Chapter 86

"What a coincidence, William."

A deep male voice came from behind.

Emily Smith instinctively turned around to see Alexander Johnson approaching with Sophia Song on his arm. Sophia wore a Chanel suit, every movement exuding the grace of a socialite.

"Brother, Miss Song." William Johnson stood up, a polite smile curving his lips.

Emily quickly rose to her feet, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her dress. She kept her head lowered, unable to meet their gazes.

"And who is this?" Alexander's scrutinizing eyes swept over Emily.

Sophia also studied her with interest.

"My friend, Emily Smith," William said calmly, then turned to Emily. "This is my elder brother and his fiancée."

Emily lifted her head, forcing a polite smile. "Mr. Johnson, Miss Song."

"Miss Smith?" Sophia arched a brow. "Are you perhaps some distant relative of the Johnson family?"

Alexander scoffed. "No such person exists in our family."

"Just a coincidence of surnames," William said, his gaze lingering on Emily with unexpected warmth. "A close friend."

Sophia let out a knowing "Oh" and tightened her grip on Alexander's arm. "Seems we've interrupted the second young master. Alexander, let's go."

As the sole heiress of the Song family, Sophia had always looked down on others. But now, as the future daughter-in-law of the Johnson family, she paid unusual attention to Emily. After all, William marrying a woman of modest background would only work in her favor.

"Enjoy your meal." Alexander nodded at them before leading Sophia away.

Only when their figures disappeared around the corner did Emily slowly sit back down. She clutched her water glass, her fingertips slightly cold.

"What's on your mind?" William asked.

Emily looked up at him, hesitating. She recalled what William had said to Olivia Davis that morning—just having some fun.

"Miss Song is very beautiful," she finally said.

William chuckled. "Once you get to know her better, you'll see what kind of person she really is."

Once you get to know her better?

Emily's heart clenched. What future did she and William even have?

She lowered her head and took a sip of water, changing the subject.