Chapter 211

"Daniel, your phone." Emily's voice came from the kitchen doorway.

Daniel Chen was washing dishes, the faucet running loudly. He turned off the water, shook droplets from his hands, and reached for his phone.

The name "Sophia Song" on the screen made his pupils constrict.

"What's wrong?" Emily noticed his tension.

"Nothing." He quickly declined the call and shoved the phone back into his pocket. "Just a telemarketer."

He avoided meeting her gaze.

But Emily kept her eyes locked on him. As he turned the faucet back on, she suddenly pressed a hand against his arm.

"Daniel, Sophia called me."

His spine stiffened instantly.

"She sent me photos of you two." Emily's voice was soft. "I know what happened."

Water dripped from the faucet. Daniel slowly turned, pain and guilt swirling in his eyes.

"I was drunk that night," he said, his voice trembling. "I thought she was you."

Emily studied him calmly. "When did you realize?"

"After I woke up." His fists clenched. "Emily, these past few days—"

She suddenly pressed a finger to his lips. "I believe you."

Daniel froze.

"You're really not angry?" he asked cautiously.

Emily shook her head. "But Daniel, what about your parents—"

"No!" He grabbed her shoulders abruptly. "Unless you say the word, nothing will tear us apart!"

He pulled her into a tight embrace. "You're worth everything to me."

Emily rested her head against his shoulder, a shadow flickering in her eyes.

She couldn't bear to see him sacrifice everything.

——

In the private room of an upscale club, crystal chandeliers cast dazzling reflections.

William Johnson clinked glasses with several tech moguls while his phone vibrated persistently in his pocket.

He glanced at the caller ID—Henry Johnson.

Declined. Turned on airplane mode.

Amanda Lin sipped her red wine elegantly, her lips curved in a flawless smile as she noted his actions.

Across the table, Robert Miller's phone lit up. He checked the screen and excused himself hurriedly.

A moment later, he leaned in to whisper in William's ear. "The Chairman demands your immediate return to the family estate."

William swirled his wine glass. "No rush."

Amanda arched a questioning brow.

Robert hesitated, then retreated to his seat in silence.

The crystal glasses chimed, and the dinner continued under an unspoken tension.