The anniversary celebration of Rosas Studios and Liwanag Pictures was widely regarded as the standout event of the month. Kahit hindi pa ito dumating, ito na ang pinag-uusapan ng mga tao. Everyone was excited about the upcoming night, especially because they were going to announce their newest star. And with that, rumors have begun to circulate about the identity of the new star of Liwanag Pictures. Sa nakaraang buwan, maraming mga extra ang lumabas sa mga teleseryes na inilabas ng dalawang production companies. Dahil dito, nagkaroon ng mga haka-haka ang mga tao kung sino sa kanila ang ipagmamalaki ng Liwanag Pictures.

Alongside those rumors, there was a poll conducted by the media and people to determine the actresses who appeared in these teleseryes. May mga pangalan na sinusubukan ng mga tao na kilalanin dahil nga baguhan, at may mga pangalan rin na kilala na dahil sa mga koneksyon na meron sila sa industriya.

Was it a hundred? Or maybe even a thousand? Probably more than that. Regina was becoming increasingly annoyed by the constant barrage of questions, numbering in the thousands or more than that since she couldn't exactly count how many times she has heard those questions. Sa bawat panayam ay ibinabato sa kanya ang iba't ibang mga tanong tungkol sa bagong aktres ng Liwanag Pictures. Kung naaapektuhan ba siya, nagkakaroon siya ng takot na mawala ang kanyang ningning o baka siya'y mapabayaan at palitan dahil nga may bagong magiging paborito ang mga ito.

With her exceptional acting skills, she gracefully responded to those questions. Her voice lacked any trace of rage, sarcasm, or venom. Her expressions were impeccable, devoid of any hint of irritation or madness. Instead, she wore a smile that endeared her to others. She also showed unwavering support for the unknown actress who was about to be unveiled.

Deep within her veins and her heart, a simmering rage and envy were gradually intensifying. Regina finds the entire situation to be strange. The stranger actress had everyone captivated. Despite being relatively unknown, she is quickly gaining attention and making headlines. She has been featured in news articles, newspapers, and even appeared on a magazine cover, all without showing her face. What. The. Actual. Hell.

That was very unfair on her part. Throughout her time in the industry, she did not encounter any of those experiences. Her name became famous overnight, all because of one cameo appearance. And that was all it took. The current experiences of the stranger actress are much more significant than her past ones. Although she was grateful, everything appeared to be quite unfair. Kahit hindi pa kilala kung sino ang aktres, napansin na siya na naging dahilan para sa kanyang malaking ingay sa publiko. Si Regina ay inabot ng ilang taon bago makilala ng tuluyan. Life can be incredibly challenging and difficult at times. There is a lack of equality in everything. At this point, fairness seems to be an elusive concept.

Regina stared in front of the mirror and annoyance was written all over her face. She was far beyond pissed the moment she woke up, she got up on the wrong side of the bed and when her soul was wide awake, she started to hear the news about the stranger actress again. What was so special about her? She hasn't even proved anything and yet she was beginning to get shined by the spotlight.

Goddamnit.

"Pakiusap sa mga mata Ms. Valderama, pakiayos." Regina's eyes quickly darted up to the rearview mirror, locking onto Ali's frightened gaze. "I apologize, Ms. Valentin. I assure you that it will not happen again."

Regina gently rubbed her temples, attempting to find a sense of calm within herself. She knew that if she didn't, her emotions would build up like a ticking bomb, ready to explode. She had already reached her limit. Just a little more force and she will really explode.

She hissed under her breath, never taking her eyes off Ali, "Let's be grateful that it's just the two of us here. That's our secret to keep."

"Sorry, Val," Ali cleared his throat. Pero ayusin mo ang mga mata mo. Masyadong matalim ang tingin mo, hindi pwedeng gan'yan ka mamaya sa event."

She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, feeling the sharpness of the breath. "I can't calm down, Ali," she says, opening her eyes and admitting through gritted teeth. "I have reached my limit already."

"We can just go home instead. I'll inform everyone that you're not feeling well and unable to attend the event. Johnny would be able to understand that." He suggested while tapping his fingers on the wheel. "Please make up your mind while you still have the chance to change it."

