Rejected Heiress, Reigning Queen novel Chapter 22

Emma arrived at the mall and waited a long time before they finally showed up.

"I'm so sorry, Emma. Gillian woke up complaining about the chef's breakfast, so that delayed us a bit," Violet said, looking highly embarrassed. They had agreed to meet at nine, but they were terribly late.

Gillian linked arms with her mother, throwing a provocative look. "My mom loves me too much. She insisted on cooking for me herself. You don't mind, do you?"

Emma smiled. Did Gillian really think such childish tactics would trigger her?

"Mom, I think Carole's just released their new collection. I want to take a look."

Gillian dragged Violet toward the high-end luxury boutique. She glanced back at Emma with a sneer. "Can you even afford anything from Carole? Or are you just planning to shamelessly spend Lockwood money?"

"Gillian, Emma is doing the family a huge favor this time. Don't be like that." Violet patted her daughter's hand soothingly, then turned to Emma with a warm smile. "If you see a dress you like, go ahead and try it on. I'll buy it for you as a thank-you from the family."

Gillian scoffed coldly and shook off Violet's hand to browse the racks. Violet immediately chased after her.

Emma watched her mother smile tenderly while helping Gillian pick out clothes. This exact scene had played out in her dreams countless times over the years. Yet now, seeing it unfold in real life, she felt absolutely nothing.

She was no longer that sick, desperate girl alone in a foreign country, begging for her parents' affection on a rainy night.

"Miss, this red dress would look stunning on you." The sales associate handed her a digital lookbook. "It's versatile enough for both formal events and everyday wear. We only have a few pieces left. If you like it, you should try it on."

Emma lowered her gaze. The dress was indeed beautiful.

"No need to try it on. Just wrap it up."

Emma had a perfect figure, like a walking mannequin, so she only ever had to look at the style. She never needed a fitting room.

The associate beamed. Just as she was about to ring up the purchase, Gillian walked over.

"A twenty-thousand-dollar dress. You've got some nerve."

Gillian glared at Emma with absolute disgust. The sheer audacity of this fake daughter.

"I like this dress too. Give it to me."

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