Despite her reluctance, Emma Hart knew she had to call back—it was family, after all.
"Hello? Emma! Merry Christmas!" Her mother's joyful voice came through the line.
"Merry Christmas, Mom!" Emma replied, feeling a warmth she hadn't felt in a long time. It was rare for her family's first words not to be about money.
"Emma, it's been so long since you came home. When will you visit us?" her mother asked.
"Uh... well..." Emma hesitated. She didn't really want to go back because she felt her family only cared about her for her money.
"Hello, ma'am, this is Damien Sterling." Overhearing the conversation and seeing Emma's distress, Damien took the phone from her.
"Damien! Merry Christmas! How have you been?" Her mother's excitement was palpable. Having such an impressive son-in-law speak to her was a thrill.
