Chapter 24
About half an hour later, Channing’s mom, Selena, arrived at the school. After hearing the entire story, she slapped Channing without hesitation.
“Ms. Sampson, I’m so sorry. Channing can be careless. I’ll make him apologize to you, Selena said, giving Channing a little push. “What are you standing there for? Hurry up and apologize to Ms. Sampson!”
Channing, who just moments ago had looked defiant, shrank back when he saw his mother. He lowered his head and muttered, Tm sorry. I was wrong.”
Charles then asked, “Selena, Channing mentioned he was helping Yedda get back at Rachel. What’s your connection to Yedda?”
“Yedda?” Selena paused, thinking for a moment before replying, “Oh, she’s that single mom with a kid who lives across from us. We’ve met a couple of times.
Now, the whole picture was starting to make sense.
“Could you let us check Channing’s phone! We need it for evidence, Charles requested.
Selena handed over Channing’s phone to Charles, who snapped pictures of the chat logs between Channing and Yedda.
“Mr. Sampson, my son was coaxed into this. Since he’s still a minor and this is his first mistake, could you not press charges? He still needs to go to school. If this gets out, it could ruin his future,” Selena pled.
Rachel nodded. Selena pulled at Channing and apologized to her nonstop.
“I just checked Channing’s phone. The video was sent out by him, and he even hired trolls to spread it around. He was also involved in the paint–throwing incident. He must pin a post on Twitter and make a public apology. Charles stated
Channing’s eyes widened. “What A public apology? Wouldn’t 1-
Before he could finish, Selena pinched his ear, stopping him. “That’s the right thing to do.”
Noticing Channing’s unwilling expression, Charles turned to the teacher and asked, “If Channing refuses to apologize, how does your school handle students with such bad behavior?”
The teacher replied flatly, “By expelling them.”
Channing froze in place. With no other option, he reluctantly agreed, “Alright, I’ll apologize!”
He then took screenshots of his chat history with Yedda and shared them online.
Not long after, Yedda tweeted: [I feel like I need to clear the air right now. At first, thought this was just harmless gossip. As an actress, I was worried that speaking up might make things worse, so I kept quiet.
[My account was hacked a few days ago, and I couldn’t even get in. When I saw Channing’s post today, I realized how much damage someone had done using my account.
Il want to apologize again to Ms. Sampson My carelessness caused these public misunderstandings about you, and I’m truly sorry.
Also, thanks to all my fam for standing by me through this. I’m about to start shooting a new movie, and I hope you’ll channel your energy into supporting my upcoming projects.
I apologize for causing such a public distraction. I promise to work hard and create amazing work to make it up to all of you!
The tweet was instantly flooded with various comments.
[Geez, what a two–faced wretch! She even came up with such a late excuse. And yet, those silly fans are still covering for her non–M Fans nowadays, seriously, not a single brain cell among them.]
[You’re so sweet and kind, Yedda. Even though it’s your fans who got out of control, you still came out to apologize in the end.
[That high school kid must be a hater: Yedda is working hard on her new project right now. Please get out, hater!”
It’s all right. We know you’re innocent, Yedda Just focus on filming, we’re looking forward to your next hit movie!]
]
Chapter 24
Rachel scrolled through the fans comments with a blank expression. At the same time, a flood of direct messages poured into her
inbox.
[Yedda already apologized to y you, and you’re still acting all distant? What a faker!]
[Just let it go and stop riding Yedda’s coattails for attention.]
[At least reply, would you? So rude, you sourpuss!]
Rachel wondered if, as someone directly involved, she should even say anything.
She pulled out her phone, thought for a moment, then typed out a quick message. After sending it, she deleted the app. When she got home, she switched her phone to silent and tossed it on the couch. Later, she grabbed some barbecue with Jenny.
Meanwhile, Yedda read Rachel’s reply: [She’s totally making stuff up, believing her own lies and acting all high and mighty–what a
fraud
She felt her anger spike and snapped, “Rachel you’ve got some nerve!”
“Mommy… Tracy, scared by Yedda’s outburst, clutched her doll tightly and looked up at her with wide, frightened eyes.
What are you calling me for? If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be in this mess!” Yedda snapped, her anger directed at Tracy. “You’re such a hassle, just like your good–for–nothing dad–always messing things up for me and bringing shame to my life!”
“Mommy, I’m sorry” Tracy cried.
“Cry again, huh? Is that all you’ve got? Useless! Go cry somewhere else, Yedda barked.
She pushed Tracy aside, picked up a pack of cigarettes from the table, and headed out to the balcony. After taking a few puffs, she felt somewhat calmer.
As she came back inside, she noticed her daughter was missing. Tracy? Where did you run off to? Come out right now!
After searching around, Yedda found Tracy lying on the ground Panic set in as she rushed over. “Tracy!”
Just as Rachel and Jenny were sitting on the balcony enjoying the breeze after dinner, Chloe called.
“Hello, Mrs. Anderson, Rachel answered.
“Sounds like everything’s been wrapped up? Chloe asked.
Rachel replied, “Yeah. Is there anything you need?”
Chise gave a cold snort and said in a stiff tone, “They’ve unearthed some artifacts in Decriaton. I got you a spot,”
“Really! Thank you, Mrs. Anderson! I’d love to go, Rachel exclaimed.
“Hmph, don’t get too excited just yet. You’ve been out of the game for years, and you really think you’re someone important? You’ll just be doing basic chores over there, Chloe sneered,
I’m still in Rachel said cheerfully. “Every big journey starts with small steps. I promise to cherish this opportunity.”
Chloe felt reassured the ludn’t misjudged Rachel Rachel had messed up, but she’d caught herself before crossing the line.
“Fine, you said it just don’t regret it later, okay?‘ Chloe warned
“I won’t regret it. I truly want to get back into this Don’t worry I won’t let you down!” Rachel assured her.
“Okay, someone will contact you
you soon. Take the next few days to get ready. Just bring your best over there, and don’t make me look bad”
After hanging up, Rachel was ecstatic.
}}});
Jenny looked at her overly happy smile with disdain. “It’s just a simple assistant job. Why are you so excited!”
“Jenny, do you know why I chose Charles to be my lawyer? Rachel suddenly asked.
Chapter 24
The archaeological project team moved quickly. By early the next morning. Rachel had her travel details.
She made an effort and successfully booked a flight on the same plane as Zachary Parker’s team.
During check–in, Rachel spotted Zachary, the legendary archaeology expert. She was so starstruck she could barely get a word out.
After boarding, Rachel found herself sitting next to Sharon White, Jeffrey’s assistant. Sharon was a junior researcher, a few years younger than Rachel.
Noticing Rachel’s temporary staff badge, Sharon looked surprised. “You’re Rachel she asked.
AD
