Chapter 1070

In the latest round of polling, Gerard's approval rating hit a new low, even dropping below 55 percent at one point. After suffering two major setbacks, Gerard once again held a press conference—this time with his daughter by his side. At the podium, Winona was tearful and visibly shaken. She bowed and publicly apologized, expressing deep remorse and pleading with the public to give her another chance. The apology had some effect. Gerard's support began to recover, climbing from 55 percent back up to 60 percent. The slight rebound gave Gerard a measure of relief. As long as his numbers held steady until election day, his win would still be well within reach. Backstage, Winona sat slumped on a couch, drained and disheartened. The apology had left her feeling humiliated. She had always been treated like a treasured daughter, shielded from hardship. Winona had never experienced public shaming, and the resentment she felt was hard to contain. Beside her, Gerard looked troubled. "Wino