Chapter 97

William Johnson's sharp gaze swept over Michael Thompson, freezing him to the core. A cold sweat instantly broke out down his back.

James Wilson trailed behind William, feeling the temperature in the hallway plummet. He held his breath, cautious with every step. Having worked for William for six years, he had never seen his boss look so terrifying.

The usually composed and gentle executive now radiated an oppressive aura that was suffocating.

"Sir, should I contact Miss Smith?" James ventured hesitantly.

William sat in his office chair, his eyes as sharp as blades. "Why would you look for her?"

James immediately felt the weight of his mistake. Forcing an awkward smile, he retreated from the office.

At 7:30 in the morning, Emily Smith wheeled her suitcase out of Jinzhou Bay No.1.

The dormitory building of the Foreign Language Institute stood under the swaying shadows of plane trees. When she pushed open the door, her three roommates were already packing.

"Morning," she greeted softly, heading straight to her bed.

"Well, look who's back—our star student," the short-haired roommate said with a mocking tone. "Heard you've climbed the social ladder?"

Emily paused briefly before continuing to organize her books. "David Brown and I broke up a long time ago."

"Really?" The curly-haired roommate widened her eyes dramatically. "But he confessed his love to you in front of the whole school!"

Emily didn’t respond, methodically folding her clothes into the suitcase.

"Emily, did you find a job?" The bespectacled roommate suddenly leaned in.

"Yes. At BestTech."

Silence fell over the room. The three girls exchanged glances. The short-haired one sneered, "BestTech’s hiring standards are sky-high. You didn’t…"

"I’m just a regular intern," Emily said, closing her suitcase and turning to leave.

"Wait!" The curly-haired roommate chased after her. "Can you put in a good word for me?"

Without looking back, Emily pulled open the door. "The recruitment portal is on the official website."

Sunlight streamed through the corridor windows. Just as she pulled out her phone, Michael Thompson’s call flashed on the screen.