The Billionaire's Forbidden Contract

300 Chapters 125,649 Words

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Synopsis

A destitute student enters a dangerous bargain with a tech tycoon to uncover corporate secrets, but their forbidden attraction threatens to destroy both their revenge plot and hearts. As power plays escalate in the boardroom and bedroom, every touch becomes a calculated risk.

Chapters

Chapter 1373 words
The neon lights of The Royal Club flickered at midnight as Emily Smith dragged her exhausted body through the grand entrance.
Chapter 2342 words
Morning sunlight streamed through the gap in the curtains as Emily Smith finished packing her bag, ready to leave.
Chapter 3306 words
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.
Chapter 4454 words
The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime.
Chapter 5451 words
The day her father was imprisoned, her mother packed her bags and left in the middle of the night. Not even a note remained.
Chapter 6417 words
"Getting this worked up over a woman? Is she really worth it?"
Chapter 7411 words
William Johnson didn't say a word. He simply started the car and drove straight toward the hospital.
Chapter 8391 words
William Johnson didn't just buy sanitary napkins. He also returned with a floral-print pajama set and brand-new underwear.
Chapter 9471 words
Emily Smith leaned over the bathroom sink, gagging violently as her stomach churned.
Chapter 10552 words
Emily Smith stared at her phone screen, silently repeating the string of numbers several times. 941122—the passcode to William Johnson's apartment. She quickly opened her notes app and tapped the digits into her phone, saving them for later.
Chapter 11326 words
"Miss Smith, your audiobook has surpassed a million listens." The platform editor's voice brimmed with excitement. "Once it switches to paid content next month, your estimated monthly earnings will start at least at one hundred fifty thousand."
Chapter 12475 words
Emily Smith clenched the handle of her suitcase, her nails digging deep into her palms. She tilted her head back, forcing the tears threatening to spill to retreat.
Chapter 13493 words
Emily Smith finished registering her access card for Jinzhou Bay One and walked toward the subway station under the morning light.
Chapter 14464 words
Emily Smith had just settled into her workstation when her phone buzzed abruptly.
Chapter 15435 words
For two consecutive days, Emily Smith hadn't seen William Johnson.
Chapter 16462 words
Emily stepped out of the gated community as dusk settled. Her high heels clicked against the pavement for nearly half an hour before she reached the bus stop.
Chapter 17382 words
Pinned against the cold floor, Emily Smith could still smell the pungent perfume clinging to Emma Clark. When the officers pulled them apart, her hair tie had snapped at some point, leaving her long hair disheveled over her shoulders.
Chapter 18764 words
Emily Smith's scratches looked alarming, but fortunately, they were only superficial.
Chapter 19506 words
The moment William Johnson stepped into his office, the air pressure on the entire floor plummeted.
Chapter 20377 words
William Johnson yanked Emily Smith into an empty private room next door, the force sending her stumbling several steps.
Chapter 21580 words
After work, Emily Smith went straight to the hospital to visit her sister.
Chapter 22451 words
Morning sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows into the bedroom. When Emily Smith opened her eyes, the space beside her was already empty.
Chapter 23554 words
At exactly nine o'clock in the evening, William Johnson closed the last file and stood up from his desk.
Chapter 24381 words
Emily Smith froze the moment she pushed open the door.
Chapter 25344 words
Emily Smith's voice was completely gone, every breath burning like fire.
Chapter 26469 words
Outside the hospital, traffic streamed by endlessly. Emily Smith stood across the street, fiddling with her phone. She had just saved William Johnson's number when she heard a familiar voice call her name.
Chapter 27307 words
Emily felt like she was falling apart.
Chapter 28231 words
The night was ink-black. Emily Smith curled up alone on the small guest bed.
Chapter 29429 words
The sound of steady, powerful footsteps echoed from the end of the hallway.
Chapter 30581 words
After her sister's condition stabilized, Emily Smith returned to Jinzhou Bay No.1 with William Johnson.
Chapter 31516 words
Emily Smith transferred buses three times with her arms full of shopping bags. By the time she arrived at the prison, it was already afternoon. The slanting sunlight spilled across the visitation room's glass, reflecting her slightly exhausted face.
Chapter 32607 words
The flight to W City was scheduled for 8:35 AM.
Chapter 33524 words
"Emily."
Chapter 34426 words
Emily initially resisted, but soon became active under William's guidance.
Chapter 35454 words
Emily Smith jolted awake from her sleep.
Chapter 36564 words
Olivia Davis's obsession with William Johnson had long been an open secret in their social circle. The Davis heiress never concealed her feelings. Every time she saw William, the fire in her eyes could scorch anyone who dared meet her gaze.
