The atmosphere in the car felt awkward for a moment, but Norman deftly shifted the conversation. “Did you get what you needed?”
I pulled a tiny camera off the shattered succulent “Yep. They didn’t notice it at all.”
I had attached the camera to the plant back when I was rehearsing, to capture and review my movements. The memory card still held all the footage, from refining individual moves to stringing together entire sequences.
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Chapter 21
Even a complete novice could watch the footage and recognize who had created the choreography.
I I wasn’t in a hurry to post the video online to clear my name. Instead, I decided to give Averil at little time to step up and admit the truth herself.
Putting aside her lack of character, Averil undeniably had professional talent. Especially in the domestic dance scene, she was considered one of the best.
I was fully aware of the severity of this incident. If I exposed her, it would likely lead to her. being blacklisted from the entire industry.
Perhaps out of a sense of appreciation for her skill, I decided to give her a chance.
But as it turned out, sometimes trying to be merciful would only backfire.
Instead of a confession, I was met with Averil trending online.
She had posted photos of the mess in the house along with the signed divorce agreement, neatly displayed in a tweet that read:
“No matter the cost, I’ve finally achieved my dream. Here’s to a brighter future together!
The comments section exploded:
“Did Mr. Ford really divorce Victoria Dean?”
“Is it true she didn’t want the divorce and trashed the place in a fit of rage?”
“Honestly, she probably clung to Mr. Ford just like this when she married him in the first place.”
all
“This is why people shouldn’t force relationships that aren’t based on true love. Better to step aside and let everyone move on.
Π
“Mr. Ford and Averil really seem like a perfect match–true love conquering all odds!”
Averil was a master manipulator of public opinion. With her deliberate framing, I became the internet’s new villain, branded as the “bitter ex–wife who couldn’t let go.”
Norman’s fury was practically tangible. ‘Without a word, he stood and moved to leave.
I caught his hand. “This is a civilized society, Ash No need for threats or violence. She’s digging her own grave. Let her.”
I was just about to upload the video evidence when I noticed that Averil had tagged me in her latest post.
“Dearest Victoria, I can meet all your demands, but I will never admit to plagiarizing or stealing ‘Love Without Regret.‘
“First, while I may have interfered in your relationship with Julian, I still have my pride as a
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Chapter 21
dancer, Second, this is a piece I created for Julian–It holds special meaning.
“I know words alone don’t prove anything. Let’s settle this on ‘Dancer Show.‘ We’ll both perform the dance and let the audience decide.
“Oh, and Victoria, I hope you’re not conveniently nursing a leg injury right now?”
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