The CEO's Empathy Pregnancy Pains

Chapter 30 Identity Theft

Michael and Nicholas were left speechless. Michael, still trying to wrap his head around the fact that Emily could design jewelry, now had to process the news that she had been accused of plagiarism. One bombshell after another. 'What else is my wife hiding from me?' he wondered.

"Plagiarism? What's this about? Weren't you..." Nicholas started to ask.

"It's all a big misunderstanding, Mr. Jackson. Let me explain," Abigail quickly cut in, worried Nicholas might spill the beans about Emily's identity.

Before Emily and Abigail could say anything, Sophia jumped in, "Mr. Jackson, back in college, Emily got in trouble for plagiarism. She can't even get into the jewelry design industry. She even..."

"Shut up, Sophia. Don't act like I don't know what you're up to. You and I both know the real story behind that plagiarism mess," Emily snapped at Sophia.

Turning to Nicholas, Emily said, "Mr. Jackson, it's all a misunderstanding. Trust me." She gave him a determined look.

Abigail managed to send Nicholas away, and Michael, looking pissed, grabbed Emily and started to leave. Emily yanked her arm free.

"Come with me," he said, barely holding back his anger.

"Say whatever you need to say right here," Emily shot back, knowing exactly what he wanted to ask.

Michael sneered. "Emily, how many things are you hiding from me?"

a lot. "Does it have anything to

you've got some nerve. All that meekness before was just

and tried to mediate. "Michael, don't

back a hundred fold

so I won't be an eyesore to you."

loosened his tie. He had really underestimated

seat next to Michael. She had Abigail sit next to her, leaving no

ignoring him, Michael had someone arrange another seat for Sophia. Sophia glared

to notice and quietly asked Abigail if she was ready. Abigail gave her a reassuring nod. Then they

Besides Michael and Nicholas, there were other industry leaders, their wives,

release dates, reminding everyone they could pre-order. Emily seemed

and nodded. She had never attended in person before but always watched live streams or replays. It felt different being here. Michael glanced over and

was showcased. The audience buzzed with chatter until Emily's work appeared. But the designer's name was

look. Just as they suspected, Sophia had stolen her

like in college. So Emily had made two copies of her sketches. One was submitted under her own name to Moonlit Treasures' design department through Abigail. Sophia

a sly smile and saw panic flash in her eyes.

worry, Sophia. The real

gripped by fear. She had no idea what Emily was planning. Finally, the jewelry

so stunning that the audience present couldn't turn their eyes off them as if they were under a spell to purchase them