Fearful of something, Meadow didn't let Ariana speak. She rattled off her words quickly, not allowing interruptions.

"I apologize. It's my fault. I should've been guarding the door, but I suddenly had an upset stomach and had to use the restroom."

Ariana's mind raced with questions. Meadow had claimed Selene wanted her in the lounge, yet now it seemed Meadow had brought her there without consent.

Additionally, she had locked the door before changing. How could Francis have simply pushed it open and entered?

By now, a crowd had formed, eager to learn what had transpired.

Whispers and gossip rose one after another.

“Meadow, are you saying Mr. Salazar stumbled into the lounge and caught a glimpse of Ariana undressed?"

"Seems like it. How awkward, right?”

“Not really. It's not unheard of in the entertainment world. Who knows if Ariana was intentionally trying to seduce the director?"

“True. She might've jumped into the pool on purpose to set this up."

Hurtful words reached Ariana's ears, leaving her complexion ghostly pale. She couldn't tell if it was from the cold or fear of Francis, but she looked dreadful.

No longer able to endure the scene, Ariana hastily gathered her things and fled.

Seeing her distressed, Tyler followed close behind.

The film and television center was a bustling place, but Ariana barely noticed the passers-by. She felt as though she were drifting alone in a desolate wasteland.

Francis' lewd and haughty expression made her shudder with disgust.

She rubbed her arms, growing increasingly uneasy.

A discomfort settled in her stomach. Clutching her belly, she broke into a sweat, anxiety washing over her.

Could her fall into the water have harmed her unborn child?

Thoughts of the baby brought her back to reality. She glanced at Tyler, who had been tailing her the whole time. She wanted to find an excuse to send him away so she could go to the hospital alone. But suddenly, her vision went black.

Upon regaining consciousness, Ariana found herself in a hospital.