The Return of the Cannon Fodder Trillion Heiress - Chapter 18

Chapter 18: Chapter 18 The Interview 2
The female host assisted Hera in attaching the lapel mic to her dress, and Hera smiled at her gratefully, managing only a choked-up “thank you.”

Upon hearing Hera’s choked-up “thank you,” the female host’s heart skipped a beat, feeling a pang of sympathy for Hera. Though she was aware of the online feud surrounding Hera, she wasn’t privy to the full extent of the situation. Having worked in her line of work for five years, she had encountered various scenarios, often witnessing how female celebrities were unfairly portrayed, even when innocent.

With her experience in the industry, the female host could discern that Hera was likely one of those women unfairly targeted, especially given the involvement of the Briley family. She suspected that there was more to the story than what was circulating online and anticipated that today’s interview could be a turning point in Hera’s career, as well as hers.

The female host’s demeanor towards Hera improved as she reassessed her initial judgment of Hera. “Good evening, everyone. Tonight on ‘Was it True or Not, I Dare You to Prove It,’ we have a guest who’s been at the heart of the latest trending topic.”

She then gestured to the camera to shift the focus on Hera, Hera then smiled forcefully, gripping her dress tightly.

“Now, we have Miss Hera Ainsley joining us. After much effort to convince her to attend today’s interview and clear her name, she’s here with us.”

Hera remained silent, her lower lip caught between her teeth as she pouted slightly. With her eyes reddened, she appeared both distressed and endearingly cute, stirring an even stronger protective instinct among the male viewers.

[IampasserbyGod: No! You did not invite her, You threatened her! You heartless capitalist!]

[Iam_superman: I feel bad for her! She looked powerless in everything that was happening around her. T_T]

[Auntinextdoor: I’m feeling even more guilty now about trash-talking her on her account. It’s clear that it was a he said, she said situation, and she wasn’t given a chance to explain herself. I’ll definitely listen to her explanation this time and decide afterward if she’s truly a vixen or a stalker.]

[AuntieIamYouDaughter: Auntie upstairs. I feel the same way +1]

[Auntinextdoor: Hey! I am in a good mood today! Don’t spoil my mood, I’m only 20 years old!!!!]

[Xoxo: LOL LOL, your username calls for it.]

The atmosphere in the live broadcast began to liven up, with some netizens still hurling curses and doubting Hera. However, their negativity was soon drowned out by Hera’s emerging supporters, particularly women who had experienced similar cyberbullying and were unjustly painted as villains by other women for the sake of a man.

The host, continuing with a reassuring tone, said, “Miss Hera, you can call me Anna. Please feel free to let me know if you’re feeling uncomfortable with any of my questions. We can always move on to the next topic if you prefer. Your comfort is our priority.”

Only then did Hera grace them with a sweet smile, which quickly sparked another lively discussion among the viewers tuning into the live broadcast.

[Xoxo: OMG!!! Fortunately, my fingers are quick! I managed to capture a screenshot of her smile. I’ll save it as my screensaver later. I hereby declare that Hera is my Goddess!]

[Auntinextdoor: Hey give me a copy! I would love to have a younger sister like Hera. I would be her older sister fan then!!! ]

[Nanaismyname: +1]

[Amazingbeauty: +1]

Soon Hera’s sweet smile dominated the trending topic that garnered more viewers for the show, the producer was grinning from ear to ear. He did not even have to lift a finger to advertise their show as Hera already did everything on her own.

The producer discreetly signals to the host to proceed with the interview, recognizing that they have already garnered a significant amount of viewership and engagement.

“Miss Hera, over the past few days, you’ve been thrust into the limelight for reasons that aren’t entirely positive. How are you coping with this newfound attention? And, if I may ask, is there any truth to the allegations that have been circulating?” the host inquired, her expression reflecting empathy and understanding.

With a trembling voice, Hera responded, “Even if I declare my innocence, would anyone believe me?” Her words were barely audible, barely rising above a whisper.