Regina shakes her head. Really? Her coming home? Please, that would only indicate that she is stepping back from this up-and-coming starlet who has not yet reached the pinnacle of her fame. She will be attending the event; her presence is necessary. Valeria Valentin will show her unwavering determination to succeed, regardless of any obstacles she may face.

"No one is going to turn around here, Ali," she smirked, her dark plum lips drawing a mischievous expression. "Valeria Valentin will remain resilient in the face of any obstacles, even when bulldozers come her way."

Ali's heart skipped a beat as he glanced at his rearview mirror, catching sight of his friend wearing a mischievous grin. He is seeing Valeria like this for the first time. She is mad. He doesn't like this side of hers. It's terrifying.

"Whatever you're planning Reg, don't." Ali says with full emphasis.

Regina scoffs, pretending to check her nails that were fully covered with a long black suede glove that goes up past her elbows. "I don't have plans like what you're saying. Gusto ko lang pumunta sa event para makasama ko ang boyfriend ko at bigyan ng warm welcome ang bagong dating."

Ali closes his eyes briefly. He is already aware of how Regina can become mad. But who is this Regina that he is with? He has not seen that type before. He's scared because he is unsure of Regina's true capabilities especially when she's like this. He has witnessed her during both her best and worst moments, through her highs and lows. Tonight, he is about to witness yet another side of Regina. Ali should prepare himself. Things aren't going to be good.

It wasn't long until they both reached the venue where the event will take place. Camera flashes where like lightning and rain fastly taking pictures of the people who who walks along the carpet.

Regina gazed at the car's tinted window and spotted Johnny outside, being interviewed by a reporter. Sakto lang pala 'yung dating nila ni Ali. She and Johnny wanted to make a dramatic entrance, so they decided to split up and then rendezvous at the venue. The press would undoubtedly be thrilled by such a dramatic entrance, particularly from the highest-paid actress and actor themselves.

"Are you ready?" Ali turns around to ask her.

Regina scoffs. "What kind of question is that?"

Ali quietly sighs and went to open the door beside him. Regina took her little time to check herself with her compact mirror. She wanted to be sure that she looks prepared, that her make-up is correct, that her hair is still in place, and she doesn't have any remnants of food in her teeth. In short, she wanted to look the absolute perfection. If this night is going to be all about the new rising star then she must remind everyone that she is still the brightest star and no new comer will ever take that spotlight from her.

The car door finally opens and Regina shuts her compact mirror and it created a loud thud. She inhaled deeply and went on to plaster her famous smile that people seemed to love really well. Regina took Ali's hand and she slowly got out of the car, and as she does, she was instantly blinded by the camera flashes, she felt deaf hearing the chant of the paparazzi's as well as the crowd that all called her name. Now this felt right. This night should be really about her and not some random rising star.

"I'll meet you inside." Ali whispers as he quickly leaves Regina on her own.

Regina nods and promptly approached Johnny on the carpet, where they warmly embraced each other, their radiant smiles captivating the cameras that surrounded them. Regina appears incredibly radiant in her elegant gown, while Johnny looks absolutely dashing in his perfectly tailored tuxedo. They make a truly captivating couple, drawing the attention and admiration of everyone around them. As they strike poses for the camera, it becomes clear that their love and unwavering support for one another solidify their status as one of the power couples in the Philippines.

"You look very attractive. I can't say I'm surprised," Johnny whispers into Regina's ear, his smile directed towards the camera.

"I could say the same to you, but I think you're already aware of that," she hears Johnny chuckling.

"Kita nalang tayo sa loob, I'm sure the press is very eager to have a one on one interview with you," Johnny presses a kiss on Regina's forehead, eliciting different reactions from the crowd.

That would be their headline picture for the newspaper tomorrow, Regina was very sure.

"Valeria, over here!" She hears her name being called by Patricia Lopez, a well-known reporter and host who even has her own show called "Patricia and Mornings." Regina has previously been a guest there, and it was quite an experience for her.

The camera pans to Regina as she gracefully walks over to Patricia, who greets her with an affectionate air kiss on the cheek and a warm hug.

"You look absolutely stunning tonight. Well, it's not really surprising, considering you are the Valeria Valentin," Patricia chuckles.

"You humor me too much, Patricia. You clean up well yourself. You're more beautiful than me, don't worry."

