Episode 5 of "Inventing Anna" commences with a shift in focus, as we delve into Neff's daily routine at the hotel. She exudes a profound sense of professionalism, yet Vivian is relentless in her quest to uncover Neff's intimate knowledge of Anna. However, Neff remains tight-lipped, her loyalty to Anna unwavering. Beyond disclosing that Anna resided with them for a span of three to four months, Neff divulges little else.
Back at the office, tensions mount as a new episode of "America Investigated" looms, its central theme: fake news. Vivian's anxiety intensifies as she learns that Donovan Lamb, one of the scheduled guests, plans to discuss the perils of shoddy journalism - and name Vivian as a case in point. This ties back to a mysterious chapter from Vivian's past, a story we've heard whispers of but have yet to grasp in full clarity.
In a bid to address the situation, Paul arranges a comprehensive interview for Vivian, hoping she'll use this platform to speak her truth and unravel the truth behind the scandal. But for now, Vivian's impatience to uncover the reason behind Anna's extended hotel stay overshadows all else.
Neff's unwavering endorsement of Anna's credibility plays a pivotal role in Vivian's curiosity. After Neff comps a $400 bottle of wine (claiming to her boss that it will ultimately yield dividends), she catches sight of the proposals regarding Anna's building, sensing a lucrative opportunity. Thus, Neff goes to great lengths to please Anna, basking in the lavish tips left on the table in crisp hundred-dollar bills. In essence, Anna was purchasing Neff's secretarial services, ensuring her inclusion on VIP lists. As Vivian aptly observes, Neff was the unseen force pulling the strings from behind the throne. Neff's partner fears that this is a ruse, designed to blind her from the truth - a suspicion that seems all too accurate.
After rescuing Anna from Conrad's unwanted advances at the hotel, Anna extended an invitation to Neff for her lavish party. There, Neff witnessed the extravagant wealth of Anna's social circle with her own eyes. Among the revelers, she encountered Rachel, a close companion of Anna's whose motives Neff suspected were purely financial. Unexpectedly, the trio's paths converged with Kacy at the gym, forming a quartet. Impressively, Anna indulged in her wealth, shelling out $4000 a month for Kacy's services as her personal trainer.
The foursome indulged in drinks and camaraderie, leaving Neff in awe of Anna's lavish spending. However, it was a sobering thought that Anna's seemingly limitless funds stemmed from fraudulent means. Their conversations were interrupted when Anna abruptly dozed off.
For a while, the harmony persisted, until Neff uncovered Anna's duplicity. At the hotel, Neff faced reprimands from her boss over the failed credit cards, and was tasked with securing a valid card for Anna. Confronted with Anna's dire financial situation, Neff found herself footing the bill during an awkward lunch at a cafe. This was a pivotal moment, as Neff's partner urged her to recognize the truth about Anna's intentions.
Back at the hotel, Neff realized Anna's card was declined, leaving a staggering bill of over $34,000 unpaid. Confronting Anna later, Neff demanded she take responsibility and settle her debts. Despite Vivian's persistent narrative that Anna was misunderstood and frightened, she refused to acknowledge the fraudulent origins of the funds Anna had used. Perhaps Vivian's journalistic integrity was indeed questionable.
Well, the mystery surrounding Donovan Lamb's stock market prowess will soon be unveiled. This youthful prodigy managed to amass a fortune of 80 million before he could even legally drive. Vivian, having thoroughly verified the facts, sensed a sinister undercurrent. However, Paul, in a bid to sensationalize the headline, ended up with a PR nightmare. The youngster retracted his earlier statement, alleging coercion and deceit. As a result, Vivian's position became untenable, and she faced the harsh reality of losing her job. Desperate to regain her lost glory, she saw the Anna project as her path to redemption.
In a moment of defiance, Vivian confronted Paul, urging him to take responsibility and confess his role in the scandal. She demanded that he conduct the interview and confess his guilt publicly.
Meanwhile, Anna quietly exited the hotel, leaving behind a trail of financial integrity. She settled all her outstanding bills, repaid Neff in full, and even returned the money she owed him. This unexpected gesture explains why Neff holds her in such high esteem. Eventually, Anna found her way to Rikers, where she reunited with her friend. The two conversed effortlessly, reliving their shared memories.
