Natalie, observing Zoey’s inability to outmaneuver Sophia, appeared visibly frustrated.
She gave Bianca a sharp glance but quickly masked her irritation, pretending to be kind. Natalie gently commented, “I’ve always believed Sophia wasn’t capable of such things. We shouldn’t always trust what we see online. We need to be more careful and discerning in the future. Miss Carter, take this as a lesson. Don’t rush to conclusions based on rumors.”
Natalie skillfully shifted the blame onto whoever leaked the photo. With the deceptive nature of the photo acknowledged, some attendees nodded in agreement, saying, “True, whoever forged that photo is disturbingly skilled. It’s hard to tell what’s real and what’s fake.”
Zoey glanced at them, showing a mix of gratitude and relief on her face, before admitting, “I take responsibility for my mistake. I’ll be more cautious in the future and avoid repeating this.”
Bianca had little interest in watching the performance put on by the two women. Glancing sideways, she noticed a phone discreetly aimed in their direction.
Someone had been secretly streaming the entire scene online.
Following the recent developments, public opinion online has shifted significantly.
“Bianca is not just beautiful; she’s incredibly perceptive, too. It’s amazing how she spotted those small details.”
“It seems Sophia was unfairly accused. Someone must have deliberately tried to tarnish her reputation.”
“I feel guilty for doubting Sophia… From now on, count me as her loyal fan.”
Meanwhile, in an online poll for the lead actress in Vincent’s upcoming film, Sophia’s popularity had surged, quickly surpassing Natalie’s.
Seeing this opportunity, Bianca decided to confront Zoey.
Amid the praises for Bianca’s sharp observation, she approached the phone camera.
She humbly said, “I was fortunate to notice a flaw in the photo. The truth is, Miss Carter’s skills surpass mine. She graduated from a lesser-known college, not a prestigious one. Her start at Phoenix Entertainment was ordinary, but she persisted. Over time, she seized numerous opportunities that drove her to the top as a director. I admire her greatly.”
Bianca’s sincerity filled the room with admiration, yet it also sparked puzzled looks and quiet whispers among the guests.
“Isn’t Phoenix Entertainment focused on prestigious education? How did they promote someone from a lesser-known school?”
“It’s true. Zoey’s rise from insignificance to head the Agent Department is remarkable,” another guest remarked.
“Maybe her rapid rise came from her hidden talent.”
“Her average start and sudden success make me wonder. There’s got to be something fishy about those ‘golden opportunities,'” speculated another guest.
Zoey felt embarrassed and shocked; her secret about her education was now out. How did Bianca find out?
Despite feeling uneasy, Zoey kept a calm smile. “Bianca, you’ve outdone me this time. New talent surpasses the old. I see a bright future ahead for you!”
Bianca responded with a calm smile, choosing to remain silent.
Amid the standoff, Vincent intervened, easing the tension. “The truth is out. Sophia’s innocence is confirmed. Let’s not dwell on this any longer. Let the party begin!”
With Sophia’s innocence established, Vincent finally relaxed. He wore a happy expression, looking healthy and strong.
Amid cheers from the guests, Vincent and Paige gave brief thank-you speeches, and the dinner commenced in a romantic, candlelit atmosphere.
Maintaining her composure, Zoey mingled with the business leaders. A waiter approached her in the middle of a conversation, nodding respectfully. “Are you Miss Zoey Carter?”
“Yes, that’s me,” Zoey replied.
“Mr. Lopez didn’t extend an invitation and, due to the recent events, requested that you leave,” the waiter informed Zoey with a serious tone.
The nearby tycoons looked at Zoey in surprise. Her face went pale as she tried to explain, “Please tell Mr. Lopez that I’m here with Miss King.”
“I apologize, but Mr. Lopez insists that only invested guests must stay. Both you and Miss Natalie King will need to leave.”
Upon hearing that Zoey and Natalie weren’t invited and had to leave, the tycoons left without saying a word.
With a quick look at Vincent, Zoey clenched her teeth and escorted Natalie out of the party.
Meanwhile, Michael approached Vincent and nodded. “Good evening, Mr. Lopez. I came without an invitation. I hope you’ll forgive my intrusion.”
Vincent smiled warmly. “Good evening, Mr. Hayes. I’m glad you’re here! If I had known you were in Edenfield, I would have sent you an invitation.”
After a brief conversation, Michael stepped aside and made a phone call.
In his office, Dave had just changed into a tailored suit and tie. His handsome features and tall stature reflected back in the mirror. With elegance, he secured a blue diamond collar clip onto his shirt.
Just as he was about to leave, his phone rang. He answered it, raising an eyebrow slightly.
“The problem is sorted out. No need to worry,” Michael assured, glancing around.
“Appreciate it,” Dave replied shortly.
Dave’s abrupt gratitude cut off Michael’s words, so he continued. “You don’t need to thank me. I have my own reasons for helping, incidentally. Even though you’re far away, you still care about Bianca, Dave…”
“I have something to take care of. Goodbye!” Still seething over Bianca, Dave ended the call abruptly before Michael could say more.
Michael shrugged, amused. Then, his expression froze. Finally, he saw the person he had been looking for.
With the rumors about Sophia proven false, she suddenly became the center of attention at the dinner party. People gathered around her, offering greetings, compliments, and apologies for their earlier misunderstandings.
It had been a while since so many people surrounded Sophia, and she felt overwhelmed. She glanced over at Bianca, who was busy loading up her plate with food, hoping for some help.
Bianca noticed Sophia’s discomfort and quickly stepped in, politely dispersing the crowd with a few words. She guided Sophia to a quieter spot and brought back a variety of delicious dishes for them to enjoy together.
“The food at this fancy event is amazing,” Bianca commented as they ate. She had been quite hungry and now had bits of food around her mouth, not bothered by her appearance.
Sophia delicately ate a piece of cake while observing Bianca. “Sometimes you’re so clever and capable; other times you’re as charming and carefree as a child. I find myself liking you more each day. Tonight would have been unbearable without you. Thank you, Bianca.”
After everything that had happened, Sophia relied on Bianca and began to admire her.
Between bites of food, Bianca said, “Sophia, what’s true remains true, and lies can’t stand as truth. You looked really scared earlier. What are you afraid of?”
Sophia lowered her gaze and confessed, “Gabriel took compromising photos of me in the past. I’m terrified he might release them…”