"Stella, I'm about to board the plane now. I should arrive around ten tomorrow morning. I've checked in some luggage, and you'll see the rest when I get back," Trevor's voice fought against the wind, clearly audible through the phone."Alright, have a safe flight. I'll be there to pick you up tomorrow," Stella responded warmly.Trevor hesitated for a moment before calling her name, "Stella...""What is it, Trevor?" Stella sensed there was something he wanted to share. However, after a brief pause, he decided, "Let's talk about it when I'm there. It's not the best moment for it over the phone.""Okay."Stella ended the call and tightened her grip on the steering wheel. She anticipated that Trevor might have uncovered some details from the past, but the extent remained unknown."Oh my God!" Felicity suddenly exclaimed.Stella was startled. "What?!"Felicity hit her forehead and said, "I forgot to block my mom! She just liked my latest tweet.""What did you post that's so scandal
Not long after, Stella finally arrived at the Motives for Murder roadshow. Felicity and Stella sat in the corner of the audience, watching as the host invited the creative team onto the stage one by one.Nicole, the other main actors, and the director came on stage first. After a brief introduction, Leighton made his entrance.Perhaps due to some prior engagement, he arrived looking slightly disheveled, but his popularity was undeniable. The moment he stepped on stage, a wave of excitement swept through the audience, mostly comprised of his fans.Stella and Felicity found themselves amidst the cheers, nearly deafened by the fans' screams.Leighton was dressed in a black suit with a white undershirt. He had broad shoulders and long legs. Standing there, he looked unbelievably handsome.During promotional roadshows, interviews usually revolved around movie-related topics, followed by some fan interactive segments.Leighton's top-tier status as an idol wasn't just about his looks; i
Leighton's eyelid twitched as he ignored Nicole's absurd accusations. The reporter attempted to extract more information from him. However, Leighton remained tight-lipped, only responding to questions related to the movie. The journalist had no choice but to steer the conversation back to the film.After a while, the interview concluded. Leighton walked over to Stella, saying, "Hey, let me head to the restroom, and we can grab a meal together later."Felicity seized the opportunity to get an autograph and gave him a thumbs-up. "You did great, Leighton!"Leighton chuckled and headed to the restroom. Stella and Felicity sat in the lounge, waiting for him.Shortly after, Nicole entered, handing them each an orange. She winked and said, "We're at a movie press conference, yet the lead actor is sitting in the audience?"Stella chuckled and joked, "That's because I don't want to be overshadowed by your radiance on stage."Nicole laughed, "Well, aren't you sweet? Why did you quit The En
"If you're looking for trouble, do it elsewhere. Don't take up the corridor," Leighton declared, releasing his grip.Following that, the woman found herself sitting on the ground. Looking up, she found Leighton's formidable presence and stern countenance daunting, but her words became even more malicious."Are you also this woman's lapdog?" she sneered. "Do you genuinely believe she appreciates you just because you've been intimate with her? Let me assure you, she's fixated on her brother."She avoids kissing men and despises their touch. She just finds you somewhat attractive and is fooling around with you. When she gets tired of you, you will be no different than her exes—""He's my boyfriend," Nicole interrupted coldly.Her words left everyone shocked. Even the woman was taken aback. She forced a laugh and said, "Do you think I'd believe that?"Nicole remained silent. Suddenly, she put her arm around Leighton's neck and kissed him.Leighton stiffened, attempting to push her a
The people present shifted their attention to Nicole. She reached for the band-aid, her gaze lowered. "We can be in a fake relationship. You help me navigate this crisis, and I'll pave the way for you in the industry. Six months down the line, we can release a statement citing irreconcilable differences and part ways amicably. What do you think?"Leighton's expression darkened momentarily. "What makes you think I need your help to get into the industry?"Nicole responded calmly, "Despite your soaring popularity, you've only recently entered the entertainment scene. Those scripts won't fall into your lap without the right connections. Unless, of course, you're willing to seek assistance from your father or cousin."Nicole knew exactly how to rile up Leighton. His family disapproved of his chosen career, and he was adamant about making a name for himself without their support.Leighton gritted his teeth and retorted, "I am where I am today through my own efforts!"Nicole raised her
Nicole pressed on, "Soon, the internet will catch wind of our relationship during the roadshow. If you disagree, how do you plan on setting the record straight? You didn't exactly push me away during that incident."Estelle's expression darkened. "Are you trying to threaten us? Leighton didn't resist your advances because he wanted to help you."Nicole nodded. "And I appreciate that. I believe there's no better solution than I've suggested for our current predicament."She then turned her gaze toward Leighton and said, "If your aim is merely to sustain your current level of popularity, I can release a statement saying that today's incident was a publicity stunt and that I was the one who put you up to it. You can continue being the idol adored by fans."A moment of tension lingered. Estelle sensed the potential trouble. Nicole seemed to have a knack for subtly manipulating situations.Leighton valued his fans but genuinely disliked the burden of being labeled a top star. The conce
Estelle's face turned an unsettling shade of white, "Have you lost your mind? Aren't you worried the fans will tear you apart if you say you're in a relationship?"Leighton maintained a composed demeanor and responded, "Whether I agree or not, this matter will blow up. Even if she clarifies the matter, people will still think it's a joint PR stunt."Estelle grew increasingly anxious and protested, "If we don't respond, the hype will die down. Besides, we're the victims of this incident. Why would you jeopardize your future for her?"Estelle had a positive impression of Nicole, particularly in a professional context. However, there was a limit to her admiration. She could not let Nicole manipulate Leighton like this.Nicole did not rely on popularity for her livelihood. She had built a solid track record over the years and would receive job offers no matter what. Whether or not her romantic life was revealed, it had almost no bearing on her professional trajectory.On the other han
Estelle was the only one unhappy about Leighton's decision.The incident at the promotional event quickly unfolded online, sparking a fierce battle between the fans of both actors. Urgent meetings occurred as the two companies contacted their managers to strategize.Nicole's company found the situation entertaining, relishing in the chaos, while Leighton's side was thrown into turmoil. Estelle faced a barrage of scolding from the management, their harsh words audible to everyone in the car.Wearing a forced smile, Estelle played the role of a dutiful subordinate. Even if she did not support Leighton's decision, she had no choice but to face the company, given that he had agreed.However, the management was focused on their interests and berated Estelle mercilessly.They demanded a quick resolution to the unexpected relationship revelation, as several brand partners had already called to confirm the news. The public opinion would determine whether they would renew their contract wi