Chapter 18

Emily Smith's scratches looked alarming, but fortunately, they were only superficial.

Daniel Chen took her to the nearest hospital. After careful disinfection, the doctor applied a layer of ointment.

"Avoid getting these wet for the next few days," the doctor instructed. "Wait until the wounds scab over."

Though it was midsummer, Emily would rather endure a few days without showering than risk scarring on her face.

After leaving the hospital, Daniel took her out for a late-night meal.

"Aren’t you curious why I got into a fight?" Emily blinked her bright eyes at him.

Daniel’s heart ached as he noticed the faint dimples at the corners of her lips. He had already heard about her family situation.

He gently smoothed her disheveled hair and said firmly, "They must have provoked you first."

Emily shook her head. "Actually... I was the one who lost my temper."

If Daniel hadn’t bailed her out, she might still be in custody. The thought sent a chill down her spine.

She silently reminded herself: I have to learn to be more patient from now on.

Daniel noticed the bitterness hidden in her eyes and felt a pang of helpless sorrow.

Just then, the owner brought over a steaming pot of congee. Emily’s eyes lit up—she hadn’t eaten all day.

"Take it slow," Daniel said, quickly serving her a bowl.

Emily eagerly scooped up a large spoonful, only to burn her tongue. Tears welled up, but she forced herself to swallow it anyway.

Daniel chuckled and blew on another bowl to cool it for her.

By the end, Emily had nearly finished the entire pot. After the satisfying meal, the unpleasantness of the afternoon seemed to melt away.

Daniel insisted on seeing her home.

"Really, it’s not necessary..." Emily protested.

"It’s late. I’m taking you back," he said firmly.

Emily reluctantly got into his car. She was relieved she still had the key to her rented apartment—she hadn’t moved all her things to William Johnson’s place yet.

On the way, they discussed their plans for recording the new book. Their previous collaboration on a fantasy novel was gaining popularity, and they would receive their share of the profits next month.

"I’ll pick you up at nine tomorrow," Daniel said when they arrived at her building. "Get some rest tonight."

Emily nodded in thanks and watched his car drive off before heading upstairs.

She washed up quickly and collapsed into bed, falling asleep almost instantly.

The next day, she recorded the new book with Daniel. Her equipment wasn’t professional, and her computer was still at William’s place, so she had to work in Daniel’s studio.

They worked seamlessly together, finishing ahead of schedule. At six in the evening, Daniel left for a radio show, while Emily went to the hospital to visit her sister.

That night, back in her apartment, she meticulously reviewed the day’s recordings before finally allowing herself to sleep.

On Monday morning, she dressed in her new discount outfit and headed to BestTech Group. On the subway, she focused on analyzing the emotional arcs of the novel’s characters.

Suddenly, William’s striking face flashed through her mind. The description of the male lead bore an uncanny resemblance to him.

It dawned on her—she hadn’t contacted him in two days. Did he know about the fight? Did he know she hadn’t returned to his apartment?

The thought twisted her heart. After all, he was her first...

"Emily!" A voice snapped her out of her thoughts.

She turned to see Michael Thompson approaching.

"Boss!" she greeted cheerfully.

Michael frowned at the marks on her face. "What’s a girl like you doing getting into fights?" He reached out to touch her cheek.

Just then, a black Rolls-Royce glided past. Emily’s attention was diverted until Michael’s fingers brushed her skin, startling her.

"It was... just a little accident," she said, stepping back with a strained smile.

Michael laughed. "You? Fighting? With that tiny frame?"

Emily pouted indignantly. "I’m tougher than I look!"

"Alright, alright, I stand corrected," Michael chuckled, slinging an arm around her shoulders. "Let’s go."

As Emily moved to follow, a sudden chill ran down her spine. A chorus of greetings erupted behind her:

"Good morning, Vice President Johnson!"

Michael quickly pulled her aside. "Good morning, Vice President Johnson."

William stepped out of the car, his handsome face icy. As he passed Emily, his sharp gaze cut through her like a blade.

Michael shivered and glanced at Emily, only to find her staring at the ground like a scolded child.

"Did you do something to upset Vice President Johnson?" he whispered once the crowd dispersed.

"Huh? No," Emily replied, bewildered.

Michael: "......"