Contents
Chapter 18: Emmett
Overview
Richard threatens Emmett over a contract breach, but Emmett still brings Julia to the sacred family breakfast, deepening their connection. The family clocks the chemistry, and Parker warns she’s worried about Emmett’s heart. Later, Parker reveals an academic setback. Surveillance intensifies as Emmett resolves Julia must be off-limits—for now.
Summary
Before dawn, Richard bombards Emmett with threats about breaching his contract by seeing anyone outside the show. Despite the warning, Emmett meets Julia and brings her to his grandparents’ house for the sacred Sunday breakfast, carefully avoiding cameras. Julia fits in quickly, and Emmett openly caters to her pineapple-on-eggs preference, signaling a growing attachment his family notices.
At the table, family banter reveals ranch updates and Riley’s chaos, while Parker quietly studies Emmett’s behavior. Parker’s pointed aside—“it’s not her heart I’m worried about”—implies concern for Emmett’s vulnerability amid the show’s manipulation and his feelings for Julia.
Afterward, Emmett spots even more cameras installed around the property, a direct consequence of his escape the night before. Seeking refuge, he meets Parker in their childhood crawl space sanctuary, and they share bourbon in near-silence before trading truths.
Emmett vents about producer-chosen contestants and confirms he already eliminated Madeline. Parker admits she missed a final after an emergency foal delivery, likely adding a semester with a rigid professor. Emmett offers to pay; Parker refuses. Emmett acknowledges Julia feels special but vows she’s off-limits while he finishes the show. They sit with that reality, choosing to wallow together.
Who Appears
- Emmett BrandtLead; defies producer to bring Julia to family breakfast, shows affection, then vows she’s off-limits while finishing the show.
- Julia SilvaProducer; arrives in casual comfort, bonds with Emmett’s family, and deepens her connection with Emmett over breakfast.
- Parker BrandtSister and confidante; probes Emmett’s feelings, reveals she missed a final, and shares bourbon in their crawl space refuge.
- RichardShowrunner; sends threatening texts about contract breach, tightening control and surveillance after Emmett’s escape.
- OmaGrandmother; orchestrates breakfast, keeps kitchen running, welcomes Julia into the family routine.
- OpaGrandfather; gruffly affectionate, joins the pineapple-on-eggs experiment, teases Riley about safety.
- Evan BrandtBrother; cooks with Oma and shares SPCA farrier work, highlighting family warmth and routine.
- Riley BrandtYounger sister; chaotic, flirty banter while setting the table with Julia, showcasing immediate rapport.