Chapter 47

Lillian's POV

I feel hollow, forcing a smile in front of the camera as my father speaks. I want to cry and scream for him to stop, but I'm paralyzed, unable to move.

"Are you okay?" Lucas asks.

I nod, turning my head back to face the front.

"The beach photo was completely edited. My team is tracking down the person who uploaded it and I will make sure they will be punished for tarnishing my daughter's and stepson's reputation," my father says.

I listen to his speech, knowing he's a skilled liar.

"Mr President, what do you say about the rumour that your daughter's engagement to the heir of Bennett Corporation is to cover up her sinful romance with her step-brother?" a reporter asks.

My dad looks at me, then at Lucas, before returning his gaze to the camera. "Lillian and Lucas have been engaged for a while now, but we kept it private to give them space and protect them from pressure. We're only going public now to clear my daughter's name."

Tears appear in my father's eyes, and I can't