Chapter 154

Morning sunlight streamed through the car window, illuminating William Johnson's fingers as they tapped lightly against the armrest.

The car came to a stop at a red light. He was reviewing the quarterly report when—

"Emily Smith!"

A familiar voice made his head snap up.

Michael Thompson's car was parked by the roadside, its window fully rolled down. Following his gaze, William's breath hitched.

The slender figure on the sidewalk was unmistakable.

Black ankle-length trousers accentuated her long legs, while a white chiffon blouse fluttered gently in the morning breeze. Most striking was her chestnut-colored bob, grazing her shoulders.

"Boss!"

Her clear voice rang out as Emily turned, sunlight dancing on her hair. The smile she gave Michael outshone the entire street.

William's knuckles turned white.

He watched as she slipped effortlessly into the backseat of Michael's car, completely oblivious to the black Rolls-Royce parked nearby.

Even after Michael's car disappeared into traffic, William remained frozen in place.

He closed his eyes. The report in his hand was now crumpled beyond recognition.

Emily had just settled at her desk when the intercom buzzed.

The caller ID made her fingers tremble slightly.

"Come here. Now."

The cold, clipped order was followed by the sharp click of the line disconnecting.

Her gaze dropped to the paper bag beneath her desk—inside was the freshly dry-cleaned men's jacket.

The elevator ride felt endless. Her reflection in the mirrored walls showed a tense profile as she took steadying breaths.

"Miss Smith, the Vice President is waiting for you."

Grace Lee's professional smile only heightened Emily's unease.

The moment the office door closed behind her, the air grew suffocating.

William didn't look up from the documents he was processing, his long fingers moving swiftly across the keyboard.

"Your jacket."

She placed the bag at the edge of his desk.

"You washed it?"

"Dry cleaner."

The atmosphere turned glacial.

William leaned back in his chair, his dark eyes boring into her.

"May I return to work now?" Emily spoke first.

"Did I dismiss you?"

His voice was icy.

Emily lowered her gaze to her shoes. The office air conditioning was so cold it made her shiver.