Chapter 227

"Pull over." William Johnson spoke abruptly.

Sam Wilson was surprised but quickly turned the steering wheel. Following William's gaze, he immediately spotted Emily Smith ahead, carrying two heavy shopping bags.

The car had barely stopped when William pushed the door open.

Just as he stepped out, a familiar figure was already striding toward Emily.

It was Daniel Chen.

Daniel took the shopping bags from Emily's hands, holding them all in his right. With his left, he gently tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. Emily looked up at him, her eyes crinkling with a sweet smile.

William narrowed his eyes, a sharp pang tightening in his chest. He remembered how Emily used to smile at him like that—her eyes sparkling like stars, so bright it was impossible to look away.

After exchanging a few words, Daniel carried the bags in one hand and held Emily's hand with the other, leading her toward a car nearby. William's gaze lingered on her slender figure until their car disappeared into the traffic.

He pressed his tongue against the roof of his mouth and turned back to his car.

"Has Professor Schievink's itinerary been confirmed?" William leaned back in his seat, eyes closed.

From the passenger seat, Zhang Xiao'an had witnessed everything. He sighed inwardly—this was the first time he'd ever felt sorry for his boss.

"10:45 AM the day after tomorrow at Jinzhou International Airport," Zhang replied promptly.

To secure the renowned American neurosurgeon, William had not only donated hundreds of millions in research equipment but also waited over a month.

"You and Professor Johnson will handle the airport reception," William opened his eyes. "Grace Lee will arrange accommodations."

"Understood."

......

Mia Harris wasn't home tonight, so Emily and Daniel cooked together at his apartment.

They worked seamlessly, preparing three dishes and a soup in under an hour.

After dinner, Daniel cleared the table while Emily sat in the living room reviewing materials for her graduate school entrance exams. Daniel fully supported her decision—he himself had pursued his master's in the UK before joining the broadcasting center and was now transitioning to on-screen work.

Daniel walked over with a fruit platter, picking up a strawberry and offering it to Emily. She took a bite, and he naturally ate the rest.

The gesture made Emily slightly uneasy. Since Daniel's return from his business trip, despite their honesty with each other, the unchangeable fact between them still felt like a thorn. The most intimate they'd been was when he lightly kissed her forehead.

"I should head up now," Emily closed her book and stood.

Daniel caught her wrist. "Emily."

She paused, meeting his gaze.

"You're still bothered about me and Sophia Song..." His fingers brushed over the back of her hand, his voice low.