The Ring On My Finger

It was rumored that I had become the stand-in for the Upper East Side mogul's sweetheart, and the real one couldn't help but return to the city.

She looked at me with disdain and said, A stand-in is always just a stand-in. Don't get any ideas about replacing me.

I lifted my hand, showing her the massive diamond ring on my finger, and offered a cool, composed smile.

"That's a shame. He's already mine now."

1.

Everyone knows that Caspian Sterling, the sole heir to the Sterling fortune, has a 'white moonlight'Dthe daughter of the rival Montgomery family, Seraphina Montgomery.

Caspian chased her for a decade. Even if she asked for the moon, he would have found a way to pluck it from the sky for her. Yet, Seraphina chose to leave for Europe to pursue a ballet career.

It wasn't just her love for dance. She knew that Caspian's decade of devotion made her untouchable; she believed that even if she left, his heart would remain hers, and she would always be the envied queen of the city's elite.

But at this moment, the man who should have been obsessed with Seraphina was on one knee before me, holding a pink diamond ring, asking if I would be his wife.

I took the ring, kissed his cheek, and nodded with a smile. "I do."

2.

The first time I stepped into the grand ballroom of the Sterling estate, I wore a bright yellow gown. Among a sea of black and white formal wear, I stood out like a curious fawn wandering into a forbidden territory, my wide eyes darting around in wonder.

I accidentally collided with a tall, solid chest. I flushed and looked up, meeting Caspian's surprised gaze.

He stared at me without blinking, then hesitated. "Beautiful lady, do you happen to know Seraphina Montgomery?"

I shook my head, feigning innocence. "My name is Elara Sinclair. I'm an actress, just arrived in the city from a small town."

Caspian looked disappointed, then sighed. "You two look exactly alike."

I looked around curiously. "Really? Is this Ms. Montgomery here today?"

At the mention of Seraphina, Caspian's expression dimmed. "She's abroad."

I gave a playful smile. "I'd love to meet her. To think there's someone else in this world as beautiful as me."

Caspian couldn't help but laugh. "Elara, you're something else. I'll remember you."

I smiled brightly. "That's not fair. I don't even know your name yet."

Amused, Caspian reached out his hand. "Nice to meet you, Ms. Sinclair. I'm Caspian Sterling."

3.

From the moment I was signed to the agency owned by the legendary actress Vivienne, I knew I was a stand-in.

Vivienne had chosen me specifically because I resembled the Sterling heir's childhood sweetheart.

She never intended to hide it, and she couldn't have even if she tried. But I didn't mind being a substitute at all.

Because I looked like Seraphina, IDa homeless orphan who used to scrap with street kids just for a bite to eatDfinally had the chance to go to school and live a life where I was warm and fed.

I was incredibly grateful to Vivienne. I poured all my energy into the lessons she provided. This year, I finally graduated and made my official debut in the industry.

Twenty years ago, Vivienne and Seraphina's mother, Margot, both started as actresses. They both fell in love with Seraphina's father, Arthur, but Margot played her cards better and secured the title of Mrs. Montgomery.

Although Vivienne became an award-winning icon, she couldn't handle the loss of Arthur and retreated from the spotlight, remaining single ever since. She believed Margot ruined her life. If she took everything from Vivienne, then Vivienne would find someone to take everything from her daughter.

I was that instrument of revenge. She wanted vengeance, and I wanted a life of luxury. We used each other, each getting what we needed.

The Sterling gala was my golden ticketDmy grand entrance into the city's social scene.

4.

Caspian accompanied me to the dessert table, thoughtfully recommending drinks.

"This cocktail has a low alcohol content. It's perfect for you."

I frowned, looking troubled. "Thank you, but I'm allergic to alcohol. Even a drop gives me a nasty rash. Is there any fruit juice or soda?"

Caspian paused, set the glass down, and ordered a kiwi and orange blend for me instead.

I took a sip and beamed. "Delicious. I love the taste of kiwi."

Caspian looked at me in disbelief. "You even share the same tastes and sensitivities as Seraphina!"

I feigned surprise. "Is it really that much of a coincidence? I must have a strange connection with her."

Inside, I couldn't help but laugh. There's a saying: fate is just a matter of how much money you spend.

Vivienne had paid a fortune to get these details from the Montgomery butler. For over a decade, I had memorized them so deeply that I had tricked myself into believing I truly liked what Seraphina liked and hated what she hated.

I didn't feel wronged. This was my professional commitment, and I embraced it willingly.

5.

After the gala, the whole city knew me: a young actress who looked like a Montgomery heiress, walking close to Caspian.

