1,2,3 And.. Love! (GXG)

Chapter 10

Olivia's POV

I sank into my living room couch, listening to the voices of Ava and Elijah as they scolded me about the events of that night at the restaurant. As pictures started circulating, capturing the moment where I forcefully pulled Zoya's hand away from Anne. The internet was abuzz with various rumors, none of them directly implicating Zoya and me, but rather focusing on Anne, who was portrayed as an unhappy fan that we had mistreated.

The online community seemed to be divided in their opinions. Some argued that celebrities should have the right to enjoy a peaceful dinner away from the frenzied fans, while others accused me of being arrogant and not sparing a single moment for a devoted fan like Anne.

I felt the weight of the situation settle upon my shoulders, regretting my impulsive actions that had unintentionally thrown Zoya into this mess.

"I think Liv was right to defend her friend," Elijah interjected, coming to my defense against Ava's anger. "However, I do acknowledge that she could have handled the situation differently to mitigate the potential backlash."

Ava sighed, shaking her head in disagreement. "Zoya could have handled herself fine, Elijah. Sooner or later, Zoya's sexuality will become known, and that revelation will undoubtedly shift the rumors in a different direction."

Elijah's curiosity piqued. "Zoya's sexuality? What do you mean?"

Ava pointed to her laptop, where a picture was displayed. "She identifies as gay, and I have no issue with that. But just imagine how such news could affect the current rumors that are circulating."

Elijah let out a dismissive laugh. "That's absurd. It's common knowledge that Olivia and I are happily married," he asserted, taking hold of my hand and affectionately kissing it.

A fire started to simmer inside me, fueled by Ava's mention of Zoya's sexuality. I couldn't believe she would bring it up in this context.

"Some things are simply off-limits," I finally spoke up, my frustration bubbling over. "We cannot control the spread of rumors; they are an unfortunate part of our lives. However, it is your responsibility, Ava, to handle them swiftly and effectively. But I will not allow you to take any unseemly actions or exploit Zoya's personal life for the sake of quelling these rumors."

"But it's my job," Ava argued defensively.

"It may be your job, but it is my life!" I exclaimed, my voice firm. "Let me make this clear - we will not discuss this matter again. Do not bring up Zoya's sexuality in any future discussion we may have. It is not our concern, and if anyone attempts to make an issue out of it, they are simply displaying homophobia. We will not entertain such individuals, and I refuse to let you turn me into one."

"Olivia, I understand your desire to help this girl, but please don't put yourself at risk in the process," Ava said softly after a moment of silence.

"I will do as I please, Ava, and if anything goes wrong, it will be your responsibility to fix it. After all, that's what I pay you for. But don't think for a moment that just because we're friends, I will let you dictate my life. You know how much I despise that," I replied, my hands clenched into fists.

"Liv, please calm down. No one is trying to control your life. We are only expressing genuine concern," Elijah interjected, attempting to diffuse the tension.

"Thank you for your concern. I've duly noted it," I retorted sarcastically. "Now, if you're finished, please call Michelle and ask her to meet me at Clint's agency at 2."

"Clint's agency? Why are we going there?" Ava asked, a hint of confusion in her voice.

"We aren't going there, Ava. I am going with Michelle to review Zoya's new contract," I stated firmly as I walked away, not waiting for any further explanation or questioning.