Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

If this had been back in the day, Peyton would've been absolutely livid. But things were different now. Her daughter was rolling in dough, and even if she shouted it from the rooftops, no one in the village would buy it. Why waste her breath? Just enjoy life, she thought. As expected, when Peyton mentioned Emma was pulling in millions every month, the person on the other end burst into hysterical laughter, accusing her of being delusional. After hanging up, Peyton let out a cold snort. "Short-sighted fools, my Emma really is making that much!" Emma overheard this and couldn't help but chuckle, feeling a warm sense of pride. Yet, the thought of confronting Dustin dampened her mood. Was she really considering hiring someone to pretend to be her child's father? It seemed like the only solution left.

She quickly spread the word, offering a grand to anyone willing to play the role of her baby's dad, provided they could keep their mouth shut. Being a popular streamer now, Emma needed someone who wouldn't buckle under pressure. But after scouring for options, she realized relying on her own resources was too risky. If the truth got out, it would affect too many people.

With no other choice, she called Aubree for help. They met at a cozy café for afternoon tea. Aubree had just finished shooting a film and was enjoying a short break, sipping juice at a leisurely pace.

"So, Dustin knows you're pregnant, but you want to keep it from him that he's the dad?" Aubree was one of the few who knew the truth.

Emma nodded, her face clouded with concern. "Aubree, I thought about finding someone to pretend, but with my fanbase, if I pick the wrong person, this whole thing could explode."

Aubree frowned, hesitant to get tangled in such affairs. If Emma and Dustin ended up together and he found out she was complicit in hiding the truth, she'd be in a tight spot.noveldrama

"Aubree, I just want to raise this child on my own. The gap between Dustin and me is just too wide." It might sound unbelievable, but she truly hadn't planned on marrying Dustin.

Aubree remained silent, unsure about Dustin's feelings for Emma. If Dustin did have feelings, it was only a matter of time before they got together. Few could resist Dustin's charm; when he turned on the charm, it was irresistible.

Rubbing her temples, Aubree knew

she couldn't simply help Emma with

Lover

a deception. Emma, I wouldn't recommend getting someone to play the dad. And don't lie to Dustin. He's sharp. Not many can pull the wool over his eyes. Maybe just share part of the truth-say the father won't acknowledge you or join you at Stellar Stage Entertainment. That should be enough for Dustin. He's usually pretty understanding with women."

Emma blinked, then stood up. "Aubree, I understand. I'll try to have an open conversation with Mr. Lynch."

Aubree felt a pang of guilt for not

being more helpful. After Emma left, she noticed Dustin's social media update: "Arrived in Beaconsfield." He'd been in Beaconsfield for ages, so the sudden post was odd. She couldn't resist leaving a question mark in the comments. Soon, Brielle and Keiran chimed in with their own question marks, knowing Dustin had been there all along, puzzled by his airport photo.

Emma, seeing her boss's post, brightened up and quickly replied, "Boss, since you're in Beaconsfield, let me treat you to dinner." After sending the message, she felt a mix of excitement and nerves. She owed him so much, and with him in town, not offering a meal would be rude.

Dustin saw the notification and knew he'd hooked her. "Sure."

Emma, seeing his quick reply, suddenly felt a flutter of nerves. Was this what they called meeting an online friend in real life?