Chapter 43

Morning sunlight streamed through the gap in the curtains, startling Emily Smith awake. She glanced at the alarm clock and panicked.

"Oh no!"

She sprang out of bed like a fish leaping from water. Skipping breakfast, she rushed through her morning routine and dashed out the door. William Johnson's calls faded behind her as she ignored them completely.

A black Rolls-Royce pulled up smoothly before the company building. Out of breath, Emily arrived just in time to see William stepping out alongside an elegant, poised woman.

"Good morning, Mr. Johnson!"

"Morning."

Colleagues paused to greet them. William nodded slightly while the woman offered a polished smile. They walked side by side toward the private elevator, their retreating figures forming a perfect match.

"Emily?"

A gentle tap on her shoulder snapped her from her thoughts. Michael Thompson stood behind her, his complexion restored to healthy color.

"Boss! You're discharged already?" She examined him in surprise.

Michael spun playfully. "Do I look like a patient to you?"

"Let me treat you to lunch," Emily suggested. "To celebrate your recovery."

"Sure. What are we having?"

"How about Cantonese? Light and nourishing."

Michael had hoped for a private meal, but Emily invited the entire team. These colleagues had supported her rapid growth over the past month.

All nine team members adored the newcomer. Sweet-faced yet humble and eager to learn, the recent graduate naturally won hearts with her measured approach.

Michael had already entrusted her with independent small projects. Now Emily meticulously reviewed her first solo contract.

"Boss, is there an issue with my contract?" she asked nervously when summoned to his office.

Michael turned his computer screen toward her with a smile. "Solid overall, but some details could be refined." He pointed at the display. "Adding a clause here would improve it."

Emily leaned in attentively. Michael genuinely wanted to mentor her, sharing knowledge unreservedly. Engrossed in professional discussion, neither noticed the workday had ended.

On the desk, Emily's phone vibrated repeatedly. The caller ID flashed "Big Boss" before going dark again.

In the underground garage, William stared at his unresponsive screen, his frown deepening. He pushed the car door open and headed straight for the Business Department on the 50th floor.

Scattered overtime workers gaped at the CEO's unexpected appearance, forgetting their greetings. William's sharp ears caught that familiar voice—usually soft and melodious, but capable of melting bones in intimate moments.

Following the sound, he saw two heads bent close together through the glass door. Strands of Emily's hair even brushed against Michael's shoulder.

William's expression darkened instantly. He turned on his heel and left.

"What's wrong?" Emily sensed something amiss, but saw only an empty hallway when she looked back.

Michael withdrew his gaze. "Nothing. Let's continue."