Nicole pressed on, “Soon, the internet will catch wind of our relationship during the roadshow. If you disagree, how do you plan on setting the record straight?
You didn’t exactly push me away during that incident.”
Estelle’s expression darkened. “Are you trying to threaten us? Leighton didn’t resist your advances because he wanted to help you.”
Nicole nodded. “And I appreciate that. I believe there’s no better solution than I’ve suggested for our current predicament.”
She then turned her gaze toward Leighton and said, “If your aim is merely to sustain your current level of popularity, I can release a statement saying that today’s incident was a publicity stunt and that I was the one who put you up to it.
You can continue being the idol adored by fans.” A moment of tension lingered. Estelle sensed the potential trouble. Nicole seemed to have a knack for subtly manipulating situations.
Leighton valued his fans but genuinely disliked the burden of being labeled a top star. The concept of a top idol has evolved over the years.
At first, it portrayed a male idol with refined features and mediocre acting skills, yet received acclaim regardless of the performance quality. In such a setting, individual improvement was nearly unattainable.
Leighton had experienced a brief period of arrogance when he first gained fame, but a scolding from his father had quickly brought him back to reality.
He vividly remembered his father’s harsh words, “You call that acting? Hah. Do you really think you’re a big shot now just because a few people praised you?”
Leighton’s pride was wounded, and he argued with his father.
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