Chapter 37345 words
"What?" Emily froze. "Michael, I—"
Chapter 38420 words
The piercing wail of police sirens split the night air as two patrol cars screeched to a halt, their flashing red and blue lights glaring against the darkness.
Chapter 39464 words
Emily's fingertips still trembled slightly as the car entered the underground garage of Jinzhou Bay No.1.
Chapter 40430 words
Emily Smith walked into the hospital elevator, clutching a fruit basket. Her fingers absently traced the handle as the numbers climbed toward the seventh floor—Michael Thompson's ward.
Chapter 41507 words
William Johnson hadn't returned to No.1 Jinzhou Bay for two days. Emily Smith stayed in the apartment, quietly recording audiobooks for two days straight.
Chapter 42412 words
The moment Emily pushed open the door, the rich aroma of ginger and brown sugar tea enveloped her.
Chapter 43435 words
Morning sunlight streamed through the gap in the curtains, startling Emily Smith awake. She glanced at the alarm clock and panicked.
Chapter 44393 words
Emily Smith spent nearly forty minutes in Michael Thompson's office before emerging.
Chapter 45305 words
The office was chilled by the powerful air conditioning.
Chapter 46469 words
His dark eyes gleamed as his thumb brushed her flushed earlobe. "Throwing a tantrum?"
Chapter 47374 words
The June downpour arrived without warning.
Chapter 48361 words
The night was ink-black when Emily Smith pushed open the door to her apartment at Jinzhou Bay, greeted by a wave of biting cold.
Chapter 49345 words
William Johnson stood outside the door, his fingers hovering midair.
Chapter 50357 words
William devoured the food on the table with gusto, talking nonstop between bites.
Chapter 51355 words
The neon lights of the city flickered to life as dusk settled.
Chapter 52461 words
William Johnson didn't push her away, allowing her to straddle his lap, her slender arms wrapping around his neck.
Chapter 53607 words
The night deepened, but William Johnson never returned.
Chapter 54307 words
Emily Smith nibbled on the sweet and sour ribs from her lunchbox, her cheeks puffed up like a little hamster.
Chapter 55373 words
Several pairs of burning eyes locked onto Emily, making her feel as if their gazes could pierce right through her chest.
Chapter 56303 words
Vivian Lu's nails dug into her palms as she stared at Emily Smith and William Johnson's intertwined hands.
Chapter 57389 words
Emily Smith crossed her arms, a mocking smile curling her lips. "Olivia Davis is the jewel of the Lu family. She grew up with Vice President Johnson." She shot Emily a sidelong glance. "Everyone in Jinzhou knows Miss Davis is determined to marry him."
Chapter 58418 words
The night was dark as Emily Smith walked back along the mountain path. Suddenly, she heard someone urgently calling her name.
Chapter 59402 words
"Well, if it isn't Manager Miller and Emily Smith?" Michael Thompson spotted the two sitting by the window as he checked out with his friends, his lips curling into a knowing smirk.
Chapter 60361 words
The supermarket lights glared harshly. Emily Smith pushed her cart through the fresh produce section.
Chapter 61334 words
"William... stop..."
Chapter 62467 words
William's movements abruptly halted.
Chapter 63347 words
Grace Lee's efficiency was always astonishing.
Chapter 64591 words
"It's me." Emily Smith smiled faintly and nodded. "Hello, Mr. Zhang."
Chapter 65364 words
"Choose." William Johnson's long fingers gripped her chin, his voice icy. "Either quit voice acting or replace Daniel Chen."
Chapter 66367 words
Emily Smith tossed and turned in her room until late at night before finally falling asleep. When she woke the next morning, the apartment was eerily silent. William Johnson didn't even glance her way, treating her as if she were invisible.
Chapter 67474 words
Robert Miller's palm pressed against Emily Smith's cheek, his thumb stroking her smooth skin.
Chapter 68386 words
Robert Miller's hand was raised high, about to strike.
Chapter 69392 words
The car left the overpass as dusk quietly enveloped the city.
Chapter 70365 words
The sky darkened as enticing aromas wafted from the kitchen. Emily Smith focused intently on preparing ingredients, anxious not to keep William Johnson waiting. With deft movements, she deveined shrimp, completely unaware of the scorching gaze fixed on her back.
Chapter 71452 words
William Johnson set down his phone and glanced at the petite woman across the table, who was engrossed in her meal. His lips curved into an unconscious smile.
Chapter 72382 words
Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains as Emily Smith opened her eyes. The space beside her was already empty.
Chapter 73605 words
"I'm back!" Mia's radiant smile filled the screen, her eyes crinkling into crescents. "Can't wait to see me?"
Chapter 74307 words
A familiar perfume scent suddenly wafted into Emily Smith's senses.
Chapter 75427 words
The moment the door closed, Emily Smith's back was already drenched in cold sweat. Mia Harris leaned weakly against her shoulder, cheeks flushed an unnatural red.
