Chapter 233
Emily Smith struggled desperately.
Her resistance was like an ant trying to shake a tree against William Johnson's strength.
She clenched her teeth tightly, refusing the water he tried to force into her mouth.
But the itch in her throat triggered an uncontrollable cough.
The moment her lips parted, William pried them open and poured water down her throat.
Emily coughed violently, the liquid invading her windpipe.
Her body trembled as she choked, water splashing everywhere—a few droplets landing on William's face.
He remained unmoved, watching her cough until it turned ragged and painful before finally releasing his grip.
His knuckles cracked as he clenched his fists, his expression darkening dangerously.
Emily's coughing fit nearly suffocated her before abruptly stopping.
Gasping for air, she curled up against the car door like a fish out of water.
The fury in William's eyes gradually softened into concern.
He reached out to touch her pale face but hesitated mid-air.
She looked as fragile as fine glass now.
"Stop the car!" Emily hissed through clenched lashes.
"Do you even know where I'm taking you?" William asked.
"I don't need a hospital," she insisted stubbornly.
William replied calmly, "Then I suppose you won't be attending Professor Schievink's consultation either?"
Emily's breath hitched.
Professor Schievink—the world's top neurosurgeon.
Her eyes flew open as she turned to William.
"You... really got Professor Schievink?" Her voice trembled with disbelief.
William met her gaze in silence.
Emily's nose stung, and she looked away toward the window.
She knew he wasn't lying.
The thought of her sister finally getting help sent a surge of relief through her.
"Did breaking up with Daniel Chen upset you this much?" William misinterpreted the redness in her eyes.
Emily didn't correct him.
After a long pause, she turned back and said sincerely, "Thank you, William."
The formality in her tone displeased him.
But seeing how weak she was, he held back his irritation.
Leaning back, he closed his eyes.
Emily glanced down at herself—wearing a sweatshirt, sleep pants, and bare feet.
"Can I go home and change first?" she asked softly.
William slowly opened his eyes, his gaze sweeping over her.
Emily met his scrutiny without flinching.
He shut his eyes again without responding.
She didn't press further.
Walking barefoot wouldn't be so bad—the weather wasn't cold anyway.
But she was overthinking it.