The elite whispered about how I was just a stand-in, mocking my blatant attempts to seduce Caspian. They called me ambitious, despite having no name for myself.

Some socialites, who coveted Caspian but dared not touch him, couldn't stand my boldness.

Before I had even taken on a real role, I was trending on social media.

"Manipulative," "gold-digger," "fake"Dthese labels were hurled at me like stones.

My name search volume surged into the millions.

Negative fame is still fame. Many actors work their whole lives without this kind of attention. I was satisfied.

But Caspian felt guilty. He gifted me a diamond necklace from a luxury house and pulled strings to land me a spot on a high-profile reality show: The Leading Lady.

The show required contestants to compete through talent screenings for a role in a blockbuster film directed by the genius, Director Ambrose.

Everyone on the show had connections. Vivienne was satisfied with my progress.

Just then, Seraphina, who had been hiding abroad, finally couldn't take it anymore and returned.

The Montgomery family had power. With a single word from Seraphina, she snagged a spot on the show I had fought so hard to get into. Since the roster was already set, the producers rolled out the red carpet, creating a special guest title for her: a world-class ballet artist.

I acted as if I knew nothing and happily headed to the set.

Seeing Seraphina for the first time, I marveled. A real heiress really is different; the aura cultivated by a lifetime of wealth isn't something an ordinary person can match. She commanded the room the second she walked in.

She stood before me, lifted the diamond pendant on my neck, and sneered.

"A gift from Caspian, I assume? He knows I love this brand. He had it custom-made for me, but I didn't take it because the diamond was too small. I suppose it was good enough for you."

With that, Seraphina scoffed and brushed past me.

The guests and crew exchanged knowing glances. From that moment on, my reputation as a cheap stand-in was cemented.

6.

The show was filmed live, and all reactions were broadcast in real-time. Seraphina's two casual sentences instantly put me in the spotlight.

"Haha, the producers are geniuses! They put the real deal and the knockoff in the same room!"

"They really do look alike. Are they long-lost sisters?"

"Don't bet on it. The real heiress has that aura. She's a ballet artist! That D-list star is just desperate for clout!"

"Exactly. Who does she think she is, trying to get with the Sterling heir?"

I didn't care about the online comments, nor did I show any reaction to Seraphina's hostility. After she walked into the lounge, I happily greeted the staff and guests.

Some looked down on me and ignored me, while others, sensing the power of the Montgomery family, sucked up to Seraphina. I wasn't bothered; I kept my smile.

The show had two mentors. One was the hit producer, Sarah, known for her Midas touch. When Seraphina arrived, Sarah acted as if no one else existed, clinging to her side.

It was understandable; as a producer, her job was to secure funding, so she had to butter up the wealthy.

The other mentor was the biggest star on the show: the reigning Best Actress, Elena.

She didn't show any disgust toward me. She took my hand and gripped it, her eyes even showing a hint of appreciation.

To survive in the cutthroat industry, you must have the grit to ignore negativity and shed your pride. When you have nothing, pride is worthless.

"Elena is so patient. I wouldn't bother talking to a manipulative bitch like that."

"Totally!"

"Some guests are such bootlickers. It's pathetic."

"That's not fair. The Montgomerys are powerful. It's normal to climb the social ladder."

"It's all about connections anyway. Talent eventually wins."

7.

Once everyone gathered, the host announced the show's format.

The show would be live-streamed, featuring segments on dialogue, acting, and talent. A panel of producers, casting directors, and scouts would vote to eliminate contestants.

The two finalists selected by the mentors would battle in the final, with an online vote and Director Ambrose's final decision determining the winner.

Before the competition began, CaspianDthe show's lead investorDhosted an opening gala.

Seraphina and Caspian were the focus of the night. Seraphina, for once, was kind to him, and Caspian was utterly bewitched, making my position as a stand-in look even more pathetic.

Perhaps realizing the blatant hostility surrounding me, Caspian finally noticed me. While Seraphina was touching up her makeup, he walked over to where I was admiring the flowers in the garden.

"Sorry, Elara. I didn't know Seraphina would be on this show. She did this on a whim and asked her father to intervene. I really couldn't refuse. I didn't mean to humiliate you."

I shook my head nonchalantly. "Caspian, I don't mind at all. I love the necklace; I've never seen one so pretty. Thank you!"

I winked at him, clearing his conscience instantly.

Just then, a sudden downpour hit. Girls in gowns were running for cover, stumbling in their heels.

Caspian took off his blazer, held it over his head, and shouted at me, "Come over here! You'll catch a cold! Seraphina got sick for three days when she caught rain once!"

