Chapter 374

Emily put her hand on James's back, saying, "Hey, if you need to let it out, feel free to cry on my shoulder."

At that moment, Emily realized that James' feelings for Nicole were way more complicated than she thought, and Nicole's feelings for him were a mess too.

James's emotions toward Nicole were on a whole other level compared to his brothers'. It was like he was all in, ready to risk everything.

It hit Emily then. James was testing Nicole, seeing if she'd go through with it. But Nicole held back, almost like she was hurting herself on purpose.

James held Emily close, as if trying to absorb her into his being. He buried his face in her hair, his shoulders shaking a bit. Not a word came out, but Emily could feel the dampness on her neck.

For years, he felt like a small boat lost at sea, waiting to be crushed by a wave. Nicole was the only storm in his life. Yeah, James was testing Nicole, wanting to see if she'd really do it.

That was why he could never bring himself to be tough on her all these years.

"Emmy, even a fierce tiger won't harm its cubs. Maybe she doesn't want me gone. She's just messed up. Let's help her, okay?" James's voice broke, hitting Emily right in the feels.

He wanted to rescue her. But Emily still couldn't figure out why Nicole despised James so much. It wasn't just about control; it ran deeper, like she wanted to tear him down.

After a while, James lifted his head. By then, he had hidden his vulnerability and found some clarity.

That night, Emily insisted they didn't stay at The Smith Manor. Nicole didn't seem bothered by the incident with Emily, not coming to stir up trouble. Their wedding was set for two months later, on James's birthday.

James had a team of pros from overseas handling the wedding plans, from top photographers to event planners. Emily didn't have to stress about a thing.

During this time, Emily settled into a cozy life. She clicked with the folks in the new place, especially Zachary. He was more refined than most ladies, into everything from shopping and spa days to horseback riding, golf, and even flying planes.

Zachary's diverse interests amazed Emily. He lived a lavish life like a rich lady but steered clear of business and social stuff.

Emily thought Zachary was genuinely content with his life, and she felt carefree and happy around him.

On weekends, Zachary would treat Emily to beauty sessions. While they relaxed side by side, he asked, "Emily, it's Armando's birthday. What's the plan for his gift?"

Eyes closed in bliss, Emily replied, "I'm thinking of getting him a fancy cologne."

Zachary teased, "That's not very creative of you." He knew Armando wasn't into cologne.

Emily clarified, "It's my special blend."

Zachary perked up. Emily wasn't just a design whiz; she had a knack for making scents too. He quipped, "Your office is turning into a lab."

"Then you owe me a bottle," he added. "I want a women's perfume. I'm not a fan of the strong smell of men's cologne."

Emily agreed, then asked, "What's your plan for his gift?"

Zachary joked, "I'm drawing a blank. Maybe I should gift myself to him. Think he'd go for that?"

After a pause, Emily replied, "Who knows, it might just work."

To Emily, Armando's preference for men made Zachary's idea seem totally normal. She even thought they'd be a great match-one cool and lethal like an assassin, the other charming and untamed like a wildflower.

Zachary got animated, "I've had a crush on Armando for ages. I even moved to Cassia for him. I've never seen him with a girlfriend, so I think he's not into women."

Emily reassured him, "He's into guys. Go for it."

Zachary was thrilled by Emily's encouragement, "You've known Armando since forever. You get him. Emily, you've blown my mind today."

Armando usually kept his birthday low-key, but this year was different. With his sister back in town, who loved big bashes, she threw a fancy themed party and invited Starry Capital's elite.

Armando adored his sister and let her host the party to help her mingle with the city's upper crust. The bash went down at the grand ballroom of East Bright Hotel, the city's oldest and fanciest spot with a rich history.

It was Emily's first time in such a posh setting. The ballroom was stunning, with a domed ceiling decked out in massive crystal chandeliers, walls adorned with intricate gold designs and colorful stained glass, and tables set with fancy silverware and crystal glasses.

The air was thick with the scent of perfume and top-shelf wine, and the band played sweet tunes. Stepping in felt like time-traveling to a lavish nobleman's feast from a century ago, with a vibe of luxury and excess from a bygone era of opulence and war.

The party theme was vintage, and most guests rocked formal wear. Emily showed up with Zachary, sporting a long emerald green gown. She kept her makeup light and her hair naturally wavy, held back with a pearl hairpin.

Even in her simple look, Emily's beauty turned heads. Zachary playfully rolled his eyes at her, saying, "Since meeting you, I've learned the true meaning of natural beauty. How did your mom make you so flawless?"