Chapter 722

Meanwhile, at Martin Group, Joe concluded a meeting when Paul knocked and entered.

“Mr. Martin,” Paul began, “there’s been trouble involving Mrs. Martin’s brother, Charles. Would you like to know more?” Paul had overheard office gossip and felt compelled to inform Joe.

Joe, perpetually busy, rarely followed entertainment news. However, Skylar’s brother's involvement warranted his attention. Paul surmised Skylar was likely already aware and anxious to help Charles.

Joe simply replied, “Go ahead.”

Paul recounted the situation between Charles and Felicia. Unfamiliar with Charles, he couldn't vouch for the rumors' veracity. Besides the photographer, only Charles and Felicia knew the truth. Now, Felicia was escalating the situation, and Charles faced mounting accusations and online attacks. Public perception, distorted by conflicting news stories, had become muddied.

After listening, Joe checked his phone. No missed calls or messages from Skylar—a troubling sign. Her silence was concerning.

“Get someone to investigate this,” Joe instructed after a pause.

Paul started to leave, but Joe stopped him. “Wait, have someone prepare a PR strategy first.” The truth, he felt, was secondary. Joe, having met Charles, doubted his involvement in underhanded tactics. Someone building a career on genuine skill wouldn't resort to shortcuts.

Paul was astonished. Joe’s protectiveness of Skylar’s family, his readiness to defend them without verifying the facts, revealed a deepening regard for Skylar. Paul admired Joe's selfless action but believed he could benefit from less anonymity. Fortunately, he had Paul, his resourceful assistant, to navigate such crises.

Paul sought Sarah to initiate the PR efforts, aware it would be a lengthy process. He then called Skylar, but the call went unanswered; she was likely preoccupied. He left a WhatsApp message: “Mr. Martin has seen the news and asked me to consult with the PR team for a solution. Don't worry, Mr. Martin is genuinely committed to helping. Our PR team will do everything they can to salvage Charles' career.”

Meanwhile, Adele entered the room, closely monitoring the situation on her phone. Felicia smirked. “See? My position is solid. My fanbase is huge, and I'm the victim. Many are supporting me. Charles will beg me soon, and even Skylar might come crawling. I’ll show them I'm not to be trifled with.”

Adele replied, “Your fanbase has grown by a million in hours. We're getting numerous collaboration offers. This is entirely in your favor. You could even use this to expose Skylar's family to Joe, positioning yourself as the victim to gain his pity. It's a win-win. Charles is a fool!”

Felicia considered Charles' treatment of her. Aside from Joe's indifference, Charles was the only man who had ever treated her with such disdain.