Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1995

After Simone's video was uploaded with blurred faces, the internet exploded in uproar.

The outcry against KING reached a fever pitch.

Snowy Studios and GK were once again dragged through the mud over the KING debacle. Designers were doxed and boycotted; the harassment was so severe that many feared going to work.

GK's boutiques were vandalized by outraged netizens, who fanatically demanded it immediately end the partnership with KING or face permanent closure.

KING's accolades were stripped, with her name erased from awards, and her films and TV shows were pulled from circulation.

She was effectively blacklisted in her own country.

As the scandal snowballed, the Macclain clan each had their say. First, Corley and his wife, as the head of the Macclain family, were cornered by reporters at their company headquarters and were pressed for a statement on KING.

With a sly smile, Natalia said, "We're not too familiar with the affairs of Simone and the adopted daughter. They aren't close to us. All I know is that KING often frequented the Lamont Group. Our daughter is the executive secretary there and she's seen KING clinging to Mr. Lamont's arm and bragging to the employees."

Boom! With this news, KING was now branded as a seductress, who targeted the CEO of the Lamont Group! Soon, the gossip about KING stealing star Gwen's boyfriend was dredged up by internet sleuths.

The witch hunt for KING's past misdeeds was relentless.

In the late night, Mr. Tucker wrapped up his work, only to be summoned by a phone call to a tea house.

Upon entering, a man in a suit stood to greet him. "Mr. Tucker, what an honor to meet you!"

Mr. Tucker nodded curtly, "What can I do for you?"

The man handed him a business card, "I represent the Crawley Group. Our boss wants you to issue a statement that you'll no longer collaborate with KING. Of course, if you could include some juicy details about her flirting on set or unsavory relations with the crew, our boss would be quite pleased."

Mr. Tucker replied firmly, "KING has always been professional and ethical, and I won't corroborate any unfounded rumors."

The man slid a check across the table, "This is a token of our boss's appreciation. We've heard you're looking to break into the film industry in B City. Help us out, and our boss will ensure your ambitions be realized."

Mr. Tucker's face grew pale with anger, "With KING already being crucified online, what more do you want? Let's show some mercy. There's no need to kick someone when they're down." The man's expression turned icy, "Are you choosing to oppose the Crawley family?"

Taking a deep breath, Mr. Tucker stood his ground, "I'm not against anyone, nor will I lie for personal gain. I won't fabricate stories about KING. I know the Crawley family is powerful, and KING's situation looks dire. I might be burning bridges with them, but I refuse to betray my conscience again as I did to Estelle."

He stood up and said with his gaze unwavering, "Tell Mr. Cliff whatever you wish and retaliate against me if you must, but I won't be complicit in this charade. Don't bother contacting me again!"

The man stared coldly at Mr. Tucker, "The project which you've poured your heart into is about to premiere, isn't it? Think very carefully about your next move!"