Chapter 76608 words
"Was it Olivia Davis who ordered the attack on you?"
Chapter 77399 words
"Mr. Harris, will you tell Olivia Davis and the others about what happened tonight?" Emily Smith asked softly.
Chapter 78330 words
Emily Smith had just stood up to head to the conference room when she ran into Lily White leading a stream of colleagues out the door.
Chapter 79293 words
"No..."
Chapter 80323 words
Emily Smith stared at the documents in her hands, her fingertips trembling slightly. She looked up at William Johnson, forcing a bitter smile. "Is all this... true?"
Chapter 81348 words
Emily trembled and instinctively took half a step back.
Chapter 82494 words
Emily Smith curled up in the corner of the lounge, only releasing a long sigh when she was certain the footsteps in the hallway had completely faded away.
Chapter 83361 words
Emily had stayed too long in William's office that morning. When a new project suddenly landed on her desk, she had no choice but to work overtime. She set her phone to silent and tossed it aside, completely missing the incoming WeChat notifications flashing across the screen.
Chapter 84239 words
"Say that again." William tightened his grip, his long fingers pinching her chin as he forced her to meet his gaze.
Chapter 85298 words
William Johnson's Adam's apple bobbed as his breathing grew noticeably heavier. When Emily Smith playfully flicked her tongue against it like a mischievous kitten, his eyes flew open.
Chapter 86350 words
"What a coincidence, William."
Chapter 87403 words
The night deepened as Emily Smith stepped out of the hospital after visiting her sister. William Johnson's car was still parked in the same spot, its window half-lowered, revealing his slender fingers tapping lightly on the steering wheel.
Chapter 88363 words
Morning sunlight streamed through the gap in the curtains.
Chapter 89408 words
Emily Smith stood before the glass partition in the prison visitation room, her fingertips trembling slightly.
Chapter 90322 words
Emily Smith was browsing lingerie with Mia Harris when a sharp, mocking laugh cut through the air.
Chapter 91419 words
"You think I need money?" Emily Smith let out a cold laugh, her voice cutting through the mall. "You're right. I do."
Chapter 92455 words
Emily hung up the phone with Mia and gazed blankly at the scenery flashing past the car window.
Chapter 93475 words
Emily Smith forced down the surge of emotions and curved her lips into a faint smile. "Didn’t we agree back then? Share the money when we have it, but run when trouble comes."
Chapter 94408 words
Night enveloped the No.1 apartment at Jinzhou Bay.
Chapter 95333 words
The phone screen lit up with a bank notification displaying a six-figure royalty payment.
Chapter 96409 words
Emily Smith stared blankly at her phone screen.
Chapter 97318 words
William Johnson's sharp gaze swept over Michael Thompson, freezing him to the core. A cold sweat instantly broke out down his back.
Chapter 98369 words
"Michael?"
Chapter 99343 words
Daniel Chen shoved Emma Clark aside and immediately crouched down to check on Emily Smith. His brows furrowed with concern. "Emily, where are you hurt?"
Chapter 100379 words
The crowd gradually dispersed, leaving only a few stragglers still peering curiously.
Chapter 101234 words
The Rolls-Royce's license plate gleamed coldly under the sunlight. Emily Smith's heart skipped a beat.
Chapter 102403 words
The graduation ceremony was packed with people as the university administrators delivered speeches on stage.
Chapter 103293 words
The midsummer sun scorched the empty campus. The distant cheers from the graduation ceremony in the auditorium only made the tree-lined path feel more desolate.
Chapter 104419 words
William Johnson stared into her tear-filled eyes, his heart constricting violently.
Chapter 105251 words
The car drove a hundred meters away. William Johnson glanced up at the rearview mirror, where the slender figure of Emily Smith was reflected. She crouched by the roadside, curled into a small ball, her shoulders trembling uncontrollably.
Chapter 106260 words
Emily's red-rimmed eyes betrayed recent tears, a detail Mia didn't miss.
Chapter 107510 words
The results of Emily Smith's foot examination came back. Fortunately, there was no fracture—just a ligament sprain.
Chapter 108352 words
The dial tone in her phone felt like a blunt knife, slowly sawing at Emily Smith's nerves.
Chapter 109364 words
William Johnson's breath hitched.
Chapter 110340 words
Emily Smith's left ankle was wrapped in bandages, but that didn't hinder her from nimbly moving toward William Johnson. She tossed her crutches aside and climbed onto him with the grace of a cat.
Chapter 111266 words
Steam curled through the bathroom, blurring the reflection on the glass door. Emily Smith was pressed against the cold tiles, warm water cascading over their entwined bodies.
Chapter 112432 words
Sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains as Emily Smith awoke from her slumber.
