Chapter 1684
It was obvious that someone was deliberately stirring the pot, with influencers and media outlets amplifying the negativity.
Jamie stared at the barrage of critical comments online, her heart growing heavier with each passing moment.
She knew the best course of action was to ignore baseless accusations and focus on the task at hand-her next competition round. With the match scheduled for the next day, she resolved to give it her all.
Jamie refused to let the rumors distract her. The next day, she arrived at the competition venue with her confidence intact, ready to tackle the challenges ahead. The preliminary rounds were grueling, with one debate following another, testing her endurance and resolve.
Just as she was catching her breath, Attorney Freeman sauntered over, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Well, well, looks like we’ve got someone who used connections to get in. Makes you wonder why the rest of us even bother trying, doesn’t it?”
His words immediately drew the attention of everyone nearby, and curious glances shot in Jamie’s direction.
She met his gaze, her expression cold and resolute. “Attorney Freeman, others might indulge in idle gossip, but you, as a lawyer, should know better than to make baseless accusations without evidence.”
Her firm response caused the whispers around them to die down slightly.
Attorney Freeman smirked. “Who knows how someone like you got that extra spot? It all feels a little… tainted.”
Jamie’s tone didn’t waver. “Is that fear I detect, Attorney Freeman? Are you worried that losing to a so-called ‘rookie’ might bruise your ego? Rumors will pass, but I believe the truth always prevails.” Attorney Freeman scoffed, his confidence unshaken. “You should worry about clearing your own name before accusing me of fear.”
Before Jamie could respond, a familiar presence stepped in. Ben appeared, his arm casually draped over Jamie’s shoulder as he joined the conversation.
“You’re absolutely right, Attorney
Freeman,” Ben said with a calm, commanding tone. “This spot was indeed one I arranged for Jamie. the primary sponsor, every host firm is entitled to an additional entry. This is a standard, documented rule. Surely, you’re aware of that?”
The crowd fell silent at Ben’s words, his authoritative presence instantly shifting the atmosphere.
Attorney Freeman’s face darkened, but he pressed on. “Even so, that doesn’t guarantee she has the skills to win. And who’s to say this whole thing isn’t rigged?”
Ben’s smile didn’t falter. “If you truly
suspect foul play, I encourage you to bring it to the committee’s attention. As you know, baseless accusations and public posturing are hardly effective tools for achieving justice.”
Jamie gently stepped out from Ben’s protective hold and addressed Freeman directly.
“Attorney Freeman, this competition is transparent and fair. Whether I succeed or fail will be decided by the judges and the rules of the match. I’ll accept the outcome, no matter what. As for the rumors, I won’t let them distract me.”
Ben added, his smile sharp, “Jamie’s abilities have already impressed many here. And as for those rumors, they’re just noise. True talent doesn’t shy away from scrutiny or challenge.” Attorney Freeman’s jaw tightened. “You-”
“And one more thing, Attorney Freeman,” Ben said, his voice cool. “As a lawyer, if you can’t rely on the law to defend your argument, hiding behind public gossip only makes you look ridiculous.” The crowd buzzed with whispers, some now speculating about Jamie’s potential while others marveled at Ben’s unflappable composure.