I looked up, excitedly holding out my hand to catch the raindrops. "It's fine! I'm not made of glass. Rain is wonderful; I love rainy days!"

Seeing me not budge, Caspian ran under the eave holding the coat. He watched me take off my heels and jump in the puddles like a sprite, not caring that my expensive dress was soaked.

Caspian stood under the eave and watched me for a long time. He grew up in the city's high society; he had never seen a noble girl act so real, so carefree, and so unconstrained.

Even when Seraphina walked over, he didn't even notice.

I knew that from this day on, every time it rained, he would think of me.

8.

The recording officially started.

The first round was a pure dialogue test. The faces were hidden, and contestants had to voice classic scenes from dramas.

The first actress, known for never using her own voice, was a disaster. Without subtitles, you couldn't understand a word. She shrieked until her voice cracked, devoid of any genuine emotion.

"Wow, now I know why she never uses her own voice. Her delivery is trash!"

"Oh my god, can anyone be an actor these days? I could do better!"

"Is she constipated? Hearing her lines makes it hard for me to breathe!"

She walked off the stage in disgrace, and it was clear she was out.

Many of these connected stars thought this show would be easy clout. Little did they know, if they were talentless, they would only expose their flaws. She would probably never get another job again.

Soon, it was Seraphina's turn. She 'luckily' drew a scene in English. While the emotion was lacking, her posh British accent, honed from years abroad, stunned the crowd.

"The heiress is amazing! That accent is so classy!"

"Who can beat that? She's guaranteed to win!"

Seraphina walked to the front, nodding dismissively to the audience.

Sarah showered her with praise and gave her the advancement card.

"Uh that accent was okay, but is this a dialogue competition? She doesn't deserve a direct pass, right?"

"Hilarious. Can you do better? Or maybe the knockoff can?"

"The stand-in is so unlucky, going after the heiress. She's going to be mocked to hell."

"She deserves to be humiliated, or else she'll think she's on the same level as a real heiress."

I walked to the microphone amidst the digital chorus of boos.

9.

The lights dimmed, and a scene from a college drama playedDthree roommates arguing over conflicting values.

I spoke my first line, and the audience was silent. A few viewers typed in the chat that my pronunciation was decent.

By the second line, Elena, who had been looking at her script, suddenly looked up and stared at me.

"What's going on? Does Elena think the knockoff is actually good?"

The viewers were confused.

By the third line, many in the room realized what was happening, and their eyes widened in shock.

"Holy shit! She's good!"

"What's going on?"

"Are you all deaf? Can you not tell she's playing three different characters at once?"

"Wait oh my god!"

Three distinct personalities: one gentle, one irritable, and one passive-aggressive. Yet, they were all young girls. I didn't rely on just shifting pitch or volume. The timing, the pauses, the emotional shiftsDit was effortless.

When I walked onto the stage, the initial scorn was gone.

Elena walked over and handed me the advancement card with a bright smile. "Elara Sinclair, welcome to my team!"

"Thank you, Ms. Elena!" I took the card and looked at Seraphina, who was fuming because I'd stolen the spotlight. I felt immensely satisfied.

While both Seraphina and I advanced, anyone with eyes could see my delivery was superior to hers.

This was the first time I'd beaten her. It was memorable, but not the true reason I was happy.

My real goal in joining this show wasn't to win; it was to earn Elena's recognition.

Most didn't know, but Elena was the biological sister of Caspian's motherDCaspian's aunt.

10.

The second episode began. After the first round, the remaining contestants were assigned to mentors for one-on-one coaching.

Sarah continued to fawn over Seraphina, praising her natural talent and claiming she was better than conservatory graduates. With her little clique of sycophants, Seraphina developed a delusionDshe truly thought she was a great actress.

I was different. I brought recordings of my training sessions to Elena, posing tough questions and asking for her take on the characters.

Elena was brutal. She criticized my performance, at times shredding me to pieces. The audience actually felt bad for me, thinking she was too harsh.

Only I knew the truth. Elena never wasted words on people she deemed talentless. She gave the others on her team polite, superficial praise because she knew their limits. If she was being strict with me, it meant she believed in my potential.

Soon, the second round began. Seraphina chose an explosive scene and hired a popular idol to play opposite her.

Unfortunately, most of these idols were talentless hacks. Aside from their popularity, their acting was no better than Seraphina's. After they finished their screeching scene, the audience didn't know who to mock more.

The idol's fans tried to control the narrative, saying he was a last-minute addition and hadn't prepared.

Predictably, Seraphina advanced with a high score. Sarah, true to her reputation as a 'gold-medal producer,' found eight hundred creative angles to praise her.

