Chapter 1: Behind The Scene

A woman sat with intense focus in the corner of a bustling film studio, her eyes glued to the script in her hands. Every so often, crew members found themselves sneaking glances at her not because she demanded attention, but because she effortlessly attracted it. It's not purely about her looks, there was something about her presence- like a quiet gravity pulling eyes in her direction.

Pretty faces were as common as dramatic love triangles in showbusiness that's why it took more than just good looks for a celebrity to stand out. And yet, she did. She wasn't a goddess descending from the heavens per se, though if she knew what they were thinking she certainly wouldn't mind the comparison. She have this can't-quite-put-your-finger-on-it type of presence. The kind that made it seem like she carried her own personal spotlight. Effortlessly shining even in the busiest of crowds.

Little did everyone know, the real reason for her glow wasn't divine intervention. It was pure, unfiltered self-satisfaction. Celeste—with a spotlight—Concepción was currently experiencing an intense case of main character energy, also known as being extremely proud of herself.

Up to now she still couldn't believe that she had landed the role of Billie the second female supporting character in this year's most highly anticipated movie.

CeCe had been in the industry since she was 20. She's 24 now and the four long, harrowing years she spent as as one of the many extras is still painfully vivid in her memory. But finally her effort had paid off!

Damn, CeCe! You're a masterpiece!

After countless sleepless nights rehearsing her lines, skipping meals to squeeze in extra practice and sacrificing every bit of free time she had, she finally did it. She got the role! All the exhaustion, the self-doubt, the moments she thought about giving up... It was all worth it.

She proved to herself that her hard work wasn't in vain and in that moment she couldn't have been prouder!

CeCe, best girl!!! No One does it like you!

This is such a blessing so she can't mess this up. She knew that her acting skills had limits after all this was her first major break so technically, she is still a newbie. But she also believed that once she made the most out of this chance, success would soon follow.

She couldn't help but grin as she imagined her dazzling future— starring in major TV shows and blockbuster films, endorsing top brands both locally and internationally and of course, standing on stage clutching a golden trophy as the crowd roared.

Best Actress from every major award body? Oh, she wasn't just aiming for it, she was destined for it! This year's grand slam actress would be none other than her- Cece!

Get it together, CeCe!

This isn't the time nor place to daydream!

Cece is overwhelmed but in a good way. Like winning the lottery but now realizing she actually has to be responsible with the money. This is her rare break and she absolutely cannot afford to mess it up... probably. No, definitely!

She knew she wasn't the smartest fine, she'd accept that. But she firmly believed in the saying, 'The chicken that wakes up early eats the worm first'—or was it the bird? Whatever.

The point is, she had no real talent but she's hardworking (self-proclaimed)! She's kind (also self-proclaimed)! And most importantly she's drop-dead gorgeous and that's one thing she is absolutely sure of!

As they say, opportunity waits for no one. So even though it is yet her call time she still showed up to the set to observe. CeCe is ready to learn from her predecessor and those veteran actors. Perhaps if she played her cards right with enough dedication and maybe some strategic communication, she'd be a pro in no time.

That's why she, Celeste—hardworking—Concepción is giving it her best to memorize her lines never forgetting to flash a smile whenever she meets the eyes of a crew member. She made sure to greet people from time to time offering a friendly nod or a quick 'good morning' whenever someone is passing by.

Apart from wanting to leave a dedicated and hardworking image with the director, staff and crew, she also wanted to come across as humble and diligent, the kind of actress worth taking a gamble on. Who knows? Maybe they had a new project in the works and she'd magically land a role. Manifesting!!

"CeCe? There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you."

"Everything alright, Ms. M?''

Melissa Yu or Ms. M was more than just CeCe's manager. She was her handler, stylist, PA, driver and practically everything in between. She was also the one who first discovered CeCe when she was working at a mall during her first month in the capital.

CeCe came from a small island in the south-central part of the country. Life had always been tough for her family so when she finished high school, she took a leap of faith and moved to the city to try her luck. It wasn't easy but it was worth it. At least she was managing to get by.

She always found a way to hustle even if it meant taking on small gigs as a background extra or landing the occasional commercial, even if she was barely in the frame. It wasn't much but she could support herself while sending money home. Though there wasn't much left for savings.

