Web Fic
Chapter 135
The sudden compliment didn't catch Chloe off guard at all. After all, this morning, the top trending topic everywhere was #HeartOfTheRose. The entire night sky had been set ablaze with a stunning display of red fireworks, illuminating the dark heavens in a breathtaking show.
Linda happened to walk by just then, her head down, quickening her pace as she tried to make a beeline to her desk. But someone called out to her. "Linda, you took a day off yesterday, too. Don't tell me you sneaked off to Chloe's birthday bash?"
The office at the TV station was buzzing with curiosity about Chloe and Linda's peculiar relationship. They were high school classmates, and Linda's boyfriend, Lucas, seemed to know Chloe quite well. The two women were also locked in a fierce rivalry over an interview with Connor and the sought- after prime-time anchor slot, using every trick in the book.
Everyone knew Linda had leaked the story about Chloe's identity. Chloe had orchestrated a ruckus at the TV station by calling Linda's mother to come over. By now, it was all just part of the ongoing drama for everyone to watch.
Linda stopped and turned around. Chloe met her gaze, noticing Linda's eyes were swollen and puffy, clearly from crying all night. Chloe's lips curled into a cold smirk.
There had been plenty of reporters at Lisa's birthday party last night. Linda's attempt to sabotage her should have been all over the news by this morning. But now, there was nothing-no mention in the media and no trending topics on Twitter. Chloe knew the Meadows family must have squashed the story, or maybe it was Lucas.
Jacob was always concerned about appearances. He wouldn't allow last night's scandal to go public. Chloe hadn't seen a single piece of news about the event last night. The Meadows family had really pulled out all the stops this time, protecting Lisa's reputation and, by extension, Linda's too. But Chloe wasn't about to let them off that easily.
Chloe flashed Linda a brilliant smile. "Linda, you took a nasty fall at the banquet hall yesterday. Is the baby okay?"NôvelDrama.Org holds text © rights.
Instantly, everyone's attention was on Linda.
“Linda, you fell yesterday? How could you be so careless?"
"You're three months pregnant. This is a critical time. You can't be neglectful."
"Linda, you fell and still came to work today? Why not rest at home for a few days?"
"Linda, what happened to your eyes?"
Questions flew from all directions.
Linda's mind was already in turmoil. Lucas hadn't come home all night. She had called him repeatedly, but he hadn't picked up. She felt as if Chloe had cut down her only support.
Her look towards Chloe was conflicted. "Chloe, about last night,
I'm sorry. I know it now. For
of our past friendship, pleassake
forgive
me one last time."
Linda knew if Chloe revealed what had happened last night, her reputation at the TV station would be ruined.
"Past friendship? You are speaking
of past friendship? You little schemer. Chloe was so good to you back then; she paid your tuition
when you had no money, begged et
teachers to arrange accommodation when your mom was abusive, and even stood up to bullies for you. Yet, you, ungrateful as you are betrayed her, stole her boyfriend, and faked a fall yesterday to set her up. Your actions are unforgivable and don't deserve any sympathy."