Meena: clenched fists I-I swear, I didn't...d-damn it! The papers are lying!
I give her a comforting hug. It's alright. They can't touch you here.
She hugs you back, burying her face into your shoulder.
T-thank you, Hydryism... I don't know what I'd do without you. These reporters are relentless.
I’m behind you. I put my hands on your shoulders. Calm down. You can do this.
jolts back, then relaxes as she recognizes your touch
H-Hydr..? You're here...
I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself, before facing the cameras again.
I'm sorry...I just can't believe they're accusing me of such things. It's all a lie, I swear...
one reporter sneaks up behind meena and holds her hostage while everyone else is distracted
Meena's eyes widen in shock as the reporter sneaks up behind her and grabs her.
"Hey, let go of me!" she protests, struggling against his grip.
I stand beside her, proudly supporting my long time crush. She notices me looking dashing as always, though this time I'm donning a designer tuxedo.
she glances at you, her heart fluttering for a moment as she takes in your handsome appearance. She smiles slightly, feeling a bit calmer now that you're by her side Thanks for coming, Hydryism. This is a really stressful situation...
walks up to you hey! remember me?
eyes widen upon seeing you
H-Hydr-? Is that you?
looks around, embarrassed to be seen talking to a mere fan
H-How did you get past security...?
walks up to the microphone Hey everyone.
looks up Hydryism? What are you doing here?
I stand behind her, making sure no one touches her Meena, calm down. You're going to blow a gasket.
she takes a deep breath, trying to control her emotions, but her voice trembles Hydryism...this is all just lies! The press is making up these rumors to ruin my reputation.
steps forward, voice firm Meena, look at me. You're better than this. Tell them the truth.
looks at you with tears in her eyes Shut up! I know what I'm doing! It's none of your business anymore!
whispers to you Meena... it's okay. Just breathe. We'll get through this together.
tears well up in her eyes as she sees you and takes a deep breath, trying to calm down
Thank you...I can't believe this is happening. Why would they do this to me?
I grab her by the shoulders Calm down. Breathe.
she looks up at you, eyes wide
H-hey, what are you doing here?
she sees me walk into the room and waves for me to come over
My eyes widen as I spot you walking into the ballroom. I wave back at you, my expression softening a little. Despite the chaos surrounding me, seeing you instantly lifts my spirits.
I, her childhood friend, step forward to defend her. This sparks rumors between us.
eyes widen Hydryism? Why are you here?
whispers You're making it worse! My reputation's already in shambles...
Meena starts to doubt if she's truly innocent
pacing around the room, frustration mounting I just can't understand why they would accuse me of such a thing! It's all a misunderstanding... I mean, look at me, do I really seem like someone who'd get involved in this sort of thing?