Chapter 197

Emma's performance at the Krot Competition quickly reached Simon. When Emma and Liam returned to Leovine Estate, Simon immediately called Liam. His message was clear: many had witnessed their intimacy, praising Liam's taste and anticipating a formidable daughter-in-law.

Simon outwardly smiled, but inwardly worried. He knew of Emma's abilities, but Liam's previous poisoning with King's Poison, a black market toxin, deeply concerned him. Only a mysterious coded letter had likely prevented a tragedy.

On the phone, Simon admitted, "For safety, I opposed your relationship with Emma. But recent gossip, and that coded letter—not addressed to me—suggests a friend of Emma's might be involved."

Liam confirmed he'd questioned Emma, who denied knowledge of the sender. He was ready to end the conversation, but Simon recalled the call's purpose: "There's a press conference tomorrow night. If you're determined to marry her… bring her."

Simon's acceptance was a shock to Derek, his longtime associate, but Liam remained unfazed. His loyalty was unwavering. "I love Emma," he said, then hung up. Simon, however, felt a twinge of annoyance. He'd accepted Emma, yet still felt a need to appease her.

Meanwhile, Emma played games, checking the Charon Military School competition news. The electricity grid investigation was progressing, nearing the apprehension of the mastermind. Her involvement had created a stir, Liam's evidence proving crucial in countering the King's Association. She saw her name, Emma, at the top of the women's Krot Competition results, though Erza's win remained uncertain.

Then, Lane called, frantic. "Miss Wilson, I'm furious! Lennon's threatening us!"

Emma guessed Lennon's tactic—similar to Simon's use of Sharon against Levi—implying consequences for their interference. Lane revealed Lennon demanded Emma's negative records to accuse her of hacking.

Emma smirked. Her Stox identity, if revealed, would likely lead to recruitment, not arrest. "Since he provoked, don't blame me for meddling," she stated.

Lane, thrilled, asked about helping Erza. "Yes," Emma replied, sensing Lane's fierce loyalty beneath her usual tough exterior. Emma then made a long-awaited call, with Josiah listening in.

Josiah exclaimed, "Good Lord! Miss Wilson, you're contacting Noah!" Noah, incredibly physically gifted, worked for Emma but had been estranged for a year due to conflicting principles. His current international sports influence made Josiah's excitement palpable.

Silence followed. Josiah urged Noah to respond. Emma lazily asked, "Noah, you haven't spoken in a year. Don't want to talk now?"

A violent cough interrupted. Noah, apologetically explaining his excitement-induced mishap, revealed his clumsiness.

Emma relayed Erza and Lennon's situation. "You should be able to get Lennon to withdraw the report, right?" she asked. After a pause, and sensing Noah's hesitation, Emma gave him Jenson's contact information. "If you can't handle it, you're fired," she stated before hanging up, leaving Noah to express his capabilities.

Liam then entered. Emma, embracing him, asked about Simon's call. Liam relayed the press conference invitation, adding, "As the future mistress."

Emma, recognizing the shift in Simon's attitude due to her Krot win, calmly accepted the invitation. Liam, relieved by her nonchalant response, felt a profound connection. Their shared love transcended external conflicts. Their tender moment culminated in a passionate embrace.