Betrayed by Blood: My Second Life as a Queen novel Chapter 12

Even though Elias knew Willow had likely paid someone to put on a show, wrong was wrong. No matter how angry she was, she had no right to target Tessa!

Remembering Willow's defiant attitude earlier that night, Elias's temper flared!

He had spoiled her for too long. She needed to face the consequences of her actions!

His gaze darkened with resolve as his voice turned icy. "Tessa, this isn't your fault. I actually took a picture of Willow cheating earlier tonight. She's the one in the wrong. I'm going to expose her viciousness right now and clear up these rumors for you."

Tessa's sobs hitched. She looked up at him in apparent confusion, masking the uncontrollable thrill racing through her veins!

Thinking she didn't believe him, Elias placed his phone on the table.

He had snapped the picture out of sheer anger before leaving the shopping district, never expecting it would come in handy so soon.

Everyone leaned in. In the photo, Willow was pressed against a man whose face was obscured, their posture incredibly intimate, looking seconds away from a kiss.

Julian immediately recognized the man standing next to Willow. It was the lover he had hired to frame her!

After all, he was the one who had orchestrated the setup.

He knew full well that Willow had nothing to do with the man, but so what?

As long as it salvaged Tessa's reputation, Willow taking a little collateral damage was a small price to pay.

Xavier and Leo recognized the setup too, but both remained completely silent by an unspoken agreement, allowing Elias to jump to conclusions.

Tessa blinked, a fresh tear rolling down her cheek. "How could she do this to Elias? If I hadn't selfishly ruined the wedding, she would have made a complete fool out of him. Willow really has no sense of decency!"

Seeing that Tessa truly hadn't recognized the staged photo, Xavier let out a quiet sigh of relief.

She was too pure-hearted. If she knew it was fake, she would never let them post it.

This was for the best; it spared Tessa from any guilt.

Xavier turned to Elias. "Willow is entirely at fault here. Post the clarification. I'll back up your story."

A flicker of triumph flashed through Tessa's eyes, her fingers relaxing in pure satisfaction.

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