However, Emily didn't listen to a word Raphael said.
"What kind of backing does Deanna have, the Mercer family? You and I both know that she and Lance are not in a love relationship. The fact is that you still have feelings for her!"
By the end, Emily was hysterical.
Raphael, losing his patience, pushed her away and said irritably, "I've said all I need to say. Take care of yourself."
With that, he turned and left.
Watching him leave without a second thought, Emily's face twisted in rage.
"Deanna, you deserve to die!" she growled through clenched teeth.
At that moment, she hated Deanna to the core.
On the other side, Deanna was unaware that Emily had been released from prison.
But because some nosy media were following the story, the news quickly spread online.
"Former star Emily was released from the detention center this morning, looking haggard and disheveled, a far cry from her former glory."
Almost as soon as the news broke, it was mocked by netizens and trended on social media.
"Why report on such a disgraceful artist? Focus more on positive news."
"Boycott any news about Emily."
"Artists with such poor character should be banned!"
"Thinking back to when I was a fan of this trash makes me want to go back in time and scold myself."
That evening, Julia came to visit the new house with a cake, in good spirits, to see the kids and Old Ashley.
During dinner, she brought up Emily.
"Deanna, did you see the news online?"
"What news?"
Deanna didn't catch on immediately and asked instinctively.
Julia rolled her eyes and said, "Of course, it's about Emily. That woman was released from the detention center today. You should be careful. After suffering such a big loss, she won't let it go easily."
Deanna was indifferent.
She sneered and said sarcastically, "Even if she won't let it go, I'm not easy to bully either!"
Seeing her friend's attitude, Julia couldn't help but roll her eyes.
"You may not be easy to bully, but she might target my goddaughter and godson, or even your grandmother."
Julia reminded Deanna earnestly, "Emily is petty and vindictive. If she can't get to you, she might target the people you care about."
Julia's words hit home for Deanna.
After all, Emily was capable of such insane actions.
Seeing her friend deep in thought, Julia turned to Old Ashley and warned her.
"Grandma, be careful when you go out these days. Always stay in crowded places and don't go alone."
"Don't worry, I'll be careful. If necessary, I won't go out at all."
Old Ashley nodded, indicating she understood. She wouldn't let herself become a pawn for others to threaten her granddaughter.
At this point, Deanna also agreed with Julia's words.
Emily was vindictive. If she couldn't get back at Deanna directly, she would likely target those Deanna cared about most.
Thinking of this, she also warned her grandmother, "These days, always carry your phone when you go out. Contact me immediately if anything happens."
Then she turned to the kids and said seriously, "You too. Always carry your smartwatch so Mommy can reach you anytime."
"Got it," the kids responded obediently.
Later that evening, after dinner, the kids went to their rooms to do their homework.
Deanna stayed with her friend and grandmother on the sofa, chatting.
Somehow, the conversation turned to family and men.
Julia sighed, "A household really needs a man. Relying on you alone isn't sustainable."
Deanna didn't agree but didn't mind either.
"It's fine. I'm used to it. Things are much better now than before."
"That's not the point. I know you're strong, but having a man who cares for you would make things easier."
Julia looked at her friend disapprovingly.
Old Ashley agreed wholeheartedly. "I've told her this before, but she wouldn't listen. Unfortunately, I don't have anyone suitable to introduce."
Julia suddenly had an idea.
"In a few days, my company is having a social event. Deanna, you should come with me."
The more she thought about it, the more she liked the idea. "There are many quality men at our company. You might find someone you like."
Deanna found it amusing but politely declined.
"Really, it's not necessary. Besides, I've already asked someone to find Gregory and Chloe's biological father. The person I asked for help is Lance from Mercer Group."
"But what if they can't find him? We should have a backup plan."
Julia saw no conflict between finding the biological father and attending a social event.
Old Ashley nodded in agreement. "Julia is right. We should have a backup plan. It's settled then."
Seeing her grandmother had made up her mind, Deanna felt helpless but knew there was no point in arguing further.