But now, finally she had landed a major role as Female Number 2. This is it! After four long years, she could see the end of the tunnel. She made it!

"I tried calling you, but you weren't picking up." Ms. M simply responded, ignoring her previous question.

Confused, CeCe checked her phone only to realize it was completely dead. She blinked at the screen before looking up with a sheepish smile holding up the lifeless device as if it explained everything.

"Sorry Ms. M, my battery died." She said with an awkward chuckle.

"I've been telling you to replace that phone for God knows how long! How many years have you been using that thing?" Ms. M sighed, shaking her head. "In this industry you need to be reachable at all times. What if a producer wants to cast you for a last-minute audition but no one can get a hold of you? That would be a waste."

"Yes, yes Ms. M, I promise! As soon as I get my talent fee for this, I'll buy a new one!" CeCe said with a playful grin. Then, tilting her head, she added. "Anyway, why were you looking for me? Is there an audition?"

Her expression suddenly turned serious and she let out a sigh. "Bad news, CeCe. The casting director said you don't fit the role. You're too stunning. They're looking for someone with a fresher, more innocent vibe."

CeCe didn't respond right away. She just sat there blankly and muttered under her breath.

"But the director said I was perfect for it. He even told me I was the Billie he had in mind when they were writing the script. I'm already here and filming's about to start."

"I know, dear." Ms. M said with a sigh. "That's why I fought hard to get you some kind of compensation. It's not much but at least you're getting something out of this. A little something for your time."

She sat down beside CeCe and lit a cigarette "I heard the producer has a distant niece. She wanted to enter the industry" She said matter-of-factly.

"Anyway, they know they messed up so they're making it up to you with an advertisement. A perfume brand, locally made but it has a solid reputation and a good image. Not bad."

"They didn't even make me the brand ambassador." CeCe let out a soft, humorless laugh.

"Silly girl!" Ms. M chuckled, exhaling a puff of smoke. "For people like us with no connections, we should be grateful we're getting anything out of this situation. Others wouldn't be so generous."

"I know."

Of course, she knew. This wasn't the first time she'd been robbed of a role, her hard work overlooked and it definitely wouldn't be the last.

Ms. M was right, at the very least she got something out of this. But it's still a bitter pill to swallow.

Still, there was nothing she could do. This is how life works.

This is just how it works...

Calm down, CeCe. Just bide your time. She kept telling herself to relax.

She was weak now yes, but she wouldn't stay weak forever.

Clenching her fists tightly she flashed a sweet, almost innocent smile at Ms. M. Then she stood up and said:

"So, what now? Are we telling the director the unfortunate news that I'm backing out?" CeCe sighed. "I feel so bad, now they'll have to scramble for a replacement. What a shame."

Ms. M scoffed, shaking her head. "Oh, please. Spare me the theatrics." Then her smile faded as quickly as it came. "Let's go. The milk tea I ordered for the crew is here."

This is what Ms. M likes about CeCe. She might not be the best or the smartest but she had a certain cunning, a flexibility that allowed her to bend and stretch.

In this industry where it is normal to step on the weak and worship the strong this was exactly the kind of trait she needed to survive.

They went to the director and after a brief discussion they managed to reach an understanding, both parties fully committed to maintaining the illusion of harmony.

"Sorry about this, director." They seemed to talk about a lot of things yet at the same time it felt like they were talking about nothing at all.

"I understand." He replied. "It's not something we can control."

She wasn't sure if he was referring to her flimsy excuse or the real reason she had left the crew.

What she didn't know though was that the old director thought highly of her. Others might have made a scene after finding out what happened but CeCe accepted it with grace. Instead of letting it dampen her mood she chose to turn the situation into an opportunity to leave a lasting, good impression.

He didn't know about the others but as far as he was concerned if he have a suitable role in his next project, CeCe would be the first actress he'd consider

In a way, CeCe's manifestation came true in some sort of twisted fate. She really did made an impression. If they cross paths again in another production and she has to audition, this good impression might just work in her favor.

CeCe was doing her best to carve out an opportunity for herself. It might not seem like much but for the weak her, it was enough. If she could get something out of this then she could consider all her effort at this time not in vain.

The four years she had spent in this vast, unforgiving dye tank of society were not just for show. And today, just like every other day, she's still giving it her all to survive.