In a rush, Noreen offered, “If you're not happy with her, we can find a replacement... We can ask her to step down immediately."

After looking at Noreen for a moment, Alexis smiled and replied, "That won't be necessary."

She paused, but then went on, "It seems Miss Cohen and I have similar interests."

Noreen's heart raced. She realized Alexis must know something, but she couldn't bring herself to ask... Nor did she feel brave enough to do so.

Just then, Alexis' phone rang.

She checked the caller ID and saw it was Leonel.

A chill flashed through Alexis' eyes. Given the choice, she would have ignored the call.

Leonel's voice came through softly. “Are you ready?"

"I'll be there soon," Alexis answered.

She wanted to add more, but then she heard a woman's gentle voice in the background. "Mr. Douglas, it's time for our rehearsal. Can you make it?"

Leonel excused himself to speak to the woman. As he was about to return to the conversation, Alexis cut in sharply. "You should get back to your work."

With that, she ended the call.

Noreen stood frozen, watching. Alexis put her phone down, sank into the sofa with a sigh, and asked quietly, “How long has it been?"

“Wh-what do you mean?"

Noreen played innocent at first, but Alexis' penetrating gaze sent shivers down her spine. She reluctantly confessed, "I don't know all the details, but I believe that woman hasn't made her move yet."

Images of Leonel's shirt, marked with the scent of perfume and lipstick, flashed in Alexis' mind.

She looked down, a bitter smile on her lips. "Perhaps you're mistaken."

With a wave of her hand, she signaled for everyone to leave. She needed some time alone. Noreen seemed like she wanted to say something but paused, reconsidering. Eventually, she left with the others.

Alone in the spacious dressing room sat Alexis.

Her bag contained a pack of cigarettes.