15. Humiliated

"Don't equate me with her. I would never sell my pride for money." Caroline said it firmly. She stared intently at Jake, while her hands were clenched in irritation.

"Obviously you're not Emily's equal." Jake replied with emphasis. He tightened his embrace around Emily's waist to make Caroline even angrier with jealousy. He smiled sarcastically, feeling superior for having managed to hurt Caroline's pride.

"I brought her here." Jared replied haughtily. There was no relationship like there used to be. Jared used to think of Jake as a dear nephew, but not anymore. Jake was no longer the little boy who needed to be lavished with affection and spoiled with money.

"Uncle, you have to be careful with her. She could spend your money without you knowing; she's just a worthless piece of trash." Jake emphasized. He wanted to make Caroline lose her self-esteem even more.

Jared held his chin high, looking so confident. He put his arm around Caroline's waist, just as Jake had put his arm around Em