Patricia chuckled at Regina's overly flattering compliments. Whether it was fake or not, it didn't matter to her. In fact, Patricia didn't care at all, to say the least. This compliment was something she would gladly accept anytime.

"You're always so kind, Valeria. Before we allow you to enter, I would like to ask about your well-being this evening. How are you feeling? Are you feeling pressured or tense? As we all know, Liwanag will soon be unveiling their newest and first-ever star. Do you agree that it feels like déjà vu because you were like that before?" With a smile on her face, Patricia eagerly handed the microphone to Regina, anticipating her prompt response.

Just like before, Regina understands why reporters and paparazzi ask her these types of questions. They are trying to provoke a reaction from her, but she refuses to give them the satisfaction. She smiled sweetly, like someone who had just received candy.

"I must say, I'm feeling a mix of emotions," she replied, Patricia'ssmile widening even further.

"Could you please elaborate more about your feelings?"

"Firstly, I want to acknowledge that there may be similarities between my experiences and the new star. However, I must say that none of these occurrences feel like deja vu to me. Although we have had similar experiences, we have not followed the same path to stardom. I hope you all can understand that," Regina said in a sweet manner and the crowd cheered for her, not knowing it was just a sweet girl act for the press. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Patricia's forced smile. "Regarding my feelings, I must say I'm really excited about the upcoming events that will unfold tonight."

"Ah, yes, tonight you will have the pleasure of meeting Liwanag's newest star. Baka nga mamaya maging kalaban mo pa siya or worse agawin niya ang dapat sa'yo," Patricia laughed insincerely, while Regina continued on, despite her growing irritation.

"I hope that's not the case. I'm sure that she and I will become friends." As if that's the truth, Regina doesn't even want that to happen. "It's been wonderful, Patricia, but I need to go inside now. I don't want to be rude by being late to the event," Regina says, giving her an air kiss and ensuring that the cameras capture the moment. "Thank you for the interview. I look forward to seeing you again."

Regina turned around, refusing to look back. She was extremely angry. It is not right for Patricia to insult her in that manner. She will seek revenge at some point, but for now, she will focus on the event. She should try to maintain a good mood and avoid excessive drinking, as it may cause her to unleash a more irritable side of herself, known as the angrier version of Regina. She should try to remain calm, regardless of how irritated she may feel.

"You can do this, Reg. It's just for one night." She whispered to herself, "You will only be kind for one night and that's it."

Taking one final deep breath, she gracefully entered the ballroom of the venue. As soon as she stepped inside, all eyes were immediately drawn to her. Regina was not new to it. Even as a child, she had a captivating presence that drew everyone's attention. She was always the center of attention, admired and cherished by many. She was like a precious gem, adding beauty and value to any situation. Her presence was like a shining star, captivating everyone's attention in the spotlight. She is wanted by everyone and everyone wants to be like her.

"Look, there she is, the star of the night!" Gary Rosas, the owner of Rosas Studios, as indicated by his name.

"Hello, Mr. Rosas," Regina greeted him warmly, offering a hug and a kiss on the cheeks. "I do apologize for arriving late; I was delayed outside."

"Nako, it's not a problem at all. We all know how much the press wants you," a woman stands beside Gary. And of course, it's Liwanag, Gary's wife.

"Hello, Mrs. Rosas," Regina greets her warmly, her smile stretching across her face." It's truly delightful to see you. The last time we saw each other was during my last movie with Johnny."

"Diba? We should make plans to reconnect and catch up over a drink."

"I think I'll pass for now, Mrs. Rosas. I have some guestings tomorrow, and having a hangover wouldn't be ideal." A lie. She's just using it as an excuse. Regina simply wants to remain sober in order to avoid causing any disturbances tonight. She wouldn't want to be in the headlines because of what she did.

"Mahal, please refrain from being a bad influence on our star." Gary gently rests his hand on Liwanag's waist, and they both burst into laughter together.

Our star. Regina was delighted to hear that. Yes, she is their star, and no newcomer will ever be able to replace her.

"I'm not ha, I just want to catch up with Valeria again, but of course we shouldn't keep her. Her lover boy has been waiting for her since earlier." Liwanag discreetly gestures towards a table where Johnny stands alongside several other actors and actresses. His gaze remains fixed on Regina, and he wears a broad, beaming smile.

