No Love Trash: Interworld Heroine

The sharp scent of disinfectant mixed with cheap perfume hit Kaelin’s nose. She woke to find herself pressed against the wall near the elevator. A clammy hand gripped her wrist, and the man’s alcohol-laced breath fanned her face. “Kaelin, drop the prude act. Hook up with me, and I’ll land you a role in an A-list director’s next film—way better than anything your career could get on its own.” Kaelin blinked, her mind flickering with fragments of the original Kaelin’s memories: a single-minded, hardworking actress who had always trusted people, sometimes too much, never expecting betrayal. Marcus—the notorious producer in the industry—had cornered her, thinking she was naive enough to comply. He misjudged her. Marcus’s hand inched toward her waist. “Well? Made up your mind? Tonight, we can—” He didn’t get to finish. Kaelin twisted her wrist just enough to make him loosen his grip. He stumbled back, swearing under his breath. “Hey! What are you doing?!” The elevator doors slid open behind them, and curious onlookers peeked, phones already raised to record the scene. Kaelin’s voice stayed calm, clear, and cold. “Groping a C-list actress in broad daylight… do you really think that’s how professionals behave?” Marcus’s face went pale. He noticed the witnesses and the potential for recordings. Panic flickered in his eyes—he knew this could ruin him if it got out. Kaelin stepped back, giving herself space, letting her presence command attention. “Try this again, and you’ll regret it. People will know exactly who you are.” Marcus tried to plead, his tone desperate. “Kaelin… come on, I can get you a real shot. This is your chance!” Kaelin’s smile was small, almost teasing—but icy. “I don’t need your favors. I’m perfectly capable of making my own.” Marcus’s jaw dropped. He stared at her, dumbfounded—this wasn’t the simple, trusting girl he’d assumed she was. She was smart, controlled, and nobody could push her around. Kaelin walked toward the elevator doors, high heels clicking confidently on the floor. She stepped inside, and as the doors glided shut, she caught one last glimpse of Marcus’s defeated face. Stepping out of the hotel moments later, she exhaled, letting the cool evening breeze brush her cheeks. Marcus? Intimidated, exposed, and defeated—a warm-up. Ethan, an A-list actor—the man who had led the original Kaelin on, then discarded her publicly? That would be her next challenge. Kaelin pulled out her phone, scrolling to the contact labeled Ethan (A-list Actor). Her fingers hovered over the screen. A glint of excitement—and calculation—shone in her eyes. The game had only just begun.