Chapter 207 Help Her Vent
"Can't you put your phone away while we're eating? Seriously, where are your manners? Ever heard of 'no talking while eating or sleeping'?"
Veda took the chance to mock Emily.
Emily ignored her and checked the caller ID. Respecting the Smith family's rules, she didn't answer the call. Instead, she hung up and quickly texted Knox.
Emily: Eating dinner right now. I'll call back after.
To Veda, this was nothing short of a provocation.
She couldn't help but continue, "Grandpa, did you see that? Emily has no manners. Someone like her marrying into the family would embarrass the Smiths when Daniel takes her out."
Mason didn't say a word, just gave Emily a deep, intimidating look before turning away.
A look from Mason was enough to send chills down anyone's spine.
Veda noticed and felt Mason must be displeased with Emily.
So she pressed on with her sarcasm, "Playing dumb now, huh? I thought you just had some minor flaws, but clearly, you lack manners and are shameless. If I were you, I'd be too embarrassed to act like nothing happened!"
Daniel frowned, about to speak.
But Emily beat him to it. "If Veda's standards are what the Smith family considers manners, then the Smith family's rules are truly eye-opening!"
"What did you say?"
Veda didn't fully understand but sensed that Emily was mocking her.
Emily retorted, "You just mentioned 'no talking while eating or sleeping,' yet you were the only one talking the whole time. What right do you have to lecture others? You should manage yourself first!"
Veda's face turned ugly; she wanted to lash out.
"Enough, Veda, shut up!"
Mason, enraged that the family's rules were being questioned, coldly commanded Veda to be silent.
Veda was immediately scared into silence.
Emily set down her utensils and said calmly, "I'm full. Enjoy the rest of your meal."
She then stood up and went upstairs.
Daniel noticed that Emily had barely eaten. When they started dinner, he saw that she liked several dishes.
He was happy about it.
Seeing her enjoy the meal had improved his own appetite.
He was pleased that she had come to the Smith Villa for him, and that there was at least something that made her happy. But Veda's rudeness ruined it.
"Seems like you need to relearn the rules. Head to the disciplinary room and stay there until you've learned them properly."
Daniel's command was merciless.
Veda's face turned pale at the mention of the disciplinary room.
It was a place for those who committed serious offenses against the Smith family.
Veda had been there once before and it was a hellish experience.
Now she felt particularly aggrieved and frightened.
"Daniel, I'm sorry, I don't want to..."
"I've given you chances, but you keep failing. Say one more word and the punishment will be doubled!"
Daniel's voice was icy.
Though Veda's hatred for Emily grew, she dared not speak out.
Emily was unaware that Daniel had stood up for her.
She returned to her room and called Knox back.
"Was there something urgent you needed?" Emily asked.
Knox didn't mind the delayed callback. For anyone else, it wouldn't be the same treatment.
Quincy, watching nearby, was curious about what charm Emily possessed to make Knox treat her so differently.
He had just returned from a mission and wasn't aware of Emily's recent interactions with Knox or the special attention Knox gave her.
Knox explained, "The Johnson family is talking trash about you online, saying you're heartless for not saving Hayden and using shares as leverage. They're playing the heroes, claiming they'd give you shares to prevent chaos in the Johnson Group, which could lead to layoffs and impact a lot of people..."
He sent Emily a post full of accusations against her.
Emily sneered.
So this was Eli's move after his threats.
"They must be kidding if they think today's internet users are as gullible as before, easily swayed by a few words."
Emily didn't even need to look at the link Knox sent to make her judgment.
"Want me to handle it? While most folks are rational, some idiots might still harass you. I don't want anyone bothering you."
Knox was furious.
In the past, he wouldn't have spared anyone from the Johnson family.
Emily shook her head. "No need. Public opinion is a double-edged sword. If they can use it, so can I. When I make my move, the price will be different. But I might need your help with something."
Knox was a bit disappointed she didn't need his help more. He wanted her to rely on him.
Fortunately, she did ask for something.
Knox immediately responded, "Anything you need, just ask! What do you need help with?"
"Can you get in touch with the person behind Hayden's capture? I believe it's a man named Orville Kidd."
She knew from her past life who was behind Hayden's capture.
Knox was surprised.
He knew Orville, who was quite powerful and secretive. How did Emily, who had never been abroad, know him?
He realized Emily was even more capable than he thought.
"Yeah, I can. But Orville won't do anything without getting something in return. Are you planning to save Hayden? I can help with the money, but Hayden isn't worth saving."
He didn't approve, knowing Hayden had treated Emily poorly.
"Giving money is out of the question! I just need you to delay Hayden's demise for a few days. Otherwise, there's no benefit to anyone."
She wouldn't give Orville money!
Thinking of the troubles she and Knox faced under Orville in her past life, and Knox's near-death...
Her eyes flashed with cold determination.
Orville deserved to die!
She had plans.
"Alright!"
Knox didn't question her motives. He supported her unconditionally.
Emily was relieved he didn't ask more.
Otherwise, she'd have to make up excuses.
She didn't want to lie to him more than necessary.
"Thanks, I appreciate it. Try to buy as much time as possible. I'll handle things here."
Whether it was raising money or other plans, Emily didn't elaborate.
After hanging up, she noticed someone standing at the door and didn't know how long they had been there.
She quickly stood up. "When did you get here? Why didn't you come in? Have you been standing outside all this time?"
This room was prepared for her, and Daniel had respectfully not entered without permission.
It was his way of showing respect.
"Just got here. I saw you were on the phone and didn't want to interrupt."
Daniel spoke with a warm smile.
Emily felt touched. Her eyes fell on the box he was holding as she invited him in, curious. "What's that?"