Chapter 91
Chapter 91
The next morning, a topic tagged [Annabelle Bennett Scandalous Video] rocketed up the trending chart.
The explosive symbol beside the tag was so red it looked scorched.
Elena only learned of it when Annabelle’s sobs echoed through the living room as she got out of bed.
She opened her phone at once; the internet was flooded with that video, and forwards had already topped five million.
Elena wondered, ‘Did Simon Whitmore post the video?‘
Her fingers tightened involuntarily around the phone.
Annabelle’s eyes were swollen from crying; Adaline bawled beside her. Julian paced the living room in agitated circles for half an hour.
Lawrence sat grim–faced, dragging on a cigarette.
Indeed, as the saying goes, the wicked are punished by the wicked.
Elena headed for the door, only to find a wall of reporters camped outside.
Adaline wailed, “Lawrence, do something! Both film crews are terminating Annie’s contracts, every brand has pulled her endorsements and even plans to sue. What will become of our girl?”
Lawrence raked a hand through his hair. “I’ve already paid to suppress the ranking, but the heat is off the charts–I can’t smother it that quickly!”
Julian stood to one side on the phone, negotiating with the reporters outside.
Annabelle suddenly looked up, eyes blazing at Elena. “Sister! Why are you doing this to me? Yes, I was wrong to try drugging you, but nothing even happened to you. Why won’t you let me go?”
Elena’s brows drew together. “You think I did this?”
“Who else could it be? I was in your bedroom that night. The camera was hidden there. Didn’t you plant it?” Annabelle cried.
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Elena folded her arms. “You’re saying I somehow knew you planned to drug me and installed à camera in advance?”
“Isn’t that exactly it?!” Annabelle shot back.
Elena let out a short, bitter laugh. “If I’d known in advance, would I have drunk that wine? You all watched me drink it with your own eyes.”
Adaline jabbed a finger at Elena’s nose. “Then how did Annie end up in your room? You lured her there, set up a secret cam now you’re ruining her!”
Seeing Adaline glare at her as though at a mortal enemy, Elena Bennett felt a boulder crush against her chest; every breath was a gasp.
Elena thought, ‘It was Simon Whitmore who had people drag Annabelle inside; I can’t betray him.‘
Elena said coolly, “I have no idea how Annabelle was drugged, let alone who carried her into that room.”
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Chapter 91
Annabelle cried, “Elena, even now you’re still lying? I know you hate me, but when I dosed you I never meant to destroy your virtu Yet you used such vile tricks on me!”
“You’re a woman too–you know how precious a reputation is… How am I supposed to face anyone ever again?”
Hearing Annabelle’s accusation, the entire Bennett family instantly assumed Elena was to blame.
Julian Bennett strode over, his face black as thunder, and clamped a hand around her throat.
Elena’s brows knotted; the vise on her windpipe stole her air, and her cheeks blazed crimson.
“Talk! Was it you?” Julian roared.
Elena managed a ragged whisper. “N…o.”
“You still won’t admit it?” Julian snarled.
Elena gave a choking laugh. “Then kill me!”
Julian’s fingers tightened; the scarlet on her cheeks deepened into a frightening purple.
Suddenly he let go. Elena sagged against the wall, gulping air.
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QUID
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.