"Ariana, I don't mean to complicate matters. I simply hope for Tyler's cooperation in engaging in more publicity endeavors. As we can't have a dual male lead finale for this drama, let's commence preparations for The Sky with Romance 2."

Ariana saw right through his ulterior motives. He wanted to tether himself to Tyler, extracting every ounce of his fame, like a vampire draining the life force from his prey.

“L refuse, and let me make it crystal clear; your desires will not come to fruition!"

Ariana's voice turned icy, as she continued, "Mr. Salazar, Tyler aspires to transform his image. He yearns to be recognized as a talented actor. It's one thing to seek attention during his early days by starring in modest productions, but I refuse to let him remain entangled in trashy idol dramas, squandering his popularity.”

Francis bristled at Ariana's unabashed condemnation of his drama, labeled as a trashy idol drama without any sugarcoating. His irritation broke loose as he snapped, "Ariana, what the hell do you mean by that?" He felt like a punch to the gut, his work being discredited.

“Just as it sounds," Ariana retorted, her words dripping with frostiness.

“Mr. Salazar, aren't you aware? Everyone else is striving for improvement, but what about you?

Are you genuinely planning to sustain your career on a bedrock of trite, melodramatic soap operas? Then, when you reflect on your career's twilight, realize that you have nothing to be proud of?"

Her words pierced Francis’ heart like a dagger.

After all, he hadn't entered the film industry solely for monetary gains. He was born with a silver spoon, stepping into the entertainment realm not for dalliances with beautiful women but to chase his dream of directing.

Yet, as Ariana had pointed out, despite his lengthy tenure, he had produced a heap of low-rated mediocrity. The Sky with Romance currently stood as his most successful work, which explained his reluctance to let go.

The silence on the other end of the line fueled Ariana's confidence. Undeterred, she pressed on, "Moreover, Mr. Salazar, let's not forget our contractual agreement. Tyler has been squeezing in these additional promotional activities out of love for this drama. But with the plethora of script readings you expect him to partake in, shouldn't we reevaluate the pay? Considering Tyler's present market value..."

Francis froze, his mind racing to find a way to defuse the tension. Desperately attempting to lighten the mood, he interjected, "Ariana, we've known each other for quite some time. Let's not allow money to mar our relationship. If you are so averse to it, let's put it aside."

Ariana emitted a cold chuckle, her response laced with disdain.

"Mr. Salazar, these matters are but trifles. As you mentioned, we wouldn't want to jeopardize our relationship. And who knows what else might be at risk next time.”

After hanging up, Ariana swiftly conveyed a message to Betsy, instructing her to fabricate hard-working quotes about Tyler and share them online.

The goal was to depict Tyler as tirelessly dedicated to The Sky with Romance publicity campaign, actively participating in numerous demanding activities, and currently exhausted.

Subsequently, she had the official drama account repost the quotes.

Her strategy bore fruit swiftly. Fans voiced their concern for Tyler, and even shippers shifted in Tyler's favor.

The rumors of Tyler's diva-like behavior dissipated, enabling Ariana to breathe a sigh of relief. However, as the situation settled down, an unsettling feeling gnawed at her.