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 replace?"

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.

This winter break presented the perfect opportunity to widen the gap.

Violeta didn't believe in waiting for fate. Last time, she underestimated Zelena, and opportunities that should have been hers slipped away.

She was resolved to stay one step ahead, always.

Recalling from her previous 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 biggest hits.

One project was a charming campus romance named 'The Moon Belongs To You,' while the other was an engrossing mystery series called *The Legend of Blind Detective*.

Violeta had a strong interest in period martial arts films, but her primary goal was to work with Wade.

It 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 hopes on him.

As a sophomore, Violeta needed to secure a role in a noteworthy production. That's why she was eyeing these two shows; either choice would mark a solid beginning for her career.

Hattie would surely turn to Hannah for assistance.

Meanwhile, Zelena would use every strategy to build her network, both by aligning with Hattie and by making new connections.

Violeta understood that relying solely on her own efforts would be unwise.

It made sense to strategically leverage her family's connections when necessary to gain an edge.

Both 'The Moon Belongs To You' and 'The Legend of Blind Detective' presented promising opportunities. Choosing either would be a smart move e. However, the two projects were very different: one was a sweet romance, while the other was a serious, suspense-filled drama.

Choosing either would be a smart move.

However, the two projects were very different: one was a sweet romance, while the other was a serious, suspense-filled drama.

Although both directors had strong reputations, Violeta had a preference for 'The Legend of Blind Detective.'

She wanted to build a career based on solid acting skills rather than just being another pretty face.

Making a strong start was crucial, as it would influence future opportunities and shape public perception.

While Violeta could easily fit into a high-profile, star-driven career, she was determined to be known for her acting prowess rather than her celebrity.

From her previous life's experience, Violeta had witnessed many stars rise and fall, learning that fame was transient.

While much of the industry could be manufactured or fabricated, genuine achievements, once earned, were authentic and enduring.

As Violeta remembered, 'The Legend

of Blind Detective' was a trilogy

renowned for its remarkable character development. The series had even earned nominations for

Best Lead Actor and Actress that year.

Although she couldn't recall if it had clinched any awards, selecting this project would undoubtedly boost her chances of securing the New Actor Award.

A few days prior, Violeta had asked Niall to investigate the production team behind 'The Legend of Blind Detective,' hoping to establish some connections.

At the same time, she prepared her resume for the audition.

With the right contacts and her own impressive credentials, she was confident that she had a strong shot at the role.

Elsewhere, Hattie took Zelena to Harbor City for a meeting with Hannah.

With Benson heading abroad, Hannah had cleared a month from her schedule to spend time with them.

When Hattie introduced Zelena to Hannah, an experienced actress with nearly thirty years in the industry, it was evident to Hannah that Zelena had her own agenda.

However, Hannah considered the

situation carefully. In the world of entertainment, having an extra ally was preferable to making an enemy. Since Zelena and Hattie were

classmates, Hannah saw no reason not to extend a helping hand to Zelena.