Chapter 179

Emma threw a punch. "Do you think I won't kick your ass?"

Only someone like Erza would dare tease Emma so brazenly. Erza covered his head and fled. "I was wrong. Sorry."

They chatted and laughed as they strolled across campus. Under a distant pine tree, Faith clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as she watched them jealously. Erza, I've liked you for ten years, she thought. She had never seen him so devoted to another girl. Her gaze fixed on Emma's back, her eyes hardening. Emma… I won't let you have it easy!

The Halls Group meeting, concerning the new project, was tense. Anxiety hung heavy in the air; only Liam remained calm and composed, clearly in control of the negotiations. Unsurprisingly, the project was awarded to Liam's team.

After the meeting adjourned, Simon said, "Liam, stay a moment." Levi, understanding immediately, bowed and left.

Alone with Liam, Simon clenched his fists and cleared his throat. "I'm not satisfied with Emma," he said bluntly. "I want you to separate. Agree, and all my shares and assets will be notarized and transferred to you immediately. You know what this means."

Simon knew his sons' capabilities, but the matter of inheritance remained unsettled. He had his reasons. This offer essentially named Liam the heir, a position Brad had coveted his entire life. Liam's agreement would thwart Brad's plans. But the condition was separation from Emma.

Liam's face instantly froze. Without hesitation, he spat out, "No."

Simon, surprised by the immediate refusal, glared at Liam. "Do you know what you're saying?"

"I know," Liam replied, rising. "I will not leave Emma, regardless of the conditions, threats, or consequences." His tone was firm, resolute—a triple refusal. He left.

Simon sat alone, his face flushed, veins bulging on his forehead, his hands trembling with anger. Derek, worried—he'd never seen Simon so enraged—hurried to comfort him. "Mr. Simon, this isn't healthy. Mr. Liam might just need time. He might change his mind."

Simon shook his head. "He's so disobedient." He knew his son well; Liam, alone since childhood, was unwavering once he made a decision. It seemed action was necessary. He couldn't let his most promising heir perish for a woman.

His eyes darkened. "What was the name of that girl I mentioned?"

"Faith Jennings?" Derek asked.

"Yes," Simon confirmed.

"She's Emma's classmate," Derek said. "They clashed recently."

"I know," Simon said, narrowing his eyes. "The Jennings family's business has struggled. She fancies the Burnson son, but he's not interested." He continued, "Tell her that if she cooperates, I can give her what she wants."

Simon possessed information others lacked. With this and Faith's help, he could permanently remove Emma from Liam's life.

The next day, Emma awoke early for her run. Autumn had arrived, bringing cooler temperatures and later dawns. Though she woke at the same time, the sky remained dark. Running at a steady pace, a figure approached from behind.

"Hey, Emma. I've been waiting," the girl panted, catching up. "I was right, you run here every morning."

Emma recognized the voice, but hadn't seen Faith in months. Without stopping, she asked expressionlessly, "Why are you waiting?"

Faith, encouraged by Emma's response, smiled. "I've reconsidered. We were wrong last time, but it wasn't my idea. I should have stopped them. I apologize. Let's make up."

Emma remained silent, neither agreeing nor refusing. She didn't consider Faith a friend, reconciliation mattered little.

Faith's anxiety grew. "I know my results aren't as good as Lane's, and I have nothing much to offer. You might not want to be friends, but I sincerely apologize."

"Okay," Emma said, increasing her pace, clearly wanting to leave Faith behind.

"Just 'okay'?" Faith thought, clenching her fists, sprinting to catch up. "Then take this. Consider it my apology."

Emma didn't look. "No need. I remember what you said. I'm running, it's inconvenient." She ran faster, refusing to be detained.

Faith stopped, breathless, sitting on the ground. Staring at Emma, resentment filled her eyes. Damn, she's tough. Since the apology was rejected, other methods would be necessary. Emma wouldn't have it easy.

During lunch, the class read military theory books until Maya entered. "Everyone, the midterm exam results are out. This semester is shorter, so the monthly exam is canceled."

Cheers erupted. Maya tapped the podium. "Don't celebrate too soon. The final is difficult. Poor results mean expulsion." Silence fell.

Maya continued, "Krot Competition registration opens tomorrow. Our school has two slots, no gender restrictions. Prepare your resumes; submit them to my office by 5:00 p.m."

A teacher summoned Maya. After she left, the students began discussing. Emma's roommate, Rielle, turned to her. "Miss Wilson, you asked about my sister last time. You'll participate this time, right?" Charon Military School had never won the Krot Competition; Emma's victory would be significant. "Emma, are you participating?" they all asked.