Their voices rose in a chorus of concern and sympathy as they recalled the incident with Effie.

"Don't worry, Tess! We will seek justice for you," one fan declared passionately, eyes wide with devotion.

"Yes, Effie must be kicked out of showbiz. This isn't just our wish-it's everyone's," another fan added, nodding vigorously.

"Have a good rest. We believe justice will be served. The police will undoubtedly provide satisfactory results," a third fan assured with conviction.

Tess nodded, her expression one of humble gratitude. "I trust you all," she said softly, each word carefully chosen to reinforce their loyalty.

A fan suddenly spoke up, their voice tinged with urgency. "Tess, if the police find that Effie targeted you intentionally, don't forgive her, even if Flurry Entertainment pressures you."

Tess looked at her fans, her gaze steady and resolute. "I won't," she promised, her voice firm.

"That's right. Effie must be punished," another fan insisted.

"She must be kicked out of showbiz!" someone else suddenly shouted, the crowd echoing the sentiment.

A fan then added in a disdainful voice, “Effie is already despised, like a rat. Her infamy will surely lead to her being banned."

Tess secretly gloated, feeling a thrill of victory. This was precisely what she desired.

At that moment, more than a dozen men in black suits suddenly entered the room, their presence commanding and imposing. The atmosphere shifted instantly, tension crackling in the air.

Tess and her fans were stunned into silence, their whispers dying down as they took in the sight.

Tess frowned, confusion and apprehension flickering across her face. "Who are these people?" she demanded, her voice laced with irritation.

Her fans murmured among themselves, their curiosity piqued. "Who are they? Why do I feel like a big shot is coming?" one whispered.

"Who would have so many bodyguards?" another wondered aloud.

"I don't know," a third fan replied.

Her voice sharp with irritation and impatience, Tess demanded, "Who is it?"

Just then, Lilah entered the room, her presence electric and commanding attention. "It's me," she announced, her voice clear and confident, cutting through the tension like a knife.

Seeing Lilah, Tess' eyes narrowed into slits. "What are you doing here? Are you here to plead for Effie?" she asked, her tone dripping with arrogance and suspicion.

Tess knew that Lilah's appearance meant trouble.

Hearing that Lilah might be here for Effie sparked a wave of hostility among the fans and reporters, who wasted no time in launching a barrage of insults and abuse in her direction.

"Like attracts like. Effie's a disgrace, and anyone siding with her is no better," a fan mocked.

Confusion rippled through some. "It's okay to stand by someone, but Effie? That woman's a criminal in the making! You should steer clear of her."