Illicit Infatuation-Lingorm

Chapter 11

The next morning arrived and Orm found herself sitting in an intimidating conference room, surrounded by a sea of journalists, their cameras flashing incessantly and their voices creating a cacophony. The room buzzed with a palpable sense of anticipation as they all vied for answers to their questions. Orm's heart raced, her palms sweating as she tried to maintain her composure in the face of the unrelenting barrage.

Orm's mind briefly drifted to the meeting she'd had with the head of the agency and her manager, shortly before this chaotic press conference. The seriousness in their expressions was a stark contrast to the frenzy around her now. She remembered their words, their reassurances and their instructions on how to handle the situation.

Meanwhile, Lingling sat on the bed of the luxurious hotel room Orm had booked for her, her eyes glued to her phone screen, focused on the ongoing press conference that was now being live-streamed. She watched with bated breath, every muscle tense, as Orm took the stage, surrounded by the flurry of camera flashes and the clamor of reporters' questions.

Orm took a deep breath, her eyes scanning the environment before her. The first question cut through the commotion, "What's your relationship with the mysterious woman?"

Orm paused for a moment, her mind and heart filled with thoughts of Lingling's safety. With a calm, unwavering voice, she began to speak.

"My personal life is just that – personal," Orm stated calmly, her voice carrying authority. "I don't see it as anyone else's business to delve into my private matters."

She paused for a moment, her gaze steady even as the cameras continued to flash.

"But I will say this," she added, her tone holding a hint of defensiveness. "I choose to spend my time with people I trust and care about. That's all anyone needs to know."

One particularly aggressive reporter pressed on, leaning forward as he called out, "but the public demands an explanation! Is she your girlfriend? Is this some scandal to boost your image?"

Orm met the reporter's gaze unflinchingly, her tone firm yet diplomatic. "I understand the public's curiosity, but I also believe in the importance of privacy," she said, her voice carrying a note of finality. "I'm not going to share personal details to satisfy your curiosity. What I will say is that it is a matter between two consenting adults, and it is disrespectful to both parties to reduce it to some salacious rumor or calculated move."

Orm's voice grew more forceful as she spoke, addressing not only the reporter but the entire room. "Let me be clear," she said, her eyes narrowing. "I have a career that I take very seriously. My integrity and reputation are important to me, and it's disheartening to see how easily you all are willing to discard them for the sake of gossip and speculation. This isn't up for debate or public consumption."

"Some people are labeling this situation as a betrayal of your fanbase," the reporter stated, her voice carrying a hint of a challenge. "Your fans look up to you, and seeing you involved in this scandal is causing a frenzy online. What do you have to say to them?"

Orm took a deep breath, her expression softened by a touch of understanding. "To my fans, I want to say that I appreciate your support, your love, and your loyalty immensely," she began, her voice carrying a note of sincerity. "I understand that this situation may be confusing, or even disappointing to some. But I want you all to know that I am a human being, just like you. I make mistakes, I experience happiness and pain, and I deserve to have a life beyond my public image."

Another reporter raised their hand, their eyes trained on Orm. "What about the impact this scandal will have on your career? Are you worried about losing fans, or future job opportunities because of it?"

Orm met the reporter's gaze squarely, her eyes gleaming with unwavering conviction. "I believe my worth and talent as an actress speak for themselves," she said firmly. "My agency is standing by me, and I trust that with time, the truth will be clear. As for the impact on my career, I trust that my fans and those in the industry will see beyond this temporary turbulence and remember the dedication and passion I bring to my craft."

One journalist couldn't resist adding a provocative jab, his voice filled with a hint of homophobia. "Some people find it problematic that you're involved with a woman," he said, his tone dripping with judgment. "Don't you think that's going to hurt your image, especially as a successful actress?"

Orm's expression hardened at the journalist's remark, her eyes growing cold. "My personal life shouldn't dictate my professionalism or success as an actress," she stated coldly. "I don't believe my gender or sexuality have any bearing on my talent or ability to perform. I hope my fans can see past such narrow-minded perspectives and focus on the content of my work."

Orm gathered her notes and took a moment to compose herself before addressing the room one last time. "Thank you for your questions," she said firmly, her voice carrying a note of finality. "I hope I've made my position clear. I value my privacy and won't entertain further questions on my personal life. Now, if there are no more relevant questions, I'd like to conclude this press conference."

As the press conference unfolded. Lingling couldn't help but admire Orm's strength and professionalism in the face of such scrutiny and criticism. Her ability to maintain her composure and shut down the invasive questions only deepened the sense of awe and respect Lingling felt for her. She knew she had always been attracted to these qualities in Orm, and now seeing them in action only amplified her affection and admiration.

Lingling's heart swelled with love and admiration, knowing that despite the challenges Orm was facing, her spirit remained resilient and unwavering. She couldn't help but feel a sense of safety and comfort in the knowledge that Orm was doing everything she could to protect both their lives and their love from the prying eyes of the public.

Lingling took a deep breath, attempting to calm her racing heart. She reminded herself that waiting for Orm was nothing compared to the five years they had been apart. A few days or months, even a year, was nothing in comparison. She drew strength from the memories of their love and the deep connection they shared, knowing that their time apart would only make their eventual reunion all the sweeter.