"Valeria, feel free to go ahead and mingle. We will meet up with you later. Have a great night, okay? This is about you, after all," Gary said as he gently patted her shoulder before walking away.

This night all about her? It appears that her worries were unnecessary in the end. Regina said her goodbyes to the owners, assuring them that she would see them later. After that, she made a beeline straight towards Johnny, who immediately embraced her.

"You were occupied, you just missed mom and dad. They were here earlier, but then they went on to mingle."

"I got caught up. I'm sure that I will have the opportunity to speak with them later. Nandito lang naman sila e."

Johnny nodded and hummed in agreement. "You're already the talk of the town." He stated, his face remaining neutral.

Regina is smiling. "That's fantastic! We're definitely going to make headlines.'

"We? More like only you," Johnny downs his drink in one swift motion, his once cheerful smile now replaced by a frown.

"Why are you suddenly behaving in this manner? Did I do something wrong, or did you just have a bad day?" She was confused; it was the first time she had seen Johnny behave like this.

"Wala," he replied, exhaling sharply. He turned his heel away from Regina. "I need to get more drinks if I want to survive the night."

"Please drink moderately, Ja. You don't want to have a hangover tomorrow, especially since you still have shooting," she gently reminded him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Konti lang, know your limits."

"Are you my mother?" Johnny snickered and firmly shook Regina's hand away from his shoulder. "I will drink as many as want. Huwag mo akong pakialaman."

Regina stood frozen in place, stunned. What was that about? And this is where Johnny chose to burst out of all places? This night couldn't get any worse right?

"Are you okay?" She felt a light tap on her shoulder that caused her to turn, it was none other than Ali. "Nakita ko 'yung outburst ni Johnny, nag-away ba kayo?"

"No, nothing happened or something has pero hindi ko alam. He was broadly smiling when I saw him pero nung lumapit na ako nagalit na siya bigla. I don't understand him and of all places dito niya pa ginawa. Buti nalang wala masyadong tao sa table namin, otherwise thay would be a scene for tomorrow's news."

"Calm down. You already look stressed as is."

"I think I need a drink." Regina fans herself with her hands.

"Hindi ka iinom, may guestings ka bukas."

"At least one glass, bawal ba talaga?"

Ali sighs with a groan. "Isa lang ha, after that hindi na. Dito ka lang ako na kukuha para masiguro kong isa lang talaga."

"Fine, fine. Just go get me one or I'll lose my mind!"

The lights in the venue dimmed before Regina had a chance to express another reaction or emotion. A man dressed in a tuxedo suit confidently walks onto the stage, warmly greeting all the attendees who have been invited to the event. It was quite obvious that he was the host.

"Hello, everyone! How is everyone doing tonight?" The host began by asking brief questions to the people in front of him. "I'm glad that you're all having a great time! We should be really enjoying ourselves because this is the celebration of two sister companies who are both on a successful path together. Raise your glasses for Mr. Gary Rosas and Mrs. Liwanag Rosas! Congratulations."

Regina clapped her hands instead. Paano, wala naman siyang itataas na baso, wala naman siyang iniinom. Ang tagal naman kasing bumalik ni Ali.

"Furthermore, we cannot simply overlook or disregard the presence of our star, as she exudes an undeniable radiance. Hello, Ms. Valeria Valentin! Good evening!" The host gestures towards her position, where the spotlight shines on her.

Regina greeted people with a wave and a warm smile, and they adored her for it.

"By the way, she looks stunning as ever in her black gown and white fur shawl. Oh my goodness! Her jewelry is also beautiful!" The people were buzzing around her, commenting on what a trendsetter she truly was. They were discussing her. She was the talk of the night and she couldn't be any prouder. "She is the most brightesr and talented star at Rosas Studios, and they are extremely proud of her. Let's all give her a round of applause, everyone!" The individuals inside the venue applauded in sync with the host's words.

At least there is something positive happening tonight. She received recognition for her exceptional acting skills. Wala naman pala siyang rason para mag-alala o meron talaga? Tigil na Regina, just be happy.

"Here, like I said." Ali places a glass of champagne on the table, it was filled up to the brim. "Isa lang talaga, pinuno ko pa para sa'yo."

"Thank you," Regina says with groan as she takes the glass in her hand. "Sisiguraduhin kong tatagal 'to hanggang matapos ang event."

