Seeing the police leading Ivy for interrogations, the reporters’ speculations were aroused. Though Isabelle claimed Ivy was the one behind the attack, she never took any action regarding the assault. But all of a sudden, another assault case sprang up, one that was more serious to the extent of her being bedridden for many days, unlike the first attack that she only stayed for two days. And all the claims pointed at the same person. The matter got them interested to know why would Ivy Hale, currently known as Mrs. Ivy Anderson, do something as outrageous as that.
Bully a fellow actress? For what reasons? She could easily climb up the ranks with her fame, even though she took a hiatus from the industry. Her comeback sprouted the netizens, so why would she try to hurt Isabelle, who was just playing the role of a supporting character, whereas she was the main lead?
With the media guiding the netizens’ path, they dwelled on the assumptions that Ivy might be the culprit. Since there was no retaliation to oppose Isabelle’s claim, they believed what they saw on the surface.
With the issue intensifying, the production team for ‘Tomboy Donna’ had to release a statement to address the situation. Since Ivy was currently under interrogations and Isabelle at the hospital, filming had to be postponed until the police finish their investigation. Only then will they announce the changes that would be made to the cast. They further emphasized they will not condone any form of abuse or disruptive behavior.
With that, they clarified their end, but the netizens picked up the last statement.
“Does that mean Ivy would be replaced?”
“It looks like she would be replaced.”
“She really ruined her chance to announce a comeback.”
Stephen really wanted to replace Ivy; in fact, also Isabelle so he could get ‘Tomboy Donna’ quickly on the screen before the film loses the spirit. Ivy was supposed to hype up the film, but it seems she might bring the film to its destruction if he still allows her to partake in it. But Director Tim’s advice was still ringing his bells. ‘Who knows, maybe things could turn out for the better.’ That statement of his made him calm down a little, waiting for the matter’s resolution.
A few days passed, and there was no update on the situation. The reporters became restless to find out the outcome of the interrogation. Isabelle’s management agency finally announced a press release to the media. What they deeply anticipated came, so on the day of the press conference, the hall was filled with reporters.
Isabelle appeared in a wheelchair dressed in a hospital gown, with a thick bandage wrapped around her head. The look on her face carried a trace of indignation as she constantly tapped on the chair arm. Her manager took the microphone to address the media. He started off by thanking the media for their concern regarding Isabelle’s unjust treatment, then he added in a serious tone. “I am extremely upset about this issue, not only was she treated unfairly, she almost lost her life, if she hadn’t been rushed to the hospital in time, she wouldn’t be here. All I wanted is for the culprit to be punished for his or her crime.” He handed the microphone to Isabelle. Her raspy voice was heard, making the reporters pity her more. “Who did she offend to deserve such treatment?
“How can a person be so heartless? Look at her condition, how will she be able to continue filming?”
“What did Ivy gain by destroying her face?”
Isabelle observed the flashing cameras and huffed slightly. Inwardly, she wanted Ivy to be shamed by the public. Now was the right time to do so.
“I’m deeply regretful, ‘Tomboy Donna’ has to drag down with me. If only I hadn’t left the hotel that night, maybe it wouldn’t have happened.”
“As if, if she wanted, she would have still hurt you wherever you were.” One of the reporters scoffed.
“It was an ambush. I was just returning from my friend’s place, and he suddenly appeared and started hitting me. He completely overpowered me. I couldn’t defend myself with no strength left in me. I don’t know if he was the same person as before because I couldn’t catch a glimpse of his face because of the pain.” She sniffed. “At the initial attack, I heard a female voice from the other end of the call. I don’t want to believe it, but I had to. Even when I returned from the hospital, I noticed some behavior to prove her true intent.”
Isabelle’s manager was smiling inwardly. The media were receiving confirmation; it was only a matter of time before Ivy’s name gets crushed.
“The police collected some useful footage from the scene. The man’s face was captured, and also Ivy’s face. The footage showed they had previously come in contact with each other, but still, it isn’t enough to prove Ivy as the culprit. But the man is currently being chased by the police. When he is found, the truth will be revealed.”
The reporters’ eyes widened at the new information.
“So the evidence pointed at her.”
“She is really the culprit.”
“Why would she stoop so low to do something like this?”
Hearing the reporters’ whispers brought satisfaction to Isabelle’s manager. Isabelle, on the other hand, was glad she could finally push Ivy off the perch. Soon she would be replaced, the production team wouldn’t be dumb enough to let her remain the leading character.
Isabelle’s manager took back the microphone. “I hope the conclusion the police come to will bring justice for Isabelle, or else I will go extreme to make the culprit pay.”
They all nodded in affirmation. “The culprit has to pay, irrespective of his or her status.”
Various discussions filled the hall; they were angered by the unjust treatment and desperate for the police to confirm the culprit. With a pleased look, Isabelle’s manager looked at Isabelle and patted her back.
“She will pay.”
It seems the press conference brought clarity on the situation, and the reporters were ready to publish the news. But as they turned around to get their legs moving, the door of the hall flung open. Standing at the door was not who the reporters expected to see. It was quite daring for her to show up at the same place her name was being blemished. Even Isabelle was shocked by the surprise visit.