The Lies We Tell Ourselves

Chapter 7

Laurent was poking at his food when Serena arrived, her presence at the front door immediately putting him on edge. He saw her enter the dining room, as confident as ever, and he straightened, watching her as she walked in with that same indifferent expression she always wore. His curiosity was piqued, though he'd never admit it—what was she doing here?

She sat across the table facing Laurent, their eyes meeting across the room. As if on cue, they launched into their usual sharp-tongued banter.

"Well, if it isn't the queen herself," Laurent remarked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "I didn't think you'd be here. Shouldn't you be off with your rumored boyfriend, Elias?"

"Good evening, Mr. Gray" Serena greeted Laurent's father then rolled her eyes at Laurent, giving him a once-over before she coolly replied, "Surprised to see you too, Laurent. Didn't think you'd be here, either. Or are you just here to mope in another room after that Vivien drama?"

That took him by surprise; he didn't know Serena knew about the scandal with Vivien.

"Honestly, that jab stings more than I expected," Laurent shot back, narrowing his glare at her. "At least I don't pretend to be busy just to avoid reality."

"Oh, don't worry, I'm all too aware of reality," Serena retorted, crossing her arms as she leaned against the doorway. "And it's as unbearable as ever."

Their verbal sparring was interrupted by Laurent's father, Victor. "Enough. Both of you."

Serena raised an eyebrow, exchanging a brief glance with Laurent before they both begrudgingly followed the call.

Inside, Laurent noticed something odd. The dinner wasn't just with his father; it included their managers and someone else sitting at the far end of the table. It didn't take long for him to recognize the man—an influential producer known for creating top-tier, award-winning films.

"Good evening," the producer said, standing to shake their hands. "I'm Robert Kuill. It's a pleasure to finally meet both of you in person."

"Serena Vale," she replied, shaking his hand with a confident smile and was followed by the others greeting the producer. "I've heard a lot about your projects, Mr. Kuill. Excited to see what you have in mind."

"Likewise, Serena," Robert replied, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Your work has always impressed me."

Serena smiled, "That's a milestone for me. Thank you, Mr. Kuill"

Then Robert's smile faded slightly as he addressed something more serious. "Speaking of which, Serena... I did hear an interesting rumor floating around recently. Word has it that you're planning on leaving the entertainment industry."

Serena raised her eyebrows, clearly amused. "Leaving the industry?" She chuckled lightly, then shot a sharp glance toward Laurent. "Oh, that's just someone trying to stir up trouble. A rumor from someone who, let's say, might have been desperate to get my attention."

Victor, who was already in on the joke, laughed under his breath, glancing knowingly at Laurent, who shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

Alen, one of the managers, sighed and shook his head, clearly aware of the real story but choosing to stay silent

While Iso, another manager, couldn't resist adding, "Now, now, Serena, let's not go too far."

Serena gave Laurent a mocking smile, knowing full well who had started the false rumor. "I have no intention of leaving, Mr. Kuill. But it's flattering to know some people would be so affected by the thought of me quitting."