My Repentant Brothers (Madeline Larson)

Back in high school, Madeline had some stomach issues.

She didn't eat much to begin with, and during her 12th Grade, it got worse. As spring came and temperatures rose, so did her discomfort.

Once, Helena secretly visited her, bringing a box of cranberries from back home. It was just a simple container without any labels, something a street vendor might use. Inside, there were a few cranberry leaves-a quirky habit of the seller. During those tough nights of late-night studying, Madeline would eat a cranberry. The tartness mixed with a hint of sweetness made her mouth water. It actually helped soothe her stomach.

Madeline picked up the cranberries, opened the box, and fingered a small twig. "This must be from a cranberry bush. They're fresh-probably just picked."Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

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She held up a bright red cranberry, firm and slightly rough to touch. "Cranberries are both tart and sweet, much like life itself. I love that flavor; it makes me think life is just like this." Lucas scratched his head. "You like cranberries? Maybe I should plant you a cranberry bush?"

Madeline gave him a long look. "Thanks, but no need." She took Henry's gift and left.

Lucas's assistant followed them, muttering, "Man, you're really too blunt. Madeline talks about life, and you're chatting about bushes..."

Lucas turned back with a glare. "Excuse me? Didn't you notice Maddie has a new assistant? Want to be replaced too?"

"Nope!" The assistant quickly shook his head.

Watching Madeline walk away, Lucas mused aloud, "Maddie likes cranberries... we could brainstorm: cranberry candy, cranberry tarts, cranberry bread..." Ideas began to flow freely.

The reality show continued filming as scheduled, lasting for fifteen days and producing three episodes.

In the evenings, the crew set up live broadcasts that allowed fans to vote for whom they wanted to see.

Lucas, with his goofy charm, gained a lot of fans. Over just three episodes, his following grew by 3 million. His persona as the "adorable clumsy brother" paid off big time.

Unfortunately, Madeline didn't have a large fan base yet, so she wasn't given a live broadcast slot. When the viewership data was announced, the assistant director made a point to explain to Madeline that everything was transparent and promised more screen time for her in the edits. Madeline was puzzled as to why the assistant director even bothered explaining things to a newcomer like her.

What she didn't know was that someone powerful had "reminded" the crew that Madeline was connected to an influential political figure.

Even the director was nervous upon hearing this name-Ivan Ford-an iconic and intimidating presence everywhere. The crew couldn't fathom how an entertainment rookie could have such a powerful ally.

They couldn't help but marvel at how, in the entertainment world, there were plenty of women getting cozy with powerful figures. Yet they never saw the old-school legends pull it off like this. Back in the day, even marrying a wealthy businessman from, say, the coasts was considered a big deal.

Madeline's case was different; young and seemingly naive, not even formally trained in acting-a top student entering showbiz with such a strong backing suggested her identity was anything but simple. As a result, everyone took Madeline seriously.

To ensure smooth production and airing, they adjusted their original plans with major companies, which required prioritizing

certain stars.

Overnight meetings led to the decision that Madeline would be promoted as the show's top new talent.

After speaking with Madeline, the assistant director returned to his office. Looking at the notes on his computer, he mused,

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"Madeline's personality over three episodes-cool, skilled, esports goddess. But as impressive as she is, she lacks that charm."

Allison chimed in, "Are you thinking of adding some contrast charm? Exactly. Being powerful alone might not be enough to attract everyone, but if someone is both strong and beautiful with a hint of contrast charm, they're sure to win a lot of fans." The assistant director nodded. "You've got experience. What counts as a charming contrast?"

Now it was Allison's turn to rack her brain. "Let me think... Out here, you build your own persona. It's not about being fearless; it's about being bold."

"So?" the assistant director asked.

"The beautiful yet tragic' character," Allison grinned. "If she's powerful and a bit unfortunate, she'll gather a massive fanbase. If Madeline stands out on our show, Mr. Ford will be pleased too."

The assistant director considered it. "Beautiful yet tragic? I Hope it's genuine."

During the night's live stream, everyone was in the dorm.

Rose and Chloe were popular, so naturally they attracted votes. Another roommate had already been eliminated from the show.

Among the three remaining in the dorm, only Madeline sat at her desk working on her paper.

Rose was putting on makeup; she wasn't staying overnight here and had brought her cosmetics along.

Chloe, also dressed up nicely, commented sarcastically, "Some people think they're something just because they look good. But... just another nobody. No matter how well you game, it's useless on a low-tier level."

"Chloe, you shouldn't talk like that. Madeline might already be feeling bad," Rose said with a playful glint in her eyes and a hint of mischief in her tone. "Madeline, doing these reality shows is all about staying in the limelight. Why not join me for a live stream? My fans might like you and help boost your followers."

"Rosie, don't do that. Heard of the tale about the farmer and the snake?" Chloe exaggerated, "She doesn't need our help; after all, she's Mr. Sharp's girl. Wonder if he's tired of her though, since he hasn't visited.

"But Rosie, your admirers-those rich kids seem very eager to see you. There's definitely a difference between being pursued and chasing someone."

Rose applied blush to her cheeks, saying, "We're not on the same level. She's gone from being an extra to having this platform thanks to Mr. Sharp. But a little fame is just given; real success? That's all luck." Chloe blurted out bluntly, "Her? Making it big? Maybe in her next life."

Madeline frowned, "Noisy much? Why are you talking so much? Don't you find it annoying?"

"You're not streaming anyway, doing nothing at all. Complaining we're noisy? If only you had the guts to stream. But have fans." Chloe rolled her eyes.

you don't

Madeline frowned deeper, "I'm writing a paper. Could you please leave me alone? Can't you see have no interest in dealing with you?"

"A paper? What sort of nonsense is that?" Chloe walked over to sneer at Madeline mockingly. "What's that, some pompous act?" She tried to belittle Madeline without realizing the supposedly turned-off camera was quietly recording everything.