Chapter 159: Stop Pestering

A pointed comment cut through the noise, throwing Javier off balance and giving Scarlett a precious moment to distance herself. The crowd, initially surprised by the audacity of the interruption during a marriage proposal, recognized the speaker and fell silent. In the live stream, recognition dawned instantly. The speaker, Justice Upholder, known for her incisive commentary, felt like a metaphorical slap in the face to viewers. No camera pan was needed; everyone knew who it was.

Clarity returned to the minds clouded by the earlier commotion. Even Isabella couldn't contain herself.

"She already said no! Do you think she's playing hard to get?"

"How is it that your production team manages to make everything, both on and off the stage, so thrilling?"

"I initially wanted to witness a marriage proposal, but instead, I witnessed a forced engagement. It was odd from the start. They weren't even back together, and then suddenly there's a proposal? Does that make any sense?"

"Could you folks who enjoy planning surprise proposals please ensure your own position beforehand? Do you really think that when someone shows no intention of wanting to marry you, all it takes is a plea and a little mood-setting for them to agree in a daze? What's the difference between that and holding a knife to someone's throat, forcing them to declare their love? Do you really think you can rush someone into marriage? Please, get your head straight."

"I stand with Scarlett. There must have been a compelling reason for the breakup initially, and it's unlikely that time could have changed that."

Isabella's interjection catalyzed a wave of rational responses, culminating in a flood of "She said no!" comments in the live room. The shift was spectacular and unconventional.

Sienna, visibly agitated, questioned, "What are you doing? How could you ruin someone else's happy occasion? My daughter is just… she's just too embarrassed to say it."

Bartholomeo's face tightened with displeasure, clearly uncomfortable with the harsh interruption.

Javier, scowling at the unexpected challenge and unaware of his godmother's fraught history with the Quirk family, defensively stated, "I'm not sure where Swanson's wishes…" before turning to Scarlett. "Ms. Swanson, should I call the police for you?"

This blunt interjection caught everyone off guard, further shifting the atmosphere.

Regaining her composure, Scarlett expressed her gratitude. "Ms. Jeannet, Mr. Quirk, thank you both for speaking up for me." She then addressed Javier firmly. "Even if I were to refuse, after our breakup, there's no way I could be involved with you anymore. Your current actions are causing me stress. Please stop. I hope I've made myself clear." Turning to her family, she asserted, "You don't have the right to dictate my life. If I say I won't marry, are you really going to force me?"

An uncomfortable silence fell over the room. Javier's face showed a dawning realization of Scarlett's resolve, but his desire to relent was complicated by his mounting debt. He opened his mouth to retort, but Freya intervened, grabbing his arm. "Enough, any further pestering would be uncouth."

Javier froze, his intentions clear yet stifled by his mother's authority. Freya, meeting Scarlett's gaze, softened her expression and admitted, "Truthfully, I also feel that my son isn't worthy of you. If you want to reject him, just do it. There's no need to worry about it."

Relieved, Scarlett nodded. Freya then addressed Javier directly. "Clean this place up and leave with your friends. You've already delayed the staff for too long."

Resentment flickered across Javier's face, but he complied, understanding that any further scene would only deepen his embarrassment—especially given the live broadcast.

To ease the tension, Freya took Scarlett's hand and led her away from the stage, toward the director and producer.

"It seems that Madam Pearson's affection for Scarlett surpasses even that for her own son," Isabella remarked with a light laugh.

Rosalie added, "If Scarlett is willing, I believe Madam Pearson would really want her as a daughter-in-law. I noticed how serious she was when she was mentoring Scarlett before."

Christopher signaled the end of the spectacle. "All right, the show's over. Let's go." He realized Danielle hadn't yet risen and called out to her.

Danielle, phone in hand, informed Isabella with a hint of reproach, "You're trending again."

Isabella paused, then chuckled awkwardly. "Did I do something wrong?"

Danielle pocketed her phone. "Of course, it's right to do good things, but you really do dare to take risks." Danielle was hinting at the potential repercussions of Isabella's actions, suggesting a calculated strategy that might leave her in an awkward spot if Scarlett eventually acquiesced.

At times, Danielle found herself surprised by Isabella's impulsive actions. Taylor and Riley shared similar concerns, wary of potential conflicts during filming. However, they were relieved that the drama, though intense, was relatively minor compared to past issues. Their primary concern was whether Freya and Scarlett could continue to work together effectively.

Soon after, everyone gathered to decide on the theme for the next scene. The choice was made quickly by drawing lots, leading Isabella to question, "Isn't the theme 'home' a bit too pointed, given today's drama? The internet's going to have a field day with this. It seems our director and producer are under considerable stress, evidently not anticipating this twist. It's almost comical, watching them sweat over it."

Christopher and Rosalie suppressed their amusement. Freya remained focused and composed. Scarlett looked distinctly uneasy.

As the behind-the-scenes discussions wrapped up, the group prepared to part ways. Javier and his entourage had left, but Javier lingered in the hallway with Sienna and Bartholomeo. Isabella discreetly maneuvered her group to avoid interaction, giving Scarlett and Freya space.

Onlookers sensed another spectacle was unfolding. Unexpectedly, Freya and Scarlett also parted ways. Freya continued forward, while Scarlett stopped to engage with Isabella's group.

Grateful, Scarlett repeatedly expressed her thanks. "Be sure to reject it completely," Isabella advised with a supportive smile.

Scarlett laughed. "I will."

Danielle extended her business card. "If you're looking to take on more diverse roles or no longer want to be exploited, you might need a professional manager. Feel free to join our agency. Our current mission is to pave the way for female actresses," she offered, her tone light yet earnest.

Christopher was caught off guard by Danielle's slogan. Isabella chuckled. "Isn't Danielle's slogan way too awkward?"