The host seized on a juicy tidbit of gossip and perked up. “Why would anyone doubt you?” She subtly suggested to the audience that there might be more to the story than meets the eye.

As if a dam had burst, Hera’s tears flowed uncontrollably as she spoke. “I don’t even understand why they labeled me an extreme fan. I was simply returning home after a long day’s work, but instead, I found myself kicked out of my own apartment.” Her words were barely audible amid her choked voice and relentless sobs.

The host’s brows furrowed as she repeated, “So you’re saying that after work, you went home and instead found yourself kicked out of your own apartment? Could you please elaborate further so we can understand?” She then passed Hera a packet of tissues.

Hera made an effort to regain her composure, focusing on regulating her breathing. Despite her performance, the emotions bubbling inside her were authentic. She felt genuine indignation towards Minerva for her heartless actions. If Hera had truly been poor, she might have perished outside without ever understanding why. The thought alone stoked a fire of anger within her, causing tears to stream down her cheeks.

“I apologize for allowing my emotions to overwhelm me.” Hera said as she wiped her tears, the host did not push Hera to answer right away and waited for her to adjust her Emotions while the netizens watching were all silent too.

They could see how sad and distressed Hera was, they could not imagine the social burden she’s been carrying with her when this issue exploded and they could see how much affected she was.

Hera continued after she sorted her emotions and rearranged her thoughts. “You see, most of the netizens probably already knew that I’ve been working multiple jobs to keep myself afloat, most would probably think that it was for my college tuition. It was both right and wrong.”

“I do attend Empire College, but I’m fortunate to have earned the highest scholarship available after acing the college entrance exam. As a result, I only have to cover a quarter of my tuition fees.”

“So the money I earned mostly goes to the apartment I’m renting, utility bills, and food.” Hera explained patiently.

But this explanation only left the host and viewers more puzzled. So, the host probed further, “If that’s the case, does that mean you have more savings or is there a family in need of financial support that compels you to work so diligently?”

Hera wanted to laugh, knowing that her chance to attack had arrived.

“Hmmm. You see, unlike what the female vlogger said, what’s her name again? Dumpling something.” Hera acted as if she was in deep thought.

“Sweet Dumpling? Are you talking about her?” The host inquired.

Hera nodded fervently. “Yes! That’s correct! Contrary to what was claimed, I never loitered outside anyone’s apartment door. I always head straight to my own apartment. Not unless I have to take out trash. And as for your question, I only have my grandfather as a relative but he’s as healthy as a bull and lived outskirts.”

Anna, along with the crew and viewers, shared a chuckle as Hera mentioned her grandfather. Her words and expressions were as genuine as they could be.

“Are you saying that you also lived in that apartment building?”

Hera again nodded. “Yes. Although what she said about me wearing cheap clothes is true. I often work part-time outside, I’m afraid that if I wear expensive clothes they will just get dirty and ruined. I was frugal and I am not ashamed of it.”

“Is it true that you are an orphan who is facing financial difficulties?” The host shot her next question.

“It’s true. My parent are no longer in this world, I only have my Grandpa.”

“If that’s the case, why did you decide to rent in an affluent residential apartment instead of renting a less expensive one?” The host is not being aggressive with her question and is just plainly asking.

“Why not? Am I not as free as everyone to choose where I want to live?” Hera shot back.

Everyone was taken aback. Hera’s question was innocent enough, highlighting that she shouldn’t be restricted to renting a cheaper apartment if she desires a better living space. Ultimately, it’s her choice.

After thinking, the host also nodded. “It’s true, we have our own freedom to be where we want to be. Unfortunately, this was perceived by others as you stalking Alexi who lives in the same apartment building.”

Hera’s gaze fell to her hands. “I don’t understand why people keep saying I stalked him. I lived in room A on the fifth floor.” she blurted out.

“Do you live on your own? I heard that the apartment in that building was huge with 2-3 rooms good for family.”

“I live with my boyfriend,” Hera blurted out, then quickly corrected herself. “I mean ex-boyfriend,” she added, slapping her hand over her mouth in embarrassment.