It was a scene straight out of a romance novel . I might have even bought it if I didn't know the truth . Finally , the host shifted gears . ' Let's address the elephant in the room . There's been some controversy online , specifically regarding some statements made by Chloe Parker . What would you two like to say about that ? " Liam's expression turned somber . He was the victim now . " Talways considered Chloe a colleague , a friend . Our interactions on the show were for the cameras . That was our job . I don't know why she got the wrong idea , or why she's resorted to ... these kinds of tactics to threaten us . " Ava's eyes welled up on cue " I truly thought of Chloe as my best friend , " she whispered , her voice cracking . " After the show ended , I told her we should take a trip together , just the two of us . I never , ever thought she would ... would do this " Chapter 2 10:22 She choked on a sob , unable to continue . " We actually have a piece of audio , " the host announced gravely . " A recording of a phone call between Ava and Chloe , which Ms. Miller provided to us . We believe it will shed some light on the situation . " A carefully edited audio clip began to play . All the audience heard was my voice , cold and sharp : " Ava , what do you think a recording of this conversation would be worth ? " Then , my mocking laugh : " Oh ? I'm so scared . " All of Ava's lines - the two - million - dollar bribe , the pleas to remain " best friends " -had been surgically removed . All that was left was her tearful , terrified response to my apparent blackmail . The live chat exploded . HOLY SHIT ! That's straight - up extortion ! Chloe Parker is a criminal ! " " The proof is right there ! Get her canceled ! I want her blacklisted ! " " Don't cry , Ava , we're all here for you ! You did nothing wrong ! " Liam wrapped a protective arm around Ava's shoulders and stared into the camera , his face a mask of righteous indignation . " I came here tonight to tell the truth . And to send a message to a certain individual : you won't get far by playing dirty . My team and I will be pursuing all available legal options . " He delivered the lines with the gravitas of a man accepting an Oscar , the hero of his own story . The atmosphere in the studio reached a fever pitch . The entire world was on their side , calling for my head . Nestled in Liam's embrace , Ava's lips curved into a triumphant smirk . She thought she had won .