The viewers felt their faces heat up just reading the comments, and could only sigh: money really can buy anything!

11.

When it was my turn, I couldn't get anyone to partner with me because of the negative rumors. I performed a monologue as a girl stranded abroad, sick, and suffering, calling her mother who wouldn't answer.

I didn't have much technique. I simply channeled the loneliness I'd felt my entire life.

Because I was so immersed, the chat room went silent for the full two minutes.

Elena sensed my emotional state. At the right moment, she signaled the cameraman and stepped into my scene, playing the mother who had suddenly appeared.

I didn't back down. I followed her lead and improvised. We clashed, and it felt like meeting a worthy opponentDpure, adrenaline-fueled ecstasy.

When it ended, the audience stood up in applause. I closed my eyes, took a minute to breathe, and bowed in gratitude.

Elena grabbed the mic, thrilled. "In all these years, I have finally found an actor who is fully devoted to the craft! She is a real actor! She truly loves this career. Starting today, I officially take Elara Sinclair as my apprentice!"

I hugged Elena, feeling genuine tears in my eyes. I knew that from this moment on, I wasn't just a lowly actress; no one would dare to mock me so casually again.

12.

After that round, with Elena's backing, no one dared to call me a stand-in or a knockoff.

A few days later, it was Mrs. Sterling's birthday, and I was invited. Elena didn't show up to avoid exposing her link to the family. I walked up to Mrs. Sterling and thanked her for the invite.

Seraphina arrived with an expensive gift, but her coldness paled in comparison to my warmth.

It was a small family gathering. Seraphina took the floor and danced a piece from Swan Lake. Caspian clapped. "Seraphina, that's professional-level work!"

Seraphina lifted her chin, shot me a provocative look.

I knew what she meant. She was telling me no matter how hard I tried, she only had to crook her finger for Caspian to crawl back to her like a dog.

Seeing Seraphina act indifferent to his praise, Caspian looked at me. He noticed I wasn't wearing the diamond necklace he'd given me, but a simple pearl pendant. He looked even more disheartened.

"Elara, I heard you're talented. Can you dance?" Caspian couldn't help but ask.

I shook my head honestly. "No. I didn't have the money for lessons growing up. Besides, Seraphina is a professional. I wouldn't dare embarrass myself in front of her."

Seeing me know my place, Seraphina smirked, not noticing that Mrs. Sterling frowned at her arrogance.

When Seraphina had publicly mocked Caspian for the 'small' diamond on the show, she'd implied the Sterlings were cheapDan insult to the entire family. Now, with this performance, she had completely fallen out of favor.

Before I left, Caspian caught me. "Elara, why aren't you wearing the necklace I gave you?"

I lowered my head, looking down.

"Caspian, I'm sorry. I was impulsive back then. I had just arrived from the small town; I didn't know you and Seraphina had such a long history.

I can't wear that necklace anymore. If Seraphina thinks I'm trying to steal you, it would look terrible. My family background isn't as good as hers, but I have my principles.

Even if I liked you back then, I would never ruin someone else's relationship."

My voice choked.

Caspian froze, his face pale. "Elara, I'm the one who failed you."

I hid my sadness and gave him a bright smile. "You didn't fail me. There's no right or wrong in love. I don't want to be a burden, and I never expected anything. Your sincerity is what matters most."

I turned and walked away. Even the heavens were helping me; it began to rain.

Caspian watched my figure disappear into the rain. He would remember the girl who danced in the rain, the one so different from Seraphina. Whether he would choose the girl who loved him wholeheartedly or the arrogant, aloof SeraphinaDhe was caught in his own thoughts.

Out of sight, I wiped away the fake sadness and smiled.

Seraphina might have 'won' the night, but I knew Caspian's heart was already leaning toward me.

13.

The final round arrived, leaving only Seraphina and me.

Caspian and Director Ambrose were there to witness the finale.

"Caspian is so hot! I get it now, I'd chase him too if I were Elara!"

"Who do you think he's here for?"

"The heiress, obviously! Everyone knows he's chased her for years."

"I don't know. He hasn't taken his eyes off Elara since he sat down!"

"But Elara can't win. Seraphina's ballet training is legit. You can't learn that in a few months."

"Maybe, but Elara has been surprising us. Who knows what she's capable of?"

"Stop it. People have dug up everything about her. She's a poor kid from the sticks. Where would she get the time or money for that?"

"I disagree. Since when is talent just for the rich?"

"Exactly! Are poor people only meant to be worker bees for the rich?"

