Chapter 553

Penelope realized the seriousness of the matter. “Mom, we have to find Robbie before Allison does.

He’s got a bunch of my videos and photos. If they are exposed, I’d be ruined. The Lindberg Corporation would call off the engagement for sure.”

Leah was acutely aware of the severity of the matter. Robbie was nothing but a street thug without any real principles. He’d dance to the tune of whoever flashed the most cash.

Penelope had approached Robbie once before to keep him quiet about the compromising material.

She asked him to pin the photos on Allison. The issue resurfacing now was a bad sign. If Allison got Robbie first, Penelope’s world would come crashing down.

“Are you still in contact with Robbie? How many videos and photos does he have?” Leah probed.

“Just… six months ago,” Penelope admitted. “I met with Robbie, gave in to his threats just once, and I haven’t seen him since.”

Leah slammed her hand on the table in frustration. “Penelope! You’ve seriously disappointed me!”

Penelope pleaded, “Mom, I didn’t want to, but Robbie threatened me. Then I just… did it.” Moving closer to comfort her mother, she began to massage Leah’s shoulders. “I haven’t been in touch with Robbie since then.”

Margo chimed in, “Ladies, there’s no need to fret. Allison’s folks haven’t found Robbie either. I’ve got my cousin watching the haunts Robbie frequents. We’ll know the moment he shows up.”

Leah tried to stay positive. “Let’s hope for the best. Allison hasn’t found him yet. For now, we’re not facing the worst of it.” She turned to Penelope. “Did you create that account?”

Penelope couldn’t lie. “It was Nathalie’s idea. The plan was hers. I’m sorry, Mom. I’ll be good from now on, I promise.”

Despite her stern words, Leah’s love for her daughter was unwavering. Penelope, the cherished girl of the Flanagan family, could do no wrong. Whenever Christopher scolded her, she would hide behind Leah, who invariably took her side.

Holding Penelope’s hand, Leah said with heartfelt emotion, “Oh, Penelope, I nearly lost my life giving birth to you. How could I not cherish you? I hate Allison as much as you do, but now’s not the time to clash with her. You need to get well, conceive Lucian’s child quickly, and cement your place so you can marry into the Lindberg family in style. Then, you’ll make your comeback in showbiz. I’ll manage your future opportunities. Once you’re back in the spotlight, Allison won’t matter. There’s no need to squabble with her over petty issues.”

This time, Penelope truly understood the stakes. “I get it, Mom. I won’t let you down.”

Back in her bedroom, Penelope reached out to Pete. “Pete, I need a favor.”

“Name it.”

“Find someone named Robbie for me.”

“What, an old flame of yours?”

“No, Pete, you’re the only one for me. I’ve run into some trouble, and Robbie’s a key player. He’s got old videos of mine that could cause a scandal. Pete, you’re the only one who can help.”

Pete’s network was extensive, and his methods varied. Locating someone in Northfield was child’s play for him. Right now, Pete and Penelope were in the same boat. He readily agreed to help.

With Pete’s commitment, Penelope felt a weight lift off her shoulders. She trusted in Pete’s capabilities and resourcefulness.