Chapter 131

William Johnson's footsteps came to an abrupt halt.

Mia Harris's furious voice carried from the hospital room: "William Johnson is nothing but a complete scumbag!"

Emily Smith's tone was eerily calm. "Don't blame him. It was just a transactional relationship—he paid, I slept with him. Now that he's reunited with his true love, he doesn't need me anymore. That's how it goes."

William's fingers tightened unconsciously.

"A transactional relationship?" Mia's voice rose sharply. "Then why did he get to terminate it unilaterally? Labor laws entitle you to compensation!"

Emily suddenly laughed, the sound light as wind chimes. "BestTech has a three-month probation period. I was three days short. Guess I didn't pass, so no payout."

"Emily Smith!" Mia jabbed a finger at her forehead in frustration. "Where's your self-respect?"

"You said he's a scumbag, didn't you?" Emily caught her hand, eyes bright. "Isn't it good to leave early?"

Outside the door, William's expression darkened dangerously.

He turned and strode away, his leather shoes striking the floor with heavy thuds.

Inside the room, Mia continued ranting. "Men are all led by their lower halves, especially when they're single—"

"I know, I know." Emily nodded obediently.

The next morning, Emily insisted on checking out and going straight to work.

She wore flawless makeup, but the dark circles under her eyes were impossible to hide.

Michael Thompson and Lily White were so concerned they practically forced her to sit at her desk and rest.

At lunch, Emily reserved a private room at One Taste Restaurant.

"My treat," she said with a smile. "Thank you all for taking care of me."

Michael excused himself to "take a call" and slipped out to pay.

"Sir, your table's bill has already been settled," the cashier informed him politely.

Michael blinked. "By whom?"

Just then, the door to the adjacent private room opened.

William stepped out, phone in hand, and his gaze locked directly with Michael's.