Chapter 45

The office was chilled by the powerful air conditioning.

William Johnson's slender fingers danced across the keyboard, the blue glow from the screen illuminating his chiseled profile. His brows were slightly furrowed as he stared intently at the monitor, radiating an aura that warned others to keep their distance.

Emily Smith entered quietly, her high heels making no sound on the plush carpet. She extended a folder with both hands. "Vice President Johnson, the MJ overseas cooperation contract."

The typing continued without pause.

Emily remained perfectly still, holding out the document. Her beige blazer accentuated her fair complexion. Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting delicate shadows on her eyelashes.

Ten minutes passed. Her arms began to ache.

After fifteen minutes, her fingertips trembled slightly.

Finally, William hit send and leaned back into his leather chair. His gaze lifted to her shaking hands.

"Tired?" His voice was deep.

Emily pressed her lips together. "Yes."

Unexpectedly, William patted his thigh. "Come here."

She stubbornly kept the folder raised. "Please review the contract first."

The air grew heavy with tension.

William finally took the file. The sound of turning pages echoed in the silent office. After a quick scan, he fired off several challenging questions in rapid English.

Emily answered fluently, switching effortlessly between languages.

As she finished the last response, she took half a step back. "If there are no further questions, I'll take my leave."

William snapped the folder shut. "Stop."

Emily had already turned away, continuing toward the door.

The screech of chair legs against the floor made her heart race. She quickened her pace.

Two steps from freedom—

A warm hand seized her waist. The world spun as she found herself pinned against the door. William's presence overwhelmed her as he gripped her chin, his breath hot against her skin.

BANG!

The slamming door made several secretaries outside jump in their seats.