Chapter 135 Cheating?
Now, with Minerva’s suspicions echoing in her mind, Alice’s thoughts began to lean in that direction as well. As she pondered the situation, she found it increasingly implausible to imagine two "chosen children" in the world, akin to two tigers sharing the same mountain.
So, the only remaining explanation seemed to be that Hera had received outside assistance to enhance her performance in front of the camera, perhaps to bolster her image as a multi-talented individual or to craft a particular persona for her.
After rearranging her thoughts, Alice felt calmer than before, and only then did she notice Xavier’s sharp gaze, which made her breath hitch in her throat. She was all too familiar with that look on Xavier’s face; she had seen it before. He was truly angry.
She had no intention of stopping Minerva from saying more, nor was she planning to hold herself back from going after Hera now. After all, Hera had gone after her man, Xavier. Hera was also the reason why Xavier looked at her with such distaste, something that had never happened before in her past life.
Xavier and Rafael treated her like a fragile woman in need of gentleness and protection, but it never progressed to the level where they became her lovers. She believed it was because they were concerned about her feelings that they might scare her.
In her past life, she had been close to Minerva, even becoming her best friend. This bond led Minerva to heed her advice, temper her arrogance, and begin to listen to her brother. As a result, Rafael developed a favorable impression of Alice and began assisting her with her career in return.
So that’s what she had been planning this time: to befriend Minerva and become a positive influence on her, thereby getting closer to Rafael. But it seemed like everything was falling apart. She placed all the blame on Hera, accusing her of constantly trying to steal her spotlight and even embarrassing her in front of Xavier multiple times.
Alice took a deliberate step forward, her gaze shifting from Hera to the four Easter eggs held by the crew. Though her expression carried a mix of grievance and understanding, there was a newfound resolve in her demeanor. No longer appearing pitiful, she seemed to demand justice and equality, bravely standing up for others while bracing herself for any judgment that might come her way.
"Hera, we don’t want to jump to conclusions about you receiving help from your sugar daddy," Alice began, her tone measured and diplomatic. "But considering the challenges of this event, with many of us struggling to complete even one task, it’s only natural to seek fairness and clarity. We’re not accusing anyone; we just want to ensure equity for all participants. I hope you understand." With a genuine smile, Alice aimed to encourage a thorough investigation, emphasizing the importance of preserving the show’s integrity and the reputation of its organizers.
Alice’s words rang with a sincerity that left no room for doubt about her intentions toward Hera. Her courage, evident in her measured tone and genuine delivery, conveyed a desire for fairness rather than a personal vendetta. Yet, as the weight of her words settled over the place, Alice’s own vulnerability emerged. She bit her lip and instinctively retreated, lowering her head as an uneasy silence enveloped the space, amplifying the gravity of the moment.
The Director found himself caught between amusement and exasperation, unsure whether to laugh or sigh at the unfolding situation. Anticipating the flood of calls he’d inevitably receive later, he felt a headache brewing at the mere thought of dealing with Alice and Minerva’s persistent prodding of Hera during the show.