Chapter 251

"Mr. Johnson, Emily and I have plans later. Maybe you should leave first?" William turned to Ethan with a faint smile.

The dismissal was obvious. Ethan wasn’t stupid. He stood up politely. "Sure. Enjoy your meal. We’ll catch up another time."

He waved at Emily. She forced a smile as she watched him leave.

The moment Ethan disappeared, her smile vanished. She glared at William. "How did you find me here?"

William leisurely took off his sunglasses and tucked them into his jacket pocket. "Just passing by."

Emily didn’t believe a word. But she didn’t bother pressing him—he always had a way of tracking her down.

"I’m done. I’m leaving." She moved to stand.

William caught her wrist. He’d learned his lesson—forcing her would only push her further away.

"Emily," he softened his voice, sounding almost pitiful, "I haven’t eaten all day. Stay with me?"

She frowned.

"The congee’s cold. I’ll get you a fresh bowl." She finally relented.

William’s eyes lit up, his lips curving into a boyish grin. "Okay."

That smile made her heart skip. She pulled her hand free and went to find the owner.

Knowing his stomach was sensitive, she ordered a warm pork congee and a few skewers of the house specialty.

The dim lighting hid William’s identity, but the owner sensed they were important guests. The food arrived quickly.

Emily sterilized a new set of bowls and chopsticks with hot water and served him a steaming portion.

"I’ll just use yours." He reached for her used utensils.

She slapped his hand away and pushed the bowl toward him. Unfazed, William picked up her spoon and started eating.

"This place is nice," he said between bites. "Bring me here again?"

Emily stayed silent.

"Still mad?" He looked up. "Just tell me what’s bothering you. I won’t lose my temper."

He finished the bowl and held it out for more. With a sigh, she refilled it.

When the skewers arrived, William took a bite and nodded. "Not bad. But not as good as your cooking."

Emily turned her face away.

"Want some?" He offered her half a beef skewer.

"I’m full." She leaned back.

William didn’t insist. He took a sip from her teacup and kept eating.

Emily’s eyes widened. How could he—

The food disappeared quickly. William stood to pay, but Emily stopped him. "It’s taken care of. Let’s go."

She walked out. William caught up in a few strides and took her hand.

She tried to pull free, but he held tight. Not wanting to cause a scene, she gave in.

The street was packed with cars. William’s was clearly parked far away. They walked hand in hand for a while.

"Where’s your car?" Emily finally asked.

William rubbed his nose. "No parking. Sam drove it back."

Emily: "..."

They reached a bus stop. She stopped. "I’ll take the bus."

She tried to pull away again.

"Emily." His grip tightened, his voice rough. "Give me one more chance."

She looked up—but all she saw was her own reflection in his sunglasses.