Chapter 1088: The Consequences of Being Unappreciative

Stepping out of the study, Emma headed straight for Sophia's bedroom, making an effort to adjust her expression. Before this, she had wished nothing more than for the little brat to disappear. However, since she needed to gain Sophia's approval to truly secure her position, she had to win the child's affection. With that in mind, she didn't mind putting on an act for a while longer. After all, Sophia was just a child. Surely, with a little effort, Emma could win her over!

Thinking this, Emma lightly knocked on Sophia's bedroom door with a fake smile.

The little one assumed it was her dad or Charlotte and waddled over on her short legs to open the door.

"Sophia, it's been a while!" Emma forced a friendly smile as she squatted down to greet the little girl.

Upon seeing her, Sophia couldn't help but recall some past memories. She looked around and noticed that there was no one else in the hallway. In the past, this mean woman always bullied her when no one was around.

Feeling scared, Sophia shrank back behind the door, revealing only her wide, wary eyes as she watched Emma intently.

Emma understood why the child was so afraid of her but didn't mind it.

"Don't be afraid. Aunt Emma has realized her mistakes. Rest assured, Sophia. Aunt Emma will treat you well from now on. I'll see you as my own daughter," she said, trying to soothe Sophia.

Fearing that the little girl wouldn't believe her, she added with a smile, "Aunt Emma has already been taught a lesson by your daddy. She knows you're timid, and she won't scare you anymore."

The implication was clear-her visit was sanctioned by Victor.

Hearing this, Sophia suddenly recalled what her dad had said just before leaving her room-that Aunt Emma would come to keep her company.

Could it be true? And according to this mean woman, it was her daddy who had asked her to come!

Realizing this, Sophia felt a surge of anxiety, even forgetting her fear for a moment. In the past, her dad had always avoided letting her see Aunt Emma because she didn't like her. Even when they did meet, her daddy always stayed by her side.

But this time, her daddy actually sent Aunt Emma to find her, and all alone at that! Did this mean he really no longer intended to pursue Aunt Olivia?

Panic filled Sophia's eyes. What could she do to make her dad change his mind?

At the door, Emma noticed that Sophia was frozen in place and assumed the child was still frightened. Suddenly, she remembered how Olivia had once interacted with the little girl and raised her hand to gently pat Sophia's head.

However, Sophia snapped back to reality and instinctively recoiled in fear. Having learned from past experiences, she assumed Emma was about to hit her.

Emma's hand froze mid-air. Reflecting on the stark contrast between Sophia's reactions to Olivia and herself, Emma felt a surge of anger. In the past, if they had been alone, she would have made sure the little girl understood the consequences of being unappreciative!

Yet, recalling her conversation with Victor, Emma suppressed her anger and forced a smile.

"Sweetie, Aunt Emma knows I scared you before. Don't worry. I promise I won't hurt you again," she said, trying to sound sincere.

Just then, Emma vaguely heard the sound of the study door opening. Realizing Victor was coming out, her expression shifted, and she became even more earnest.

"If you're still mad at me, how about you get to hit me back? Would that be alright?"