Third Person's POV
"I will help you, Blake. Aren't you investigating the cause of Marc's death? I suspect Richard is deeply involved. Though I lack proof now, he's the prime suspect," Emily immediately shared what she knew with Blake.
Blake stared at her for a long moment before coolly responding, "Yes, I am looking into my father's death, but I haven't found any evidence yet. If you discover anything, let me know."
"This time, I've returned to assist you with the investigation. Also, regarding the leak of your company's secrets last time—it was me. I have evidence," Emily said, producing a USB drive and transaction documents from her bag.
"These individuals were hired by me. I transferred funds to them monthly. These are the transaction records. Richard instructed me to do this before he was imprisoned five years ago," she explained, her expression bleak and self-mocking.
"I trusted him so much, yet this is how he repays me," she muttered.
"Richard has always been ruthless. Initially, I thought he might treat you better than others, but clearly, he used you just the same," Blake said, his tone seeming to console but actually sowing discord between Emily and Richard.
Emily's resentment deepened. Clenching her fists, she suppressed her anger and said through gritted teeth, "Yes, I thought he raised me as his own daughter. If I had known this would be my fate, I would have rather stayed in the orphanage."
"Now that you've seen his true colors, don't let him manipulate you anymore. If you ever get the chance, leave him. Help me, and I'll do my best to mitigate your guilt," Blake said, lowering his guard as he saw Emily's potential use.
Emily nodded. "I want to start over. I've always yearned for a warm life. If there's someone willing to love and accept me when I get out of jail, I might consider marrying them."
Blake noticed the sorrow in her eyes and knew she had endured significant pain.
When one fears death yet has never experienced the warmth they crave, the most painful thing is the absence of that very warmth.
"You will find someone who loves you," Blake offered comfort.
"Thank you, Blake. I'll leave now and inform you of any developments right away," Emily said with a relieved smile as she turned to leave.
Blake watched her go, his expression turning grave— it seemed his path of vengeance had gained another ally, and this was all thanks to Richard pushing a key player into his hands.
After leaving Chavez Group, Emily went straight to Richard.
Fuelled by a desire for revenge, she felt a surge of strength and courage.
She knocked on Nick's door. When Richard opened it and saw her, his face showed a mix of concern and guilt. "Emily, you've finally agreed to see me!" he said.
"Daddy, what are you saying? I'm your daughter! Who else would I turn to?" Emily replied with a self-mocking smile.
"Oh? So you don't blame me for introducing you a boyfriend?" Richard deliberately downplayed the matter.
The word "boyfriend" stung Emily's heart, but she forced a smile.
"Mr. Valleri treats me very well. He gives me everything I want and even promises to leave his fortune to me."
Her smile was overly bright and greedy.
Richard breathed a sigh of relief—he had indeed read her right. Emily's greed meant she could be swayed with money.
Nick limped into the room from the inner chamber. "I just heard the word 'boyfriend.' Who's got a boyfriend?"
"Me, Dad introduced me to a rich and doting boyfriend," Emily said with a grin.
"Who is he? Do I know him?" Nick asked, curious about his sister's new romance.
"Baldwin Valleri," Emily answered nonchalantly.
"What? You're dating him? That old man in his fifties with a notorious reputation? How could you..." Nick's face drained of color.
"Nick, watch your words! Some girls these days prefer mature men who are charming and caring," Richard quickly silenced his son.
Nick sneered, "Charming? More like old enough to be your grandfather!"
Emily watched the father-son spat with a smirk, but her words were sweet. "Yes, he's very attentive to me. I get whatever I want. Dad knows me best!"
Nick felt a lump in his throat.
"Okay, as long as you're happy," Nick said, seeing his sister's evident joy, though he doubted her sanity.
Richard was delighted—Emily was satisfied with that old man.
"Daddy, I visited the Imperial Tower earlier today and saw Blake," Emily volunteered, knowing Richard had informants in Blake's company. She had to speak up before he asked.
"Oh? What for?" Richard's expression changed instantly—he had just received news.
Emily smirked. "I deliberately went to see him on his wedding day. If Catherine finds out, she might cause a scene."
"What did you say to him?" Richard's mood brightened slightly.
"I cried in front of him and confessed my feelings. You should have seen the look on his face!" Emily said triumphantly, feigning pride.
Richard laughed, "You're still as mischievous as ever. But well done, you should disrupt their marital bliss and make him miserable!"
Emily joined in the laughter, though her smile was strained—she had managed to conceal the truth once again.