Chapter 157

Serena’s POV I nodded slightly when Ethan approached me about the news. "Yes, I saw it. You're aware of it too, Mr. Quinn?" Ethan settled into the seat beside me, his face clouded with displeasure. God, he seemed genuinely bothered by this whole mess. "It's ridiculous how these people fabricate stories," he grumbled. "You're clearly not that type of person. I've already ordered an investigation." I raised an eyebrow, surprised he cared so much. We'd only just met, yet here he was, rushing to defend my honor. "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Quinn." "It's the least I can do. This is San Francisco—practically my territory. Anyone pulling stunts like this won't get away with it." His jaw tightened as he spoke. I waved dismissively. "Don't get worked up. I'm used to baseless gossip by now." Reaching over, I handed him the participant list a staff member had given me earlier. "Here's the lineup for the first half. Take a look." Ethan accepted the paper, scanning it briefly before setting it