The conference hall fell into a collective gasp of shock, but one person remained composed amidst the chaos: Andrea.
Initially introduced as Mr. Singers' wife, Andrea stunned everyone by revealing that Mr. Singers was, in fact, her father. The journalists, initially incensed, quickly switched gears as they realized the magnitude of the revelation. Excitement buzzed through the room as they began to envision the headlines they would craft from this bombshell.
"I can handle your slander against me, but I will not stand for any against my father, for I am a Singers," Andrea declared, wiping away tears before delivering a firm command. "Throw him out!"
Security promptly removed the slapped journalist from the hall at Andrea's behest.
Amidst the commotion, a voice rose from the crowd of journalists, seeking clarification: "Mrs. Singers, could you elaborate on your statement about being Mr. Singers' daughter rather than his wife? We all witnessed Mr. Singers introduce you as his wife."
Andrea remained composed as she responded, "My dad has a reason for introducing me as his wife. Just wait a moment; the evidence will be presented soon," before resuming her seat.
As she sat down, Tony entered the conference hall, visibly relieved as he surveyed the scene. He had been anxious when he left to retrieve the documents, concerned that the reserved and timid Andrea might struggle with the journalists gathered.
"Tony, could you please show them the documents?" Andrea requested, surprising Tony, who stared at her in disbelief.
Knowing Andrea's usual shyness, Tony was taken aback by her sudden display of confidence and assertiveness in front of the audience. Shaking off his astonishment, he quickly complied with her request, and the journalists eagerly snapped photos of the documents.
Andrea stood boldly before the crowd, addressing them firmly, "You all know Mr. Singers was my father.
I ask that you respect his legacy and refrain from slandering him. Even if he is no longer with us, remember that I am still here." She was keenly aware of the individuals present who wished to tarnish her father's reputation for introducing her as his wife.
Tony gazed at Andrea with admiration, realizing that he needed to support her in this moment. He hadn't expected her to assert herself as a Singers.
As tears streamed down her face, Andrea mustered the strength to reveal, "On April 14, 2014, I lost my dad."
Tony swiftly approached her, accompanied by three security men.
"Andrea, you handled this admirably. Your father would be proud of you," Tony whispered, expressing his deep respect for her handling of the situation.
"Tony, I need your help. If there's any online post slandering my father, send a court letter to the responsible party. If any media outlet doesn't comply, consider acquiring it directly. I will address the situation further in due time," Andrea instructed Tony, acknowledging her need for assistance.
A smile spread across Tony's face as Andrea's words resonated with the journalists present. "I will follow your instructions, Mrs. Andrea Singers," Tony replied with a confident smile.
Acknowledging Tony's support, Andrea, having already nade the official announcement of Mr. Singers' passing, rose from her seat, signaling her intent.to depart.
As Andrea made to leave, the assembled journalists rose in unison, eager to ask their questions.
"Mrs. Andrea, could you share with us what your childhood was like without your father?"
"Will you assume the role of CEO at Singers Group in the future, and what is your relationship with Agatha?"
Andrea left the conference hall without addressing the questions, shielded by Tony and a team of security personnel. Journalists' attempts to approach her were in vain as she swiftly entered her car and drove off.
Back at the Singer mansion, Housekeeper Win greeted Andrea, who had been watching the events unfold on live television.
"Ma'am Andrea, you nearly gave me a start," Win said with a smile, alluding to Andrea's confrontation with a journalist.
"Mrs. Win, I won't hesitate to confront those who seek to tarnish my father's memory or reputation," Andrea declared resolutely, her face reflecting her unwavering determination.
Relieved, Housekeeper Win observed Andrea's transformation with hope, no longer concerned about her being bullied due to her previously timid nature.
"Ma'am Andrea, the mourning hall has been arranged; many guests will be visiting to pay their condolences," Housekeeper Win informed Andrea.
"Take me there," Andrea replied curtly.
"Ma'am Andrea, I will take you there after you finish eating. Your food has already been served in the dining room," Housekeeper Win responded with a smile. She didn't want Andrea to go to the mourning hall without eating; she might skip her meal, which wouldn't be good for her unborn child and her health.
Andrea understood that Housekeeper Win was looking out for her, so she didn't argue.
After eating, Housekeeper Win led her to the mourning hall. Chairs were neatly arranged, and Mr. Singer's photos were placed on the walls, with the largest one on a table beside a lit candle in front of the chairs. The entire hall was tastefully decorated with flowers and open windows. As Andrea gazed at her father's photo, her heart twisted in pain.
The following day, guests began arriving to offer their condolences, with even the Governor of Sunshine City in attendance.
"Mrs. Andrea Singers, I offer my deepest condolences for your loss. Your father was a remarkable man and an icon in our community. I hope you can carry on his legacy," the governor expressed, recalling Mr. Singers' belief that Andrea would surpass him.
"Thank you," Andrea replied graciously.
As the guests continued to arrive and share their sympathies, Sylvester also approached Andrea and stood before her. "I am sorry for your loss. Your father was a formidable opponent, but that doesn't mean I will lose to you," Sylvester said confidently, still echoing Mr. Singers' words from the day he introduced Andrea.