No Escape from Love novel Chapter 220

"Serena…" Patricia cautiously approached me. "Have you… seen the news?"

My heart sank, a bad feeling creeping in. I unlocked my phone, and there it was, trending at the top—"The Maid's Rise to Power in a Wealthy Family!"

The attached photo was blurry, but I recognized it instantly—it was a photo of Mom when she was younger.

Clicking into the article, I found a vivid narrative painting Mom as a scheming woman who seduced Mr. Hastings Senior, climbing from a lowly maid to the position of Mrs. Hastings Senior. The words were dripping with malice, filled with baseless speculation and slander.

The comment section was even worse, overflowing with insults and personal attacks.

I took a deep breath, suppressing the rage bubbling inside me. Who could have done this?

"Serena, I already know about the situation online," Alex said.

I turned to see him standing behind me, his tone steady and composed. "I've contacted the PR department. They'll handle it as soon as possible."

"Thank you." I cast him a grateful look but couldn't shake the overwhelming helplessness. "But… my mom…"

"I'll make arrangements for Madam Burke as well." Alex patted my shoulder reassuringly. "The PR department has advised you to take a break from work for now."

A break?

I froze for a moment before realizing the real reason behind the decision.

With the controversy spiraling out of control, my continued presence in the company would only fuel the fire.

I understood the reasoning, but it still stung. Especially when I had to hear it from Alex himself.

As I packed up my desk, I overheard whispers from the next project team.

"Tsk... Turns out she's a fake heiress. No wonder she always acted so arrogant."

"Serena!" A familiar voice called out.

Looking up, I was stunned to see Grandma and Aunt Shirley.

Why were they here?

"Serena, are you alright?" Grandma took my hand with concern. "I saw the news online. Has this affected you? If you've suffered any injustice, tell me. I'll do everything I can to help."

Aunt Shirley quickly chimed in, "Yes, Serena! If you need anything, just say the word. We're family, after all. And that whole family tree thing—ugh! That woman was lying through her teeth. She had bad intentions all along! We all know you're a member of the Ashford family. No matter what, you'll always be one of us."

My heart wavered with doubt. I had never mentioned the family tree matter to them. How did they know?

"Exactly!" Grandma suddenly fumed, her voice indignant. "That woman… She was shameless even when she was still with our family. She's a disgrace to the Ashford family!"

"That's right," Aunt Shirley echoed, her tone venomous. "How could she do this to you and your father?"