Rejected Heiress, Reigning Queen novel Chapter 314

Gillian's sarcastic remark was a blatant insult, implying Emma wasn't worthy of high-end luxury.

It was a direct slap to Carter's face, yet it made him feel so guilty he didn't know what to say.

If he had known, he wouldn't have just casually bought her clothes.

Emma offered a graceful smile and naturally linked her arm through Carter's.

"My husband gave it to me, so of course it suits me perfectly."

The guilt bubbling up inside Carter was instantly replaced by a rush of secret thrill. His wife had initiated contact and actually called him her husband in front of all these people.

Gillian crossed her arms and sneered. "She's the goddaughter of the Vance family, and her senior is a big shot in the design world. For Mr. Harrington to brush her off with something so cheap... it really shows a lack of respect, doesn't it?"

She deliberately provoked them, waiting for Jocelyn to explode.

Gillian had done her research. Jocelyn adored Emma to a fault and had commanded her entire design firm to drop everything just to prioritize Emma's custom wardrobe. Seeing Carter treat Emma so shabbily would surely cause a scene.

But she was dead wrong.

Jocelyn casually inspected Emma's tracksuit. It wasn't high fashion, but the fabric was visibly plush, comfortable, and warm.

"It's pretty nice."

Jocelyn stated seriously, giving Carter a thumbs-up.

"I was wondering who had the skills to get my junior into sportswear. She usually hates these kinds of clothes." Jocelyn grinned and playfully bumped Emma's shoulder.

"So it was your darling husband all along."

When Emma was studying abroad, money was so tight she could only afford the cheapest clothes. Because she was stunning and had a gorgeous figure, she was too afraid to even wear anything remotely flattering.

She had survived on the same few hoodies and trackpants for years. Later, when she had money and bodyguards, Travis Reynolds constantly drilled into her head that young women should dress up and feel beautiful.

As a result, Emma's closet was now exclusively filled with pretty dresses.

"Jeff, notify the mall manager. Replace this store with a coffee shop by tomorrow."

Carter shot a frigid glance at the clerk who had disrespected Emma. The clerk's face drained of all color.

Her elaborate gowns were far too exaggerated for a trip.

"Then the way you treat Summer... is any part of it because of me?"

Phoebe asked, her voice lacking any confidence.

Emma answered decisively, "No."

Phoebe looked up in shock, a deep sadness swimming in her eyes.

"I genuinely like the clothes Summer designs," Emma continued. "And Amethyst Design Company has a zero-tolerance policy for anyone who steals and takes credit for other people's work."

Phoebe lowered her head, her eyes rimmed with red. Emma said nothing more and simply walked away.

Just as Phoebe was wandering off in a depressed daze, Gillian grabbed her arm in a panic.

"Phoebe, did you know something happened on Sabine Island? Your mom is vacationing there. Has she contacted you recently?"