Yet, he knew exactly how hard I had worked for those resources.

Suppressing the ache in my chest, I forced a smile and ignored him.

Calvin frowned slightly, a hint of helplessness flashing in his eyes. Still, he patiently pinched my cheek in a teasing manner.

"What's wrong? Are you upset? I was just curious. Don't take it to heart, okay?"

I stepped on his foot hard before quickly stepping back, my eyes innocent.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to."

4

In my previous life, I didn't realize until my grandmother arranged our engagement and he took control of my family's company that his so-called affection for me was nothing but a facade.

All his calculated kindness had been for my family's company.

With my parents long gone, my grandmother was the only pillar left in our family. By winning me over, he essentially gained control of the Smith Group.

Despite knowing how much that award meant to me, he had effortlessly handed it over to Emma.

Now, as Calvin hopped in place, wincing from the pain, a shadow of frustration flickered in his eyes. But he swallowed his anger, forcing a smile.

"It's fine, as long as you're happy," he said through gritted teeth.

I arched an eyebrow, a trace of mockery creeping into my expression.

"Is that so?"

Oh, this was going to be fun.

Calvin looked puzzled, clearly not understanding my response. But my agent's eyes were practically glowing with excitement, making it impossible for me to ignore her.

Seeing that Emma still hadn't shown up, my agent quickly leaned in and whispered, just low enough for only the two of us to hear, "You're reborn too, aren't you?"

Her words left me stunned for a moment before I caught on. She read the confirmation in my eyes and patted her chest in relief. "I get it, I get it," she giggled before cheerfully stepping out of the frame.

Meanwhile, the director was growing furious at Emma's absence.

"If she doesn't want to act, then get me someone who does! Replace her, now!"

At that moment, Emma finally emerged from the shadows, her face still hidden behind her hands.

Calvin let out a sharp breath and hurried over to her, covering the distance in just a few strides. His fingers gently traced the swollen skin on her cheek, his voice filled with concern.

"What happened to your face?"

Watching his anxious expression and tenderness towards her, all I felt was cold amusement.

I stood with my arms crossed, enjoying the show.