The information Carter found wasn't extensive, but for Emma, it was a crucial breakthrough.
"Are you saying Charles Lockwood and Pamela Palmer dated in college?"
Emma was genuinely stunned.
Carter nodded. "We found a professor who graduated in the same class. It wasn't heavily publicized, but their relationship was an open secret on campus back then."
Emma sat on the edge of the bed, her brow furrowed. This made everything infinitely more complicated.
Given that history, the real question was why her adoptive mother had traveled to Garrison City during the late stages of her pregnancy.
She tossed and turned, only managing to fall asleep deep into the night. When she woke up the next morning, Carter was already gone.
He had left a single unread message on her phone.
[I didn't want to distract Travis during the race, so I booked a private room at a nearby bar with a live broadcast. I'll come pick you up when it's over.]
Travis didn't like him, and Carter knew it.
Normally, he'd fight to stay by Emma's side, but he refused to let his selfishness ruin Travis's focus during something as dangerous as professional racing.
Emma smiled as she read the screen. She had already guessed his reasoning.
He was just as thoughtful as always.
When Travis came to get her, he caught her smiling fondly at her phone.
He frowned deeply. She really did look like a woman in love.
"Remember what happened last time. The Harringtons aren't exactly known for being decent people," Travis snorted, leaning against the doorframe.
Emma snapped out of her daze, pocketing her phone. "Carter isn't like Percy."
She stood up and walked past him, flashing a bright smile.
"Besides, don't you think Carter and I are a perfect match?"
Carter understood and respected her—something Percy was entirely incapable of.
"He's alright, I guess."
Travis twitched his lips. Once he realized she wasn't the victim in this dynamic, he lost interest in meddling.
They were already married; what more could he do?
"Whatever. I'm back now. You can do whatever you want, and I'll clean up the mess," Travis declared, officially taking her side. Emma finally relaxed.
After breakfast, they headed straight to the track. As a competitor, Travis took the VIP entrance.
Emma had a premium pass for the infield.
Travis flashed an arrogant grin, his signature canine tooth showing. His slightly boyish face carried a fierce, untouchable arrogance that totally contradicted his charming looks.
"My sister came to cheer for me today, so you boys better watch your backs. First place is already mine."
Unlike their reaction to Gillian's boasting, the racers didn't show an ounce of disdain. Instead, they buzzed with absolute reverence.
Anyone in the racing scene idolized Travis. He was the undisputed king of the international circuit, sweeping championships year after year.
His raw talent was undeniable.
Travis turned to Tristan, a mocking smirk playing on his lips.
"Hey, don't forget our bet. You might want to start drafting that apology speech right now."
Tristan stiffened, his fists clenching in humiliation.
How had he not recognized the legend he'd worshipped for years? He had practically dug his own grave with that bet.
Gillian, having zero knowledge of the racing world, didn't recognize Travis at all.
Assuming he was just some random thug Emma had hired, she sneered,
"You think finding some amateur is enough to beat my brother? But since you clearly want to surrender, I'll give you a chance. Beg me, and I might convince Tristan to cancel the bet."

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