Chapter 417
Just as Nathaniel thought he'd successfully turned the situation around and was on the road to a better future, a newly posted online video caused considerable commotion. An anonymous account posted it with the caption, "I almost believed in love if it weren't for the time I took this video."
The video showed Nathaniel standing outside Rebirth's office building, holding 99 roses. He released balloons into the air while waiting for Lily. The prominent location and spectacle meant the event easily attracted attention and was recorded by numerous bystanders. Surveillance footage also captured the scene. Lily, of course, orchestrated the video's release, hiring someone to post it. She'd avoided sensationalism previously, but since Nathaniel enjoyed this "game," she decided to play along.
Nathaniel initially ignored the video, even welcoming the public display of his romantic gesture. However, as it trended, he noticed the unsettling caption, "If it weren't for the time I took this video," and questioned its meaning.
Observant netizens quickly identified the location as Rebirth's office building. The balloons, bearing the message "I love you, Lily," further pinpointed the timing. Given Nathaniel's recent notoriety, many quickly connected him to the video. Some who'd previously sympathized with him changed their minds.
Comments included:
"Someone filmed this shortly after Melanie's incident, right? He doesn't seem upset or guilty! Am I missing something?"
"You're not alone."
"I felt sorry for him; now I'm embarrassed I ever supported him!"
"Remember him calling Lily clingy? This video shows who really is!"
"Exactly! He's the one bothering her! Disgusting!"
"He's the most shameless person ever!"
"What a bastard!"
Nathaniel could only watch as the internet labeled him a bastard. He couldn't understand how a single video had so swiftly reversed his fortunes.
However, some supporters defended him:
"He broke up with Melanie two months ago, peacefully. Why can't he move on? Love is complicated. Besides, videos are easily faked. This might be a fabrication!"