After a few episodes, public opinion had shifted. I had gained as many supporters as Seraphina.

The battle between us had evolved from 'sweetheart vs. stand-in' to 'rich girl vs. grass-roots.'

Seraphina performed her ballet, wearing a diamond-encrusted swan dress with a live symphony accompaniment.

The studio felt like a royal theater. The audience was mesmerized.

"Say what you want, but even if she can't act, her dance is top-tier."

"Agreed. Watching this live would cost thousands."

"Thanks to the heiress for showing us commoners some art!"

"Let's see how Elara handles this."

"Oh no, I have a bad feeling"

14.

I wasn't worried. I was backstage with my partnerDa national treasure of traditional opera, Master Halloway.

I had prepared to beg her three times to convince her, but she had agreed immediately. She didn't want a fee, and she brought her own wardrobe. She just wanted to help me promote traditional opera on such a massive platform.

The lights went up. A handsome, elegant figure stepped into the center of the stage, lifting a fan and singing.

"...Is that Elara? She knows traditional opera? And she's doing a gender-bend role?"

"My god, the moment she opened her mouth, I got goosebumps!"

"Wait, is that Master Halloway performing with her? Elara got Master Halloway to come out of retirement? Is she crazy?"

"I have no words. Mind blown!"

I never believed our traditional arts were inferior to Western ones; it's just that people think foreign equals better. I refused to accept that.

We performed a scene from a legendary Wuxia classic, adapted for a modern, young audience.

Master Halloway played the heroine, and I played the leading man. Despite her age, she was graceful, and our chemistry was perfect.

Knowing my background in opera stunt work, she had picked a scene with action. I looked sharp, suave, and utterly dashing.

"...Too handsome! Can I call her my husband?"

"Our national art is the best! I'm so proud!"

"Guys, forget the pride for a secondDlook at Director Ambrose!"

Director Ambrose stood up from his seat, his hands trembling as he walked onto the stage, grabbing my hands!

"Director?"

"It's you! You're the heroine I've been looking for! This is exactly what I wanted!"

He turned to the producers, shouting, "Stop the competition! Regardless of who wins, she is my leading lady!"

15.

"Holy shit!"

"Wow!"

The chat room exploded.

Even I was stunned. I knew I had a good chance, but I never expected to win against Seraphina like this.

The stage went wild. Elena was thrilled, hugging me. The producers were in a panic. Seraphina was so angry she couldn't even keep up her act, stomping off the stage in a corner where no one noticed.

My name surged to the top of every social media platform.

All the headlines were uniform: "The Discovery of the Year: Director Ambrose picks Elara Sinclair as the lead!"

I called Vivienne in the lounge to ask if it was her doing.

She laughed. "Consider it a gift for landing the role."

"Thank you, Vivienne." I replied, polite but distant.

Even though she'd trained me for years, I knew my place. I never developed an overly personal bond with her.

"Don't get too comfortable. There's another big surprise coming. Open the live stream; the show isn't over yet!" She hung up.

I checked the live stream and saw the host walking toward the lounge, whispering to the camera: "Although Elara caught Director Ambrose's eye, it's not fair to the other contestants. So, we've decided to keep Seraphina as the second lead! We're heading to Seraphina's room for a surprise!"

The camera aimed at the door. The host was about to knock when a crash echoed from inside!

The host's smile froze. He looked at the camera in panic.

16.

"What the hell is this? Is that old man playing me? I came back from abroad, did all this work, just for that fake to steal my spot?"

The host panicked, trying to block the lens. A hand reached out, pushing him aside.

"Elena" The host started, but Elena shot him a look, silencing him.

The host, afraid of everyone, shrunk back and retreated from the lens, frantically messaging the director for help.

From inside, Seraphina's shrill voice continued.

"I'm so pissed!"

Sarah tried to soothe her. "Don't be angry, Seraphina. Director Ambrose never plays by the rules. I already paid off the counting staff to make sure you won, but nobody expected him to jump in."

"And Elena, that old woman, she's always against me. She's just a washed-up actress! She thinks she's someone? Who does she think she is?!"

Elena's expression hardened.

"Don't worry, it's not over yet. The movie hasn't started filming. You can still save this. People still like you." Sarah, having hitched her wagon to the Montgomerys, was desperate.

But Seraphina, with her heiress temper, wouldn't cooperate.

"Ugh, who cares what those commoners think? They eat pig swill and troll online all day! It's just a role in some movie; it's not like I was begging to be in it. I don't care!"

Seraphina opened the door to leave, grabbed her bag, and froze. She saw me, Elena, Director Ambrose, and Caspian standing there, gaping.