Chapter 113398 words
"I thought you said your cooking was terrible." William Johnson leaned against the kitchen island, his long fingers tapping lightly on the marble countertop.
Chapter 114478 words
"William Johnson, I'm discussing this with you out of respect." Emily Smith bit her lower lip, her fingertips lightly tapping his chest. "Otherwise, I could've just recorded with Daniel Chen without telling you. You wouldn't have known since you're abroad."
Chapter 115424 words
William lifted Emily onto the bathroom counter, gently pinching her flushed cheek with his fingertips. "Don't overthink things while I'm gone."
Chapter 116313 words
The evening had fallen by the time Emily returned from the hospital to the recording studio at Jinzhou Bay No.1.
Chapter 117293 words
Emily Smith sent the voice message and waited briefly for a reply before drifting into a deep sleep.
Chapter 118327 words
William Johnson stood in the center of the apartment, his intense gaze fixed on Emily Smith.
Chapter 119234 words
Emily Smith shoved Alexander Johnson away and stumbled toward the foyer.
Chapter 120270 words
Alexander Johnson vanished completely from Emily Smith's life after that day.
Chapter 121433 words
Emily Smith finally chose the most experienced veteran anchor from the list sent by Yinyin.
Chapter 122383 words
"Daniel." Emily Smith swiped to answer the call, her voice soft.
Chapter 123245 words
William Johnson pushed open the door. The motion-activated hallway light flickered on.
Chapter 124277 words
"Ah—"
Chapter 125341 words
Emily's fingers slid across the screen repeatedly, each call automatically ending before connecting.
Chapter 126386 words
Emily's fingers turned white as she clutched the blanket. She took a deep breath and threw it off abruptly.
Chapter 127427 words
He had her WeChat.
Chapter 128438 words
The elevator doors slid open, and Emily Smith found herself face to face with Amanda Lin’s smiling eyes.
Chapter 129323 words
Michael Thompson and Lily White rushed Emily Smith to the nearest hospital.
Chapter 130366 words
Mia Harris pushed open the hospital room door carrying a thermal lunchbox. Lily White sat by the bed peeling an apple. Emily Smith lay motionless on the bed, her pale cheeks flushed with fever.
Chapter 131311 words
William Johnson's footsteps came to an abrupt halt.
Chapter 132392 words
"It was Miss Smith who settled the bill in advance," the cashier replied with a smile.
Chapter 133429 words
"Miss Lin has such elegant grace. You and Vice President Johnson make a perfect match." Michael Thompson fawned with an ingratiating smile.
Chapter 134362 words
"Come here."
Chapter 135425 words
William Johnson had been sitting motionless by the floor-to-ceiling window of Jinzhou Bay Apartment No.1 for an entire day. The fading sunlight streamed through the glass, casting golden hues over him, yet it couldn't dispel the icy aura surrounding him.
Chapter 136325 words
"Emily, those recording earnings mean nothing to me." Daniel Chen clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white. "All I care about is whether you've been wronged."
Chapter 137342 words
Ethan Zheng emerged from the private dining room with an unfamiliar woman draped over his arm. The way she clung to him made it clear she wasn’t Vivian Lu.
Chapter 138368 words
Emily's fingers trembled slightly. She forced a smile. "Lily, you must be mistaken."
Chapter 139364 words
By the time lunch break ended, the entire BestTech Tower was buzzing with rumors about Vice President Johnson's apparent disdain for Emily Smith from the Business Department.
Chapter 140374 words
"That old man William Johnson is almost thirty and still so shameless!" Mia Harris slammed the table in anger. "The vice president of BestTech Group actually humiliated you in public. Who does he think he is?"
Chapter 141520 words
William Johnson's gaze remained fixed on Emily Smith as she gracefully slipped into the passenger seat of Daniel Chen's car.
Chapter 142400 words
The traffic light turned green.
Chapter 143440 words
The security guards at the upscale residential complex weren't pushovers. The moment David Brown lunged forward, two burly men pinned him to the ground.
Chapter 144281 words
A sharp pain shot through Emily's forehead. She instinctively pressed her hand to the injury and looked up, meeting a pair of icy, fathomless eyes.
Chapter 145387 words
He took two steps back, calmly straightening his shirt collar.
Chapter 146323 words
Mia Harris's WeChat messages bombarded Emily Smith's phone first thing in the morning. Her manager had been giving her a harder time lately, not only increasing her workload but also making snide remarks.
Chapter 147420 words
The sound of movement came from the foyer. William Johnson and Amanda Lin turned their heads simultaneously.
Chapter 148386 words
Emily's fingers trembled slightly.
Chapter 149517 words
William Johnson abruptly looked up, his dark eyes fixed on her with a chilling sneer. "You dare mention her? If you hadn't come begging to me, would I even be here?"
