Chapter 167

The party ended with everyone laughing, though attempts were made to reconcile them. Brad, however, became the target of their amusement.

The National Boxing Association subsequently investigated Emma's match. The investigation cleared Emma of any wrongdoing, and the association publicly declared her innocence online. Those who spread false rumors should have shown more self-respect.

Brad's scheme backfired spectacularly. Photos from the party were leaked, revealing his sexual encounters with men and spreading rapidly across the internet. While Brad lacked many talents, his good looks fueled the fantasies of countless individuals. His various photographs were mercilessly photoshopped into internet memes, resulting in widespread humiliation.

Simon remained dissatisfied with Emma's recent behavior, finding her temper unexpected and difficult to reconcile with his previous opinion. Emma, however, remained unconcerned, returning with Liam to the Icovine Estate to resume their comfortable life.

Shortly afterward, Richard brought three strong young men to the estate to assist with Emma's training.

"Miss, I'm One," the first said.

"I'm Two," added the second.

"I'm Three," the last man stated.

Emma listened to their introductions. "Those aren't your real names, are they?"

The three men laughed. "No, Miss. It's easier for you to remember. Captain gave us those names."

Richard gently explained, "One excels at punches and evasive maneuvers. Two possesses exceptional strength; defeating him will alleviate your physical concerns regarding Dana. Three is highly adaptable and experienced, improving your own adaptability."

Richard's commitment to Emma's training was evident in his selection of three of his most skilled subordinates. His dedication to his niece was clear. The training was far more rigorous than Charon Military School, exhausting Emma daily, yet yielding rapid improvement.

One day, exhaustion led Emma to fall asleep while bathing. Fortunately, Liam discovered her in time, preventing her from drowning. He wrapped her in a towel and carried her out.

Emma awoke in a daze. "Did I fall asleep?"

Liam sighed indulgently. "You're too tired from training. I'll speak to Richard tomorrow about reducing your workload."

Emma protested, "No, I can't lose to Dana."

Liam tapped her nose. "So competitive?"

Emma pouted. "What's wrong? Don't you like me like this?"

"I like you however you are," Liam replied, kissing her nose affectionately.

Emma looked up. "How about this? Tell Uncle Richard you have a company engagement tomorrow and want to bring me to a meeting. We'll trick him and sneak off to the newly opened Dream World…"

Liam considered it. "Sure."

"Yay!" Emma exclaimed, having always longed to visit Dream World, a desire unfulfilled in her previous life. Now, as shareholders, they had early access. Liam possessed beta-test tickets, making entry simple.

The next day, Emma claimed a company engagement and accompanied Liam, only for the car to veer unexpectedly from the Icovine Estate towards the amusement park. Liam had intentionally chosen his convertible sports car for the outing. Emma's hair was pulled back in a bun, her face youthful and beautiful beneath her sunglasses as the wind whipped through her shirt collar. "Drive faster. Don't let them find out!" she urged.

Liam smiled, accelerating the car.

Upon their return, the sun had set. The sunset was breathtaking. Emma and Liam, having enjoyed themselves immensely, returned with slightly dishevelled hair and chocolate on Emma's lips. Before entering the house, Liam kissed her unexpectedly.

Emma was startled. "What—"

Liam smiled, smoothing her hair. "Nothing. It's fine now." He helped clean the chocolate and tame her hair.

Emma playfully stuck out her tongue.

Unexpectedly, Richard emerged from the house, witnessing the scene. "Where did you two go? Did you have fun?"

Emma jolted, her voice softening. "U-Uncle Richard," she stammered.

Richard repeated his question. "Where did you go?"

Emma hesitated. Richard's military background meant their training regime was exceptionally strict. Her desire for relaxation with Liam had prompted the outing.

Humbly, she admitted, "I know I was wrong… I shouldn't have lied about going to the company. We went to Dream World… Sorry… I won't do it again, okay?"

Richard remained silent, cursing inwardly, unable to muster anger.

Emma pouted. "Uncle Richard, you shouldn't have been so strict."

Liam chuckled. He wasn't the only one unable to resist Emma's charms. Emma's coquettishness proved invincible.

One, Two, and Three's eyes widened at Richard's reaction. They thought, 'Captain Rivera, you're not like this in the military!'

Emma continued her pitiful act. "Uncle Richard, let me make amends. I'm willing to accept punishment."

Richard finally relented. "No need. You're exhausted. Get some rest. We can continue tomorrow."

One, Two, and Three were shocked. 'Where's the commander who threatened to skin her on her return?' they wondered.

The next day, Emma rose early for training, demonstrating her dedication to both work and play. Liam joined her in the courtyard for push-ups.

Meanwhile, Richard awoke before dawn in the upstairs guest room. From the balcony, he watched the couple exercising in the courtyard, lighting a cigarette and gazing at the stars. He sighed, thinking, 'Stella, your daughter is so promising, and your son-in-law adores her. You must be happy in heaven.'

Weeks passed swiftly. The Youth Boxing Competition approached. Emma was one of two female representatives for their country, the other a nearly-retired, experienced athlete. Before the competition, the older athlete shared valuable advice and strategies. Emma listened intently.

Then, the entrance opened…