CHAPTER 318
Arianna’s voice carried confidently through the studio.
"Professor Selby Cornell has firmly refuted allegations of any improper conduct with his former student, Ms. Linda Willby, Investigations reveal that Ms. Willby fabricated these allegations after her graduation thesis failed to meet the professor's academic standards. Though deeply hurt by these claims, Professor Cornwell empathizes with Ms. Willby’s emotional distress. Out of respect for their prior teacher-student dynamic, he has chosen not to pursue legal action and hopes she can move forward positively. He also urges the public to avoid perpetuating these baseless rumours and thanks everyone for their understanding.”
“And that’s a wrap. Thank you for joining us.”
The director’s voice cut through the air, signalling the end of the live segment.
“And… we’re clear! Cue the commercials.”
The cameras slowly pulled back, signalling the end of the live broadcast.
Arianna released a deep, controlled breath, her chest rising and falling as the weight of the moment finally began to lift.
The stress that had gripped her for the past few minutes seemed to dissolve, leaving a quiet sense of relief. She had done it.
Despite all the chaos, she had pulled it off flawlessly.
The studio was momentarily hushed, as if everyone was processing the events that had just unfolded. Then, like a tidal wave, applause erupted, growing louder with each passing second. The sound echoed off the walls, but it was more than just noise; the astonishment and admiration were evident on everyone’s faces.
Many had doubted her ability to handle the pressure. Whispers of skepticism circulated among the crew, with some expecting a mistake or a lapse in composure. Yet, Arianna proved them all wrong, standing firm and managing the situation with a calmness that belied her inexperience.
In that instant, she evolved from a novice into a professional who commanded attention. What could have spiraled into chaos instead became a flawless broadcast, and her poise transformed the anxious atmosphere into one of admiration and respect.
The shift in energy was palpable, filling the room with an exhilarating buzz. Even the director, who had been prepared to intervene if necessary, offered a subtle nod of approval. His acknowledgment was understated yet sincere, and the small smile on his face reflected genuine respect for her performance.
A faint smile tugged at the corners of his mouth, clearly impressed by Arianna’s composure and professionalism, especially considering this was her first live broadcast.
While the applause and admiration of the crew filled the room, Arianna appeared unaware of it. Her attention was solely on one person in the crowd.
Without a second thought, she rose and swiftly descended the steps, her movements guided entirely by instinct.
When she reached him, Arianna threw herself into Xander’s embrace, her arms wrapping around him tightly.
It wasn’t typical for Arianna to behave so openly in public. She was usually careful, especially when it came to Xander, always mindful of how their relationship might be perceived.
There were two main reasons she kept their personal life out of the spotlight: first, she didn’t want to become the subject of gossip; second, she was protective of Xander’s reputation—and by extension, the reputation of his family’s company. Constant media attention could be damaging for both.
But at that moment, none of that mattered. The overwhelming sense of relief and joy eclipsed everything else.
But today, she couldn’t bring herself to care. The emotions surging through her were too overwhelming to restrain.
Arianna’s gaze lifted to meet his, her teeth lightly grazing her bottom lip. In a soft, wavering tone, she murmured,
“I want to kiss you, my hubby.”
Words felt inadequate to convey the depth of her feelings at that moment. Only action could express how truly moved and cherished she felt.
Xander raised an eyebrow, a hint of mischief in his gaze.
“Here? Now?”
Arianna nodded eagerly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
“May I?”
“Absolutely not,” Xander stated firmly, his response immediate and unwavering.
“Oh…”
Arianna’s shoulders dropped slightly, disappointment flickering across her face.
She knew Xander wasn’t the type to seek attention, especially in such a public setting. A display like that would certainly be out of character for him.
But just as she began to accept his answer, his deep, velvety voice brushed past her ear.
"In moments like these," Xander said, his voice low and teasing as he leaned in closer, his eyes locking with hers, "it’s a man’s duty to take charge."
Arianna’s breath hitched as his words hung in the air, their meaning sinking in, her pulse quickening in response. She barely had time to process what he was about to do before he tilted his head and captured her lips with his
Arianna’s dark eyes widened in surprise, her mind briefly going blank. The shock quickly melted into joy as warmth spread through her.
She closed her eyes, rising onto her toes and wrapping her arms around his neck, returning his kiss without hesitation or concern for those around them.
The crew nearby stood motionless for a moment, caught completely off guard by the unexpected display.
Then, almost in unison, they gasped, unable to tear their eyes away. Arianna and Xander were mesmerizing together, their chemistry palpable and undeniable.
Applause soon erupted among the staff, the excitement in the room reaching a fever pitch. The women, in particular, couldn’t contain themselves, their enthusiastic cheers and delighted laughter filling the air as the kiss lingered.
One woman couldn’t help but exclaim,
“I can’t believe I’m witnessing this! Xander isn’t just impossibly handsome—he’s the perfect romantic lead too!"
Another added with excitement, “This feels like something straight out of the most captivating romance story ever—only it’s real! Arianna is breathtakingly beautiful, and Xander? He’s so strikingly handsome it’s almost unfair!”
A third sighed wistfully, “If only I could swap places with Arianna for just one moment.”
“I couldn’t agree more!” a fourth added enthusiastically.
The room was filled with cheers and gushing admiration for the couple. However, not everyone was enchanted by the scene.
Harmony stood off to the side, her face twisted in anger and resentment as she watched Xander and Arianna locked in their intimate moment. Every second of their happiness felt like a dagger to her chest.
She didn’t even realize when she stormed out of the studio. All she knew was that if she had stayed a moment longer, she might have lost control and done something she’d regret—like confronting Arianna then and there.
Arianna didn’t deserve any of this. In Harmony’s mind, she was nothing more than a thief—a woman who had stolen the life and happiness that should have been hers.
Leaning against a window, Harmony struggled to calm herself, taking deep breaths to regain her composure. Her emotions had been running wild ever since she returned to the country, and she knew it was affecting her judgment.
She’d wasted too much time and energy on petty confrontations, giving Arianna the upper hand again and again.
But not anymore.
This was the moment to turn the tide. Harmony’s eyes darkened with resolve as she pulled out her phone and dialled a number.
When the call connected, her voice was icy and firm.
“It’s time. Start the plan.”
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