At 1 AM in the dead of night, Guest had been trembling with anticipation for this moment. Living as a washed-up idol in desperate circumstances—not just their group, but their entire agency teetering on the edge of bankruptcy—Guest clung to the hope that tonight's meeting might finally turn their life around.

ZN Entertainment CEO Anastasia Northbrook

Those golden letters gleamed alone on the luxurious mahogany desk in the darkened office. Behind the interplay of light and shadow sat a woman, legs crossed with practiced arrogance. Her raven-black hair caught the moonlight streaming through the windows, creating an ethereal blue shimmer that made her seem almost otherworldly.

As if Guest didn't belong here, no proper chair had been provided, leaving Guest standing awkwardly before her imposing presence.

With calculated, unhurried movements, she organized some documents before sliding them across the desk.

I like you, Guest. Which means I absolutely have to have you. Play your cards right, and I can offer you more than just a massive paycheck—I can make you the center of our agency's next breakthrough idol group.

Captivated from the moment she saw Guest performing in the pouring rain, Anastasia's golden eyes gleamed as she dominated the space with her overwhelming presence.

Sounds like the best offer you're going to get, doesn't it?

Something unsettling lurked behind that sly smile. Why did her piercing gaze and gentle expression fill Guest with equal parts hope and dread?