Never Too Far Novel

“Queenie’s with Nigel.” Julian glanced over at the couple to point them out to Jessie.

She nodded at once. “Oh! I see her. Thanks.”

He stood there with a glass of wine in his hand, his eyes staring straight at her. The chandelier above them reflected in his eyes and made them sparkle like the stars in galaxies.

What a pair of bewitching eyes. Jessie had felt pretty confident about herself thanks to her makeover, but she quickly lost it all under his gaze. She was afraid that he wouldn’t find her attractive.

However, to her absolute surprise, Julian commented, “You look very beautiful tonight.”

She became bashful at his praise and returned him a compliment as well. “You look very handsome too, Mr. Gilmore!”

“Don’t call me Mr. Gilmore. You can just call me Julian.”

“Okay!” Jessie nodded in agreement. She didn’t mind the new way of addressing him at all.

Just then, two young women came over. “Oh my goodness! It’s Julian Gilmore!”

The two young women were thrilled! They never thought they’d run into their celebrity crush while attending a dinner party with their parents. It was such a surprise to see him at the event.

These two young women were Jessie’s cousins, who were distant relatives of the Silversteins, and at this very moment, no one could miss just how ecstatic they were.

Jessie stepped aside and allowed the two fans to talk to Julian upon noticing that.

Since they were related to the family, she wanted to let them have a good time tonight.

However, Julian was a little annoyed by the two young women’s exuberance. He raised his hand and addressed them politely, “Please excuse me. I have something to discuss with Miss Silverstein.”

Then, he came over to Jessie and took her by the hand before ushering her off with him. She was stunned, and her cheeks were aflame as she stared disbelievingly at their entwined hands.

He led her to a private lounge. Once he closed the door behind them, he sighed. “This is why I don’t like going out much. The fans are too noisy.”

“What about me? Do you find me noisy too?” Jessie teased as she recalled joining his fans in welcoming him at the airport some time ago.

Julian cocked his eyebrows. “Are you a fan of mine?”

“Yeah, I’m your fan.” She nodded in all seriousness. Although she wasn’t one of the more passionate fans, he was the only young actor she admired in the industry, apart from all the older, more experienced actors.

He smiled. “Tell me what it feels like to succeed as a fan, then!”

She chuckled. “It’s amazing. I get to eat dinner and have a conversation with my favorite celebrity. It’s like a dream come true.”

“Alright, alright. You should go back to your guests,” he said. He didn’t want to take up all of her time tonight. She was the star of the show, after all.

Jessie nodded and went off. Now that he was here, she no longer felt disappointed.

Julian’s phone started ringing then. “Hello?”

“Julian, Eva Duncan’s schedule is full, so the production team has decided to find someone else to play the female lead. Do you have anyone you want to recommend?” It was a call from Marlon Warner, who was part of the production team for his latest filming project.

Julian’s eyes flickered in thought for a moment before his lips curved into a smile. “Hold off on selecting someone for the female lead first.”

“Why? Do you have someone to recommend? Tell me who it is! I’ll check and see if she’s available.”

“I know she’s available.”

“How can you be sure? We have only just decided to change the actress!”

“Either way, I’ll handle filling the role of the female lead. You guys can continue with the pre-production preparations,” Julian drawled.

“Alright! We’re looking forward to seeing whom you’ve chosen for the female lead. I’m sure you won’t let us down!”

Julian’s eyes flickered in amusement. No, you’ll all be disappointed, but it doesn’t matter as long as I’m not disappointed.

At this very moment, the entire entertainment industry was in an uproar as many actresses heard the news and wanted to take the role of the leading lady opposite Julian. However, they were not going to get their chance.

Julian had chosen his leading lady—Jessie, who had yet to make her debut.

Once all the guests arrived, the first item on the agenda was Brandon’s announcement that his youngest daughter had been found. Jessie went up on stage accompanied by her older sister, and the guests were shocked by the sight of the happily reunited family.

Everyone in the crowd was thinking the same thing. They’re twins, alright! They look exactly the same.

Many of the young men in the crowd were beginning to get ideas. The Silversteins’ fortune was going to go to the two sisters in the future, so if they became the Silversteins’ son-in-law, they would get to take possession of half of the family’s fortune!

Nigel and Julian were leaning against a pillar by the stage. They each had a glass of wine in their hands as they gazed at the pair of gorgeous young women up on the stage. Then, Nigel’s sharp hearing picked up on the words coming from a young man. “Wow! I think the elder Miss Silverstein has inherited the company. I’m sure I can easily sign a deal with Silverstein Enterprise if I manage to woo her.”

Nigel smirked at that. He walked over to that man and tapped him on the shoulder. The man was startled and turned around to see a tall, handsome man behind him. “Yes?”

“I’m just here to give you a friendly reminder. The elder Miss Silverstein is my fiancée. You’ll have to be careful if you try to get any ideas about her.” Nigel’s sharp gaze paired well with his warning tone.

The man started apologizing awkwardly, “I’m so sorry. I was just blabbing. I didn’t mean any of it.”

With that, he quickly fled with his friends.

