Chapter 1086: Ruin Her Reputation
The event concluded, and news of Caroline's involvement in a scandal erupted online, quickly becoming headline news. Public outrage erupted on Caroline's behalf; how could they inform her of the award's change on the ceremony day, especially given the released audio recordings seemingly proving her victimhood?
Caroline's fans demanded the committee provide a reasonable explanation. News spread rapidly. Caroline left the venue, her appearance intentionally haggard, her red, swollen eyes betraying recent tears.
Facing domestic and foreign reporters, she voiced her grievances: "Before the event, I understood I was to receive this award. I don't know why it changed at the last minute. I'm not claiming superiority, but such sudden changes make accepting the result without explanation uneasy."
One reporter praised her: "Miss Caroline, I admire your resilience and consideration for others, despite the bullying you've faced."
Caroline responded, "Such an authoritative award shouldn't be subject to such mistakes. There must be an explanation. If there are verifiable facts, I'll accept the committee's decision and strive harder."
"You're magnanimous," a reporter commented. "Your generosity matches your popularity. This experience will likely gain you more fans."
The praise continued until a reporter interjected: "Miss Caroline, do you know why you didn't receive the award?"
"If I knew," Caroline replied firmly, "there wouldn't be so many questions."
"I understand these awards emphasize artists' conduct. Even award winners can lose eligibility for moral failings. For example, international superstar Ayers lost his award due to a scandal revealed a day after the ceremony."
Caroline admitted, "I've heard that," but questioned, "How does this relate to any misconduct on my part?"
Another reporter pressed, "Don't you feel guilty?"
"Guilty of what?" Caroline asked coldly. "I've been in this industry for years without wrongdoing. Are you deliberately slandering me?"
Caroline's agent intervened: "Who are you, and from which outlet? Defaming Caroline will result in a lawsuit."
The journalist retorted, "Is it defamation? You and Caroline should know."
The agent, enraged, shouted, "Security!"
Caroline, mindful of her image, remained controlled, letting her agent play the antagonist. Fiercely, she declared, "This journalist is causing trouble. Remove him."
The journalist countered, "Even if I'm removed, the truth remains. Check the latest news; it's more explosive than the award controversy."
Other journalists checked their phones, shocked by the headline: "Exposing Caroline's Hypocrisy: Award Loss Not Due to Conspiracy."
The article featured a video of Caroline instructing "Little Bunny" to hit her during filming, Little Bunny confirming twice before complying. Their clothing confirmed the set location. The article also debunked Caroline's claims of providing Little Bunny with resources.
Insiders confirmed Caroline's lack of involvement. Little Bunny's success was attributed to her talent, not Caroline's influence. Witnesses directly contradicted Caroline's earlier statements. A video emerged of Caroline admitting to providing the resources. Further, indecent photos of Caroline surfaced.
Caroline, who rose through industry's unspoken rules, saw her career implode. The international award committee issued a statement acknowledging Caroline's initial selection but citing the scandal as the reason for the change. They stated that award confidentiality is legally protected and that they would investigate the leak.
Caroline faced severe reputational damage and potential legal repercussions. Even seasoned reporters were stunned by the sudden downfall. Caroline, disbelieving her predicament and betrayal by Little Bunny, was consumed by anxiety and fear.
Reporters bombarded her with questions: "Miss Caroline, is the domestic news accurate? You claimed friendship and provided Little Bunny with resources; it's now revealed she achieved success independently. Do you have a response? Were you using her for self-promotion?" Accusations and condemnations flew.
Caroline's pale, distressed face was magnified under the harsh lights. The chaos only ended with the arrival of international police, taking Caroline and her associates into custody.