Chapter 52. Twelve Million

Emerald was always the picture of a calm and modest traditional woman. But everything changed the moment she met Alaric. Her restraint vanished when he defended her in front of everyone.

Since childhood, her father had doubted her suitability for marriage, while her mother insisted that her only path was to marry a wealthy man. Ethan had a simple belief: beautiful women should rely on men.

None of them paid attention to her true feelings. Whether she was hurt or struggling, they didn't care. All that mattered was how long she could maintain her beauty.

She had walked alone down a dark, muddy road for years, holding a broken umbrella.

For the first time, when she was pushed into the mud, someone stood up for her and dismissed all criticisms on her behalf.

Emerald felt a spark of joy and hope bloom within her. This complex emotion was like a seed planted in the softest part of her heart, slowly growing like fresh sprouts in a gentle drizzle.

At the end of