Chapter 56

Emma remembered Liam was once addressed with reverence as "Mr. Hall." Now, however, that same reverence was directed at Brad. At the party, several people who had formerly been under Liam's mentorship now openly sided with Brad, their shifting allegiances evident in their shifty gazes. Emma tightened her grip on Liam's hand, a silent reassurance. It felt like a vow—even if the world turned against him, she wouldn't abandon him. Liam sensed her unspoken commitment. His thumb gently rubbed the space between her thumb and forefinger, a quiet expression of his tenderness.

"Liam…"

Just then, Brad approached, looking impeccably dressed and holding a champagne flute. "Long time no see," he said smoothly. "Welcome to the Hall family home."

Emma raised an eyebrow. "Mr. Brad, that's inaccurate. You should say 'welcome back to the Hall family home.'" She thought, Liam is the eldest son. What is Brad implying?

Brad chuckled. "It's just a phrase, Emma. Your precision makes it seem like there's a distance between Liam and us."

Liam's voice was cold. "Today is Dad's birthday. Don't cause trouble. Also, my wife is young, and she's formidable. Pick a fight with her, and you'll regret it."

Brad's expression hardened. Elsie, Brad's birth mother and Liam's stepmother, also looked grim.

Liam and Emma then moved towards Simon, Liam's father. Their earlier exchange had been quiet; only a few had overheard. Simon and the other guests remained oblivious, enjoying the festivities.

"Dad, this is Emma," Liam said. "We came to wish you a happy birthday."

Simon, in a black tuxedo, nodded curtly. "Okay." His demeanor towards Emma was neutral.

Today was Simon's 60th birthday. The Hall family's prominence stemmed from Liam's grandfather. Simon and his brothers had been relatively less accomplished compared to Liam and Brad, particularly Liam, who had been a prodigy since childhood.

"It seems your father isn't very pleased with me," Emma observed.

After brief pleasantries with Simon, Liam and Emma left the main gathering. Liam carefully selected a plate of desserts and offered it to Emma. "Nope. He's always been like this."

"Tsk," Emma replied.

"He married Elsie when I was three and had Brad," Liam explained. "My mother died of stomach cancer. My father essentially remarried."

Emma listened attentively, recognizing Liam's vulnerability.

An old friend approached Liam for a brief conversation. Emma discreetly moved away, avoiding any display of excessive intimacy. Kate seized the opportunity to approach.

"I wondered who you were," Kate said. "It's you."

Kate wore a striking white formal outfit—a sleeveless suit-style top and trousers, accented with gold jewelry and heels. Instead of a delicate style, she projected power and authority.

"Kate, with the Hall family present, don't provoke me," Emma warned, her fingers tightening around her champagne glass. "You might regret it, especially with Brad."

Emma's words struck a nerve. Brad had been distant and cold towards Kate recently, their intimacy now marred by resentment and frustration.

Kate's face darkened. "Who do you think you are? The Hall family's expectations for their daughter-in-law are high—noble birth, excellent education. A country girl like you doesn't meet their standards. Didn't you see how your father treated you? No one in our circles will take you seriously!"

Kate's outburst was fierce, but Emma merely smiled faintly. She picked up a dessert Liam had given her. "So what if they don't? My marriage to Liam is none of their concern. Their opinion doesn't matter to me."

Kate was taken aback by Emma's composure and arrogance. Her expression shifted dramatically. "You… you're insane! You dare look down on the Hall family? Haha. You're just embarrassed and angry! The Hall family's power and influence are beyond anything you'll ever achieve! It will all be mine and Brad's!"

"Oh really?" Emma replied, sneering inwardly, I have no idea why I supposedly can't reach one-tenth of their influence, given my position!

"Just wait," Kate spat. "I'll ruin your reputation!" She stormed off.

Liam returned at that moment. Seeing Kate's angry expression, he frowned. "What did she say?"

Emma shrugged. "The usual nonsense—you're not good enough for Liam, and 'just you wait!'"

Liam's face froze. "Brad's judgment is as lacking as his abilities," he said coldly. "Emma, let's deal with this."

"Forget it," Emma said languidly. "She wants a fight? Let's give it to her."

The party reached its midpoint. Conversation turned to Simon's passion: painting.

"Several young people here are skilled painters. Perhaps the servants could bring painting supplies, and they could offer birthday wishes with paintings?" Elsie suggested.

As the mistress of the Hall family, her suggestion was readily accepted.

Kate was the first to volunteer. "Elsie, I'll start." A glint of malice shone in her eyes. This was part of her plan to humiliate Emma publicly, hoping to embarrass Liam as well. Elsie, naturally, was happy to help Brad.

"Go ahead," Elsie agreed.

The servants provided supplies. Kate confidently picked up a brush.

Gasps of admiration arose.

"She's from the Johnson family! No wonder she's so elegant!"

"She's been studying art since childhood, plays piano beautifully, and paints exceptionally well!"

"No one here can match her skill…"

"She's truly talented. No one will even dare to paint after her."

Kate finished her painting. "I'm done. Who's next?" She fixed her gaze on Emma. "How about you paint on Liam's behalf?"