The next time Natalie crossed my radar was when the web drama *Chasing Green* officially announced its cast. The production crew had bought a spot on the trending search list to generate hype.
Curious, I clicked the link.
**Female Lead: Natalie Fox.**
Her name was bolded at the top of the list.
She hadn't just joined the crew. She had secured the lead role.
As I stared at the screen, my phone began to ring.
Natalie Fox's voice dripped with smugness.
"See? It proves that even without your pocket change, I can still land a production."
"Once this drama airs, I'll blow up. I'll break into the mainstream, my path to stardom will be paved with gold, and I'll have endless glory."
"When you're so broke you can't even afford a meal, feel free to come crawl back. Kneel and beg. For every kowtow, I'll toss you a hundred bucks."
I didn't bother responding. Just hung up.
Despite the mockery in her tone, something else bled through—a tremor of exhaustion.
A cold sneer curled my lips.
Three days ago, a traffic violation notice had landed in my inbox. The car was an anniversary gift I'd given Natalie, though it was still registered under my name.