?<strong>Chapter 1255:</strong>


    Merrick frowned, clearly unwilling to leave her in this state, but Laney insisted, urging him to go.


    Not long after, Philip and Madison arrived at the theater.


    The exposure of her rtionship with Cliff had left Laney feeling too ashamed to face Philip and Madison. But she couldn’t avoid them. Bracing herself, she made her way toward them.


    To Laney’s surprise, as soon as Madison saw her, she pulled Laney into aforting hug.


    “You must be terrified. Philip and I just saw the news. Did anyone at the theater give you trouble?” Madison asked gently.


    Laney’s eyes filled with tears. She stammered, “I… Madison, I’m so sorry.”


    “There’s no need for an apology. You didn’t do anything unforgivable. And I’ve seen the photos—Cliff certainly didn’t look like he was forced into anything. He’s just as responsible.”


    Philip nodded in agreement, offering Laney a kind look. Their understanding brought a sense of relief to Laney, but the situation remainedplicated.


    The scandal had spiraled into a public spectacle, making it increasingly difficult to handle, especially with the Foster family’s involvement. Laney steadied herself, trying not to let her family see her inner turmoil. After some persuasion, she convinced them to return to their tasks, not wanting to burden them further. Later, Madison took Laney home before quickly leaving again.


    It wasn’t until evening that Cliff finally called Laney. His voice was sharp and usatory.


    “Done spending time with your boyfriend? You don’t care whether Kira lives or dies, do you?”


    Laney’s throat tightened at his harsh tone. Since the ident, she had been on edge, anxiously waiting for news—only to be met with his anger.


    “How is she?” she asked softly.


    “She’s in the hospital. Come see for yourself,” Cliff replied coldly. He hung up before she could respond.


    Laney looked up, realizing Cliff had already turned and left without a word. Her chest tightened with bitterness. Summoning her strength, she pulled away from Merrick.


    “Thank you for helping me with the surveince today. But the photo scandal is still escting, and your involvement mightplicate things. You should keep your distance from me.”


    Merrick frowned, clearly unwilling to leave her in this state, but Laney insisted, urging him to go.


    Not long after, Philip and Madison arrived at the theater.


    The exposure of her rtionship with Cliff had left Laney feeling too ashamed to face Philip and Madison. But she couldn’t avoid them. Bracing herself, she made her way toward them.


    To Laney’s surprise, as soon as Madison saw her, she pulled Laney into aforting hug.


    “You must be terrified. Philip and I just saw the news. Did anyone at the theater give you trouble?” Madison asked gently.


    Laney’s eyes filled with tears. She stammered, “I… Madison, I’m so sorry.”


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