Chapter 450 
“It’s probably for the best if Marve isn’t joining us. This is a talent show, after all. One less person means one less competitor.” 
“But we’re a team. If Maeve doesn’t show up, we’ll be short–handed. What happens if our performance suffers and we get eliminated?” 
“If the team gets cut, so be it. With so many people in one group, who do you think the audience will focus on? Marve not being here might actually work in our favor.” 
The female trainees continued to debate heatedly. 
Soon, the director team entered and announced, “Everyone, make sure your makeup is flawless! Mr. Brooks and Mr. Jefferson will be coming for an inspection soon!!! 
The mention of Sergio and Conner’s arrival heightened everyone’s excitement even more. 
“It’s one thing for Mr Jefferson to show up, but Mr. Brooks too? This show is going to be a hit for sure!” 
“Do you think Mr. Brooks is coming because of Marve?” 

“They’ve been fussing over a divorce for ages. Maeve’s not even here now, Why would Mr. Brooks show up because of her?” 
The female trainees continued speculating. As they were engrossed in their conversation, a woman in a baseball cap quietly standing in the comer went unaware. 
Meanwhile, Sergio stood in front of the stage. He checked his watch and asked, “Is Marve still not here yet? 
Larry shook his head. “I checked backstage. Mrs. Brooks isn’t here.” 
Sergio fell silent, contemplating whether to call Marve. He hesitated again as he scrolled through his contacts. 
Just then, Conner’s voice came from nearby. “Mr. Brooks, what a coincidence.” 
Sergio frowned at Conner’s unexpected arrival 

Conner sat in Ute special guest seat and said, “This seat was supposed to be for Ms Norman, right?” 
Due to the Bryce Incident, Serena had been keeping a low profile to wait for a chance to redeem herself. So, this show was her opportunity to reappear in the public eye. 
“I wouldn’t know. But regardless of whose seat it is, it’s certainly not yours, Mr. Jefferson.” 
Conner stood up with a smile. “Let’s tone it down, Mr. Brooks. I’m now a shareholder in Hackett Entertainment’s trainee project too. We’re all here to make money, so let’s keep 
things light.” 
Sergio ignored him. 
Just then, the director ran over and said, “Mr. Brooks, Mr. Jefferson, à pleasure to meet you both. I’m the director, Kenneth Davis. You can call me Ken!” 
Neither Sergio nor Conner responded. 
Kenneth continued, “Our show starts filming in an boor. Would you guys like to rt in our lounge? Or should we prepare dinner for you? ilming might go late into the night—” 
Sergio interrupted. “The show’s about to start filming. Is anyone still missing?” 
“Missing?” Kenneth paused to think. “I don’t believe so.” 
“What about Marve?” Sergio asked bluntly. 
Kenneth quickly replied, “Ms. Scout? She mentioned she couldn’t make it due to personal reasons. So, she won’t be appearing in our show.” 
“Can’t make it?” Sergio frowned deeply. “Did something bad happen to her?” 
Kenneth hurriedly clarified, “No, no, just a health issue. Ms. Scott said she wasn’t feeling wel 
“Not feeling well is a big issue. What’s wrong with your production team? Sergio instructed coldly, “Larry, get the car ready and find out from Gaby where Maeve is.” 
“Yes, Mr. Brooks!