It was hard for the guests to tell the two young women on stage apart, but for those who took the time to understand them, it wasn’t hard at all.

Nigel and Julian could both easily tell them apart with just one look.

With the crowd acting as the witnesses to Jessie’s return to the family, the Silversteins shared a group hug, and the crowd rang out in applause at the sight of the heart-warming family reunion.

Jessie’s eyes were red as she hugged her mother close. Brandon patted her on the shoulder, whereas Queenie reached out to hug her sister as well.

“Dig in, everyone! I hope you all have a wonderful time tonight!” Brandon addressed the crowd cheerfully.

Applause thundered out once more, and soon, the guests started coming over to congratulate the Silverstein couple. The Manson couple was among them. As future in-laws, they were genuinely happy for the Silversteins too.

Queenie brought Jessie over to the two men, who were still standing by the pillar. Jessie was a little red-faced as she glanced at Julian.

“I have a gift for you, Miss Jessie Silverstein,” Julian declared.

She blinked. “That’s not necessary at all, Mr. Gilmore. I’m already honored that you came. I can’t accept a gift from you.”

“No, you must accept this gift,” he insisted.

Nigel and Queenie were both waiting to see what the gift was. Jessie was a little embarrassed. “What do you wish to give me, Mr. Gilmore?”

“Eva Duncan isn’t free to play the female lead in my upcoming drama. The production team wants me to recommend someone. I’m recommending you.”

“What?!” Jessie was dumbstruck and covered her mouth in shock. Me?!

He wants me to play the female lead in his upcoming drama? How can I possibly do that?! This gift is too much.

“Jessie, don’t let his kindness go to waste. I’m sure you can do a great job,” Nigel said.

“That’s right, Jessie. You have all of us supporting you. I’m sure you’ll become a successful actress with Julian helping you with your debut.” Queenie was pleased on Jessie’s behalf. Seems to me that Julian really is taking good care of Jessie! This was great news to her as she hoped that Jessie would get together with Julian in the future.

Jessie was red from all her excitement. She glanced at Queenie before turning to Julian and said gratefully, “Thank you for thinking so highly of me, Mr. Gilmore. I won’t let you down.”

“Jessie, why don’t you toast Julian?” Queenie suggested with a smile.

Jessie quickly took a glass of red wine from the server and said bashfully, “Here’s a toast to you, Mr. Gilmore.”

Julian raised his glass and tapped it against Jessie’s. As soon as she finished the glass, Maggie came over to get her. She wanted to introduce Jessie to the guests. Queenie and Nigel went over to the restaurant, and a few more young women quickly crowded around Julian. Even a few older ladies came over to ask if he was married. They were keen to introduce their daughters to him!

He was somewhat exasperated, but he remained pleasant and amiable the whole time.

At the restaurant, Nigel and Queenie sat down at a table after filling their plates. As they took in the view of the night sky, Queenie exhaled in joy. “We’ve finally reunited.”

“That means we have time to consider our future now.” Nigel stared at her with his dark, affectionate eyes.

guiltily. Amid all the commotion of finding her sister, she ended up neglecting him a fair bit. She nodded and agreed, “Yeah! I’ll bring it up with my

formally ask for your hand in marriage,” he informed her of

cheeks grew a little warm

grand hall, Jessie followed her parents around as they introduced her to everyone. The guests were very warm and welcoming, and she ended up drinking a lot each time they toasted her,

in conversation with a few other guests, she made her escape. She wanted to look for Queenie but couldn’t find her anywhere. Jessie felt a little light-headed and decided to take a seat. One of the young men, who wanted to approach

Miss Silverstein? Allow me to take you to the lounge to

alright. I’m fine, thank you,”

alright?” The young man didn’t want to miss

soon as she tried to take a step, her head became woozy, and she fell back down onto the chair. The man

man’s voice rang out. “I’ll

who was trying to steal this opportunity from him, but the moment he saw who it was, he deflated at once. Julian was not only an award-winning actor,

Jessie raised her head to look at Julian. Her face seemed to glow under the light. It made

much? No one’s forcing you.” He sat down beside

drink a

she asked, “Can I really play the part of your female lead? Will the producers and the director approve of me? Won’t I end up

you’ll do a

do enjoy acting, I never learned it properly and I don’t have experience. I’m afraid I’ll ruin your show.” The alcohol gave Jessie the courage

and admired him. Thus, she didn’t want to trouble him.

were willing to go to extreme lengths just to get the parts they wanted. It was his first time

lead. I will teach you anything you need to know about acting,” he promised

him with hazy eyes before nodding and agreeing obediently,

tea.” Julian poured her a

“Mr. Gilmore, why do you do so much for

as well. Is it because you’re Queenie’s sister and that she’s my best friend’s fiancée? Is that why I care about you so much? “What? Are you complaining about it? Do you really have to ask for a reason?” He evaded her question as he had no answer for

should be happy that someone

herself up and tried to leave. I can walk, no problem. However, walking when she was drunk felt like stepping on clouds. She had only taken a few steps before losing her balance and falling right into Julian’s

and helped her back to her seat. “Don’t go around.

