Chapter 142: Kisses From Beauties

Part 1:

The actresses' announcement elicited sighs of regret from the live audience and a flurry of comments expressing disappointment. Similar responses from the other actresses spurred cries of despair in the live chat. The loss of these talented actresses left netizens yearning for their return to the screen, fueling their anger towards the perpetrators.

Even the emcee lamented, "Are you sure you won't reconsider? Your future in the entertainment industry would be much smoother after this performance." It was clear to everyone that joining Team A-list would provide them significant protection. Even negative press would likely be dismissed by the public.

Danielle had approached them, wanting to sign them, recognizing their potential. However, they all declined, seemingly content with their current situation.

One actress laughed, stating, "No. My purpose here wasn't a comeback."

Noticing a spark in their eyes, the emcee asked, "Besides clearing your names, is there another reason?"

Intrigued, the audience focused on the actresses. They smiled, then one explained: "We're using our painful experiences to protect future actresses. We want to shield them from the vile creatures who prey on them." She then playfully quoted the wives' blacklist statement about Rebecca: "Those who earn their roles through genuine talent deserve respect, while those who use underhanded tactics should leave the industry. You're not welcome"

Silence fell, followed by thunderous applause that lasted for a considerable time. The live comments shifted from pleas and lamentations to echoing their words. Despite their limitations, they chose to fight for better conditions for actresses, asserting that they were not playthings or possessions of men. While some actresses chose a different path, many were victims forced into compromising situations.

It was exceedingly unfair, but a glimmer of hope remained.

Part 2:

The spotlight shone on Rebecca, the final supporting actress. The other actresses smiled, welcoming her to the stage they had prepared. Rebecca, recognizing their shared past, returned their smiles before joining Isabella and Christopher onstage. The applause was deafening, with live comments urging Isabella's fans to help reshape the industry.

During Rebecca's interview, Christopher and Isabella invited her to join them, culminating the evening's high point. Though Danielle had hinted at this, Rebecca was overcome with emotion; tears welled in her eyes, and she embraced Isabella.

The actresses then showered Isabella with kisses, leaving her giddy and momentarily forgetting her limp. Overwhelmed, she exclaimed, “I was so close to the beauties! Their kisses were indeed sweet! My luck would surely make countless men green with envy. Haha”

"Thalia, please take a picture!" Isabella grinned.

While the atmosphere was joyous, the Quirks subtly watched Alexander, whose expression had been strained. He glared at the lipstick on Isabella's face and, before Thalia could react, swept her into his arms.

Startled, Isabella protested, "What are you doing?"

"The show's over; we're going home. Your foot is hurt, so I'll carry you."

Isabella mumbled, "Actually, I think the pain's gone I can walk"

Ignoring her, Alexander carried her through the emergency exit. His long strides made it seem less conspicuous, and Isabella realized her concern was unfounded. As they embraced, Alexander's irritation subsided. Isabella's silence made him question if he was too domineering. However, her hand soon began wandering across his body, claiming the contact was from his walking.

By the time they reached the car, Alexander was flushed. Isabella's inner monologue revealed her delight: I got kisses from beauties and was carried by a handsome man! What a top-notch experience!

After settling Isabella in the car, Alexander realized, "Huh? Where are the others?"

He checked his phone; a group chat without Isabella showed the others' reactions:

David: He left just like that? Selena: Is this what they meant by a son forgetting his mother after getting a girlfriend? (Excited sticker) Evian: All Alex sees is Bella now. (Smile sticker) Christopher: (Driving away sticker) Rosalie: (Multiple photos of Alexander carrying Isabella).

Embarrassed, Alexander saved the photos and drove away, explaining, "They're waiting for Chris. We'll leave first."

Upon arriving home, Alexander continued the charade, carrying Isabella to her room. Only then did she feel awkward, laughing it off with thanks. Alexander, wanting her to relax, left after giving instructions. Before leaving, he said, "You did a great job tonight."

Isabella smiled, unsure of his meaning, but pleased. He left, leaving the competition with no declared winner, as one party had essentially forfeited.

Part 3:

Despite the event's end, online buzz continued. New scandals emerged, all similarly themed, leading to various reactions: profile picture changes, criticisms, apologies, and reputational damage. The entertainment industry underwent a cleansing, with those unmentioned trembling in fear. Some tried to capitalize on the situation, but were quickly exposed. Justice, as dispensed by the entertainment judge, focused on truth, regardless of gender.

At the Gonzales residence, Ruth voiced her confidence in a plan, causing Gordon to express apprehension.

"Dear, are you truly confident about this? If this doesn't go well, my reputation will be completely ruined."

Ruth responded darkly, "Don't worry, Hubby. Leave everything to me!"

This cleaned-up version improves grammar, punctuation, and flow, creating a more polished and readable narrative. It also removes repetitive phrasing and clarifies ambiguous sentences. The use of bullet points for the group chat makes this section easier to follow.