Chapter 410 - 408: All President Fairchild’s Handiwork

The remaining groups underwent minor adjustments, and five new guests were added to make up for the lack of participants.

Everything was in place, just waiting for filming to resume.

...

This week, the series Warm Wind reached its climax.

Since its premiere, the show’s word-of-mouth reputation had been steadily climbing. Despite its niche genre, it slowly expanded its audience.

The die-hard fans of the original novel, who had been particularly vocal in their criticism, were no longer active.

This was because they had been proven wrong by the plot, and by Melody Monroe’s acting as well.

The show hadn’t ruined the original novel with its adaptation. Some scenes were exceptionally well done, and the extra screen time for Melody Monroe’s character actually made the plot feel richer and more complete.

It could easily be enjoyed as a brand new series.

Raymond Ford’s acting was also recognized, earning unanimous praise.

Seeing this trend, Raymond Ford secretly hired people to take the opportunity to clean up her image.

Posts began appearing online showing scenes from her time on set.

For example, stories about her standing in the rain for hours just to perfect a single shot, or about how hardworking she was, never letting the script out of her sight even during breaks.

She was trying to salvage her image by cultivating a persona of a dedicated professional.

This time, she didn’t dare to push too hard, cautiously testing the public’s reaction online. Seeing that people didn’t seem to mind, she was secretly relieved.

She could still make a comeback.

...

After Melody Monroe finished filming, Keith Coleman immediately handed her a bottle of water. "Melody, have some water."

"Thanks." Melody Monroe took the water and drank half the bottle in one gulp.

The pre-recorded format was much more relaxed than a live broadcast. After one more challenge segment, the day’s filming would be over, and she could rest until the following afternoon.

"Keith, is the contract termination paperwork ready?"

"Of course. The lawyer is lined up, too. When are we going to Stellaris to discuss the termination?" Keith Coleman was getting impatient.

"Just have the papers ready for now."

"Melody, you should just come to Starfall. President Fairchild would be thrilled if you joined."

"I’ve said it before, I’m not going to Starfall. Once my contract with Stellaris is terminated, I’m going to set up my own studio. I believe that with the foundation I’ve built from Warm Wind, someone will recognize my hard work and be willing to offer me a role."

Keith Coleman didn’t dare say another word.

The reason Melody Monroe couldn’t get any roles was entirely President Fairchild’s doing. Of course, he had played a part in it as well.

"What about Rose? Is she not willing to leave Stellaris with you?" Keith Coleman was still worried about Rose Shaw.

It was common for management teams to follow an artist when they left. He couldn’t believe that Rose Shaw, who was so close to Melody Monroe, wouldn’t go with her.

"Rose is the executive president of Stellaris now. She won’t be leaving with me."

"What’s at Stellaris that’s worth staying for?"

"Rose is a person of loyalty and integrity. If she’s not leaving, she has her reasons."

"Melody, once your contract is terminated, does that mean I get to be your manager?"

"Hmm, I’ll consider it. But I can’t afford to pay you a high salary."

"I’ll take whatever you can give." Keith Coleman wasn’t picky.

Mostly because he didn’t dare to be.

...

After more than ten days of intense filming, production on the show wrapped up.

That night, a small celebration was held at the hotel.

Melody Monroe was chatting with a few people when Felix Hughes walked over to her.

"Melody, there’s something I’d like to ask for your help with. Do you have a moment?"

"I do," Melody Monroe responded immediately.

Felix Hughes and Melody Monroe moved to a quiet corner.