Chapter 142

The moment the actress spoke those words, the live audience erupted in collective sighs of disappointment. The online chat exploded with frantic messages, each more desperate than the last.

When the other actresses echoed similar sentiments, the virtual space became a storm of heartbroken emojis and wailing GIFs.

It was a tragedy—so many brilliant actresses stepping away from the spotlight. Fans had hoped to see them grace the screens again.

Furious, netizens unleashed another wave of outrage against the vile predators lurking in the industry.

Even the host couldn’t hide his dismay. "Are you absolutely certain? After tonight, your careers could soar to new heights."

Anyone with eyes could see that Team A-list had paved a golden path for them. From now on, no smear campaign could tarnish their reputations.

In truth, Isabelle Laurent had approached them with contracts in hand. They were, after all, undeniable talents.

Yet, one by one, they declined. Perhaps they had found something more precious than fame.

The actress smiled softly. "No. My reason for being here was never about making a comeback."

The host caught the unusual glint in their eyes and leaned in. "Then what was it?"

The crowd held its breath.

The actresses exchanged knowing glances.

"We came forward to use our pain as armor for those who come after us," one said. "So no other woman has to suffer in silence. So the monsters hiding in the shadows can never touch them again."

Another actress smirked, borrowing the exact words once used to blacklist Evelyn. "Those who earn their roles through talent deserve respect. Those who use dirty tricks? Get out of this industry. You don’t belong here."

Silence.

Then—thunderous applause.

The chat exploded, no longer begging them to stay but repeating their words like a battle cry.

They were actresses, not playthings. Not trophies.

And though some chose the crooked path, most were victims of greed and power. Tonight, they reclaimed their voices.

As the spotlight shifted, it was time for the final supporting actress—Evelyn Sinclair—to take the stage.

The women onstage watched her with warm smiles, as if welcoming her onto the platform they had built together.

Evelyn met their gazes, her heart swelling. Their fates had once been the same.

With a soft smile, she turned and grabbed Lillian Graves, who was practically vibrating with excitement. Julian Blackwood followed close behind.

The trio stepped into the light.

The applause was deafening. The chat flooded with demands for Evelyn’s fandom to rise and reshape Hollywood.

During Evelyn’s interview, Julian seized the moment to extend an official invitation, sending the energy in the room skyrocketing.

Though Isabelle had already hinted at it, Evelyn still choked up. Tears welled in her eyes as she trembled. Then, without warning, she spun and hugged Lillian tightly.

The mood shifted instantly.

Suddenly, all the actresses swarmed Lillian, peppering her face with kisses. The poor girl turned scarlet, nearly forgetting to limp.

Lipstick smudged across her cheeks, she stumbled offstage, dizzy with euphoria.

I got kissed by goddesses! Men everywhere are weeping with envy right now.

"Margaret, take a picture!" she giggled.

The atmosphere was electric—but the Blackwoods noticed Nathan’s darkening expression.

His gaze locked onto the lipstick stains on Lillian’s face. The second Margaret snapped the photo, he swept her into his arms without warning.

Lillian yelped. "What are you—?!"

"The show’s over. Time to go home." His tone left no room for argument. "You’re injured. I’m carrying you."

"W-Wait—people are staring!"

"My foot feels better—I can walk!"

"Not happening."

And just like that, he marched out the emergency exit with her in his arms.

Lillian squirmed, but secretly? She was thrilled.

Kisses from goddesses AND a ride from a god? Best. Night. Ever.

Nathan paused mid-step. Oh. Right. He checked his phone.

Richard: He just left?

Margaret: Is this what they mean by "a son forgets his mother when he gets a girlfriend"? (Excited sticker)

Sophia: All Nate sees is Evie now. (Smiling sticker)

"They’re waiting for Julian. We’re leaving first."

At home, the mansion was quiet. Nathan carried Lillian all the way to her room, maintaining the charade until the very end.

Only when he set her on the bed did awkwardness finally creep in.

She laughed nervously. "Thanks! You can go now."

Nathan understood. He gave her space—but not before pausing at the door.

"You were incredible tonight."

Lillian blinked, unsure what he meant. Still, a smile tugged at her lips. "Yeah. I think so too."

With that, he left.

The so-called competition ended without a winner. But online? The chaos was just beginning.

Scandals erupted one after another—all exposing the same kind of filth. Each new revelation dragged the old ones back into the light. There was no escape.

Fan clubs turned their profile pictures black in protest. Some issued apologies; others doubled down. Reputations crumbled overnight.

It was a purge.

And those who escaped? They trembled in fear.

A few tried to exploit the chaos—but truth always prevailed.

At the Grant residence, Victor and Yvonne sat in tense silence.

After watching every failed attempt at damage control, Yvonne finally voiced her plan.

Victor paled. "Are you sure? If this backfires—"

"Trust me, darling." Her smile was razor-sharp. "I’ll handle everything."

1.6K