Chapter 3

William Johnson's fingers tapped lazily against the steering wheel. The dim interior light outlined his sharp profile as his intense gaze followed the girl outside.

"Can't you stay with me?" Emily Smith clutched her bag strap, her voice barely above a whisper.

William chuckled lowly before abruptly killing the engine and stepping out.

"Come on." He strode toward the apartment building without looking back.

Emily hurried after him, her heart pounding. The moment the door closed, she found herself pinned against the wall.

"I haven't showered yet..." She turned her face away from his kiss.

William gripped her chin. "Perfect. We'll do it together."

Steam filled the bathroom. The cold tiles pressed against Emily's back as she shivered. Water from the showerhead cascaded over their entangled figures, muffled whimpers lost in the humid air.

Two hours later, William carried her out. Her body was limp, eyelids too heavy to lift.

"Don't sleep." He pinched her cheek. "Your hair's still wet."

The hum of the hairdryer became a lullaby. Emily slumped against the armrest, dead to the world.

A sudden sharp pain on her lips made her swat blindly. A crisp smack echoed.

The air froze.

William's eyes darkened. He yanked the towel off her. Emily jolted awake, tearfully pleading until a choked "William" finally made him relent.

Late at night, William sat at the desk, flipping through her densely packed notes. The computer screen lit up, displaying the BestTech Group homepage. He glanced at the sleeping girl and smirked.

The next morning, Emily arrived at BestTech Tower just in time. Sunlight refracted off the glass facade, making the skyscraper resemble a floating crystal palace.

The lounge buzzed with well-dressed candidates. Clutching her resume, Emily waited quietly. The first interview went surprisingly well—until the HR manager stopped her.

"What's your relationship with Vice President Johnson?" The woman's gaze was piercing.

Emily shook her head in confusion. The manager sneered. "Follow me."

The sharp click of heels echoed unnaturally down the empty hallway.