Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

 noveldrama

Roseanne's voice crackled through the phone, "After all this prep, isn't it about time we make our move?"

"Definitely."

The studio staff nearly dropped their jaws when Nadine waltzed in unexpectedly.

Lulu, puzzled, asked, "What's going on? Weren't you vacationing in Australia, planning to return only when it gets warmer next year?"

Lana shrugged, spreading her hands, "Who knows? Ms. Gordon looked pretty upset when she walked in, didn't seem to hear me when I greeted her. Probably best we tread lightly today, don't want to end up as her punching bag."

"Thanks, Lana, got it."

The moment Nadine entered her office, she instinctively drew the curtains.

Her assistant brought in a steaming cup of coffee, which she clutched for warmth, as if it was the only source of comfort available.

Her mind replayed the incident from yesterday - Madge hitting her head on the corner of a table, blood splattering everywhere.

It wasn't her fault...

She didn't push her; it was Madge who lunged for the computer and hit herself. It had nothing to do with her!

That thought somewhat calmed her, allowing her to take a cautious sip of her coffee.

Suddenly, a commotion from outside her office broke her concentration.

Is this how they've been working while I was away? Rowdy and undisciplined!

Just as she took a deep breath, ready to step out and lay down the law, a voice boomed-

"Once again, is Ms. Nadine Gordon here? We're officers from Pinehollow Police Department, investigating an assault case. We need her cooperation. Please, inform us of her whereabouts!"

Lulu glanced at Lana in panic.

Lana subtly shook her head and pointed the officers towards Nadine's office.

"Let's go!"

Before Nadine could react, the office was swarmed with police, surrounding her.

"Nadine, you're a suspect in an assault case. Please come with us!"

"No... I won't go... I didn't do

Officer, are you sure.

aout this?! It has nothing to do

Swnovi

me!

with

"The victim's daughter has filed a complaint, and surveillance footage from the study captured the

incident. We'll discuss this further at

the station. Take her away-

UMS

At that command, Nadine was escorted to the police car.

Lulu was dumbstruck, "Lana, Ms. Gordon won't be in trouble, will she?"

Lana's hands trembled, "The police are involved now..."

Once seated in the police car,

Nadine regained her composureet

"Hello, want to see my lawyer Until then I have the right to remain

silent." ne

Her lawyer arrived the next day.

"...So, when can I get out?!"

The lawyer looked uncomfortable, "...Sorry, you might have to be patient for a while."

"What do you mean?! Can't I be released on bail?"

The lawyer shook his head, delivering another piece of bad news-

"Madge has decided to sue you."

"Sue me? For what?!"

"Copyright infringement."

"What evidence does she have?! I'll deny everything, what can she possibly do to me?"

The lawyer produced a recording.