Chapter 48: I Don’t Want To See You Again
Since entering the entertainment industry, North's beauty and acting talent had made her a highly sought-after star, naturally attracting a large following. However, the current situation had propelled her livestream views into the millions.
During the livestream, North revealed her face. Her brown, curly hair cascaded lazily over her shoulder, framing a palm-sized face partially obscured by white sunglasses. Her entire appearance exuded a soft, charming aura. Olive also appeared, still masked, yet seemingly more stunning than ever.
Olive and North were undeniably beautiful women. However, a connection quickly emerged: Olive's presence in New York seemed impossible, given the photographic evidence. A conspiracy theory quickly gained traction; someone had deliberately arranged for a look-alike to impersonate Olive. Olive, who had endured a harsh upbringing, having been abandoned in an orphanage at age nine, now faced the additional blow of her father's disownment.
Gabriella was stunned by the rapidly shifting comments. Monica, witnessing this change, experienced a sudden shift in her own expression. The nude photo was fake; it wasn't Olive!
What was happening? Where was the money she'd paid? How had Olive escaped?
Monica felt as though she were suffocating, unable to face reality. "Everyone," she announced, "today's press conference is canceled. We have no information about Olive. We need time to verify our report." She grabbed Patrick's hand and left.
Patrick, confused, cared little about whether or not it was Olive in the photo. His primary concern was his reputation. But if it wasn't Olive, he had unjustly disowned her.
He left with Monica, then turned and asked, "Who exactly posted that nude photo online?"
Monica's heart pounded. She knew that if Patrick discovered her involvement, the consequences would be catastrophic. However, she believed she could avoid detection. Then, her mind drifted to North, remembering their past friendship and North's powerful connections in the entertainment industry. She wondered if North was behind the video of her with President Ronald that had gone viral.
Forcing a smile, Monica told Patrick, "I really don't know. I'll send someone to investigate."
Gabriella rushed to her, saying, "Mom, what's wrong? Olive wasn't delivered to those men…"
Monica glared, scolding, "Shut up! Can't you see this isn't the time?" Gabriella fell silent, glancing at her father.
A nearby reporter gasped, causing Monica to freeze, her face paling. All the reporters were rushing toward them. Monica's former manager's ID had been leaked, and online searches were now focused on "Monica." It was unsurprising, given her position as stepmother.
The reporters thrust their microphones forward.
"Mrs. Hart, why did you frame Olive?" "Olive grew up in an orphanage and married into the Red Villa. She poses no threat; why are you so vicious?" "President Hart, did you know Olive framed your daughter?" "President Hart, do you feel deceived by someone so vicious?" "Mr. Hart, why are your feelings for Olive so shallow?"
Patrick stared at Monica, shocked by her apparent treachery. Overwhelmed by the reporters' questions, he felt humiliated. His reputation was ruined.
"Monica, what do you have to say about this?" he asked grimly.
Monica's mind went blank. She was certain Olive had orchestrated this entire trap.
Monica stared at Patrick in terror. With the truth exposed, there was no need for lies. "Patrick," she said, "I'll explain at home. Let's leave first."
Patrick furiously slapped her. "Ha!" Monica screamed, clutching her face. The blow had caused her nose to bleed.
"Monica, I don't want to ever see you again!" He left.
The relentless reporters pressed on, their microphones extended. "Monica, will President Hart divorce you?" one asked. "You're a snake! I'm afraid that slap wasn't enough!" another shouted.
Panicked, Monica cried, "Stop filming! Security!"