Chapter 98
Chapter 98
98 In the Shadows of the Past
Lennox, despite his accomplishments, couldn’t shake off the feeling that Emma was a thorn in his side,
a complicated puzzle he hadn’t anticipated. He mulled over his future interactions with her, knowing full
well that any misstep could trigger a chain reaction involving both their influential families.
“I need to tread carefully,” Lennox thought to himself. “Any conflict with Emma could force me back to
the Hartleys, something I’ve been avoiding
Turning to Alex, Lennox prodded, “You’ve made quite a name for yourself, starting from nothing. Have
you ever considered challenging Emma head–on? Your paths must have crossed in the business
world.”
Alex, caught off guard by the question, pondered for a moment. “Emma and I have our separate paths.
My focus is on growing my business, not entangling myself in unnecessary rivalries,” he replied, firmly
believing in maintaining a professional distance from Emma, despite their shared history.
Lennox nodded, understanding the delicate balance Alex strived to maintain.
Elsewhere, Emma and Desmond’s outing was unfolding under the shadow of Alex’s presence. Their
interaction was strained, with Emma’s attention divided and Desmond’s frustration growing
“Why does it feel like you’re still hung up on Alex?” Desmond finally blurted out, unable to hide his
feelings any longer.
Emma, slightly taken aback, replied with a mixture of exasperation and clarity, “Alex was a significant
part of my life. It’s not easy to just erase those feelings. But we’re divorced now, and I’m moving
forward.”
Desmond listened, his emotions a tangled web of understanding and jealousy.
As they prepared to leave, they encountered Bella and Lillian. Lillian’s resentment towards Emma was
palpable, her words dripping with venom. “You’ve always been a manipulator, Emma. You think clinging
to Desmond will elevate your status?”
Emma laughed off the accusation. “Compared to some, my methods are quite straightforward. I’ve
earned my place.”
Bella remained strangely silent, wary of the potential fallout from engaging in the spat.
As Emma and Desmond left the restaurant, they unexpectedly became the subjects of a paparazzo’s
interest. Desmond was flustered, but Emma remained composed, instructing him to monitor the
situation closely.
“Make sure this doesn’t spiral out of control. I can’t afford negative publicity right now,” she said,
her tone serious..
Desmond nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. “I’ll handle it,” he assured her,
at the Shadows of the Past
determined to protect Emma’s reputation at all costs.
As they parted ways, Emma couldn’t help but reflect on the complex web of relationships and rivalries
that surrounded her. Each encounter, each conversation, added another layer to the intricate tapestry
of her life. She knew the path ahead wouldn’t be easy, but she was ready to face whatever challenges
came her way.