Rhythm of Heartbreak

Chapter 45: Rhythm of Love

When the host, Lisa, entered and sat down on the couch across from them, Jess took a moment to observe. Lisa, dressed in bright pink, greeted everyone with a big smile, chatting warmly with the staff and crew before turning her attention to Jess and Rick. She shook their hands and made sure the microphones were set up correctly before the cameras started rolling.

"Rick... it's been a while," Lisa said cheerfully.

"Yes, it has, Lisa," Rick replied briefly.

After some friendly small talk, Jess heard the announcement that they would be live in a few seconds. As the broadcast began, she felt Rick's reassuring hand on hers, giving her comfort.

Lisa introduced the purpose of the interview, and Jess was acutely aware of the cameras capturing every angle.

"Both of you stayed silent when the scandal broke and even disappeared for a time. Some people have called this cowardice. What made you decide to do this interview now?" Lisa asked.

Rick answered confidently. "Staying silent wasn't about being a coward. It's about taking time to understand what happened and to think before reacting. We're here now because we're ready to answer questions and clear things up."

Jess felt a surge of pride as she watched Rick handle the question so well.

"Miss Lynn, you've faced a lot of criticism about your intentions with Rick. How do you respond?" Lisa asked.

Jess took a deep breath. "It's easy to judge based on what's visible, whether it's accurate or not. I never planned to enter the music industry; I was discovered by chance while performing in a diner. Alexander, my manager, saw potential and introduced me to this world. I didn't even know Rick was on the same label until we met at an awards night. Our paths crossed unexpectedly."

Lisa continued, "What do you say to those who blame your mother for the downfall of Iris and Adam's family, leading to the tragedy?"

Jess paused before replying. "I can't speak ill of the dead, especially when they can't defend themselves. My mother had her own story, and the decisions made by Adam and Kris were theirs alone."

Lisa turned to Rick. "What's your take?"

Rick's smile faded into seriousness. "It's true that young people often suffer from their parents' mistakes. Jess and I are collateral damage from the past. We ask for understanding from the public. Our role as musicians is to share ourselves honestly. While our past can't be changed, how we inspire and engage with the world is what matters."

Jess felt a shift in the atmosphere, sensing a wave of positive energy from the audience and crew. They were being honest, and she hoped their sincerity was clear.

Lisa then noticed Jess's engagement ring. "I see a big diamond on Miss Lynn's finger. Can you tell us about that?"

Jess snapped back to reality as Rick smiled and said, "Oh, that's her engagement ring. We're getting married!"

Jess watched in shock as Lisa's eyes widened and the crowd gasped. Rick's joyful laughter filled the room, and Jess suddenly felt overwhelmed by the unexpected announcement and the flood of emotions it brought.

The interview was a turning point, helping Jess and Rick move past the scandal. Their engagement quickly became a hot topic, overshadowing previous gossip. Support poured in from all sides, and social media buzzed with positive reactions to their new romance.

One night, as they lay together in bed, Jess snuggled against Rick's chest.

"I can't believe we handled that interview so well. I was sure we'd mess it up," she admitted.