Chapter 53

53 Sibling Strategies Emma was thriving in her career, despite the increased workload that came with her determination to outperform her estranged husband, Alex. This professional rivalry with Alex was a source of peculiar satisfaction for her, feeling like a just retribution for years of endured discomfort.

Exiting a meeting, Emma’s phone rang. It was Maxwell, her eldest brother. Their last interaction had been a brief conversation with her other brother, Bruce, about attending Maxwell’s concert. Considering they hadn’t been in touch for over three years – since Emma’s marriage to Alex – the call was unexpected and stirred a mix of emotions in her.

Her colleague, Jada, noticed Emma’s startled expression. “Everything okay? You look worried.

Emma handed her phone to Jada, indecisive. “Should I answer? What if he’s angry with me?”

“Isn’t that typical of your brother, especially regarding your marriage? He never approved,” Jada pointed out.

Emma had no retort. Jada’s words were harsh but true. Resignedly, she answered the call just in time.

Maxwell’s voice was tinged with irony: “Playing hard to get? Are you now some elusive heiress?”

Emma tried to defuse his irritation, “I’m sorry, I messed up. What do you need?”

Maxwell got straight to the point, “I heard about your divorce. I’ve arranged a blind date for on his way.

Don’t stand him up, or remember the chaos from three years ago? That’s still unresolved.

you. He’s Emma was stunned. “Can we discuss this? I appreciate your concern, but a blind date isn’t the solution.”

Maxwell playfully threatened, “He’s already invited. If you don’t go, Dad will know, and he’ll insist.

Your choice.”

Emma was incredulous. “You’re serious?” The implications of inviting the man home were grave. It could pressure her into another rushed marriage.

Maxwell chuckled, “You in or out? If you’re not going, explain to Dad.”

Begrudgingly, Emma agreed but was shocked to find the blind date was none other than Tom, Maxwell’s right–hand man. It was clear that Maxwell had his own agenda.

Emma’s frustration was palpable. “Maxwell sent you? Is this some kind of joke? And is he coming too?

Tom confirmed, “Yes, he might be at home already. And as for why I’m here… well, you know Maxwell.”

Emma sighed, resigned to her brother’s antics. “What’s he planning now? What’s next?”

Maxwell’s machinations were often more problematic than the issues they intended to solve, and