Chapter 152

No one paid much attention to Vivian. Everyone else seemed genuinely happy. Most of the crowd had gathered around Millie.

The sponsor reps and contestants all chatted warmly. Since they worked in the same industry, there was a chance they'd collaborate someday.

Before Serena revealed her true identity, there had been a private discussion among these reps.

Earlier,before the final round-when Serena was under fire-a meeting had been held at the Evans family's estate. Representatives from both the Watson Group and the Elliott Group had come to support her, leaving the others confused.

Back then, they didn't know everything. But now, the truth had come to light.

Serena was Millie all along, which was probably why both the Watson Group and the Elliott Group stood up for her.

One of the business partners turned to Myron and asked, "Mr. Elliott, at the Evans estate that day, did you let your brother go and show support of Serena because you already knew her true identity?"

Myron smiled but gave no direct answer.

He simply said, "The Elliott Group values Serena for her talent, her potential, and the returns she brings."

The man nodded, understanding at once.

They were all businesspeople. Even if Serena was really Millie, she remained Brandon's wife, and that had little to do with Elliott Group.

At most, it was just about Jayceon being a fan. But what truly mattered was Serena's talent.

Everyone accepted that and moved on to mingle with others.

Soon, guests began leaving one by one.

Outside, a huge crowd had formed. Many were fans of the contestants, but even more had come hoping to see Millie and Vivian.

The media wasn't far behind.

With both Brandon's wife and his rumored mistress appearing on the same show, it was a media goldmine.

Given the online buzz, every outlet wanted to jump on the story.

So,the moment Millie stepped out, people rushed toward her like a tidal wave.

Microphones filled the air as reporters fired questions.

"Why did you wear a mask during the competition?"

"What did you think when you found out Vivian was a judge?"

"Now that you've won, what are your plans going forward?"

Flashbulbs from their cameras lit up the night like fireworks.

Charles' security team quickly surrounded Millie, carving out a space for her.

Millie, calm and composed, answered a few questions. She avoided anything about Vivian.

She said with a smile, "The mask was a decision made together with Evans Entertainment."

She added, "Winning Heavenly Melody was only possible because of the love and support from everyone-those here and those watching from home. Thank you all so much."

Then she bowed deeply before the crowd.

"As for what comes next, I'll discuss my future plans with Evans Entertainment. I hope you'll all keep supporting me."

After that, she ignored every question about Vivian or Brandon and headed straight for the SUV, protected by the guards.

Just before the vehicle pulled away, a loud voice rang out. "Vivian's out! Surround her!"

Millie watched as the crowd swerved toward Vivian.

Barbara's face lit up with glee.

"She's been attacking us online for weeks. Let's see how she handles the heat now!" she said, clearly enjoying the moment.

But Millie wasn't so sure it would be that easy.

Vivian was a pro at managing her image. How she'd spin this mess was yet to be seen.

In the crowd surrounding Vivian, angry voices began to rise. "How can you destroy someone's marriage and bully the wife? You're disgusting!"

"That's right! Answer us! You're not walking away this time!"

"Speak up! Apologize, Vivian!"

The more polished Vivian's public image had been, the harsher the backlash now.

Many who once supported her now felt deeply betrayed. Their anger ran deeper than that of her critics.

Sure, Vivian still had loyal fans online who believed she was innocent. But none of them were there tonight.

The ones who showed up had come to vent their rage.

"This is just too satisfying!" Barbara laughed, pumping her fist. "She had it coming!"

The SUV dipped slightly as Charles climbed in.

Barbara kept peeking out the window, watching the chaos unfold.

Millie found this a little amusing.

"Close the door. If we linger too long, it'll get too crowded," she said.

Barbara hesitated but finally shut the door after one last look.

The SUV rolled forward.

Just before they turned the corner, Millie glanced back at the crowd still swarming Vivian.

Charles noticed. "What's wrong?" he asked.

Millie shook her head, "Just curious how she'll handle this."

Charles let out a loud laugh.

"Forget her. Let's go celebrate. We've earned it!"

"Sounds good," Millie replied. But this time, she wasn't going to the Blue Lounge.

She had no intention of bumping into Darden or Brandon again and getting dragged into another scene.

Now that the dust had settled with the show, she could finally focus on new projects-the Bennett famnily lawsuits, and Ari's health.

Ari's surgery application had already been submitted. The operation could be scheduled any day.

Just thinking of Ari's chubby little face brought a soft smile to Millie's lips.

Laughter filled the car as they headed to the celebration. Meanwhile, outside the Heavenly Melody recording venue, Vivian faced the angry crowd alone.

Many who felt betrayed pointed fingers and shouted harsh words.

Reporters shoved microphones at her, refusing to back off.

"There are claims you got involved in Brandon and Millie's marriage. What do you say?"

"Did you target Serena-who's actually Millie-on purpose?"

"What exactly is yourrelationship with Brandon? Did you interfere in his marriage?"

Each question was sharper than the last.

Vivian wanted to leave, but the crowd hemmed her in.

Inside, she burned with frustration. But on the outside, she looked delicate, eyes turning red as she whispered, "I didn't know Serena was Millie."

Tears rolled down her cheeks, making her look helpless. "And I'm not a home-wrecker," she added.

But someone in the crowd yelled, "We're not Brandon! Save your tears! Stop playing the victimn!"