Chapter 150404 words
Emily Smith was organizing meeting minutes when Mia Harris's message popped up.
Chapter 151406 words
"William, does this jewelry suit me?" Amanda Lin held her phone screen up to William Johnson's face, her fingertip lightly tapping the diamond necklace displayed.
Chapter 152363 words
"Emily, let me be your anchor." Daniel Chen's fingertips gently traced the back of her hand. "From now on, I want to share every joy and sorrow with you."
Chapter 153284 words
Sunday morning sunlight filtered through the curtains.
Chapter 154341 words
Morning sunlight streamed through the car window, illuminating William Johnson's fingers as they tapped lightly against the armrest.
Chapter 155360 words
Emily lowered her lashes, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her blouse.
Chapter 156324 words
The salty taste of tears spread between her lips as William Johnson gradually slowed his movements before stopping completely.
Chapter 157481 words
"Mr. Taylor, this is Emily Smith." Emily confirmed the identity after the call connected.
Chapter 158404 words
Emily Smith handed the carefully prepared gift to Susan Miller, who waved her hands in refusal.
Chapter 159346 words
"Miss, where to?" The driver studied Emily Smith through the rearview mirror.
Chapter 160403 words
The persistent vibration of a phone buzzed near her ear.
Chapter 161397 words
Emily Smith hurried back to Mia Harris's apartment at a jog.
Chapter 162329 words
Emily Smith's taxi disappeared into the traffic. Only then did Daniel Chen turn to face the middle-aged man.
Chapter 163325 words
Daniel Chen's car repair plans left Emily Smith alone at lunch. During her break, she wandered to the mall across from the office.
Chapter 164313 words
On Monday morning, Emily Smith was buried in paperwork when Lily White suddenly sidled up to her with a conspiratorial air.
Chapter 165497 words
"Emily Smith, you certainly have a sharp tongue."
Chapter 166445 words
Emily turned her face away, her gaze icy as she looked at William. "You're getting married. Why won't you let me go?"
Chapter 167383 words
Emily had barely taken two steps when the sound of a car door slamming open echoed behind her.
Chapter 168459 words
Emily Smith took a deep breath, pushing down all the negative emotions.
Chapter 169456 words
"Emily, you're so breathtaking today I can't look away." Daniel Chen gazed at her with burning intensity, admiration dripping from his voice. "My parents will be completely charmed by you."
Chapter 170289 words
Emily's hand was abruptly shaken off. She stood frozen in place.
Chapter 171277 words
The number stabbed into Emily Smith's heart like a sharp blade.
Chapter 172415 words
Alexander Johnson staggered back from the sudden punch, nearly losing his balance before crashing to the ground.
Chapter 173352 words
William Johnson stood frozen, watching Emily Smith's retreating figure disappear around the corner. He lifted a hand to touch his stinging left cheek, fingertips brushing the heated skin.
Chapter 174303 words
Emily Smith thought the apartment would be empty.
Chapter 175337 words
"Emily, did my mother say something to you?" Daniel Chen suddenly grabbed Emily Smith's wrist, his voice tense.
Chapter 176376 words
Emily Smith snapped back to reality and shook her head hastily. "No, I'm not hung up on William Johnson. I don't love him. Since I chose to be with you, I wouldn't think about anyone else."
Chapter 177560 words
Morning sunlight streamed through the gap in the curtains. Emily Smith opened her eyes and stared blankly at the ceiling for a moment.
Chapter 178460 words
The elevator doors slid open at the basement level.
Chapter 179373 words
Sunlight outlined William Johnson's tall figure by the floor-to-ceiling window, casting a golden halo around him. His fluent American English echoed through the spacious office as he spoke into the phone.
Chapter 180455 words
Emily stepped out of the elevator on the 67th floor. Instead of heading straight to her desk, she turned toward the restroom.
Chapter 181289 words
Emily felt a heavy slap on her shoulder.
Chapter 182460 words
William Johnson's private jet had just landed at Jinzhou Airport. The black Maybach sped through the night, neon lights outside the window casting fragmented shadows across the man's exhausted features.
Chapter 183375 words
The sharp contours of his face came into focus, and Emily Smith's pupils constricted violently.
Chapter 184406 words
William Johnson suppressed his surging rage and coldly ordered the doctor to enter.
Chapter 185221 words
Sam had just left when the master bedroom door lock clicked softly.
Chapter 186519 words
"Daniel Chen, Emily Smith is in the Presidential Suite No. 1 at the Four Seasons Hotel." William Johnson's voice carried a hint of amusement through the receiver. "Whether you come or not is up to you."
Chapter 187535 words
His gaze was like a bottomless abyss, cold as a thousand-year-old frozen lake, or the ocean before a storm—heavy with suffocating intensity.
