When fate plays its hand

Chapter 0368

+25 BONUS

Duane returned to the gathering in a daze, forcing a smile as he continued to toast the big shots. Winter had dropped him, and he had no leverage over her anymore. This dinner was his last chance.

“Mr. Campbell, we’ve met a few times before. It’s my first time having the honor to toast you today. I hope you’ll look out for me in the future.”

At past events, Duane never even got close to the big players, let alone had a chance to toast them.

Calvin crossed his arms, grinning. “What’s your name again, Duane something, right?”

“Yes, Duane Dunn.”

“Ah, that’s right. Heard you can handle your drinks?”

“Not really, I can manage a few cups,” Duane said modestly.

“I heard you’re here to go after the supporting role in Mr. Plight’s A–list series?” Calvin asked, eyes narrowing.

Duane’s expression grew serious. “What are you suggesting, Mr. Campbell?”

“Well, I’m not saying it’s impossible for you to get the role, isn’t that right, Mr. Plight?” Calvin said, glancing at Jameson.

Jameson raised an eyebrow. Though unsure of what Calvin was up to, he was happy to play along. “Of course.”

Duane’s eyes lit up with hope.

“There’s just one tiny condition,” Calvin continued. “It should be pretty easy for you.”

“Please, go ahead.”

“Finish all the liquor on this table, and the role is yours,” Calvin stated..

At his words, everyone turned to Duane, ready to watch the spectacle unfold.

Duane’s face paled. “Mr. Campbell, you’re making this difficult for me.”

“Yes, I am,” Calvin replied with a shrug. “But you don’t have to drink. Just know that the role will go to someone else if you don’t.”

The table was loaded with drinks–red wine, white spirits, beer. Drinking them all would mean at least half- killing himself. But Duane only hesitated for two seconds before deciding, “I’ll drink.”

Calvin clapped. “Good choice.”

As Duane started downing the drinks, Calvin took out his phone and texted Zach.

Calvin: “It’s done, just like you asked.”

Calvin: “Why are you messing with him anyway? Just because he had his arm around your girlfriend?”

Calvin: “Isn’t it a fake relationship? Aren’t you both free to do as you please? Can’t handle it?”

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0368

Three texts were sent, but there was no reply.

At that moment, Zach was trailing Winter into a bar.

She didn’t waste any time at all. Dumped the boy toy and was now out partying like nothing happened.

As she danced, a man approached her, trying to hit on her.

Winter gave him a quick look and replied, “Too old, not interested.” Then she walked away, leaving him standing there, grinding his teeth in frustration.

Zach, who was sitting in a booth, laughed until his stomach hurt.

“What’s so funny?” Winter returned from the dance floor, giving him a playful kick. “Is it really that funny?”

“It’s hilarious, actually,” he said, chuckling.

“You’re just as old as he is.”

Zach was dumbfounded.

“Laughing at him is like laughing at yourself.”

Her words left him at a loss for words. She knew exactly how to tease.

Winter sat down, casually poured herself a drink. She was still catching her breath, her skin glistening with sweat from dancing.

That feeling of letting go–it was exhilarating.

“So, why’d you follow me here? Thought the party wasn’t over yet?” she asked offhandedly.

“I got bored. When did you notice I was tailing you?”

“When I entered the bar. What do you want?”

Zach raised his glass, smirking. “I figured you might be upset, crying your eyes out after getting bitten by your own dog.”

“Pfft, something that minor? You think I’m that fragile?”

“Aren’t all women sensitive?”