49. The echoes of the concert

The echoes of the concert's final notes still lingered in the air as Matthew Hamilton led Emma and Shirley away from the merchandise booth, his face still etched with lingering anger at what had just unfolded. As they reached a quieter corner of the arena, away from the prying eyes and whispering voices of the fans, he finally loosened his grip, turning to Emma with a concerned look.

Emma glanced down, still feeling the sting of humiliation. "I'm sorry, Matt. I didn't mean to cause a scene. We were just trying to leave quietly…"

Matthew interrupted her with a shake of his head. "You have nothing to apologize for. Those people were out of line. It's not their place to decide who belongs here." He looked her in the eye, his expression softening. "You know, I've dealt with plenty of toxic fans, but it's different when it's directed at my family. I won't stand for it."

Shirley, who had been quiet up until now, spoke up, her voice laced with frustration. "I can't believe they'd act like that. It's just… so unfair. Emma just wanted to enjoy the night. You'd think people would have a little more respect."

Matthew nodded, his jaw still tight. "Unfortunately, fame brings out the worst in some people. They think they're entitled to dictate everything, even how others should act." He turned his attention back to Emma. "I'm sorry you had to experience that. You came here to have a good time, and this isn't what you deserved."

Emma smiled faintly, trying to push the negativity aside. "It's okay, Matt. I didn't want you to get involved. You have enough on your plate already."

Matthew's brow furrowed slightly as he studied his sister. "Emma, you're my family. I'll always make time for you. And trust me, dealing with stuff like this is nothing compared to what you've been through. You've had your own battles." He paused, his tone softening as he remembered the difficult times Emma had faced recently. "I'm proud of you, you know that? You've been through so much, and you're still standing."

Emma's eyes glistened, Matthew's words touching a deep part of her that often went unacknowledged. "Thanks, Matt. I just… sometimes it's hard, you know? Watching you up there, seeing how far you've come, it's amazing. But it also makes me wonder if I'll ever figure things out for myself."

Matthew placed a gentle hand on Emma's shoulder, his eyes sincere. "Em, you don't need to compare yourself to anyone, least of all me. You've always been strong, even when you didn't feel like it. And you're not invisible, not to the people who really matter. You're my sister, and that's more important than any stage I could ever stand on."

Shirley chimed in, her voice full of warmth. "He's right, Emma. You've been through things most people wouldn't even know how to handle. And you're still here, still fighting. That's something to be proud of."

Emma looked at both of them, a mixture of gratitude and resolve welling up inside her. "I just… I want to find my own path, you know? I don't want to be just someone's sister. I want to be someone, too."

Matthew smiled, the kind that was equal parts encouragement and pride. "You will, Em. And when you do, it'll be on your own terms. Don't rush it. Life has a funny way of working out when you least expect it."

Emma nodded, feeling a renewed sense of hope. "Thanks, Matt. I really needed that."

Matthew pulled her into a quick, reassuring hug. "Anytime. And hey, next time you want to go to one of my concerts, let me know, okay? I'll make sure you have the best seats in the house—no merchandise required."

Emma laughed, the tension easing as the weight of the night began to lift. "Deal. But only if you promise to keep singing that one song I love."

Matthew grinned. "You got it. For you, I'd sing it a hundred times."

As they made their way toward the exit, the evening chill greeted them, a stark contrast to the heated emotions inside the arena. The city lights twinkled above, and for the first time in a while, Emma felt at peace. Shirley walked beside her, humming one of Matthew's tunes, and Emma found herself joining in, the melody lightening her mood.

Matthew turned back one last time, ensuring his sister was alright. He flashed a warm smile, his presence a silent promise of unwavering support. "Let's grab a late dinner, my treat," he suggested. "And no more talk about concerts or fans. Just family."

Emma nodded, feeling a renewed sense of connection with her brother. "That sounds perfect."

As they strolled into the night, the earlier incident felt like a distant memory. The three of them, bound by friendship and family, walked together with a newfound appreciation for each other. Emma knew she still had a long way to go in finding her own way, but tonight, surrounded by those who loved her, she felt a step closer to where she wanted to be.