Chapter 171: No Reason to Feel Guilty

Team A-list's stage play was incredibly touching, marking Isabella's first fully committed role. Her acting, while still unpolished, felt natural. Christopher and Rebecca's immersive performances guaranteed exceptional quality.

However, netizens felt something was missing. Comments included:

• "I'm addicted to gossip! Team A-list needs more drama!"
• "A stage play without a slap lacks soul!"
• "I expected a reaction after the previous group's performance."
• "Remember Team Young Again's insinuations in Season 1, refuted by Team A-list? This time, the lack of rebuttal confirms Scarlett's portrayal—a form of recognition."
• "Hard to say"
• "Is Justice Upholder skipping town this season?"
• "The industry's already taken a hit. Can't Isabella always be the one stirring things up?"
• "She's dug up everything! Isabella can't constantly offend people."
• "So, she's seriously acting now? Makes sense; she always wanted to be an actress. Acting skills are key."
• "Isabella's acting has improved over several seasons."
• "Judging solely on acting, it's a tie."
• "No gossip, no problem. This play is excellent and patriotic."
• "Team A-list shows social responsibility. They used their peak influence to guide the younger generation."
• "Their plays are always educational."
• "I want to be a soldier now!"
• "Am I the only one charmed by Sven? He's definitely a military dog, right?"
• "He seems injured. Maybe a retired military dog, but it's hard to say."

Alexander confirmed, "Yes, it's a retired detection dog."

David exclaimed, "A hero!"

"He made significant contributions," Alexander added. Selena remarked, "He worked so well with Chris and Bella!"

Alexander pointed to the photography area. "His trainer is there, ready to give commands."

Their family discussion was interrupted by Linda's arrival. Their previous falling out was forgotten. Knowing Christopher called the police (a sore point for the fiercely protective Linda), she approached. The Quirks weren't surprised to see Linda and Javier together.

Linda confronted them: "You got someone arrested and feel fine? You have no regard for the Pearson family!"

Selena, noticing Linda's pearl necklace and Javier's masked, gloomy expression, stepped back.

Linda continued, her eyes reddening, "Feeling guilty now? He's my godson, and your son did this!"

Selena retorted, "Clueless about your godson's actions? Why are you here? Looking for trouble?"

Linda snarled, "To settle the score!"

Alexander sternly interrupted, "Please do not interrupt the performance."

Linda, still intimidated by Alexander, complied. The audience's dissatisfaction grew. Javier, feeling anxious, pulled down his cap and steered Linda to empty VIP seats. He stiffened, his face darkening.

They had gained access through connections and, following their lawyer's advice, planned to reveal the truth during the post-performance interview. They'd tried contacting Freya beforehand, but she ignored them and was backstage with Scarlett.

Linda avoided Scarlett, preferring to ambush her later. Seeing the Quirks, however, she confronted them. Once calmed, she ceased her provocations.

The Quirks, initially fearing retaliation, were relieved by Linda's quiet demeanor. Evian immediately messaged Rosalie backstage. Danielle, discussing contracts with Scarlett, received Rosalie's message, frowning, "What are they up to?"

Freya scoffed, "Linda's planning a stunt while we're on stage. She was wild when she pursued her husband—not your typical heiress."

Freya grimly added, "She's targeting Scarlett, and Javier's trying to clear his name. It'll be a fierce battle."

Scarlett looked pale, filled with regret.

Danielle reassured Scarlett, "Don't worry. You'll be with Isabella and Christopher. No one takes advantage when they're present. Just give them a heads-up." While uncertain about Linda's actions, Danielle trusted Isabella's composure and ability to steer public opinion if necessary. The truth, after all, needed no guilt.

Unable to reach a consensus, they decided to handle things as they arose and waited backstage for the play's conclusion.