Gwenda signaled Hattie to get Cecilia a glass of water while comforting her. "Don't panic," she said. "This is fresh; I'll find a way to deal with it."

"I believe in you," Cecilia replied.

Cecilia had witnessed Gwenda's ability to resolve difficult situations over the past few months, so she trusted her boss would find a solution.

Moments later, Hattie returned with water for Cecilia and rose tea for Gwenda.

"The biggest issue is determining if the person who threw the paint is a fan," Gwenda said. "If so, a formal apology is necessary. Otherwise, we need to identify them and issue a statement."

Her analysis was clear and concise.

"I'd bet he's not a fan—more likely a hater," Cecilia said.

"It doesn't matter," Gwenda responded. "We need to investigate."

Gwenda then instructed Hattie, "Contact the fan club president and tell her to begin investigating immediately."

"Got it," Hattie replied, leaving to comply.

Gwenda rose. "Cecilia, you may need to go to the hospital with me." They needed to learn more and visit Lina.

"No problem," Cecilia said.

"Let's go."

They left the studio, discussing plans along the way. After Gwenda parked at the hospital, she saw a large group of paparazzi.

"We need to let them know we're here," she said. "You must be prepared for questions."

This was Gwenda's first experience with such a situation, but she remained exceptionally calm. With Gwenda's support, Cecilia felt confident.

"Should I answer questions?" Cecilia asked.

"No," Gwenda replied. "Just attract their attention, then get inside!"

"Okay."

They finished their discussion. Gwenda put on sunglasses and a cap before exiting the car with Cecilia.

The paparazzi were attempting to enter the hospital but were being held back by security guards; the situation was chaotic. Gwenda shielded Cecilia as they approached, calling out, "Could you please make way?"

The paparazzi turned, surprised. Upon seeing Cecilia, they surged forward.

"It's Cecilia! Cecilia is here!"

They surrounded her immediately. Gwenda continued to protect Cecilia from the aggressive reporters.

"Cecilia, are you here to visit Lina?"

"Cecilia, any comments about today's events?"

"Did your fans hurt Lina for you?"

"Answer the question!"

A barrage of questions assaulted Cecilia. She remained silent, pressing her lips together and moving toward the entrance under Gwenda's protection. The paparazzi chased after them, provoking Cecilia.

"Cecilia, does your silence mean your fans admitted to hurting Lina?"

Cecilia froze, clenching her fists.

"Don't answer," Gwenda said immediately. "Keep going!"

She led Cecilia into the hospital, preventing the paparazzi from following. Once the noise subsided, Gwenda stopped and looked back.

"Were you going to answer them?" Gwenda asked, her eyes dark.

Cecilia frowned. "I was angry at their lies."

"Cecilia Kelly, are you debuting today? The more you defend yourself, the worse it gets! Did you ignore everything I said?" Gwenda's voice was cold.

Cecilia lowered her gaze. Gwenda sighed. "Never mind, they were out of line. The fault isn't entirely yours. But don't speak without my signal in the ward."

Cecilia nodded. "Okay, I understand."

"Let's go," Gwenda said, and they proceeded to Lina's ward.