Frustrated that her boss and the actress had acted independently, Fannie realized that, since it had already happened, they might as well use the situation to gain some publicity. After all, Bobby was known for his playboy lifestyle, and for him, dealing with such incidents was trivial.
Fannie said calmly, âThe paparazzi are swarming outside. Thereâs no avoiding them today. It would be wiser to face them and confess openly, to preserve both partiesâ dignity.â
Bobby retorted, âWhy should I cooperate with you?â
Without waiting for Fannieâs response, he turned to the actress and said, âYou claim to have slept with someone, then find the person responsible. Are you trying to pin this on me? What if I admit it today, and tomorrow you claim youâre pregnant with my child?â
Bobby had a valid point. In this industry, trust was a scarce resource. Fannie empathized with his situation. If Bobby had indeed slept with the actress, it was reasonable for her to seek his assistance. However, if he hadnât, and later found himself in a relationship only to be dragged into a scandal, it would be a real setback.
âAre you implying that you two spent the whole night talking?â Fannie asked.
Bobby chuckled and retorted, âHavenât you and Jett been alone together? Following your reasoning, should I assume youâve been intimate?â
âJett?â The actress inhaled sharply, clearly familiar with the name. Fannieâs rapid advancement in the industry had been largely facilitated by Jettâs support.
Being under Fannieâs management came with certain advantages, such as abundant resources. Jett, known for his generosity, was always quick to financially back anything related to Fannie, no matter the cost.
The mention of Jettâs name by Bobby seemed to confirm the circulating rumors about Fannie and Jett. A flush of red colored Fannieâs cheeks as she struggled to suppress her anger.
âDo you think everyone behaves as you do?â she asked.
âAnd what about me?â Bobby shrugged. âShould my questionable past mean I just accept things as they are? Why should I? My reputation matters to me as well.â
âSo, what is it that you want?â Fannieâs voice was firm.
âFannie Cooper.â Hearing Bobby use her full name for the first time sent a shiver down her spine. âYou have no ground to speak to me in such a manner. If you corner me, Iâll go to the paparazzi and say I was set up. Youâre claiming I slept with her? Alright, letâs get a medical check-up to confirm. If it turns out true, Iâll marry her.â
Fannie managed to muster a smile, though the situation weighed heavily on her.
The actressâs eyes sparkled with interest. Could this actually turn into a favorable situation?
Fannie softened her tone. âPlease consider it a favor you can grant me.â
Bobby remained unaffected. âI donât see the need.â
This moment marked Fannieâs first significant challenge in her role as an agent.
She inhaled deeply, then instructed, âPlease, you first,â her words directed at the actress.
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