’t acting at all?