Stella had barely recovered from her coughing fit when Yvonne’s sudden suggestion made her choke on her breath again.
Yvonne’s thoughts always raced ahead—too fast for Stella to keep up. Noticing the stunned expression on her face, Yvonne laughed and waved it off. “Alright, alright! I was just joking!”
Stella’s cheeks turned bright red. She opened her mouth to say something, but no words came. She stood there, looking helpless and flustered.
Yvonne couldn’t resist. She reached out and gently pinched Stella’s cheek. “Why are you so easy to bully?”
With a sigh, she added, “It’s exactly because you’re like this that a man like Weston gets to walk all over you…”
Yvonne had tried countless times to help her. But every time she brought up the idea to her family, it was met with cold, practical objections. Weston was too powerful, his influence too far-reaching. Even a single misstep could bring serious consequences to Lucas and others involved in business with him.
Her once bold determination had been worn down by relentless reality. Now, all that remained was a quiet frustration—a helplessness that she couldn’t do more for Stella.
Seeing the guilt in her eyes, Stella gave her a reassuring smile.
After a moment, Yvonne changed the subject. “Hey, are you free tonight?”
Stella hesitated. Weston had mentioned he’d be picking her up after work.
Before she could answer, Yvonne linked arms with her. “Come with me. You’re either working or staying home all the time—it’s turning you into a recluse. You need to get out, meet new people, breathe a little.”
Something flickered in Stella’s eyes, and after a brief pause, she nodded. “Alright.”
If she truly intended to explore opportunities in showbiz, she had to start expanding her social circle. Weston’s resistance to her joining the entertainment industry was likely rooted in fear—fear that once she had her own career and independence, he’d lose control over her.
She’d been turning the thought over in her mind all day. It was becoming clearer that the only way to break free from Weston was to rise above him. And for someone like her, with no special background, the entertainment industry just might be her fastest way up.
Yvonne hadn’t expected such an easy agreement. Her face lit up with excitement. “Awesome! I’ll call my friend now and make some arrangements. I’ll take you to the best entertainment spot in Fern City tonight. How’s that sound?”
Stella nodded again.
Fern City was home to plenty of well-known entertainment hotspots. For the wealthy, Lowe Garden was a popular choice—equal parts business lounge and pleasure den. Beautiful women flocked there, and it earned its nickname, “the mini entertainment circle.”
Young people had their own hangouts, too. Beyond the artsy cafés that doubled as places to flirt, one spot stood out: The Dog House. It was easily the city’s most famous nightclub.
The owner’s identity remained a mystery, but he had clearly invested heavily from the start. The club separated its clientele by spending level, drawing in everyone from average wage earners to affluent heirs. It was the go-to spot for both relaxation and excitement.
Live bands regularly played on the main stage, and every so often, famous celebrities would make appearances. There was even an open dance floor where anyone could join in. Unlike the rigid expectations of the daytime, The Dog House promised a place where one could let loose and simply live in the moment.
Stella had never stepped into a place like that before. Raised in a quiet, conservative household by two university professors, her upbringing was the polar opposite of what this night promised.
As they walked through the entrance, a blast of music pounded from the speakers, vibrating through the floor. Stella’s steps faltered.
Sensing her hesitation, Yvonne gently bumped her shoulder. “What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?”
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