Two days later, Christopher Martin discovered that one of the maids at Amelia White's friend's villa was one of William Thompson's former lovers.
Without searching for any concrete evidence, Liam Williams immediately knew who was behind this.
"Sir, should I continue the investigation?"
Christopher studied Liam's expression carefully. He understood well enough when it was time to stop.
"No need. I can't believe Thompson is behind all of this. Should I do something to return the favor?"
A faint smile curled at the corner of Liam's mouth. Christopher could tell that the CEO was about to make a major move this time.
"I recall he sent me an invitation yesterday. In three days, he's hosting a business dinner at The Grandeur Hotel. It seems he's trying to find some business opportunities to recover from his recent losses."
Christopher nodded at Liam's words.
"Word has it that several well-known corporate representatives will attend. After all, Thompson still has influence in the underworld, and many businesses still rely on his protection. Even though he's suffered heavy losses in his legitimate operations, some people still don't dare underestimate him."
Christopher analyzed the situation as he spoke to Liam.
"He's been in this city for many years and has deep roots. It won't be easy to bring him down. I'll go to The Grandeur Hotel in three days. Meanwhile, inform Captain Reed that there's no need to hold back on that matter. Since Thompson wants an early grave, I'm happy to help him dig it."
When Christopher heard this, he understood exactly what Liam meant. It seemed that this time, Thompson was truly going to end up behind bars.
Emma Johnson drove to the villa where Isabella Miller lived. Her aunt had been waiting at the door in her apron for quite some time.
"Emma, I was so worried you wouldn't come. Come in, come in. What happened to your face?"
The aunt noticed the faint pink mark on Emma's cheek and asked with concern.
"I scratched it by accident. It'll heal soon. Don't worry, Aunt."
Emma took her aunt's arm and smiled reassuringly.
"You're too sensible, dear."
Her aunt sighed and led Emma into the living room. The aroma of chicken soup still filled the house. Isabella was sitting on the sofa, and her mother let the two cousins talk while she went back to preparing lunch.
"Cousin, thank you for coming. I was afraid you wouldn't want to talk to me."
Isabella looked a bit haggard, but much better than a few days ago. It seemed she had finally come to terms with things somewhat. She was no longer looking for ways to end her life over Noah Taylor's departure. That gave Emma some relief.
"You're my sister, after all. Besides, what happened last time was an accident. It wasn't dangerous. As long as you're okay."
Emma set her bag aside and sat down next to Isabella.
"Cousin, I've been thinking a lot these past few days. Noah's leaving broke my heart. There was a time when I wished I could go with him. But after what happened last time, I realized how devastated my parents would be if I died. They're getting older, and they worry about me so much. I was so foolish. So even though I love Noah deeply, I'll never throw my life away so easily again."
Isabella spoke these words with a look of newfound clarity on her face.
"I'm glad you can see it that way."
"Yes. I'm going back to work in two weeks. I've postponed so many projects during this time, and the company has suffered some losses because of compensation. That's all my fault. The person I love is gone. I can't lose the career I love too."
The two cousins chatted for a while until lunch was ready.
Emma's aunt handed her a bowl of chicken soup.
"Emma, drink more soup. You don't look well these days. We were so lucky last time that you weren't pregnant. Otherwise, I wouldn't be able to live in peace now."
Thinking back to Emma's fall from the building, if she had been pregnant, the baby in her womb would not have survived. That would have indirectly taken another life.
Just the thought of it sent a chill down her spine.
Isabella, who had been drinking her soup with her head down, heard her mother's words and unconsciously tightened her grip on the spoon. It took her a long moment to relax, and she acted as if nothing had happened.
After lunch, Emma stayed at Isabella's house for over an hour before saying goodbye.
She drove back to Windsor Manor. Since Amelia White had gone to Switzerland, Liam had suggested they move back. After all, only the old man remained in the grand manor now. Although there were many servants, it still wasn't the same as having family around.
So she had agreed without hesitation.
She couldn't help but think that if only Benjamin Williams would come to his senses one day and return as soon as possible. Whenever she thought about meals, she remembered how the old man always looked at the seat on his right—the place where Benjamin used to sit. She knew that even though the old man had been strict with Benjamin, even beating his back until it was covered in blood, it was because of his disappointment and frustration at Benjamin's stubbornness.
No parents didn't love their children.
She hoped Benjamin would understand sooner rather than later and stop fighting against Liam.
After dinner, Emma and Liam returned to the bedroom. Liam spoke to her about something.
"You want me to go to the business cocktail party with you?"
Emma looked at Liam in surprise. It was normal for him to attend such events, but not one hosted by William Thompson.
"Yes. You'll come with me that day, and I'll show you a good show."
Liam wrapped his arms around Emma and kissed her forehead. Her body carried a faint fragrance—not from any perfume, but from her natural scent. He knew Emma never liked using perfumes or similar products. She only used rose-scented body lotion. But even that couldn't mask her original aroma, which often stirred his emotions during their intimate moments.
"What kind of show? What are you planning to do?"
Emma lifted her head and looked at Liam with curious eyes. Her clear gaze reflected Liam's handsome face, as if it were etched into his heart.
Seeing her confused and adorable expression, Liam couldn't help but lean down and kiss her lips.