Chapter 1847
Estelle's face turned an unsettling shade of white, "Have you lost your mind? Aren't you worried the fans will tear you apart if you
say you're in a relationship?"
Leighton maintained a composed demeanor and responded, "Whether I agree or not, this matter will blow up. Even if she
clarifies the matter, people will still think it's a joint PR stunt."
Estelle grew increasingly anxious and protested, "If we don't respond, the hype will die down. Besides, we're the victims of this
incident. Why would you jeopardize your future for her?"
Estelle had a positive impression of Nicole, particularly in a professional context. However, there was a limit to her admiration.
She could not let Nicole manipulate Leighton like this.
Nicole did not rely on popularity for her livelihood. She had built a solid track record over the years and would receive job offers
no matter what. Whether or not her romantic life was revealed, it had almost no bearing on her professional trajectory.
On the other hand, Leighton's success in the industry heavily relied on his popularity. Any provocation that angered his fans
could lead to his downfall.
Publicly disclosing a romantic relationship posed issues for top idols. Once made public, an idol's popularity often plummeted,
and their career would face obstacles.
Moreover, Leighton and Nicole were not a real couple. Estelle did not understand why he would agree to this.
"I'll forever be stuck in the same place if I only care about being adored and praised by fans. What they like is my appearance.
Someone better will replace me in five to ten years. How am I supposed to establish myself in the industry then?" Leighton said
in disdain.
He added, "Estelle, you should understand this better than I do. I can't aspire for a transformation while clinging onto the
adoration of fans."
Estelle was exasperated.
Nicole observed Leighton, genuinely appraising him for the first time. She sensed a serious undertone beneath his usual playful
demeanor.
In his early twenties, he was youthful. He had a gaze that exuded the sharpness and arrogance of youth, untouched by worldly
influences.
Estelle's logic was reasonable. She emphasized the importance of a gradual transition and avoiding betraying the fans. Nicole
understood that she could not compensate for the losses Leighton would experience no matter what she promised him.
Realizing she should not have gotten involved with him, Nicole was about to suggest consulting the PR team for a solution. But
before she could speak up, Leighton said, "It's settled. I'll bear all the consequences."
Estelle was furious, "Alright. Great. You're the boss. You can handle it on your own. I'm definitely on board!" With that, she
grimaced and remained silent.
Leighton turned to Nicole and said, "Since we're going public with this relationship, I think we should get our stories straight."
Nicole pursed her lips, "Have you thought this through?"
"Let's get to the point."
His response rendered Nicole speechless.
Lindy could not be happier. If they announced their relationship, not only could they explain the incident, but rumors about
Nicole's sexual orientation circulating on the internet would also be dispelled. She was overjoyed.
Stella and Felicity were also thrilled to be in the middle of all the drama.