Chapter 296

The night was deep, the clock long past midnight. Emily Smith curled up on one side of the bed, her eyelids heavy as they closed. In the early hours of the morning, she finally succumbed to exhaustion and fell into a deep sleep.

In her drowsy state, the mattress dipped slightly. A chill crept up her back as William Johnson's arm encircled her waist. His chest carried the coolness of the night breeze, yet it brought her an inexplicable sense of comfort.

"How's Amanda Lin?" she murmured, half-asleep.

"Just out of danger." His lips brushed her earlobe, his voice low.

Emily's drowsiness faded instantly. The words Susan Miller and Grace Lee had spoken at the resort were true? The situation was even worse than the rumors suggested.

She wanted to press for details, but William whispered, "Sleep."

"Mm." She closed her eyes and said no more.

Images of Amanda Lin orchestrating David Brown's malicious schemes flashed through her mind. Those plots that had nearly destroyed her still sent a chill down her spine. Karma would come—it was only a matter of time.

......

Monday morning, sunlight filtered through the gaps in the curtains. Emily got ready to head to Grasshopper Audiobook.

"I'll drive you," William said, adjusting his tie as he stepped out of the walk-in closet.

"It's not on your way," she replied with a smile. "Don't miss your meeting."

In front of the Grasshopper building, Emily had just stepped out of the car when a woman in sunglasses rushed toward her. A.J. swiftly moved to block her path, forming a protective barrier.

"Lucy! It's me!" The woman removed her sunglasses, revealing the unmistakable smile of Mia Harris. "Just five minutes, I promise."

The coffee shop sign across the street glinted in the sunlight. Emily glanced at the bystanders holding up their phones and said softly, "Get in the car."

Mia's eyes lit up as she quickly slipped inside.

The moment the door closed, she pulled a velvet jewelry box from her bag. "This diamond bracelet would look perfect on you." The lid snapped open, the dazzling sparkle nearly blinding.

Emily didn't reach for it. "Get to the point, Miss Harris."

"I heard Mr. Johnson acquired Grasshopper?" Mia leaned in. "Could you put in a good word for me? I guarantee I can make the company a fortune."

"Sorry." Emily's reply was firm.

Mia's smile froze. "Really? That's how you treat me?" Her voice turned sharp. "I'm a top-tier star!"

"I have work to do." Emily reached for the door handle.

"Aren't you afraid I'll expose your relationship?" Mia suddenly hissed, her tone threatening.

Emily paused. She turned, a faint smile curling her lips. "Go ahead."

The door slammed shut, cutting off Mia's stunned expression. A.J. immediately fell into step beside Emily, escorting her into the Grasshopper building. Sunlight reflected off the glass façade, casting a brilliant glow.