Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

Emma's mind buzzed with a sudden spark of inspiration as the clock struck five in the morning. She wasn't a singer or a dancer, couldn't solve complex puzzles, but she had a knack for herbal remedies.

Waiting until eight, Emma stood up, took the last bit of cash she had, and headed to the herbal shop in Beaconsfield. After purchasing some herbs, she meticulously cleaned them, ensuring even the roots were intact, and returned home.

This month, they had the option to stream all day but had to sign off by midnight for the official score tally. They could resume streaming after 1 a.m., if they still had the energy, all in a bid to attract more followers.

After seeing her rank last night, Emma decided not to continue streaming, unlike several other hosts who went on till dawn. She laid the herbs out to dry on the windowsill, thinking of asking Peyton if she was hungry, but her roommate was nowhere to be seen.

It was odd; Peyton, timid and afraid of embarrassment, rarely went out unless Emma accompanied her for meals. Where she was today was a mystery.

Peyton had left the apartment complex, determined to improve their living space after hearing about her daughter's ranking. Though not quite understanding what streaming involved, she thought some nice curtains or pretty paintings might brighten up their room. With the last thousand dollars in her pocket, and no immediate expenses, she decided to make the best of it.

hailing cabs and somewhat lost, Peyton mimicked others on the street,

Emma's mom, the bumpkin, right? What are you doing waving at me? As if I'd give you a ride. You and your daughter couldn't afford a tire on this

of Leona's scorn. She knew her rural roots all too

her bodyguards,

escape the grip of the bodyguards, pleading, "Let

driver, "Take us somewhere busy. This hick's probably never

his boss's antics, complied despite his

a stark contrast to Leona's superiority as she taunted, "Enjoy the ride. This will probably be the highlight of your life.

in

a phone and only the cash her pocket completely lost on how to get back. Asking for directions. was a challenge with her thick accent, and surrounded by