Chapter 188407 words
Emily handed the phone back to Daniel Chen and turned to help in the kitchen.
Chapter 189608 words
Olivia Davis stormed into the Shen mansion, her perfectly made-up face twisted with fury. She shoved aside the servant blocking her path and marched straight to the side parlor where Amanda Lin was seated.
Chapter 190490 words
The glass door of the Business Department had barely closed when whispers began spreading through the office like wildfire.
Chapter 191345 words
William Johnson's apology came without warning. Emily Smith stood with her back to him, her slender shoulders still trembling slightly.
Chapter 192332 words
Emily Smith's fingertips still trembled slightly as she returned to the Business Department.
Chapter 193392 words
The night deepened as Emily Smith removed her headphones. The studio lights cast faint shadows across her face.
Chapter 194336 words
"Emily, do you still keep in touch with VP Johnson privately?" Michael Thompson finally couldn't resist asking tentatively, then quickly added with a smile, "I mean, outside of work."
Chapter 195370 words
William Johnson's eyes darkened abruptly, his heart gripped by an invisible hand.
Chapter 196324 words
Emily Smith lifted her eyes, her gaze settling on William Johnson's face.
Chapter 197335 words
The night deepened, the hospital corridor bathed in harsh fluorescent light.
Chapter 198418 words
William Johnson's eyelashes fluttered slightly, like butterfly wings brushed by the wind.
Chapter 199371 words
The atmosphere in the vice president's office was suffocating.
Chapter 200374 words
Emily Smith lay on the hospital bed, her once full cheeks now hollowed out. Her pale skin was almost translucent. Dry strands of hair spread across the pillow like withered grass devoid of life.
Chapter 201375 words
George Taylor frowned at his phone screen.
Chapter 202350 words
Emily Smith spent an entire week recuperating in the hospital.
Chapter 203341 words
"Vice President Johnson, something terrible has happened!" Grace Lee rushed into the office, breathless. "Emily Smith is screaming for help in the elevator!"
Chapter 204370 words
William Johnson's eyes darkened instantly, a terrifying storm brewing in their depths. His jawline tensed, his Adam's apple bobbed, and his knuckles turned white from gripping too hard.
Chapter 205493 words
Daniel Chen's fingers lightly traced Emily Smith's nose bridge, his eyes brimming with tenderness.
Chapter 206369 words
Emily Smith walked into the bathroom just as the call ended automatically.
Chapter 207524 words
"It's just for fun. What's there to be afraid of?"
Chapter 208528 words
The taxi glided smoothly down the street. Daniel Chen's gaze remained fixed on Emily Smith's face, his brow slightly furrowed.
Chapter 209325 words
William Johnson's slender fingers paused at the edge of the envelope.
Chapter 210463 words
Ever since Amanda Lin moved into the master bedroom, William Johnson had relocated to the guest room.
Chapter 211369 words
"Daniel, your phone." Emily's voice came from the kitchen doorway.
Chapter 212312 words
The phone buzzed incessantly in her bag. Amanda Lin glanced at the caller ID and declined Shen Huaiqing's call for the third time.
Chapter 213337 words
Amanda Lin's touch made William Johnson stiffen.
Chapter 214296 words
"Have you lost your mind?" William Johnson Sr. pointed at Alexander Johnson, veins bulging on his forehead. "Amanda Lin is your brother's girlfriend! How could you fall for her advances?"
Chapter 215495 words
"William, stop twisting the truth!"
Chapter 216320 words
The studio lights cast a focused glow on Emily Smith's profile. From dusk till midnight, she immersed herself in voicing a game character, oblivious to the storm brewing outside.
Chapter 217301 words
Emily Smith stared at her phone screen, her finger hovering midair.
Chapter 218382 words
"Uncle."
Chapter 219553 words
The internet exploded with reactions.
Chapter 220456 words
Emily's high heels clicked urgently against the marble floor as she rushed out of the restaurant.
Chapter 221445 words
Olivia Davis had always been spoiled rotten.
Chapter 222404 words
On her first day after leaving BestTech Group, Emily Smith stretched by the floor-to-ceiling window of Mia Harris's apartment. Sunlight streamed through the glass, casting a golden glow around her.
Chapter 223546 words
In the luxurious apartment complex of Splendor Heights, Mia Harris's residence buzzed with quiet activity.
Chapter 224307 words
Emily lowered her gaze to the steaming cup of black tea before her, fingertips tracing the rim. She remembered her preference for black tea, but she hadn't expected William to recall it.
Chapter 225381 words
By the sixth round of the game, George Taylor unexpectedly miscounted the frog legs.
Chapter 226276 words
At 6:30 a.m., Emily Smith's internal clock woke her right on time.
