Chapter 153

The Secret Behind the Mask

The press conference atmosphere froze instantly.

Director Richard Lowell's response clearly failed to satisfy the reporters' curiosity.

"Mr. Lombardi, could you share your personal interpretation of this role?" A female journalist suddenly raised her voice.

All cameras immediately swiveled toward Julian Lombardi.

Live comments exploded across streaming platforms.

"That eyeliner is way too thick."

"His eyes look swollen like walnuts."

"Did his plastic surgery go wrong?"

Richard remained oblivious to the murmurs.

He turned to Julian with a gentle tone. "Julian, say hello to everyone."

Julian's fingers tightened unconsciously around the microphone.

"Apologies, I'm fighting a cold..." His muffled voice filtered through the mask.

Richard's brow creased almost imperceptibly.

"Just a few words will suffice."

Standing nearby, Tiffany Merouin chimed in cheerfully. "Come on, Julian. Don't be shy."

Sweat drenched Julian's back.

He forced himself to speak. "It's an honor to portray this character..."

Before he could finish, Tiffany's hand shot out.

"Why are you hiding your face?"

Her movement was too swift to intercept.

The mask ripped away violently.

Complete silence engulfed the room.

Julian's grotesquely swollen face lay fully exposed under the relentless camera flashes.