Chapter 31:

Mabel wept, her emotions raw, while Glenda tried to soothe her. "Sweetie, don't worry too much. Perhaps it's just fake news. The matter is under investigation; the police will uncover the truth."

However, Glenda's comfort only intensified Mabel's distress, causing her to cry harder. After changing her shoes and overhearing Mabel's sobs, Elyse realized Jayden had acted. On her way home, she'd seen a trending topic—a list alleging several celebrities had participated in an infamous orgy, engaging in scandalous acts and illicit transactions. Mabel's name was among them.

Mabel wasn't hugely famous, but she was well-liked, and the scandal caused many fans to unfollow her. Jayden's punishment, though not overly harsh, felt to Mabel like a death blow.

Entering the living room, Elyse saw Mabel weeping on the sofa, Glenda trying to console her, and Lanny appearing silent and indifferent. His reaction changed upon noticing her. He stood up in surprise. "Elyse, you're home! Why didn't you tell me you were coming? Did Mr. Owen come with you?" He peered behind her.

"Jayden had to handle some matters, so he couldn't come," Elyse explained. "I returned because I needed to deal with something."

After a pause, she glanced at Mabel and asked with a faint smile, "What's wrong?"

Mabel, remembering the rumors she'd spread about Elyse, averted her eyes guiltily. Quickly convincing herself Elyse couldn't know it was her, she snapped, "Why did you come back? Are you here to laugh at me? Get out!"

Seeing Mabel's strong aversion, Glenda interjected, "What are you doing here, Elyse? You're only upsetting Mabel further. Just leave."

Unfazed, Elyse turned to Lanny with a faint smile. "Dad, do you think I should leave, too?"

"Don't mind them. I'm happy you came to visit," Lanny replied warmly.

"Then let's have the maids prepare some desserts and drinks. It's a family reunion; shouldn't we talk?" Elyse suggested.

"Yes, you're right," Lanny agreed, promptly instructing the maids.

Frustrated by Elyse's dismissive attitude, Mabel exclaimed, "Elyse, can't you see I'm distraught? And you want drinks and desserts? Did I post that list? Did I ask you to attend that party?"

Elyse retorted sharply, "Mabel, you're not a child anymore. Adults take responsibility for their actions."

Stung, Mabel hurled a throw pillow at Elyse, who caught it effortlessly. "And you think you can lecture me? Your cheating scandal is all over the internet. Don't even show your face," Mabel countered fiercely.

Seeing Mabel's agitation, Glenda impatiently said, "Elyse, how could you speak to your sister like that?"

"Well, I certainly didn't come here for fun," Elyse replied. She slapped Mabel across the face. "How dare you spread my information online, you malicious woman!"

Mabel, shocked, hadn't anticipated this. Recovering, she screamed and lunged at Elyse, who dodged her. Mabel turned to Glenda, shouting, "Mom, Elyse hit me!" . . .