Chapter 18
Emma slapped Emily hard across the face. She used almost all her strength-her hand went numb
But she didn’t care. She just glared at Emily in fury. I thought you’d grown up, but you haven’t changed one bit.
“Lydia’s always been kind to you, always willing to share whatever good things she has. But you not only bullied her at home -you’re still acting the same way in public. Did you forget everything I taught you?
“Emily, I’m so disappointed in your
Emily’s ear was ringing from the slap. For a second, she thought she was back at St. Gabriel’s-the only place where people
hit her for no reason.
It took a while before the buzzing in her ears faded. Just in time to catch Emma’s last sentence.
She couldn’t help but let out a bitter laugh in her heart
Ever since Lydia showed up, the Bennetts had always been disappointed in Emily-no matter what.
Emily turned her head slowly and spoke like she was stating a simple fact. “That’s the second time you’ve hit me, Mrs. Bennett’
The first time was when Emma thought she had pushed Lydia down the stairs
Seeing Emily’s red, swollen check and that oddly calm look in her eyes. Emma suddenly froze in the middle of her anger.
For a moment, she couldn’t believe she was the one who hit Emily like that. Her hand even trembled a little.
Emma had loved and spoiled Emily since she was like her hand always protected her and never thought she’d raise a hand against her.
But she told herself Emily had gone too fat
She believed Lydia truly saw Emily as a sistry and always tried to be thoughtful. But Emily kept fighting with her over everything and always picked on her.
Emma convinced herself that if Emily hadn’t crossed the liner, her marvey would’ve hit her.
Like she’d finally found the perfect excuse, Emma repeated firmly. You went too far. You kept bullying Lydia. That’s why I hit you.”
It wasn’t the first time she’d used that excuse.
Emily looked at Lydia, who stood off to the side, all quiet and hurt, like none of this had anything to do with her.
Then Emily asked the question she had been holding in for a long time. “Mrs. Bennett, can you please tell me how exactly Ive bullied Ms. Bennett?
Emma flared up again. Still trying to deny it?
Sure, you grew up with Vincent. But the one he truly loves is Lydia. They were the ones who were engaged from the start.
Lydia has treated you with nothing but kindness. But you gave her the cold shoulder in public and said all those snide things. If that’s not bullying, then what is?”
Emma’s words seemed to make Lydia feel even more wronged. She pouted, looking like she was about to cry.
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Chapter 18
She gently tugged on Emma’s hand “Mom, don’t blame Emily After all, she grew up with Vincent. It’s normal that she can’t let go of all those years of feelings.
“This is all my fault. If only I hadn’t come back. Emily and Vincent would still be the perfect match
Emma quickly pulled her into a hug Lydia, you silly girl, how could this be your fault? You’re the one who’s engaged to Vincent, and you love each other. You two are the real perfect match.”
Lydia still looked hesitant. But Emily..”
She seemed tom. Then, as if she had made up her mind, she said. “Emily, I used to think I was an orphan, so I always dreamed of having a family.
“Now that I have one, I’m already so grateful. I won’t fight you for Vincent. I-I’ll give him up to you. I won’t marry Vincent.
