Chapter 93

Emma ordered a simple meal. As she elegantly cut her food, she observed the scene in the adjacent private room. It was a family gathering—only the Hall and Curry families were present. Elsie's imprisonment meant only Simon and Liam attended for her family; Tess's parents were also there.

Emma heard Tess's affected voice on the video feed. "Liam, I was impulsive last time. Sorry." Last time, Tess had publicly insulted Emma, prompting Liam to leave with Emma. This time, Tess seemed to have learned her lesson. Knowing Liam's affections lay with Emma, she was playing the dutiful daughter, biding her time to replace Emma.

Liam's reply, though courteous to Tess's parents, was cold and distant. He barely touched his food. Having already enjoyed Emma's cooking, Liam found it difficult to eat the food provided at the club.

Anticipating this, Emma smiled and called the club's kitchen. "Hello, I'm the friend the head chef mentioned. The food can be sent to Mr. Hall in room 88." Emma had secured the services of the hotel's former head chef, arranging for a special meal for Liam.

"Alright, Miss Wilson. The pre-prepared steak is ready; I'll send it over now," the staff member confirmed.

"Thanks," Emma replied, hanging up. Soon, she saw the door to Liam's private room open on the monitor. A waiter approached Liam carrying a magnificent Tomahawk steak. "Mr. Hall, this is a special gift from a mysterious lady. Enjoy."

The sight of the steak brought a subtle smile to Liam's lips. He recognized Emma's handiwork immediately; the exquisite cut and rich aroma were unmistakable. Her thoughtfulness in preparing a meal for him significantly improved his mood, which had been soured by dinner with Tess.

However, Tess intervened. "Wow!" she exclaimed, her eyes fixed on the steak. "Liam, I love steak. Can you... give me a bite?"

Chapter 91

Simon chuckled. "Tess, you and Liam have known each other since you were young. Are you afraid he won't share it with you? Liam, give this to Tess and we'll order another."

Emma's face darkened. How dare they give my steak to that spoiled brat? she fumed, barely suppressing her anger.

Liam's expression on screen was equally displeased. "I'm hungry. I can't wait."

Tess's parents looked uncomfortable.

"Tess, be reasonable. You ordered risotto; you can't just take Liam's food," her mother chided.

Tess felt aggrieved. "I checked the menu; there's nothing like this. The waiter said it's exclusively for Liam. I like trying unique menu items; what's wrong with that?"

Simon looked embarrassed. "It's just a steak, Liam. Give it to Tess."

This time, Liam simply cut into the steak and ate it. As expected, it was perfectly cooked—medium-rare, juicy, and tender. He ignored Simon's request.

Simon's face reddened.

Emma, nearby, clapped with delight. Liam is awesome! she thought. On the screen, Tess appeared close to tears.

A voice startled Emma. "Hey, Miss Emma."

She turned to see Aiden. "Aiden?" No longer his employee, she used his first name.

He seemed unconcerned, impeccably dressed in a white suit. "Are you watching a live broadcast?" he quipped, gesturing towards the monitor.

"No, I was eavesdropping," Emma admitted honestly.

Aiden laughed. "It's a pity you didn't cook for me again. The food was delicious, but not your style."

Emma replied politely, "Thanks. My husband doesn't want me cooking for other men."

Aiden's surprise morphed into disappointment. "You're... married?"

Emma pointed at Liam on the screen. "That's him."

Aiden quickly assessed the situation. "It seems your husband's family isn't very welcoming. With your talent, you shouldn't endure such treatment."

Aiden's companion, equally well-dressed, joined them. Their height and presence drew attention. "Emma, you're here too?" he asked.

"Uncle Daniel," Emma replied.

Daniel looked from Emma to Aiden. "Do you two know each other?"

Aiden smiled. "We just met. I should have mentioned it."

Daniel noticed the monitor, his brow furrowing. "What's Liam doing?"

Emma stammered, but Aiden interjected sarcastically, "His father's forcing him on a blind date."

"That's outrageous!" Daniel exclaimed. He'd always protected Stella, and now Emma held even greater importance to him. Without further ado, he took Emma's hand and led her upstairs.

At Liam's private room, Emma tried to explain. "Uncle Daniel, I asked Liam to come. It's not his fault."

Daniel said firmly, "Emma, I know Liam treats you well, but I've worked hard my whole life to prevent anyone from mistreating you. We watched your mother suffer under Mateo; we won't let that happen to you. No one, not even Simon, will look down on you. Understand?"

Emma understood his intentions; he wasn't angry with Liam but aimed to diminish Simon and the Currys.

Daniel opened the door to room 88. Their entrance stunned everyone inside. Aiden arrived shortly after.