Chapter 69

68 Gossip and Gift Boxes Emma, on her way home to unwind, was intercepted by Jada and Bonnie, eager to grill her about the ongoing drama. They were buzzing with curiosity over Emina’s sudden closeness to Maxwell, especially given his influence in the industry. Feeling overwhelmed by their inquisition, Emma didn’t know how to respond. The situation was spiraling, and their curiosity only compounded her frustration. “Not only Alex, but now Maryann has shared an old photo with you,” Jada said, showing a social media post to Emma. The gossip was intensifying, and Emma was at the center of it. Bonnie, intrigued by the post, added fuel to the fire, “Now everyone’s curious about your true identity. What’s next? Heiress to the Smirnoff empire?” Emma sighed, lamenting her decision to participate in the magazine shoot. “If I knew it would cause this much hassle, I wouldn’t have done it.‘

Bonnie questioned the necessity of Emma’s involvement, considering the stature of Crown Entertainment, another company under the Smirnoff umbrella. Emma knew her family’s influence in the industry, but her involvement wasn’t just about supporting the subsidiary–it was also about helping Jennifer, the photographer. “Jennifer’s a big name in photography. If you did the shoot just for him, that’s just bad luck. But if you’re thinking of rekindling things with Alex, I might have to intervene,”

Bonnie half–joked, half- serious. Emma dryly laughed off the notion, having no intention of reconnecting with Alex. Jada chimed in, “The real issue is your brother’s reaction. And Maryann’s on her way here–we should leave before she draws a crowd.” Jada recalled an outing with Maryann, how her fame had turned their day into a chaotic fan evasion. Now, with Maryann approaching, they anticipated another frenzy. “Let’s leave before it gets too hectic,” Emma suggested, mindful of Maryann’s fan following. As they prepared to leave, Maryann arrived, displeased at the thought of being left behind. Her arrival halted their escape. “I heard about your divorce from Alex. Here’s a gift,”

Maryann said, handing Emma a hefty gift box. Inside, Emma found stacks of Maryann’s personal magazines, featuring interviews and profiles of various male celebrities. It was a comprehensive guide to the showbiz world. “Are you suggesting I pick someone from here?” Emma asked, wary of Maryann’s intentions. Maryann confirmed, “Yes, they’re all good options, vetted and discreet. Feel free to choose a few if you like.” 68 Gossip and Gift Boxes The boldness of Maryann’s gesture stunned everyone. Jada and Bonnie looked at Emma, wondering how she would handle such an offer. Emma, taken aback by Maryann’s unconventional gift, faced a conundrum. The box presented a mix of potential connections and complications in her already tangled personal and professional life.