Chapter 198

The next day, Emma and Liam attended the Hall family's press conference. Simon's intention was to announce the family's new project, not their relationship, but Emma's presence quickly overshadowed the original purpose. The crowd's speculations were confirmed: everyone believed she and Liam were romantically involved. Simon and Brad were both present; Emma, the only woman, prepared backstage in a separate room.

"Miss Wilson, be careful," Josiah warned over the phone. "Liam's younger brother will likely cause trouble again."

Emma, nonchalantly applying luxurious gold-cased lipstick, replied, "You've already called him silly. What can he do?" She calmly capped the lipstick. The rich red, blue-undertoned lipstick, complemented by her high-end dark green silk dress, enhanced her elegant presence.

Josiah continued, "I still feel uneasy when they call you. Perhaps I'm paranoid. Oh, and Noah said he's completed your request."

"So soon?" Emma exclaimed, surprised.

"He commanded respect and influence before working for you," Josiah explained. "Also, the report against Erza in Yenovia has been retracted. His gold medal has been reinstated. Lennon's probably furious. Be careful."

"Got it," Emma said, "You're so long-winded."

She hung up, smiling and brushing her French bangs. Many makeup artists were backstage, though Liam needed none; his appearance was already perfect. While several stylists vied for Emma's makeup, they found even the lightest foundation redundant on her flawless skin. Ultimately, they only touched up her eyebrows, eyelashes, and lips; she was already breathtakingly beautiful.

Emma entered the hotel; numerous reporters were waiting. The moment Liam and Emma appeared arm in arm, cameras flashed. They immediately became the focus, causing a stir. Brad and Simon then emerged; Simon's expression remained unchanged, but Brad's handsome face looked increasingly gloomy and strained, clearly resentful of being overshadowed.

Before the conference, Simon handed Emma a document. "This is our new project—high-tech manufacturing," he said. "Review it later; don't be clueless onstage." He assumed, with a hint of disdain in his eyes, that Emma, known for her sports achievements, knew nothing about high-tech. Emma noted his disdain but remained silent, simply raising an eyebrow before taking the document and sitting.

Predictably, everyone focused on Liam's love life, repeatedly questioning their relationship. Simon attempted a tactful response, but Liam stated directly, "Emma is the future Mrs. Hall, and the only Mrs. Hall." The reporters erupted.

A reporter then asked, "Miss Wilson excels in sports, yet the Hall family hasn't ventured into that industry. This press conference centers on AI technology. Miss Wilson, are you knowledgeable about the Halls Group's AI technology?" The reporter exchanged a subtle glance with Brad, revealing her question was designed to challenge Emma; Brad, threatened by Emma's growing fame and Liam's association with her, sought to undermine her and drive a wedge between Liam and Simon.

Levi, standing behind Liam, felt his heart pound. He feared Emma's inability to answer would infuriate Simon. He began typing an answer on his phone. But Emma calmly adjusted her hair.

"Your question is broad," she responded. "Which aspect of AI interests you?"

Simon perceived this as stalling, his displeasure growing. He believed Emma, an ignorant girl, could offer no insightful AI commentary. He observed her; the document remained unopened before her. His anger intensified. He was about to speak when Brad intervened, "Mr. Carter, are you doubting our world champion's ability to answer?"

Levi, face darkening, quickly concealed his phone. Emma, noticing Levi's attempt to help, smiled at him before addressing the reporters, "While uninvolved in the Halls Group's projects, I understand the general situation. Their AI projects span culture, tourism, research, and manufacturing. Early investment is high, but they are key trends; spending is necessary and yields fruitful results."

Simon was surprised; Emma’s clear understanding of the strategic plan, despite not reading his proposal, impressed him. In truth, Liam's casual mentions had provided her with a general knowledge of the projects. The reporter, however, pressed on, "Miss Wilson, can you code?"

Emma replied impatiently, "I have an AI design patent."

The reporter countered, "But you attended a military academy before completing your Vark College studies…"