Chapter 26

Chapter 26

“And, Russell, as soon as he saw me getting attacked online, he immediately wanted to divorce me to distance himself. My parents berated me for my moral decay, regretting that they had ever given birth to a daughter like me. Everyone has abandoned me, and I don’t know how to go on anymore!.

Veronica’s expression was one of absolute despair as she finished speaking. She buried her face in her hands, crying with a wrenching sob that seemed to come from the depths of her heart.

The reporter, touched by her distress, comforted her. “Don’t be so upset, Miss Webb. This isn’t your fault. You were deceived by Russell. You’re just a young girl caught up in love. It’s understandable that you made a mistake. But no matter what, you need to stay strong. Don’t give up on your life just because of this,” After consoling her, the reporter released Veronica, gazing thoughtfully at the camera. “I believe many people, just like me, will stand by your side after hearing your story. We’ll help you seek forgiveness from your sister, Violet, and your family. As for Russell, he’s just a scoundrel. Now that you’ve recognized his true nature, it’s best to stay away from him in the future. There’s no need to feel sad because of him. Many young girls encounter scoundrels. You don’t have to think of yourself as foolish. Always remember, you didn’t make a mistake. The scoundrel did. You’re still young with a bright future ahead. You shouldn’t give up on yourself so easily. You should pick yourself up and enjoy the beautiful life ahead.”

The video ended at this point. However, Violet instantly understood Veronica’s intentions. Clearly, Veronica tried to gain public sympathy by pretending to take her own life, and this tactic worked extremely well. After hearing her interview, people felt deep sympathy for her and left comforting and supportive comments online.

Violet checked the comments section and saw many netizens expressing their support for Veronica.

“I stand with Veronica. She looks genuinely innocent and not scheming at all. Besides, you’ve all noticed, right? The evidence online was all from Violet and Russell’s chat, nothing to do with Veronica. She’s innocent.”

“Yeah, I feel the same way. And about that video in the restaurant where the couple flirted under the table, so what? Veronica didn’t know Russell was deceiving her.”

“I agree. Poor Veronica, used and now dumped by that scoundrel. Even her own sister and family won’t forgive her. How can she go on like this? If it were me facing something like this, I’d want to end it too.”

“Veronica, so kind–hearted and at such a young age, must be on the verge of a breakdown. Honestly, how can Violet treat her like this? I mean, they’re sisters

after all. Her own sister made a mistake, and she’s being this heartless.”

“Yeah, even if Veronica copied her work, why didn’t she speak up two years ago when she was the one getting copied? She could endure it back then, but now she can’t forgive Veronica? Her sister made a mistake, and instead of guiding her, she’s using ruthless means to push her to the brink. She’s such a terrible sister.”

*After hearing Veronica’s plight, even a stranger would surely forgive her. But Violet continues to persecute her. She’s just too malicious.”

Veronica, stay strong. Don’t give in to despair. We all support you. Stay away from scoundrels and protect yourself.”

However, there were still some rational comments in the comment section. Some people pointed out that while there was not enough evidence to prove Veronica was lying, it was also not right to take everything she said as the absolute truth based on her side of the story.

Unfortunately, most people preferred to stand with the perceived underdog, and there were not many willing to calm down and critically analyze the facts.

As Violet watched Veronica’s self–directed drama unfold and observed the online supporters who saw themselves as champions of justice for Veronica, she felt a sense of irony. She had to give credit to Veronica. She was truly clever. She had seized the opportunity, shifted the blame onto Russell, and fully portrayed herself as a helpless victim. With her suicidal attempt, she had garnered public sympathy, successfully whitewashing her image.

Russell was now suffering a tarnished reputation, with Veronica shifting all the blame onto him. He had no way to escape this mess.

Violet had not expected Veronica to come up with such a cunning plan so quickly after her failed attempt to drug her and create a compromising video. She sat with a serious expression, staring at her computer screen, contemplating her next steps. If Violet continued to press charges against Veronica, it might be successful, but it would also likely lead to more public backlash against Violet.

Just as Violet was deep in thought, Henry’s phone call came in.

Violet’s eyes flickered. She stepped outside, holding her phone to her ear.

As she left the room, the design department began buzzing with conversation.

“What do you all think about the online news?”

“What can we think? The fact that Violet’s design was plagiarized is clear, but now with Veronica’s act, the whole situation has taken a different turn.”

“Yeah, she’s turned herself into an innocent victim, claiming she was deceived by love, betrayed by a scumbag, and even tried to take her own life. Even if Violet wins the lawsuit, it won’t make much of a difference. People just aren’t on her side.”

“She may win the lawsuit, but she’ll definitely lose public support.”

“So will she continue with the lawsuit? Or does it even matter anymore?”

“Who knows? It all depends on Mr. Hersey.”