Andrew Bennett's earlobes turned red, but he said nonchalantly, "Who doesn't like William Clark? He's so perfect. There was even a time when people online suspected he was a holographic idol created by some secret project, specifically to cure Omega DINK-ism."

At that moment, the car radio happened to be broadcasting a discussion about William Clark, so Andrew Bennett didn't continue.

Host A said, "…Some people say that William Clark being able to say that has something to do with his family background and upbringing."

Host B responded with an "Oh?" and asked, "What do you mean by that?"

Host A said, "Think about it, William Clark's two mothers—one is the famous luxury brand Bofini CEO James Clark, a mixed-race female Alpha, right? That's common knowledge. But the fact that his other mother is a Beta is something not many people notice. Speaking of which, after his debut, his manager and assistants have all been either Alphas or Betas. From family to work, whether intentionally or not, there hasn't been a single Omega around him."

Host B said, "Oh~~ so that's how it is. No wonder William Clark has made comments that seem like 'Omega discrimination'—he simply doesn't understand Omegas at all."

Host A said meaningfully, "Maybe. Of course, this is just speculation from netizens. Maybe it's just a coincidence that there are no Omegas around William Clark? We can't jump to conclusions, since he hasn't come out to say anything himself. Reportedly, William Clark once said in an interview that he had been in a relationship, and although he didn't specify the other person's gender, what if it was an Omega?"

Host B said, "Then let me boldly guess—maybe William Clark was hurt in love, and was badly hurt by an Omega?"

The two hosts chuckled, their tone ambiguous, and quickly changed the subject.

After listening to this round of discussion, Henry Foster reminded the young artist who was chatting away on the livestream, "These people are the best at making things up. Andy, since you're an Omega, you need to protect yourself even more. If you ever face the media, remember—never reveal your relationship history, or they'll start imagining all sorts of things about how you were marked."

This kind of thing is not without precedent in the entertainment industry.

Andrew Bennett tried to recall, "I… don't think I've ever been in a relationship."

His private medical checkup showed that his glands had never even been temporarily marked.

Henry Foster: "???"

Andrew Bennett gave an awkward smile. "Single since birth for twenty-two years, just… a bit too well-versed in theory, that's all."

Henry Foster was truly shocked.

With today's advanced medical technology, Omegas have gained a certain degree of physical liberation. As a fully grown Omega who outshines others in every aspect, this kid has never even dated?

Andrew Bennett looked away. "Please don't say anything, I need to save face."

*

The annual gala at Xingjing is a grand event where all the artists gather. This year, the higher-ups went all out and booked the top two floors and the heated pool of the Fisher Hotel, planning a summer-themed party in the middle of winter.

The media caught wind of it and flocked to the scene. Quite a few reporters were blocking the street at the entrance, hoping to catch William Clark's car under the cover of night.

Andrew Bennett looked at the cameras, microphones, paparazzi with signs, and protesters, frowning. Clearly, these people saw the New Year's party as a goldmine for breaking news.

[We solemnly demand William Clark make a public apology]

[Oppose Omega discrimination, build a civilized nation]

[Born human, gender equality]

Henry Foster drove straight into the parking garage, as if she had seen this kind of scene many times before. Having weathered many storms, she ignored the banners and slogans on both sides.

As the two of them took the elevator upstairs, Henry Foster said to Andrew Bennett, "Besides you, whom I signed personally, I also manage a few other young artists who were already with the company. Since you haven't officially been to the company, they're technically your seniors. When you meet them, be sure to greet them properly. You're new and inexperienced, so making some artist friends will be good for you."

Andrew Bennett was standing in the corner of the elevator, a bit startled by the commotion downstairs. Things seemed more serious than he had imagined.

He collected himself and replied earnestly, "Okay."

Knowing he had never been in a relationship, Henry Foster found him even more obedient and said with satisfaction, "I'll arrange all your upcoming work, so you don't have to worry. If there's a chance, I'll find someone experienced to mentor you first."

Chapter 3

Andrew Bennett was taken upstairs by Henry Foster, but instead of heading straight in, he went to a temporary dressing room to change and get styled.

Henry Foster was very thoughtful and had prepared a suit for him in advance.

The stylist even matched it with a choker—a high-tech, lace-like material that fit perfectly around the back of his neck, light as a feather, yet enough to protect his glands from any harm.

Andrew Bennett simply did his hair, without any makeup.

Even with such minimal grooming, he attracted quite a few glances when he arrived at the hall.

There was no shortage of attractive people in the entertainment industry, and the Xingjing annual gala was even more dazzling, with all kinds of beauties everywhere.

Omega artists were now easier to spot. Although they all used various pheromone blockers, each one wore a choker—at public parties with alcohol, it's against regulations for Omegas to attend without one. At a glance, there were very few Omegas in the company, with most being Betas and Alphas.

Times are changing; the era of judging a person's worth by their pheromone level is long gone.