Chapter 38

Emma casually wiped water stains from her fingers with a tissue.

“He became like this because of me,” Kate said, a cold smile playing on her lips. “A year ago, Liam, Brad, and I were on a helicopter survey trip. We encountered a typhoon. Liam was injured saving me—a heavy object struck him—resulting in a lifelong disability. His feelings for me are beyond your comprehension, mere passerby.”

Emma chuckled. “So?”

Kate’s agitation grew. “You’re insignificant, pitiful!”

Emma remained calm. “Is that so?” She tossed the tissue in the trash, stepping closer. “Liam’s disabled because he saved you, yet you’re with his brother. Are you proud?”

Kate’s rebuke left her speechless. The truth, however, was different. Liam’s injury held a hidden truth, but Kate deliberately twisted it to upset Emma, misjudging her reaction entirely.

Ding!

Emma’s phone rang; it was Liam. She declined the call, a sardonic curl to her lips. “Miss Johnson, a secret. Didn’t you say I only seduce men?” She paused, her gaze fixed on Kate. “Liam carries me to bed every night. Do you envy me? Want to be like me?”

With a mocking look, Emma took her phone and left. Despite her composure, a sense of loss settled in her heart. Liam loved her deeply, even to the point of death. But had he ever loved another so completely? The thought of him risking everything for Kate caused a sharp pang.

After the Art Festival, rain lashed against the auditorium. Students without umbrellas huddled, grumbling. Some girls received umbrellas from boys, arousing envy. Then, a black luxury car cut through the downpour and stopped at the entrance, dazzling the students.

“Oh my, a limited-edition Rolls-Royce! So luxurious!”

“Look at the license plate! Stunning!”

“Who’s so wealthy? A luxury car pickup in the rain… blissful!”

Everyone speculated on the lucky recipient. Even a broken-down car would be welcome in such weather.

Emma, preoccupied, didn't notice the Rolls-Royce. Kate, however, saw it, jealousy flaring in her eyes.

Emma was about to push through the crowd when the Rolls-Royce window slid down. “Emma, get in.”

The familiar voice drew her attention. Liam’s handsome face was as striking as ever. If the Rolls-Royce had caused envy, his presence was outright jealousy-inducing.

Emma frowned. “What are you doing here?”

“It’s raining, and you’re in a dress and heels. I came to pick you up.” His voice, though quiet, reached several students and teachers. His words were impactful.

Liam was publicly acknowledging their relationship, confirming student speculation. Emma was indeed with Liam; no wonder Kate relentlessly targeted her. Everyone understood.

Emma, holding her umbrella, saw Kate gritting her teeth in the crowd. She laughed coldly. “Kate’s here too. Why not ask her to join us?”

Liam’s brow furrowed, his expression hardening. “No need. My car is only for you.”

Levi opened the car door, assisting Emma into the back seat. The Rolls-Royce vanished into the rain.

Kate stood there, lips bitten raw with frustration. Humiliated twice, she trembled with rage, while envious murmurs followed Emma.

Inside the Rolls-Royce, Emma closed her eyes. Seeing her dejection, Liam remained silent.

“Why did you come?” she finally asked.

“I knew you wouldn’t hang up easily, so I came straight here.”

Emma opened her eyes. He had called while she was in the restroom; she’d hung up impulsively, not expecting his worried arrival. Her heart softened; she leaned over and hugged his shoulder.

He patted her hand. “What’s wrong?”

“It bothers me that you might have liked someone else before.”

Liam smiled. “You’re unique.”

She wanted to ask about Kate’s story from a year ago, but hesitated. She abruptly changed the subject. “Are Kate and Brad happy?”

The atmosphere chilled; Levi glanced worriedly at the rearview mirror.

Liam sneered. “Brad always picks up my discarded trash. I don’t care about him.”

“So… did you ever like Kate?”

Hearing her question, Liam stared intently. “Is that what she told you?”

Emma recounted the restroom incident, omitting Liam’s injury.

Liam laughed coldly. “That bitchy couple is getting shameless. I never liked Kate, nor could I ever.”

His words dispelled her doubts. If he said no, it was no.

The car arrived at Icovine Estate.

“We’re home,” Levi announced.

Liam gently took Emma’s hand. “It’s raining. The maid filled the tub with hot water. Go take a bath.”

Emma teased. “You’re so good at caring for people. Did you have many girlfriends?”

Liam looked at her, his eyes unfathomable. “Mrs. Hall, are you jealous?”