CHAPTER 178
“What?”
Arianna’s expression remained dazed. She was far more stunned by the events unfolding than the reporters. At that moment, her mind was completely blank, rendering her unable to move.
The reporter’s eyes lit up, eager to follow up on his question. However, before he could speak, Xander drew Arianna close, cupping her delicate chin with his slender fingers. He tilted her head up as he lowered his own.
With a forceful and passionate kiss, Xander claimed Arianna’s lips as if the world had disappeared around them.
The room erupted with gasps and shouts.
Arianna’s eyes widened as she was enveloped by Xander’s striking features. Whether it was part of the act or simply instinct, she wrapped her arms around his neck and slowly closed her eyes.
Arianna responded to the kiss with equal fervour, as if oblivious to the world around her.
Despite the throng of reporters and the chaos in the conference room, Xander and Arianna appeared to have entered a separate realm where nothing else mattered.
Their display left no room for doubt about the authenticity of their relationship. It was a clear and passionate expression of mutual love.
After the kiss, Arianna felt dizzy and breathless, her legs growing weak. Thankfully, Xander’s steady embrace kept her from losing her balance.
The intense kiss had effectively rendered any further questions unnecessary. Xander, who had always been uncomfortable with such public displays, lifted his gaze and glanced at Ronald, who stood off to the side of the stage.
Ronald immediately understood and signalled for action. A group of well-trained bodyguards in black suits moved into the conference room and forcefully cleared the path, pushing back the throng of reporters.
Xander’s lips were close to Arianna’s ear as he whispered, “Let’s go.”
He then strode purposefully towards the exit, keeping his arm securely around Arianna to shield her.
As the reporters tried to follow, Ronald stepped onto the stage, grabbed the microphone, and cleared his throat.
“Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please! I have an important announcement to make on behalf of Mr. King!”
"On behalf of Mr. King!"
The phrase caused everyone to pause in anticipation.
Was there more insider information about to be revealed?
The reporters quickly shifted their focus, aiming their microphones and cameras at Ronald with heightened interest.
Ronald smiled confidently and addressed the crowd with authority. “To all the official accounts and cyber trolls spreading rumours online about Ms Johnson —or rather, Mrs King—consider this your final notice. You have until the end of this press conference to issue an apology and remove any defamatory posts or blogs. If not, the legal team from the King Group will be in touch to discuss this matter further.”
After a brief pause to let his words sink in, Ronald smiled and continued, “As for the reporters here today, remember that journalism is meant to convey the truth, not to spread rumours or foster harmful trends. If any of the media organizations you represent are found to have fabricated stories or false reports, the King Group’s legal team will be more than happy to discuss the matter with you and your respective organizations.”
The reporters exchanged silent glances.
They had expected Ronald to unveil some sensational news, but instead, he had delivered a stern warning. It was clear he intended to use them as a platform to address those spreading false information online.
The King Group certainly knew how to wield their power effectively. Ronald’s one-two punch had neatly addressed both the rumour-mongers online and the journalists present, leaving no room for benefit on either side.
Despite the stinging rebuke, no one dared to speak out.
Everyone understood that the King Group’s legal team was formidable, with a reputation for winning every case they handled. Their mere presence was enough to ensure a favourable outcome.
The media organizations and reporters knew better than to cross the Kings. They had no choice but to submit in the face of such formidable authority.
The reporters managed strained smiles and nodded in agreement. “Yes, of course! We understand!”
Ronald surveyed the room with a satisfied nod. “That concludes today’s press conference. Thank you all for your attendance!”
The reporters felt a mix of frustration and dismay. Arianna was the only one who emerged unscathed, while the headlines they had prepared were now irrelevant.
Amidst the chaos, Mr. Cole attempted to sneak away, crouching low to avoid notice. However, he had barely taken two steps before someone yanked him back by the collar.
Startled, he turned to see Ronald, usually mild-mannered, gripping him firmly. Ronald's face was stern as he snapped,
“What do you think you’re doing? Let go of me!”
Mr. Cole struggled fiercely, even attempting to strike Ronald.
Ronald merely smirked and said nothing. He swiftly kicked Mr Cole’s knees from behind, causing him to collapse to the ground with a painful cry. “Aghh—”
Mr Cole’s eyes widened in shock. He hadn’t anticipated Ronald to be so forceful. Despite Ronald's unassuming appearance, the kick was so intense that Mr. Cole began to sweat.
It was clear that the people around Xander were not to be underestimated.
A bodyguard in black approached, and Ronald handed Mr Cole over to him. After brushing off his hands, Ronald straightened his clothes and prepared to leave.
Suddenly, Ronald felt a hand clutching his thigh.