"Aba dapat lang, isa lang talaga 'yan at di ka na pwedeng dumagdag. Mahirap ka pa namang awatin kapag sobrang lasing ka na."

"Shh, Ali!" Regina raised her finger to shush him. "Give me a moment to savour my one and only drink for tonight." Her lips met the brim of her glass, it collided with the sparkly and fritzy texture of the champagne. "Ang sarap, too bad I can only have one."

"Just be thankful," Ali narrowed his eyes at the bar where he sees Johnny laughing with other actors. "Your boyfriend seems to be having fun."

"Good for him. Buti na rin 'yan para kapag umuwi na tayo matutulog nalang siya," she turns to face the stage as the host continues to speak about the said event.

"What really happened? Nag-away ba kayo kanina bago tayo pumunta dito?"

She now turned to face Ali. "Honestly Ali, I don't know. We were okay before we went here, siya pa nga 'tong nag-plano ng dramatic entrance namin together. When we met outside we were fine, that changed when I got here, he suddenly had an outburst and I don't know why. Hindi naman gan'yan si Johnny kahit pa nakainom siya at mas lalong hindi niya gagawin 'yan sa maraming tao."

"I'm just worried about you. Lalaki ako pero I was really scared when I saw him do that to you," his voice laced with concern.

"I really appreciate you looking out for me Ali," Regina gives him a genuine smile. "I tell you everything naman diba? You trust me, right?"

"Hindi na dapat tanong 'yan, alam mo na ang sagot ko diyan."

"Then you have nothing to worry about."

"For now." Ali says with hardness. "Baka masundan pa 'yang outburst ni Johnny."

"I'm sure hindi," Regina tries her best to assure Ali. "I know Johnny like the back of my hand. Siguro he was just in a bad mood."

"Okay, I trust you." Ali finally lets it go and Regina shoots him a grateful look.

She brings her glass up to her lips again, sipping only a bit of her champagne.

"And I know this is what you have been eagerly anticipating all night." Regina was taken aback by what she heard. "Let us all finally meet the newest member of Liwanag Pictures." The host continues on and she was so surprised that she almost spit out her drink, but she managed to hold the glass firmly against her lips. "Ladies and gentlemen, please allow me to introduce the newest star of Liwanag Pictures, Ms. Nari Cortez."

Regina swiftly spins around, keeping a firm grip on her drink. The stage curtains gracefully parted, unveiling a woman dressed in a stunning white gown. She had a petite frame, with tanned skin and her hair was neatly tied in a bun. The entire place appeared to grow quiet, leaving Regina uncertain whether it was truly becoming silent or if it was simply her imagination.

"Please join me in giving a warm welcome to Ms. Nari Cortez," the host announced. In response, the entire venue erupted in applause once more.

Regina noticed herself becoming tense, and without hesitation, she quickly finished her champagne in one gulp. She then placed her glass back on the table, causing a loud thud.

"What happened to making the drink last all night? Bakit mo naman inubos?"

"I don't know! But I need more Ali," she gulped.

"Don't tell me you're intimidated?"

Regina scoffs. "Why would I? She hasn't even proved herself in the industry to have me intimidated. Let's just say I'm... tensed, that's why I need another drink."

"Tensed because of the new star?"

"Alastair!" Regina huffed in annoyance. "Will you just get me another, please lang?"

"Sabi mo isa lang. A deal is a deal."

Bahagyang isinara ni Regina ang mga mata niya sabay pasimple ng tingin sa stage. The host wasn't there anymore and so is the new star. Why is she calling her new star anyway? The girl has a name.

"Looks like they're introducing Ms. Cortez around. For sure pupuntahan ka nila." she looks at Ali with a raised brow. "What? Expect it already. They would take this as an opportunity."

"If that's the case then I need another drink."

"Ang kulit mo naman Val e, one is enough, two is too much."

"I will lose my mind if I don't get another drink-"

"Valeria," Regina quickly turns around at the sound of her name, her genuine smile plastered on her face. The individuals present were Gary, Liwanag, Carlos Santana, and the newest star.

"Are we interrupting? Pwede naman kaming bumalik nalang mamaya," states Liwanag.

"No, no, you weren't. Nag-uusap lang kami ni Ali."

