Chapter 300
Collins‘ jaw practically hit the floor at the revelation. “Leo, have you lost your marbles? Weren’t you always the one who-”
Leo pressed his lips together, cutting Collins off mid–sentence. “What I stand for doesn’t necessarily reflect the rest of the band, you know. Why do you think there’s a buzz about us breaking up?”
He paused, a cold laugh escaping him. “My injury was just the spark.”
Collins fell silent, his mind racing back to Vicky’s recent behavior, a growing suspicion taking root. “You think… could it be Vicky who’s got it in for you? Do you think he poisoned your drink or something?” He remembered Vicky’s vast network of friends. In particular, those fancy club buddies he’d never even heard of that were all hush–hush.
“It’s a possibility. After all, the news of my injury was kept between us. And his reaction? It was like he was dead sure I’d be out of the picture,” Leo mused, his voice measured.
“I’ll keep an eye on him. Mirabella was just talking about turning the tables, and now it looks like we’ve got our chance. Shame about those luxury brand deals and endorsements we were lining up.” Collins heaved a sigh that felt heavy as lead.
Leo glanced at him, not in the mood for chit–chat.
“What about that Twitter mess? Got a game plan for that?” Collins broached another topic. “Let them make noise,” Leo dismissed, then after a moment’s thought, added, “But Collins, you’d better ring up Walker to clarify things.”
At the mention of Walker, Collins nodded. “Slipped my mind. I’m on it.”
He fished out his phone and dialed Walker’s number. The call connected almost instantly. After a brief exchange, Collins hung up and looked towards Leo. “Walker says we’re cool.”
“Good,” Leo exhaled, visibly relieved.
Collins placed his phone on the table, leaning against its edge. “Too bad about that NDA, huh? Can’t spill the beans about you joining Walker’s show. It would’ve blown this whole injury rumor out of the water.”
Leo raised an eyebrow. “Don’t you think a comeback that slaps the rumors in the face is much more satisfying?” The buzz this controversy could generate would set the stage for an even more dramatic reveal when the show aired.
Collins gave Leo an unexpectedly admiring look. “Leo, your noggin seems to be working
overtime these days.”
You used to be oblivious to the world, man. You think your sister’s brainpower is rubbing off on
you?” Collins stroked his chin, considering the possibility seriously.
11.00
Chapter 300
Leo just glared. Screw you, Collins!
Emmitt scrolled through the online chatter about Leo’s supposed injury. Although skeptical, he couldn’t shake off the concern for his brother and decided to give Leo a call. But after several rings, there was no answer.
After much deliberation, Emmitt headed over to the Davis family home in the evening. As the doorbell chimed, the family was gathered at the dinner table. Mirabella, nearly done with her meal, rose to answer the door.
When she pulled it open to reveal Emmitt on the doorstep, she paused in surprise before calling out flatly. “Hi Emmitt.”
Emmitt had anticipated this cold reception from his sister. Her chilly tone left a bitter taste, and he managed an awkward acknowledgment before asking. “Leo’s home, right?”
“Yeah.” Mirabella’s response was curt as she turned and walked back inside.
Watching her retreating figure, Emmitt lingered in the doorway, a momentary hesitation slowing his steps before he finally entered the house.