Chapter 227455 words
"Pull over." William Johnson spoke abruptly.
Chapter 228361 words
"It's not what you think." Emily Smith quickly interrupted Daniel Chen before he could finish his sentence, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her shirt. "Daniel, we agreed—let's pretend that never happened."
Chapter 229386 words
Daniel Chen spent a long time on the phone in the bedroom. His voice was hushed. Emily Smith continued washing the dishes he'd left unfinished in the kitchen, deliberately not listening.
Chapter 230354 words
"Mom, don't push me." Daniel Chen's voice was dangerously low.
Chapter 231306 words
The morning light crept in, but Daniel Chen didn't appear as usual. Emily Smith curled up under the blankets, her throat raw as if scraped by sandpaper. Every swallow sent sharp pain through her.
Chapter 232507 words
"Thud!"
Chapter 233385 words
Emily Smith struggled desperately.
Chapter 234485 words
The car came to a smooth stop in front of the VIP ward building at the downtown hospital.
Chapter 235332 words
After Amanda's betrayal left him devastated, now he wants her back as a substitute?
Chapter 236460 words
Emily Smith lowered her head, focusing on cutting the steak on her plate. The clinking of silverware against porcelain filled the air. The gaze from across the table burned too intensely—so nakedly predatory it made her fingers tighten around the knife.
Chapter 237454 words
Emily Smith gazed out the window at the passing scenery, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her shirt. Professor Schievink's treatment plan was finally confirmed—her sister would be saved.
Chapter 238403 words
Emily's heart skipped a beat as she instinctively glanced around.
Chapter 239430 words
"Why did you break up with Daniel Chen?" William Johnson suddenly asked.
Chapter 240461 words
Mia Harris beamed with crescent-shaped eyes as she pulled out a chair and sat down. "Then I won't hold back!"
Chapter 241407 words
"Ah!"
Chapter 242446 words
The autumn night wind carried a chill as Emily Smith tugged her coat collar tighter. The dim yellow light of the bus stop stretched her shadow long and thin.
Chapter 243425 words
Emily Smith stood outside Daniel Chen's apartment, her trembling finger hovering over the doorbell. The warm taro cakes in her arms still steamed, their aroma cutting through the cold hallway air.
Chapter 244370 words
Fang Silin's gaze swept over Emily Smith with undisguised disdain, her lips curling into a mocking smile. "Miss Smith certainly knows how to make an entrance."
Chapter 245375 words
William finally lifted his gaze to glance at the woman, his brow furrowing slightly before his expression softened as he turned back to Emily.
Chapter 246362 words
The operating room lights remained on as time ticked by.
Chapter 247390 words
Emily glanced at him but remained silent.
Chapter 248524 words
The moment the operating room lights dimmed, Emily Smith's nails dug deep into her palms.
Chapter 249505 words
Emily Smith stared at the script in her hands, her fingertips lightly tracing the edge of the paper. The air conditioning in Flying Fish Culture's recording studio was set too high, yet her palms felt warm.
Chapter 250415 words
Sam's report took only fifteen minutes.
Chapter 251486 words
"Mr. Johnson, Emily and I have plans later. Maybe you should leave first?" William turned to Ethan with a faint smile.
Chapter 252334 words
"William Johnson, thank you for helping me with Sophia Song last time." Emily Smith pulled her hand away and took a step back. "But tonight you ruined my plans. We're even now."
Chapter 253520 words
William Johnson's fingertips gently traced the back of Emily Smith's hand, his deep eyes shimmering with starlight. "Emily," his voice was low and tender, "you don't have to look up to my world. Let me fall into your galaxy instead."
Chapter 254407 words
The elevator doors slid open, freezing Mr. Yan's expression mid-smile.
Chapter 255379 words
"I don't need a title, William." My fingers clenched the hem of my shirt, my voice barely above a whisper. "What you've done for my sister—I'll spend my whole life repaying you."
Chapter 256480 words
Emily looked up into William's eyes, her voice trembling slightly. "William, wasn't it you who hurt me the most?"
Chapter 257492 words
William Johnson's dinner was a meticulously orchestrated performance.
Chapter 258333 words
Emily Smith jolted back to awareness, her cheeks burning. She turned her face away to evade his lips. "William Johnson, either take me or get off."
Chapter 259273 words
Emily Smith stepped out of the shower, a towel wrapped around her body.
Chapter 260290 words
Mia snatched the towel from Emily's hands, roughly drying her damp hair. "Are you stupid? Why didn't you say yes?"
Chapter 261304 words
"Emily!" William Johnson shot up from his office chair, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the phone. The faint cry for help that had abruptly cut off on the other end made his blood run cold.
Chapter 262366 words
Emily's pupils constricted violently.
Chapter 263370 words
William's fury burned through the air like wildfire.
