Marlene joined Brenda on the couch, while the cameraman began setting up, casting a fleeting look of disdain at Lilah before focusing on his task.
Lilah, unperturbed, was curious about the reason behind Laura's interview.
Soon, everything was in place, and the interview commenced.
The reporter's initial questions to Laura revolved around her schooling experiences and her feelings about waking from a prolonged coma.
“Miss Rhodes, there's talk that you were in a vegetative state because of saving Mr. Gerard Harris’ life. Any regrets?" the reporter asked.
Laura's response came with a smile. "Not at all. I would have done the same, even if it weren't for Gerard."
Marlene, pulling out her phone, showed Brenda the live broadcast.
“Look, Mrs. Harris, it's being streamed live. Over 100, 00 people are tuned in right now."
Brenda peered at the screen, her surprise evident. She was taken aback by Laura's fame.
Meanwhile, Lilah quickly found the live stream.
The comments were awash with admiration for Laura.
"My goodness, Laura's as radiant as ever. She's simply angelic."
"Her grace is unparalleled. In my eyes, she's the epitome of an ideal partner. If I were into women, she'd be the sort I'd fall for."
"Well, I think Laura's charm is undeniable to any gender. Ha-ha—"
"Hard to believe Lilah could've raised a hand against such a gentle soul. What goes around comes around, they say.”
While many extolled Laura, they simultaneously chastised Lilah.
Lilah, anticipating such reactions, brushed them off with composure.
The interview took a sudden turn when the reporter asked, “Lilah Phillips assaulted you. What are your thoughts?"
The room tensed at the direct question.
Laura's brow furrowed; she was clearly unprepared for this line of inquiry. Feeling Brenda's eyes on her, she inhaled deeply and responded coolly, "This question wasn't on our agreed list, was it?"
The reporter stood her ground. “Miss Rhodes, we select questions on the fly. And everyone's concerned about your well-being. Isn't it reasonable to address this?"
Laura, firm yet measured, replied, “There's been a misunderstanding.
I wasn't seriously hurt. Please, let's not vilify Lilah," emphasizing her words with care.
Brenda's frown deepened, as she mulled over whether Laura had done it intentionally.