You Looked Down on Me Once Now You Look Up (Patricia and Oliver) novel Chapter 468

Amy came back after changing, took a glass of wine from a waiter, and barely had time to catch her breath before Madison—one of Skyline Entertainment’s former artists—walked right up to her.

Madison stood beside her, swirling her drink with a sly smile. “Next time you pick a boyfriend, maybe look a little closer. Riverdale isn’t as big as you think.”

Amy shot her a sidelong glance. “Did you come over just to throw shade? We all know fame doesn’t last forever in this business.”

Madison laughed softly, lifting her glass in a half-toast. “Fair enough. Still, good luck—you’ll need it.”

She hesitated for a second, her smile turning sharper. “Word is, Skyline Entertainment is just some plaything Mr. Martin cooked up for his daughter. Enjoy your spotlight while it lasts, Amy.”

With that, Madison sashayed away, hips swaying, leaving Amy with her words burning in her chest. Amy took a long breath, forced herself to mingle with the important guests for a bit, then quietly slipped out of the party.

In the parking lot, Amy climbed into her waiting car. The door closed with a soft click. She was telling the driver to head out when a black Mercedes pulled into the spot beside hers.

A girl stepped out, long hair tumbling over her shoulders, wearing a loose, pale pink linen dress. It didn’t show her figure much, but she walked with a kind of effortless grace that made you look twice.

“She’s got real potential in this industry,” Amy’s manager murmured, watching the girl.

But Amy couldn’t take her eyes off the newcomer either, following her with her gaze all the way to the elevators. That’s when Emerson suddenly appeared to meet the girl.

He looked genuinely surprised to see her. After a quick glance around to make sure no one was watching, he grabbed her hand and pulled her into the elevator, the whole thing looking way too sneaky.

Amy stared, stunned, then turned to her manager—who looked just as shocked.

—

“Miss, Ruby didn’t show up at the party tonight.”

—

Upstairs, in the penthouse lounge above the ballroom, Emerson stood facing Amber, rubbing his temples. “Why are you here?”

Amber dropped her head, eyes red and watery, nervously twisting the fabric of her sleeve. She looked so fragile in that moment, it made Emerson’s heart ache.

He let out a long sigh, his frustration fading. If she were tougher, maybe he could be blunt with her—but she was just too gentle, too soft. He couldn’t bring himself to be harsh.

He reached out and pulled her into his arms, holding her close. “I’ve been really busy lately. Please, just wait for me at home, okay?”

Amber looked up at him, hope glimmering in her eyes. “Will you come see me tonight?”