Chapter 168: No Other Way
Isabella discovered that Linda's lawyer had orchestrated everything, advising Javier to downplay the severity of the situation as a simple romantic dispute. Normally, cases involving former romantic partners are handled similarly to domestic violence cases, prioritizing education. However, the severity stemmed from Scarlett's suicide attempt.
Javier claimed ignorance of Scarlett's vulnerability and subsequent despair, insisting he wasn't responsible. He argued that her family had swindled her, leaving her desperate.
Crucially, Scarlett hadn't transferred any money after the blackmail. No evidence of Javier's gambling debts surfaced; only the photos and threatening messages he sent, the photos being merely more provocative than usual. As long as Javier maintained this was a ploy to win back his girlfriend, it was difficult to consider the situation serious.
Javier was released. With Linda's help, he was…
The police had already secured and deleted all private photos and videos from Javier's phone, eliminating incriminating evidence. However, Scarlett still needed legal counsel to pursue a lawsuit. The case continued, but the focus shifted to fighting for her rights.
Roland, while not divulging details, hadn't abandoned his investigation into Javier's alleged gambling debts. The lack of traceable debts suggested an underground casino; proving this would be a significant achievement. Publicly, however, Roland advised informing Scarlett and addressing the case promptly after the performance.
Isabella and Christopher grimaced at Rosalie's summary. Linda, they agreed, was foolish. She'd even argued with Mrs. Pearson, believing Javier was misled by Scarlett and that Scarlett shouldn't have involved the police. Linda blamed Scarlett for frightening her "precious godson" and refused to believe Javier had a gambling addiction. Recalling Linda's previous visit, Christopher and Rosalie shook their heads. Javier's behavior was unsurprising given his godmother's biased support. He'd always known someone would defend him regardless of his mistakes.
[The following text appears to be a partially illegible note and has been omitted.]
The question of Javier's secrecy and debt repayment remained. Christopher and Rosalie were puzzled. Isabella realized Javier's non-arrest might be detrimental; the unseen forces behind his actions were unpredictable.
Meanwhile, Freya hung up on Linda, who blamed Freya for trusting a stranger over her son, for not helping him, and even for aiding the "culprit." Linda threatened to confront Scarlett.
Disappointed, Freya relayed the situation to Scarlett, assuring her protection and urging her to pursue the case to its conclusion. Freya wouldn't let Javier believe he could escape consequences so easily. Scarlett, dazed, could barely meet Freya's gaze.
Freya suggested publicizing the details to prevent future harm, offering her support. Scarlett remained silent, aware that her silence, as the victim, wasn't advantageous. While she'd considered retaliation, she hesitated, partly due to sympathy for Freya, who'd always been protective.
Freya, anticipating Scarlett's hesitation, urged proactive confrontation, explaining Linda's potential attacks. Having extensive experience in the entertainment industry, Freya intended to take control, re-educating Javier through a harsh reckoning, believing that destruction was necessary for rebirth.
Scarlett, emboldened by Freya's resolve, decided to sign with Danielle, seeking further arrangements. This decision marked her final effort to help Javier.
Freya smiled, but weariness shone through. She then adopted a stern maternal tone, giving Javier a final warning: she'd help pay his debts, but he must take responsibility and not run. Recognizing and rectifying his mistakes was paramount.
Scarlett mused that if they were mother and daughter, their story could have a beautiful ending, demonstrating the strength of a single mother. However, their circumstances were unfortunate.
Javier, in Linda's car, received an anonymous message that stunned him. Linda’s voice then filled his ears, urging him to sever ties with Freya and rely solely on her. Javier asked Linda to stop at a gas station, then texted Freya, denying the gambling debts and claiming his threats were only to win back Scarlett.