"So we've heard," Gary laughs. "Bakit naman ayaw mong payagan uminom 'tong alaga mo? It's only a few drinks, I'm sure she can manage."

"Better safe than sorry, Mr. Rosas. Maraming pupuntahan 'tong si Valeria bukas kaya kailangan ko na present na present siya."

The couple shared a laugh with Carlos, while Nari stood motionless, resembling a statue in their midst. She was in awe, or rather starstruck. Valeria was standing right in front of her, and it wasn't just a dream. Her muse, her idol, and her inspiration were just a few centimeters away from her. Totoo na talaga. The TV's doesn't even do justice to Valeria's face, she was gorgeous in person. Like a goddess that came down from the heavens.

"Sigurado ako na si Nari magiging gan'yan rin in the near future," Carlos joked. "Anyway, good evening Ms. Valeria it's a pleasure to personally meet you. Madalas lang kitang nakikita pero hindi talaga nakakausap, sobrang busy mo naman kasi at ayoko rin namang makaabala."

Regina smiles. "It's a pleasure to meet you also, Carlos. Ali has told me so much about you, good things naman don't worry."

"Buti naman, marami pa namang alam si Ali na dirty secrets ko." Everyone laughed at his joke, except for Nari who was just lost in a daze. Tulala pa rin siya kay Valeria.

"We don't really want to disturb your evening because we want you to enjoy it. However, we would like to take a brief moment of your time to introduce our newest star, Nari, who is another member of our expanding family," Liwanag gestures towards Nari. "Valeria, I would like to introduce you to Nari Cortez. And Nari, I would like you to meet our talented and brilliant actress, Ms. Valeria Valentin."

"Nari?" Carlos had to gently nudge Nari, as she seemed completely frozen in her spot.

Nari suddenly snapped back into reality, realizing with excitement that she would finally have the pleasure of meeting Valeria Valentin once and for all.

"Uh, hello po, Ms. Valentin," Nari gulped as she carefully extends her hand. "Nari Cortez po."

Valeria looked at Nari's hand that was hanging in the air, awaiting to be accepted for a handshake.

"I don't really give handshakes," Regina says with a blank expression.

She could practically hear everyone gasping at her words. Nari pulled her hand away, letting it fall on her side. She could see the woman's face drawing with disappointment. How satisfying. That's what all she needed.

"But I do give a warm and welcoming hug," she opened her arms wide enough for a hug. How nice of her. Not really, this was all for show, for the headlines tomorrow.

Nari's face lit up like a new lightbulb as she suddenly collided with Valeria, feeling the comforting warmth of her muse's presence. She was filled with joy; this was the happiest moment of her life, so much so that she felt like she could die in that very moment.

Meanwhile, Regina felt the urge to roll her eyes, but she ultimately chose not to do so. Instead, a fake and saccharine smile was plastered on her face. She pretended to be genuinely happy with the current situation.

This better be on the headlines tomorrow or else I'll start a riot.

And the pretending was all worth it. Regina did made the headlines on the news the next day but unfortunately those headlines were also the cause of a heated argument.

⊱ ──── {.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.} ──── ⊰

Regina's eyes shined like the stars as she tells the story of how she and Nari first met each other. Avi and George sat there watching her with smiles on their lips.

"I know what you'll say, ang sama ko nung mga times na 'yun."

"Hindi naman totally," Gi says. "Threatened ka lang siguro nung una kay Nari, tita."

"For sure, kasi syempre new comer tapos may chance pang agawin 'yung spotlight mo diba? Totoo po diba?" Avi pressed.

Regina playfully rolled her eyes as her hand waves in a dismissive manner.

"Oo na oo na, threatened talaga ako kay Nari nung unang-una palang. Ang bilis niyang sumikat e, tapos ako hirap na hirap to reach where I'm at. Parang unfair lang para sakin kasi ang bilis lahat ng pangyayari kay Nari e," she sighed. "Pero nung nakilala ko siya naintindihan ko rin bakit. She was blessed with luck and good karma, that's why."

Avi was still smiling from ear to ear, excited to hear more of the story.

"So what happened next tita? I'm sure things started to get better for you and Nari?"

"Not really," Regina's face darkens. "This is where things get ugly. I say we take a break before we move on to our next part of the story. Brace yourselves kasi this is the part where I started to know who the real Johnny Benitez is."