Chapter 416 Self-promotion
George's voice cut through the room like a knife. "What are you doing?"
Jack looked up, flashing an innocent smile. "Hey George, Emma. Your mom was just helping me with my tie. What's the big deal?"
George's eyes narrowed, his tone icy. "This is my house. You better watch yourselves."
Phoenix chuckled. "George, what are you talking about? Your dad and I are married. Isn't it normal for us to be close?"
George didn't respond, just gave them a cold, scrutinizing look. Something about Scarlett's behavior felt off, but he couldn't quite figure out what.
Emma stood silently to the side, her eyes darting between Scarlett and Jack. Their interaction seemed a bit too cozy for her liking.
Emma shivered with disgust. Scarlett and Jack, despite their age, were still quite shameless.
George's warning seemed to have an effect. For the rest of the time, they kept a low profile. Scarlett even paid extra attention to Emma.
Breakfast was specially prepared by the servants at Phoenix's request.
George sat at the head of the table, expressionless as he cut into his eggs, occasionally glancing at them with a hint of caution.
Phoenix gave a wicked grin, gracefully placing a piece of egg on Emma's plate, her voice dripping with sweetness. "Emma, have you been busy lately?"
Emma looked up, her face innocent and smiling, her eyes curving like crescent moons. "Not too bad, Mom. I've just been busy preparing for the jewelry design competition."
"Jewelry design competition?" Phoenix's eyes lit up as if she'd caught onto something important, but she quickly masked her excitement, continuing nonchalantly. "That's a big deal! How's the preparation going? Do you think you can win a prize?"
Emma blinked, her expression pure, her tone slightly playful. "Mom, you're giving me too much credit! I'm just participating for fun. If I make it past the first round, I'll be thrilled. Winning a prize? That's a long shot!"
Phoenix inwardly sneered but her smile grew even more benevolent. "It's good to be humble, but don't underestimate yourself. You're part of the Russell family now, and you must have some talent."
Emma lowered her head, pretending to be shy. "Mom, you're making me blush. I just love designing and want to learn more through this competition. As for the results, I'll just go with the flow."
Phoenix felt more certain that Emma was just a useless decoration, posing no real threat.
She continued, "When does the competition start? Do you need any help with materials or tools? I know a few jewelers who could assist you."
Emma waved her hand, smiling innocently. "No need, Mom. I've got everything I need. I'm just doing this for fun. I appreciate your concern."
"Do you want me to accompany you to the competition? To cheer you on?" Phoenix added.
Emma shook her head. "No need, Mom. You're super busy, so don't trouble yourself with that. Besides, George said he'd go with me. And remember, Phoenix is also back for this competition. You should go support her. With you cheering her on, Phoenix is sure to do well."
"Of course!" Phoenix puffed out her chest with pride, her eyes gleaming with confidence. "I've won plenty of design awards abroad. This competition is a piece of cake for me."
As soon as she spoke, she realized her mistake. She was not Phoenix but Scarlett. Quickly correcting herself, she added, "I got carried away. Phoenix has always been smart and talented in design. I'm sure she'll do well. I have high hopes for her."
George, sitting nearby, frowned slightly, his gaze showing a hint of displeasure. He never liked Scarlett's arrogant attitude, especially when she targeted Emma. He spoke coldly, "The competition hasn't started yet. It's too early to say who will win."
Phoenix noticed George's displeasure and quickly toned down her smile, her voice becoming more perfunctory. "George is right. Humility is a virtue. But Phoenix's talent is undeniable. It's only natural for me to have confidence in her."
Jack sat quietly, observing everything, his eyes thoughtful. It seemed this fake Scarlett had a good relationship with Phoenix. But what exactly was their relationship?
After breakfast, George got up to leave, and Emma followed. At the door, George suddenly stopped and gave Scarlett a cold look, his voice carrying a warning. "Mom, the competition is about skill. Don't cause any trouble."
Phoenix was taken aback, then smiled defiantly. "George, are you doubting Phoenix's abilities?"
George didn't answer, just gave her a cold look and left. Emma followed him, a smile playing on her lips. She had a good idea of what Phoenix and Scarlett were up to.
George continued his routine of leaving early and coming home late. As soon as he left, Emma grabbed her bag and prepared to go out. Just as she reached the foyer, Phoenix appeared silently like a cat, a fake smile on her face. "Emma, where are you off to? Want me to come with you?"
Emma turned, her smile innocent. "I'm going to the hospital to see Grandpa. He's been recovering well, so I spend some time with him."
Emma's smile was so pure, it was as if the incident where Charles was nearly strangled by Phoenix had never happened.
Phoenix raised an eyebrow. "Don't you usually go to the hospital in the morning? Why so early today?"
Emma hesitated, then showed a hint of panic, her voice becoming uncertain. "There's a special check-up today. I need to get there early."
Phoenix stared at her face. "Really? Why didn't you mention it earlier? Do you want me to come with you?"
Emma quickly waved her hands, her smile a bit forced. "No, no, you go ahead with your day. I can handle it. Taking care of Grandpa is my responsibility."
"Alright then, be careful. Call me if you need anything."
Emma nodded and hurried out. Phoenix watched her leave, then smirked. "Emma, you're definitely lying."
She quickly grabbed her coat and followed.
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