Chapter 215
Ethan Smith's arrival sent waves through the entire film crew.
"Isn't that the legendary Ethan Smith?" a production assistant gasped behind her hand.
"Oh my god, he actually came to visit the set!"
All eyes followed the tall, elegant figure until he walked straight toward Lucy White.
Makeup artist Cindy tugged her assistant's sleeve excitedly. "See? I told you they were close!"
Lily Green stood in the corner, her nails digging into her palms. She glared at Lucy's direction, eyes burning with barely contained fury.
"Why her..." she muttered through clenched teeth.
Director Jude immediately called "Cut!" and approached with a frown. "Lily, what's that expression? Do it again!"
Snapping out of her trance, Lily forced a smile.
Ethan's assistant began distributing drinks, instantly lightening the atmosphere.
"Thank you, Mr. Smith!"
"Miss White must be really special!"
Director Jude greeted Ethan warmly. "What brings you here today, Mr. Smith?"
Ethan smiled faintly. "Just passing by." His gaze remained fixed on Lucy, who was filming a scene.
Understanding immediately, the director exchanged pleasantries before tactfully excusing himself.
Ethan waited patiently until evening when filming wrapped.
"Hungry?" He took Lucy's bag. "I booked that private congee place."
Lucy looked surprised. "The members-only health cuisine restaurant?"
"Mmm." He opened the car door for her. "Heard it's your favorite."
The car turned into a quiet alley, stopping before an elegant establishment with a traditional sign reading "Gourmet Retreat."
Upon entering, they encountered two elderly gentlemen.
"Ah, young Ethan!" one greeted cheerfully while eyeing Lucy curiously.
Ethan nodded politely and quickly ushered Lucy into a private room.
"Who were those..." Lucy frowned slightly.
"Retired officials." He poured her tea. "Don't mind them."
Meanwhile, outside the room:
"Old Smith, your future daughter-in-law is stunning!" the man exclaimed into his phone.
A loud thud came through the receiver. "I'm on my way!"
An hour later, as they exited, they nearly collided with a cane-wielding gentleman.
"Father?" Ethan blinked in surprise.
The older man feigned astonishment. "What a coincidence!"
Lucy studied the energetic elder, then Ethan, and immediately understood.
"Mr. Smith." She greeted him gracefully.
The elder's eyes lit up. "Excellent! You must visit us soon!"
He winked at his son, but Ethan cut in, "We're leaving, Father."
In the car, Ethan explained, "My father means well, but he's overly enthusiastic in his old age."
Lucy smiled. "He's lovely."
She retrieved an exquisite wooden box from her bag. "Your promised gift."
Inside lay a smooth mutton-fat jade pendant on velvet.
"I carved it myself," she admitted shyly. "It's amateur work..."
Ethan immediately put it on. "I love it."
Under the deepening twilight, they said goodbye at Lucy's doorstep.
"I'll be traveling next week," Ethan mentioned suddenly.
Lucy nodded. "Stay safe."
Meanwhile, across town in an upscale club:
Julian Chase swirled his drink. "That Lucy White, I'm telling you..."
Asher York narrowed his eyes. "You're serious?"
"Absolutely!" Julian slammed his glass down. "I saw it with my own eyes!"
The men exchanged knowing glances.