Chapter 172

Alexander Johnson staggered back from the sudden punch, nearly losing his balance before crashing to the ground.

William Johnson reacted swiftly, pulling Emily Smith back from the railing where she had been dangerously leaning. He wrapped his arms protectively around her.

"Who the hell dares to hit me?!" Alexander roared, scrambling to his feet. Without even seeing his attacker, he swung a wild punch.

William seemed to sense the blow coming. Still holding Emily, he pivoted smoothly, dodging the strike with ease.

Alexander's momentum carried him forward, sending him stumbling toward the railing. He barely caught himself before toppling over.

"Brother, Father and Chairman Song are waiting for you," William said, his lips curving into a cold smile. "Are you sure you want to waste time here?"

Today was supposed to be about finalizing Alexander and Sophia Song's wedding plans. Yet here he was, harassing Emily.

Recognition flashed in Alexander's eyes as he finally saw William. Wiping blood from his lip, he straightened his suit with deliberate calm.

"Dear brother, isn't your wedding with Amanda Lin coming up soon?" His gaze slid meaningfully to Emily. "And yet you still have time to meddle in other people's business?"

"Likewise," William replied icily. "No need to concern yourself with my affairs."

Emily remained stiff in William's embrace, disgust churning inside her. But she knew pushing him away now would only embolden Alexander further.

Watching these brothers clash over her, she felt nothing but bitter amusement.

This was the so-called bond between wealthy heirs.

Alexander's lingering stare sent a chill down her spine.

"If you like her that much, I'll let you have her for now," he sneered. "Just let me know when you're done playing."

Emily shuddered. Only when Alexander disappeared from sight did she finally exhale.

"Are you hurt?" William asked softly, his hands gently checking her for injuries.

Emily shoved him away and slapped him hard across the face.

The sharp crack echoed through the garden.

Both froze in shock.

"William Johnson, I'm begging you—just leave me alone!" Her eyes burned with unshed tears. "I'll be grateful to you for the rest of my life."

Without another word, she turned and ran, leaving her purse behind as she fled the restaurant.

Daniel Chen had been waiting for her return. When she didn't come back, he went searching.

At the corner, he caught a glimpse of Emily rushing out of the garden before vanishing into the night.

He started after her—then stopped.

Through the glass doors, he spotted William still standing in the garden.

Hesitating only a moment, Daniel chased after Emily instead.