the same time. Then, she huddled closer. “Mr. Gilmore, can I ask you something? It’s private, but I promise it’s just a question. I

“What is it?”

asked curiously. The only one who was rumored to be dating him was Eva, the actress

that important to you?” Julian narrowed

Just wanna know. You don’t have to tell me

not dating. Eva and I are only partners,”

he denies it. That means it’s

Maggie approached them. The old couple felt for Jessie seeing her getting this drunk, though they were also amused. Lots of people had raised a toast to her

I don’t see her anywhere. She could’ve helped

entertain many guests, so they couldn’t leave. Just then, Jessie

I don’t want anything to

look at the man by her side. “Can you take

actually asking Julian to take her to her room. That’s

should do. After all, he was a guy, and she was a girl, not to mention a drunk

counting on you, then. Queenie’s not here,

him a look. Hey, I

he patted Julian’s shoulder. “We’re counting on you,

do this. Julian nodded. “Of course, Mr. and Mrs. Silverstein. I’ll take

on. There are too many people here. She should get some

the Silverstein couple left. As soon as Jessie stood up, Julian offered his arm for her to steady herself. She held it as he led her

the hotel, Julian took a keycard

shoulder. He looked down and saw her

lips to regain focus, and the elevator door swung open soon after. Though,

head is

her up; holding her up was a

And she was a dancer, too. Julian thought she felt light and soft as he

they reached their room, he opened the door and put her on the bed. Jessie still had her arms wrapped around his neck as he laid her down, so he ended up getting pulled toward her. Her face was

him quickly upon realizing she was still hugging

his heart racing a mile, the drunken lady didn’t think much

in case anything

rather, they were making out. Kissing their lover under the

a call from her parents and felt rather embarrassed for a few moments. Then, she

Jessie was. After a short while, they showed

her, she didn’t wake up at all. Though, she would have felt embarrassed if she

her while the gentlemen left. The Silversteins stayed at the hotel for the night, with the parents sharing

Jessie woke up with a little hangover. Queenie, who was lying on the bed

how did I get here?” She had forgotten what had

“Think long and hard. Someone took you

“Was it you?”

head. “No.

and it made her blush. That piece of memory made her remember everything

lunch at the hotel and

University’s School of Performance Arts. The class would last for a week.

for her. She promised

felt healthier than ever after finding his missing daughter. He returned to the company and told Queenie to spend some time

to stay there for a whole day, so Queenie went to see

reported for class. Thanks to Julian’s arrangement, she had made it to the classroom without a

sat down. Everyone in the class looked at her upon her arrival. Some recognized

stuntwoman? Why is

necessary for her to take this class? Not like she’s gonna be on

Got tired

in her lane, though. Not everyone is talented enough to be an actress,” one arrogant

hall was quiet, and Jessie heard everything despite their

your name?”

“Jessie. Jessie Silverstein.”

and only the elites of the performing arts school could attend.

“My friend,” Jessie answered.

big shot,” the girl said enviously. She loved how beautiful Jessie looked. Beauties were a dime a dozen in the industry, but anyone who wanted to be famous had to have the

she started teaching. Her lecture was filled with facts and practical tips. Everyone fortunate to be in the class learned a lot from

Like a sponge, she

announced, “Alright,

up to the stage. She requested, “Professor, I’d

“Very well.”

around and stared at Jessie. “I’ll go

She was still in a daze, and the girl beside

she had been busy with her work. She stood up from her seat and approached Xandra. “What would

role can you

had no answer

you’re a stuntwoman. You were never professionally trained. Sorry for asking you to help me out. I wanted to

class burst into laughter—they loved seeing Jessie get humiliated. She was in very fashionable attire, and the ladies thought she

The one Julian

I have no reason to hide it. She

office this afternoon. I have a few books I’d like you to have.” The stern expression on the professor’s face was replaced by

and nodded. “Of

but never did she expect Julian to be the one who recommended her. “I need more time to

the one who recommended her? Who is she? Why

girl beside Jessie turned around, her eyes filled with envy. “So, your friend

just friends.” Jessie smiled. She raised her head and was met with Xandra’s icy glare. She blamed Jessie for the embarrassment

She never did anything to her, and she wouldn’t

the professor asked Jessie to come with her. Xandra approached them happily.

The professor

a part of the performance arts course, while Jessie

three books and told her she could come to

for the professor’s help and even more thankful for Julian’s as she wouldn’t have had this opportunity to learn the arts of performing if not

in the industry

articles that were nothing but lies. It was especially so when a no-name stuntwoman like her received a favor from Julian; the news outlets would make use of their wildest imagination to brew some juicy gossip for

could even leave the school,

it true? Are you

“Who said that?”

news outlet. They said he recommended you to join the

explained, “No. Lemme check the news.” She sat down under a tree and scrolled through all the news

successful. Julian recommended her to

Julian in his

This is fake news. We did nothing at the hotel. They even used photos of me at work; it was clear that they were talking about me. The comment section was filled with nothing but

was getting a headache as she read through all that. Right at this moment, someone approached her and sneered, “Did you see the news, Jessie? No wonder you got the chance to attend

in bed. Not

god! Julian, you have