Chapter 261

It was a common sentiment for a girl to place her family above all else. Despite her hatred for Krista, Emily believed that Krista had influenced Franco's demeanor.

Even though Chris held authority over most of the family's assets, Emily harbored a fear. She was worried if Franco's anger escalated unchecked, it might inadvertently benefit Krista and Phineas.

"Emily."

"Yeah?"

"You don't have to worry about this, okay?" Chris' distress was palpable in his voice.

He clearly understood how his younger sister had become like this. In her early years, she had been a pure and guileless girl. It had been years since she last smiled.

Chris yearned to cosset and love his sister like any other loving brother would. But Emily wouldn't smile or even ask for anything. She would keep her agony to herself and never show it to anyone.

Her concealed pain remained a misery to everyone, as did her intentions. She was young. Still, her looks hinted at a history of enduring hardships, much like