At the Blake Mansion
Zamiel's mother sat gracefully in the living room, offering Amanda's mother a cup of coffee. She maintained a warm smile, carefully masking her true intentions.
Amanda's mother, unaware of the storm brewing, took a sip, waiting for the conversation to begin.
"You came here before, requesting that Amanda move into this house," Zamiel's mother started. "But I have been thinking… It is not an easy decision to make. Given the circumstances, I believe the best approach would be to conduct a DNA test after the baby is born, just to confirm that the child is truly Zamiel's."
Amanda's mother, without hesitation, quickly agreed. "That is a wonderful idea! This will clear up any doubts once and for all," she said confidently.
Zamiel's mother observed her closely, hiding her surprise. She did not even flinch. Could it be that Amanda lied to her as well?
As the conversation ended, Amanda's mother excused herself and left the mansion.
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At Hazel's Father's House
When Amanda's mother arrived home, she was about to head to her room when she noticed something unusual. Her husband, Hazel's father, was speaking to a man in a blue suit—someone she immediately recognized as their family lawyer.
Her curiosity spiked. Instead of going inside, she quietly positioned herself near the door, eavesdropping on their conversation.
"I have decided," Hazel's father said. "I want to arrange a meeting with Hazel. I will be transferring all my businesses to her. As for Amanda… I will make sure she gets a house, but nothing more."
The lawyer nodded. "Understood. I will set up the necessary documents and inform Miss Hazel."
Amanda's mother's blood boiled. All these years… All these efforts… Was it all for nothing?
Her mind reeled back to the past—her dark secrets resurfacing like ghosts from the grave.
Years ago, she had been Hazel's mother's best friend. But that friendship had turned into something sinister. She had orchestrated the accident that led to Hazel's mother's death, seducing Hazel's father afterward to secure her place as the new matriarch of the family.
But even after marrying him, Hazel had remained an obstacle. So, she had set up an elaborate scheme, framing Hazel for something she had not done. One night, she had cut herself, making it appear as if Hazel had attacked her. When Amanda had walked in holding a red rose, the scene had been perfectly set.
"Amanda," she had cried weakly. "Your sister… she… she tried to kill me!"
Hazel's father had entered the room just in time to see Hazel holding the bloody knife. From that day forward, he had distanced himself from Hazel, treating her like an outcast.
Back in the present, Amanda's mother clenched her fists. I have come too far to let Hazel take what belongs to Amanda. I will not allow it!
At Zamiel's Apartment
That evening, Hazel sat comfortably on Zamiel's lap, his hands gently rubbing her waist. She looked at him, curiosity flickering in her eyes.
"What are you planning to do about Amanda?" she asked.
Zamiel, running his fingers through her hair, smirked. "The only thing I want you to focus on is me," he whispered.
Hazel smiled, pecking his forehead. Their lips brushed against each other, and the atmosphere between them grew intense. Zamiel leaned in, his voice low and husky, "I want you."
With slow precision, he unbuttoned his white shirt. Then, without breaking eye contact, he lifted Hazel in his arms, carrying her to the bedroom. He laid her down gently, covering her body with his own.
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The Next Morning – At Star Entertainment
By 8:00 AM, all staff members had gathered in the meeting room. Hazel sat among them, waiting for the CEO's arrival. The moment the doors opened, Zamiel walked in, his presence commanding immediate respect.
"Good morning, everyone," he greeted as they all stood to acknowledge him before taking their seats.
He got straight to the point. "Early this morning, I came across some troubling rumors about our lead actress, Amanda. Allegations are spreading that she has used her body to secure roles. I would like to hear your thoughts."
A man named Feran stood up. "Sir, I believe we should wait before taking action. This could be the work of anti-fans. Moreover, the director she worked with is a woman, which contradicts the rumors."
Zamiel nodded, listening intently.
Another staff member added, "But there is also a rumor about her being pregnant. Should we address that as well?"
Zamiel's expression remained unreadable. "Do not worry about the pregnancy matter," he said simply. Then, turning to Hazel, he asked, "Miss Hazel, how is the shooting going?"
"It is going well," Hazel responded confidently.
With that, the meeting concluded.
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Amanda's Panic
Meanwhile, Amanda was still asleep in her apartment when her phone rang loudly, waking her up. She groggily reached for it, seeing her manager's name on the screen.
"Have you seen what is online?" her manager asked urgently.
Amanda rubbed her temples. "No… What is going on?"
"Check it now!" her manager snapped before hanging up.
Frowning, Amanda grabbed her phone and scrolled through social media. Her eyes widened in shock as she read the headlines:
"Actress Amanda Sleeps with Directors to Secure Roles?"
Her breath hitched. "What… what is this?"
Her hands trembled as she clicked on the article, seeing netizens tearing her reputation apart.
Her mouth hung open. Who did this?
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