Chapter 88

Curious onlookers asked Emmalie if Thea was single. Emmalie smiled at the camera, her tone light but playful. "Sorry, everyone. Thea does have a boyfriend, and they're very close. They've been together for years. He was here yesterday, too. They had a little argument, but they've probably made up by now. I can't reveal who Thea's boyfriend is just yet, but you might find out soon enough."

Emmalie chuckled, a hint of mischief in her expression. Max, standing nearby, looked pleased. "Emmalie's always so considerate," he said approvingly. "She's always thinking of the family."

Ivy frowned with concern. "Look at this silly girl. Even after all Thea has put her through, she's still looking out for her. I just don't understand how Thea can be so heartless." Max's expression hardened, but he reassured his mother. "Mom, don't worry. Thea will be married off soon. Once she's part of the Hendrix family, they won't put up with her bad temper. She'll finally realize that we're the ones who truly care about her." Ivy sighed. "I hope you're right."

Meanwhile, Emmalie led a group to Thea's door. She knocked loudly, calling, "Thea, are you still asleep?" Silence. Emmalie cautiously tried the doorknob; it was locked. Something's going on, she thought, her excitement growing as she imagined Thea's inevitable downfall.

"Thea, I heard you earlier. I know you're awake. I just want to talk. Can I come in?" Still no response. The film crew sensed something was amiss. A passing servant caught Emmalie's attention. She grabbed the woman's arm and asked, "Is Thea unwell?"

The servant hesitated. "Mr. Hendrix is in there with her."

Emmalie's eyes lit up. A sly grin crossed her face. "Oh, I see." She turned to the door and called out, louder this time, "Thea, there's no need to be shy. I'll wait out here for you."

Emmalie settled by the door, answering questions from the crew. "Their relationship is really strong. They've been together for quite some time. Sure, they've had their issues, but after last night, I'm certain they've patched things up. I'm honestly happy for them. After being together so long, it would be a shame if they broke up. It's only natural that it would leave a bit of regret," she said.

The live chat exploded with praise for Emmalie:

[Emmalie is so kind-hearted. Even though Thea treats her poorly, she still wishes her the best.] [The world is so unfair. How come someone like Thea can find a lifelong partner, while Emmalie hasn't met hers yet?] [Don't jump to conclusions: I totally ship Emmalie and the Hendrix family's cold-hearted leader, Nicolas. They're a perfect match! I'm sure there's something between them.] [Wait, for real?] [Oh, I've gathered a lot of evidence. Trust me. It's real.]

At that moment, a man approached from the other end of the hallway. Emmalie noticed him and, upon recognizing him, her face fell. She exclaimed in surprise, "Wh-what are you doing here?"