As she spoke, she pulled back her long hair, which had been framing her face and covering her ears this whole time.

Only then did the others realize that Jessie had been wearing Bluetooth earphones all along.

Those who stood nearby could even hear the music blasting from the earplugs.

That was to say, Jessie did not hear a single word of Maria's hour-long speech.

Francis' face hardened.

“Maria explained everything very well just now. Weren't you Listening?"

"Um..."

Jessie sneered at Maria who had just come into this room before turning to Francis with a fawning expression.

“I still hope that you would give us your own advice, Mr. Jackson. After all, Female Military Counselor is bound to be a blockbuster hit. We should all take this project seriously. As for Maria's opinions... Well. She shall be qualified to advise me on my acting once she wins a Best Actress award.”

Jessie ended her snide remarks with a snicker.

“Maria, Jessie has won the Best Actress award once, and the Best

Supporting Actress twice," Claire whispered urgently.

"She is very skilled, indeed. I just don't understand why she suddenly put you on the spot."

Unfazed, Maria gave Francis a casual nod.

"Since someone had specifically requested it, you will be in charge of the interpretation from now on, Mr. Jackson."

She didn't seem angry or offended. She even patted Francis on the shoulder, as they were already quite familiar with each other.

The other actors were naturally surprised to see this. How dare she treat their respectable director so casually? Jessie was particularly miffed.

She narrowed her eyes and glared at Maria.

“I understand. Fine, I suppose I'll take it from here," Francis muttered glumly.

Jay also seemed displeased by this turn of events.

Rooney noticed both men's reactions.

He found himself in deep thought.

Did Francis think that he wasn't as capable as Maria in terms of interpreting the script?

Rooney ducked his head and stared at his notebook. He had taken notes while listening to Maria, just as Jay had suggested.