Chapter 28: Novel Drama
Elyse quickly scrolled through the comments, finding only curses and suggestions that she end her life. Realizing the gravity of the situation, her tone became anxious and urgent. “Ms. Hopkins, these are just rumors. The groom left me on our wedding day. He abandoned me after receiving a call from his former lover. I didn’t cheat on anyone. Please believe me,” she pleaded.
Wanda grasped her hand, her voice filled with helplessness. “I know your character, Elyse. I believe you’re innocent. But public opinion is powerful. I’ve been told by management that your work will be suspended until this matter is resolved.”
Elyse’s anxiety intensified. “But I’ve committed to rehearsals for the selection process. I can’t miss them. I’m auditioning for the tour.”
Wanda’s expression grew serious. “I’ve advocated for you as strongly as possible; otherwise, you might have been dismissed.”
The thought of being fired hit Elyse hard. She was facing dismissal. Seeing Elyse’s distress, Wanda patted her hand. “It’s temporary. Once this is resolved, you can explain the situation to management and return to rehearsals.”
Elyse sighed heavily. “Thank you, Ms. Hopkins. I understand.”
Wanda’s voice softened. “It’s only a matter of days. Once it’s resolved, you’ll be back in rehearsals. Have faith in yourself.”
“Thank you for your advocacy. I will provide an explanation,” Elyse said respectfully.
Leaving Wanda’s office, Elyse collided with Rebekah before she could fully process the situation. Leaning against the wall with crossed arms, Rebekah sneered, “Are you fired now? Your actions have damaged our reputation. It’s time you left.”
“Rebekah, aside from the rumors, you destroyed my violin and personal belongings. You owe me compensation,” Elyse retorted coldly.
“Why should I pay? It’s all your fault,” Rebekah shot back defensively, though her tone betrayed a hint of guilt.
“You’re responsible for the damage,” Elyse insisted. “I’ll assess the damage and give you a figure. Even if it’s a paltry hundred dollars, you’re paying. And don’t think you can get away with it. The rehearsal room is under surveillance. Refuse to compensate, and I’ll check the footage,” she warned.
Ignoring Rebekah’s irritation, Elyse returned to the rehearsal room to clean out her locker. The red paint stains were stubborn, so she focused on emptying its contents. While tidying, she stumbled upon numerous mementos of Theo, triggering a flood of memories. They had been close once. She had even believed they would marry. Now she was married to Jayden Owen. How had things gone so wrong? Even their keepsakes were tainted with red paint, emitting a sickening odor.
With a somber expression, Elyse quickly disposed of a doll, tossing it in the trash. After tidying her belongings, she sent Rebekah the compensation amount and requested a transfer. Then she left the building silently, greeted by the warm sunshine.
Suddenly, Jayden’s call interrupted her thoughts. “Have you seen the online gossip?” he asked.
“Yes, I have. There are rumors that I didn't betray Theo,” she replied with a heavy sigh.
“But some people believe them, including your orchestra colleagues. You've damaged the orchestra’s image and been dismissed, right?” he remarked knowingly.
“How did you know?” Elyse asked, puzzled.
“Simple, look it up,” Jayden retorted with a smirk.
Raising her gaze, Elyse saw Jayden sitting in his car, beckoning her. . . .