Chapter 41

A tsunami of backlash from Serena's devoted fans crashed down upon Vivian, fueling the scandal's wildfire. The heated debate drew swarms of spectators, their polarized opinions crackling like live wires across social media platforms.

"I was there during the first round of auditions supporting other hopefuls when I saw Vivian Hartley in person. She's absolutely luminous - a rare gem that outshines all these so-called A-list actresses. Let's be honest, Serena can't hold a candle to her!"

"Serena's acting range has plateaued since her debut. Every role since has been a carbon copy of the last - safe, predictable, and utterly uninspired. It's obvious she's coasting on industry connections rather than talent. No wonder she lost the role to someone fresh."

But Serena's loyalists swiftly mobilized to silence dissent. They circulated "proof" that Vivian - an unknown newcomer - couldn't possibly have beaten an established star like Serena without powerful backers pulling strings.

The entertainment world knew Serena's credentials were impeccable, her reputation built through years of careful cultivation. Yet here was Vivian, seemingly emerging from nowhere to challenge her - exactly the scenario Serena's fans painted of a pretty face propped up by some wealthy benefactor. Vivian's striking beauty only reinforced their narrative, making even neutral observers nod in reluctant agreement.

Human nature struggles to believe extraordinary beauty comes without hidden patronage. Overnight, Vivian's rising star imploded before she could even enjoy her breakthrough, her reputation in freefall.

In her sterile hospital suite, Serena scrolled through the social media storm with predatory satisfaction. A venomous smile curled her lips as she absorbed the vitriol directed at Vivian. The transformation was startling - where hours earlier she'd appeared wan and fragile during her confrontation with Adrian, now she radiated malicious vitality.

Meanwhile, Lydia's voice remained an island of calm in the tempest. "Don't waste energy worrying about the trending drama," she assured Vivian with unshakable confidence. "I'll handle the fallout. You just focus on resting at home."

After Vivian's grateful nod, Lydia hurried off. Alone in her spacious 90-square-meter loft, Vivian felt the weight of helplessness press down. The apartment, meticulously cleaned by Lydia, offered sanctuary with its minimalist white palette warmed by golden lighting and crisp new linens.

After a quick shower and change into pajamas, Vivian sank into the plush mattress, her exhausted body melting into the comfort. But sleep eluded her as the social media maelstrom pulled at her thoughts. How had she, a complete unknown, become overnight fodder for public debate alongside an established star like Serena? The surreal situation reeked of orchestration.

The more Vivian analyzed, the clearer it became - Serena's powerful connections were likely engineering this spectacle. Rather than reacting impulsively, Vivian resolved to consult her most well-connected friend: Audrey Winslow.

Audrey wasn't just any friend. As the daughter of an entertainment titan, she moved through celebrity circles with insider knowledge most could only dream of. Her wealth and connections gave her unparalleled access to stars, paparazzi, and media power players, making her a walking encyclopedia of industry secrets.

Over the years, Audrey had shared countless verified celebrity scoops with Vivian. Now, Vivian texted her the entire situation. Audrey's reply came swiftly: "Do we even need to investigate? This has Serena's fingerprints all over it!" Yet true to form, she immediately began verifying her suspicions.

[To be continued...]