My Great Escape Led Me to You (Emily Blair) novel Chapter 1013

Emma’s face went pale, her expression filled with misery. She wrung her hands. “Emily, I understand that Isabella made a mistake and must be punished, but… but can’t we give her one more chance?” Emily said nothing, simply watching her in silence. Unable to bear her gaze, Emma looked away in distress. “Emily, I… I don’t even know what I’m saying anymore…” Emily stood up. The sudden movement startled Emma, who looked up at her. “Emily?” “I’ve already contacted the victim’s family,” Emily said calmly. “They have agreed to report Isabella with me, and their decision is final. So, nothing you say can stop us. I’m just letting you know.” Emma bit her lip, her face ashen with defeat. “I’ve said what I needed to say,” Emily continued. “I’m going back to my room now.” Emma lowered her head, nodding dejectedly. “I’ll give you time to think,” Emily added. “If you still want to go to the charity gala tomorrow, let me know. I’ll take you.” Emma’s head shot up. “I want to go! Of course I want to go!” “I know,” Emily said, turning to leave. The day of the gala arrived. Emily had several gowns delivered to the house for Emma to choose from. Emma picked a relatively conservative black dress, and Emily had a stylist come to do her hair and makeup. The charity gala was being held in the ballroom of a lavish hotel in the capital. By the time Emily and Emma arrived, the hall was already filled with people. The moment Emily appeared, she was surrounded by guests eager to chat. After a few pleasantries, their attention turned to the woman by Emily’s side. It was Emma’s first time at such an event with Emily, and she was visibly uncomfortable and nervous, terrified of saying or doing the wrong thing. She awkwardly clutched the hem of her dress and managed a stiff smile at the crowd. Emily’s introduction was brief. “This is my mother, Ms. George.” Emma tightened her grip on Emily’s arm and nodded awkwardly. “Hello, everyone.” “Ah, Mrs. Blair’s mother. A pleasure to meet you.” Being Emily’s mother earned her polite greetings from the group. After the initial round of greetings, the crowd dispersed. Emma let out a sigh of relief, though her body remained tense. She tugged at her dress and glanced at Emily with a self-conscious smile. “I’m really not suited for these kinds of places.” Emily glanced at her. “Let’s find a corner.” Emma readily agreed, gathering her long skirt and following Emily to a quieter spot. Emily picked up a plate of desserts from a nearby table and handed it to Emma. “Have something to eat. I just looked around; Isabella Austin’s parents aren’t here yet.” Emma took the plate, nodding vaguely as she scanned the room. Emily sat down on a sofa, crossing her arms. Emma sat beside her. She took a tasteless bite of a pastry. “Emily, can I ask you a question?” Emily was also feeling hungry and picked up a plate for herself, eating slowly. “Go ahead.” Emma lowered her voice. “When are you planning to expose Isabella Austin?”