Chapter 7
Nora was also astonished. Over twenty luxury vehicles, worth over ten million dollars alone, were part of the display. Emma strolled over, opened a trunk, and revealed a breathtaking collection of 18th-century antiques and rare paintings. Her gaze settled on a vibrant azure jewelry box. Inside, a dazzling diamond tiara rested, understated yet opulent. The diamonds shimmered with a timeless, majestic brilliance.
“A tiara custom-made for Queen Sylvia by the world’s top luxury brand—priceless, and gorgeous!” Emma whispered, even she impressed by the extravagance.
Aria seethed with envy. Her recent acquisitions, intended to maintain appearances, now seemed paltry in comparison. She couldn't bear Emma's good fortune.
Emma closed the trunk without further inspection. If one car held such treasures, the others likely contained similar riches. Turning to Levi, she said, “Please tell Mr. Hall I deeply appreciate his generosity.”
Levi grinned. Years of working for Liam had honed his perceptive skills. “Mr. Hall’s message is clear: if it makes his future wife happy, he’ll move heaven and earth.”
Emma smirked, understanding Levi’s subtle probing of her intentions. Marriage to Liam meant untold wealth; refusal, a far less rosy future.
Before she could respond, Zoe exclaimed, “Oh my gosh, look at that century-old painting! It’s priceless! Hurry, take everything and thank Mr. Hall and Mr. Carter!” Even Zoe’s animosity couldn't entirely suppress her desire to possess the painting. But as she reached for it, Levi intervened, subtly blocking her path.
Zoe paused, then looked up at him. “Mr. Carter, what’s happening?”
Levi remained polite, though his smile felt practiced. “Mr. Hall couldn’t attend due to a leg injury, but he left explicit instructions. These gifts are solely for Miss Wilson.” He continued, “Mr. Hall also stipulated that the Hall family expects no reciprocal gifts. However, he will not tolerate any mistreatment of his future wife. Ms. Rivera’s two-million-dollar inheritance is being returned to Miss Wilson, without exception. Otherwise, the Wilson family will incur his displeasure.”
The Wilson family gasped collectively. Any single item among the proposal gifts likely exceeded two million dollars. Liam wasn't seeking personal gain; he was unequivocally supporting Emma.
Mateo, feeling the weight of this blunt truth, stiffened and stepped forward. “We understand Mr. Hall’s intentions. Tell him that after the wedding, the two million dollars…” He clenched his teeth, “…will go to Emma.”
“Excellent,” Levi grinned, turning to Emma with respect. “Miss Wilson, your thoughts?”
Emma twirled a strand of hair. “Sounds good. Let’s finalize the agreement at my grandmother’s 70th birthday party next week, with family and friends as witnesses. Mr. Hall can keep the gifts for now. Once the inheritance is settled, I’ll obtain the marriage license.”
A week later, Zoe’s 70th birthday party filled the Wilson family villa. Business associates attended, curious about the newly reinstated Miss Wilson.
Upstairs, Aria remained barricaded, Nora attempting to coax her out. “Aria, please, unlock the door. Everyone’s waiting.”
“I’m not going,” Aria snapped. “That money was supposed to be mine! Why should I humiliate myself?”
“You’re overreacting,” Nora whispered. “Your father adores you; he wouldn’t give everything to Emma. Remember her disappearance? Not a coincidence. But forget that. Your father had to comply with Mr. Carter's demands. Four-fifths of the two million dollars is still yours. Worst-case scenario, you split it with her—enough for you to go abroad. Get dressed, mingle, find a wealthy suitor. Once you’re overseas, you can secure a well-off husband. No worries! Hurry, join the party.”
Nora’s words rekindled Aria’s hope. Unaware, Emma monitored the entire villa.
Upstairs, in a sleek black gown and heels, Emma watched through her security monitors. With a chilling smirk, she saved the recording and headed to the main hall.
Liam, alone upstairs in his wheelchair, observed Zoe, Mateo, Nora, and Aria, monitoring their words and actions.
“Mr. Hall, are you certain you won’t attend?” Levi asked.
“Unnecessary.” Liam had declined the Wilson family’s invitation, secretly observing their treatment of Emma.
As the party progressed, Mateo took the microphone. “Everyone, I have wonderful news. I’ve found my long-lost daughter, Emma. Let’s give a warm welcome to my daughter, Emma!”