Chapter 114: Danielle Was Deceived at Last

Alexander's words left Isabella bewildered. She wanted to ask more, but he only said, "I'm speculating. This choice isn't without benefits. Let's see what others choose."

The poll piqued Isabella's interest. She believed the most likely outcome for the three of them was to separate.

Isabella and Alexander were about to leave the hospital when their lawyer called. The fan who had harmed them had admitted guilt. Continuous online reversals had silenced the fan's defenders; their reputations were shattered. Fans collectively abandoned the fan club, feeling their support had become a joke. There were no supportive comments; the scandalous antics were unbearable. Fans felt used and emotionally drained. Even blind loyalty couldn't withstand it.

The imprisoned young girl, learning the truth via a phone call from her lawyer, wept and bitterly cursed Maverick before collapsing, her spirit seemingly broken. Her parents, initially planning to pressure Isabella and Christopher, discovered their formidable backgrounds and backed down. They then considered manipulating Maverick to support his fan, but his own precarious situation dissuaded them. Ultimately, they meekly accepted the legal consequences.

After settling the girl's affairs, Christopher summoned them to the agency. Hayden had already reviewed the contract with Danielle. Seeing Isabella and Alexander, Danielle bowed respectfully to Isabella.

"Thank you for your help, Ms. Jeannet. I owe you a favor."

Isabella waved dismissively. "Just here for the gossip. You're welcome."

As they spoke, Danielle's phone vibrated repeatedly. Hayden interrupted her attempt to ignore a call. "Why not answer? Some people never give up."

Christopher explained, "It's Maverick. He keeps calling from different numbers."

Isabella exclaimed, "He's still calling? What does he want? Is he begging her to return?"

Had Isabella not feared hindering important matters, she would have switched off her phone long ago. Perhaps her intense gaze compelled Danielle; she answered, even putting the call on speaker.

"Dani, help me" Maverick pleaded, devastated. Instinctively, he turned to his most trusted confidante.

Danielle replied coldly, "We ended our agreement. Please stop bothering me, Mr. Sutton."

"Dani, I was wrong. I was deceived. Everything was a sham. Please come back. Let's start over with a new contract. You decide the benefits; I'll do whatever you ask."

Danielle retorted, "Have you forgotten how you treated me? Do you think I'm foolish enough to help my enemy?"

Maverick stammered, "I didn't mean to"

Danielle analyzed mercilessly, "Your guilt pales in comparison to your self-interest. I need to protect my interests too! You're washed up. What makes you think I'd take back trash like you?"

"No, I'm valuable! I'm a future movie star! It's all because of that b*tch, Mirabelle!" Maverick sobbed.

Danielle scoffed, "Oh? Didn't you say you two would be together forever? Didn't you claim it wouldn't affect your future? Then you cheated on her with Hendrick?"

Isabella, suppressing laughter until now, burst out laughing. Others struggled to contain their amusement.

Maverick, speechless, finally managed, "Danielle, we've been together for years. We vowed to succeed together. I treated you well. Have you forgotten?"

Danielle remained cold. "You broke our vows first. It's disgusting you're pestering me."

Maverick, previously arrogant, could no longer suppress his anger. He raged, "Do you think you'll be better off without me? You're a woman with no background. I'll ruin your reputation. Let's see who'll take a risk on you then!"

Danielle calmly replied, "I recorded our conversation."

Maverick fell silent. The others noticed the recording. Danielle was shrewd.

Christopher, smiling, addressed Alexander, who had observed quietly. Alexander nodded slightly.

Christopher said, "Mr. Sutton needn't worry about Ms. Blackwell's career. We're discussing a contract."

"Chris Christopher? You You want her?" Maverick exclaimed incredulously.

Christopher smiled, "By signing with Quirk Group, we'll be your strongest support. We'll provide comprehensive resources, and you'll have full freedom to utilize them."

Danielle glanced at Alexander, aware of their identities and relationship. Being Isabella's manager meant Quirk Group's backing.

Hayden added, "Our agency has few artists. You can decide who to sign. You'll be the main manager, in charge of artist development. I trust your judgment."

Danielle's eyes lit up, revealing her ambition.

"We'll handle your part of the betting agreement. What do you say?"

Danielle immediately replied, "It would be my honor. I'll sign."

Maverick's voice wailed from the phone, "Impossible Danielle, don't leave me"

Danielle, impatient, threatened, "Harass me again, and I'll release the recording," before hanging up.

Excited but cautious, Danielle reviewed the contract. Before she could fully examine it, Hayden admitted, "There's an additional agreement concerning Ms. Jeannet."

The agreement stated Isabella had input on her own work. Danielle regretted this; she had high expectations for Isabella's potential. However, no one anticipated Isabella was the CEO's wife, explaining her demands. Danielle signed the contract, oblivious to Hayden and Christopher's knowing smiles.

Working late, Danielle gradually realized the situation. She was head of the agency, but the only artist was Isabella, who had preferential treatment and could slack off whenever she chose. The only advantage was Quirk Group's backing, dependent on Isabella and Alexander's continued amicable relationship. Hayden and Christopher walked on eggshells around her.

Danielle decided to recruit more artists. Hayden expressed his willingness to cooperate.

"Do you have anyone in mind?"

Danielle asked, "There are still episodes of 'My Acting Skill,' aren't there?"

Hayden frowned, "The remaining ones have issues."

Danielle chuckled, "Controversy breeds attention. I'm not afraid of issues, only a lack of skill. I need to assess them thoroughly."

Hayden glanced at Christopher, who shrugged, "Your call."

Hayden suggested, "Announce your joining on Twitter."

Danielle laughed, "Why? Any news from Maverick?" They had planned to use the trio's popularity to announce her appointment.

Hayden showed her the trending topics: the saga of Mirabelle and her two gay ex-boyfriends, Hendrick and Maverick, whose plan to conceal their relationship backfired spectacularly.