Chapter 264391 words
Their eyes met, and William's lips found hers again.
Chapter 265339 words
"Really?" William narrowed his eyes, his fingertips tracing slow circles at her waist.
Chapter 266336 words
Emily Smith looked up at him, her eyes glinting with mischief. "How about... we change the mattress in the master bedroom?"
Chapter 267434 words
"He's only acting so high and mighty because Uncle Henry backs him up." Alexander Johnson rubbed his bruised lip, his voice dripping with venom. "Just wait till Uncle dies. Let's see how long he can keep this act up."
Chapter 268512 words
The night was deep, and the apartment in Jinzhou Bay was enveloped in silence.
Chapter 269424 words
The first light of dawn filtered through the curtains as Emily Smith finally slipped free from William Johnson's embrace.
Chapter 270344 words
"Fine!" Before William could finish speaking, Emily reached up to cover his mouth. "I'll move."
Chapter 271338 words
The secretary's office outside the 67th-floor executive suite of Jinzhou Bay No.1 buzzed with activity.
Chapter 272367 words
At 6:15 PM, Emily Smith removed her headphones and rubbed her stiff neck.
Chapter 273327 words
Neon lights flickered across Emily Smith's face through the car window.
Chapter 274343 words
Emily Smith looked up, meeting William Johnson's deep gaze.
Chapter 275445 words
William Johnson stepped into the Jinzhou Bay apartment just as his phone rang. He gestured to Emily Smith before heading straight to the living room to handle business. Understanding his signal, Emily tiptoed into the master bedroom.
Chapter 276398 words
Morning sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows into the dining room. Emily Smith sipped her coffee quietly while William Johnson flipped through the morning paper across from her.
Chapter 277387 words
"Not busy." William's lips curved slightly, his voice deep and tender. "Miss me?"
Chapter 278421 words
When Emily Smith signed the new contract with Flying Fish, the old one was shredded into pieces right before her eyes. She watched the confetti-like scraps flutter through the air, a faint smile playing on her lips.
Chapter 279356 words
Her heart skipped a beat as she stumbled backward.
Chapter 280649 words
Legend has it that oysters are highly nourishing, especially these seasonal wild ones—plump, succulent, and presumably even more potent.
Chapter 281433 words
"Then find a chef who suits your taste." She pressed her lips together in a faint smile.
Chapter 282330 words
Slap!
Chapter 283451 words
William chuckled softly, a hint of helplessness flashing in his eyes. "It's already done. What now?"
Chapter 284291 words
As dusk settled over the city, Emily Smith had just stepped out of the BestTech Group building when her phone lit up with a call from William Johnson.
Chapter 285510 words
The underground parking garage was dimly lit. Emily Smith stared blankly at the concrete pillars flashing past the car window. William Johnson's face lingered in her mind, but she couldn't recall where she'd seen him before.
Chapter 286418 words
The sizzling steak released an enticing aroma. William Johnson's slender fingers held a spoon as he drizzled melted butter evenly over the surface.
Chapter 287426 words
William had always been a man of restraint.
Chapter 288309 words
Xu Ran excused herself to the restroom but slipped into the villa's living room instead.
Chapter 289440 words
The bedside lamp clicked on with a sharp snap.
Chapter 290317 words
The arrival of Lucas Davis sent a jolt through Emily Smith's chest.
Chapter 291376 words
William Johnson wore sunglasses and a baseball cap pulled low over his forehead, dressed in casual attire.
Chapter 292422 words
Emily Smith stood on tiptoe, trying to read the fortune slip in William Johnson's hand.
Chapter 293408 words
The night fell, and the warm glow of the villa's lights reflected on the snow-covered ground.
Chapter 294448 words
The drive from Phoenix Mountain to the prison was much shorter than from Jinzhou City, taking only an hour.
Chapter 295347 words
"Uncle, now that Emily's not here, we can talk properly." William Johnson got straight to the point after Emily Smith left.
Chapter 296436 words
The night was deep, the clock long past midnight. Emily Smith curled up on one side of the bed, her eyelids heavy as they closed. In the early hours of the morning, she finally succumbed to exhaustion and fell into a deep sleep.
Chapter 297530 words
Emily Smith stepped out of the Leap Recording Studio and shivered as a cold wind hit her. She tightened the collar of her coat and glanced at the familiar black Maybach parked by the curb.
Chapter 298471 words
The staff exchanged glances, disbelief evident in their eyes.
Chapter 299376 words
Emily Smith hung up the phone, her fingertips trembling slightly.
Chapter 300393 words
Alexander Johnson's assault had left Amanda Lin clinging to life in the ICU. Emily Smith stood outside the ward, gazing through the glass at her paper-white face. The woman who once basked in glory as the future Mrs. Johnson now relied on machines to breathe.