The Rise of the White Lotus Chapter 111 – To be at the top

Abigail Fan was rendered speechless as she attentively listened to Lexi’s continues storytelling. She felt honored that Lexi shared this sensitive topic with her, and touched at the same time.

In retrospect, Lexi had always this huge invisible wall around her that no matter how Abigail Fan showed her loyalty — she won’t ever gonna see it. However, right now, Abigail Fan felt the vast distance between them gradually lessened. Hence, she believed that Lexi’s realization wasn’t a play pretend but sincere.

Pursing her lips, Abigail Fan looked down on her fist that was placed on her lap as tears started to form on the corner of her upturned eyes. Is this how Lexi care? Abigail had mixed emotions for some unknown reason. It’s as if the previous image she had with Lexi slowly shattered and only this understanding yet slightly changed woman were left.

The words ‘if I think you can, you should as well’ were enough to tug Abigail’s heart knowing that someone believed in her, but hearing further appreciation from Lexi, of all people, was beyond touching. God knows that ever since Lexi’s career went downhill — Abigail as a manager also had rough days afterward.

She had been feeling awful and depressed at the same time and the last person she expected to understand and unintentionally cheered her up without question was this Diva. Therefore, how could she not be moved by it?

Looking up, Abigail Fan bit her trembling lower lip as her eyes were welling up, “Sister Lexi –”

If only she could pounce on her while sobbing her overwhelmed heart, Abigail Fan would. However, she didn’t dare as she still had the slight consciousness of the do’s and don’t’s in interacting with this overly-sensitive person.

On the other hand, Lexi rolled her eyes as she slightly shook her head with a brief chuckle. She could not believe the reaction that was plastered across her manager’s face as Abigail Fan retrained her snots and her obvious sobs but miserably failed; it was hilarious.

“Well, fast forward, whether you think you’ll do well or not — I think you will. After all, VM entertainment wouldn’t suppress you if you didn’t pose a threat to them.” Placing her elbow on the chair’s armrest while propping her jaw, Lexi smirked. She added,

“Aim to be on the top so, no one could bully you.”

When Abigail Fan got a hold of herself, they discussed the matters further without any heartwarming words as Lexi went into a full business mode. Seeing her like this, Abigail Fan was in awe. She almost forgot that Lexi came from a business family because the time she spent with her — Lexi’s head was full of ‘how to bully Mia Chen’ and ‘getting Morris Liu’s heart back’ that cloaked her brilliance in this aspect.

“In the meantime, while I am preparing for my upcoming movie, contact all your resources and poach for potential starlets that could make it to stardom.” Lexi’s last remark made Abigail Fan’s brows knit in confusion.

“Umm, Lexi? Are you not going to pursue your acting career? Shouldn’t we suppose to stabilized your reputation and secure projects for you?” Initially, Abigail planned to clear the ambiguous scandals circulating about Lexi, hence, she thought she must gather evidence that could prove Lexi’s innocence.

“I accepted this project because of its director, but, to be honest, I am uncertain myself what career my heart desires.” Lexi nonchalantly shrugged.

Indeed, although deep down, Lexi quite had a genuine inkling to acting, she felt that it wasn’t for her. She actually never thought about going back if not for the fact that Arnold Shen was the one who would be going to direct the movie; not to mention his last film to direct. Hence, to fulfill something inside her, Lexi auditioned.

However, now that Abigail Fan mentioned it — Lexi realized that she hadn’t found her equilibrium in life. Granting that she could inherit their family business, but, Lexi wasn’t really fond of the business line of the Yang Company. Moreover, she grew up believing that she must useful to her former fiance Morris Liu.

Therefore, Lexi wasn’t quite sure what path to take after everything happened.

Upon hearing her honest response, Abigail Fan nodded in understanding. Somehow, she got the gist of Lexi’s dilemma and understood that it’s not something she could probe further.

“Alright… Let’s just focus on this upcoming project. I hope you’ll find the place where your heart belongs to.” A statement filled with sincerity, Abigail Fan spoke her mind and legitimately hoped for the best of Lexi’s growth.

She liked this new Lexi that was in front of her and this fresh business partnership they had begun. Standing up, Abigail Fan slightly bowed her head in respect to the person across her. Lexi, on the other hand, did the same and returned the bow courtly.

“I’m looking forward to working with you,” Lexi solemnly uttered with a subtle smile on her lips. Lending her slender hands for a handshake, Abigail Fan gladly received it.

“Me too, Miss Lexi Yang. Thank you for trusting me.” In a professional pose, Abigail Fan warmly smiled back.

—-

As Abigail Fan left, deep down, both women knew that their relationship not only as an artist and manager or business partners was formed; it also showed the seemingly impossible light of friendship with trust also surfaced that filled their hearts with a determination not to let down the other.

“Well, I must say that opening-up is… nice?” Feeling the burden that was weighing her heart down, her confession about the realization she had after her suicide attempt did not only encourage Abigail but also helped Lexi in her emotional state.

Just then, Lexi heard the ever-familiar ping of the system’s notification that made her brows arch.