Making a Fool of Herself

Mr. Falkner’s booming laughter faded into the ambient hum of the auditorium, but his words hung in the air, wrapping Serena in an aura of unassailable prestige. The three renowned directors—Mr. Lang, Mr. Hutton, and Mr. Vogel—looked at her with renewed interest. Serena maintained her poised stance, offering them a gentle, measured smile that radiated a natural charm. She did not shrink under their