Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 498

Every time, Evelina would make an excuse to go to his apartment to retrieve something.

In reality, her true purpose was to see Alaric, hoping to persuade him and cling to him desperately.

Alaric was tricked by this a few times, but he eventually stopped falling for it. He gave her the apartment password and told her to retrieve it on her own.

Evelina had no other option but to give up when she couldn't find him.

Until the appearance of the movie 'Firelight' ...

Alaric had previously encountered Hattie on the set of 'The Chosen One', and 'Firelight' marked their second joint project.

Hattie and Evelina were very different kinds of women.

Alaric had once been badly hurt and had developed a fear of delicate women as a result. He was wary of getting involved with someone like that again.

During the filming of 'Firelight', there were several intimate kissing and bedroom scenes between them.

Naturally, this led to some romance between them.

Alaric developed feelings for Hattie, and she did not reject him. They began seeing each other secretly and started a covert relationship.

However, Evelina discovered what was happening.

She was filled with intense jealousy and resentment due to the success of 'Firelight' and Alaric's rising career.

The last time she had a reason to visit the apartment, she came across belongings left by Hattie.

This discovery was what triggered the whole incident.

...

When Carmel heard the full story, he insisted, "Should we address this with an official statement?"

After thinking it over, Alaric sighed and said, "Evelina has Hattie's belongings. I don't want to drag Hattie into this."

Carmel was outraged. "What am I supposed to do now? Do you think she has feelings while you have principles? Her studio already put out a clarification statement last night!"

Alaric replied, "From the start, she told me it was just a fling, and she's also a victim in this situation."

Carmel responded, "And what about you? Are you just a puppet now? Is it really worth jeopardising your career for this?"

Alaric took a puff of his cigarette and sighed heavily.

"This is Evelina's revenge. She's really crazy ...

"Sorry, Carmel, I'll handle this."

...

Three days later ...

Alaric posted a message on his personal Facebook announcing his withdrawal from the entertainment industry.

He didn't give any details, only left a brief statement: 'Those who are innocent will stay innocent. Not arguing doesn't mean I accept the accusations. I just don't want to harm anyone else. Apologies to my fans who supported me, you don't have to wait for me.'