Chapter 356: Airport Pickup
He looked up at her, his eyes holding a complexity of emotions—worry, reluctance, but most of all, a kind of dependence.
Emily was utterly disarmed by his uncharacteristic clinginess, conceding repeatedly: "Fine, fine, fine. I won't go, okay?"
But Charles wanted to push further. "Still, you've already hurt my feelings. How are you going to make it up to me?"
"What do you want?"
"I want you to promise me a few things."
"What things?"
"First, never meet Gerald alone under any circumstances. Second, if anything feels off, tell me immediately. Third..."
He paused. "Third, don't let him touch you. Not even your hand."
Emily couldn't help but laugh. "Charles, are you jealous or just being clingy?"
Charles's ears turned slightly red, but he kept his expression stern. "I'm serious."
"Okay, okay, okay. I promise. I won't let him touch me, not even my hand."
She paused, then suddenly leaned close to his ear, whispering softly: "But Mr. Windsor, you look kind of... adorable when you're jealous."
Charles's face flushed deeper.
He glared at her, though his eyes held no anger—only the embarrassment of being called out.
"Emily!" he protested in a low voice.
Emily burst out laughing, her mood suddenly lifting.
She loved this Charles—not the cold, unfeeling man who shouldered everything alone, but this one who got jealous, who acted clingy, who blushed at her words.
Watching her laugh, Charles's gaze gradually softened.
He suddenly reached out and gently pinched her cheek, saying helplessly, "Only you can control all my emotions like this."
Emily caught his hand, looking at him seriously. "Charles, you need to trust me. I won't put myself in danger, and I won't make you worry."
Charles nodded. "I trust you."
He paused, then added: "But I'll still get jealous."
Emily smiled. "Fine. Besides... I kind of enjoy watching you get jealous anyway."
Looking at her radiant smile, Charles felt a surge of warmth.
He suddenly realized that this side of Emily fascinated him even more.
And made him even more... unable to let go.
The next morning, Emily rose early and changed into a tasteful cream-colored suit, preparing to go to the airport for a pickup.
When the car arrived at the airport, it was right on time for the flight's arrival.
Emily stood at the arrivals gate, watching the stream of passengers emerge. Soon, she spotted Carol—dressed in a deep purple suit, her hair impeccably styled, leaning on an elegant cane, her presence commanding.
"Emily!" Carol's eyes lit up when she saw her.
Emily walked over quickly, taking her luggage. "Mrs. Rose, that was a long journey. You must be exhausted."
Carol patted her hand. "Not at all. Seeing you here to meet me makes me happy."
The two walked out together, chatting.
Carol suddenly said, "By the way, Emily, I've arranged lunch with Stanley. You should join us."
Emily's steps faltered slightly. "Stanley Morgan? The special guest at the Arcturus show?"
"That's right. You're both at the top of your field in design—you should have met ages ago."
Emily's interest piqued.
Stanley was a legendary figure in Seraphim's design world. After studying abroad in Solstice in his youth, he'd returned to establish his own brand, earning international acclaim. Emily had heard of him for years but had never had the chance to meet.
"I'd love to. I'm looking forward to it."
Lunch was booked at a restaurant known for its privacy.
When Emily and Carol arrived, Stanley was already there.
He looked to be in his early fifties, wearing a simple black suit, his hair cropped short, his manner crisp. Seeing Carol, he immediately stood, his smile warm. "Mrs. Rose, it's been too long."
"Stanley, you're as sharp as ever." Carol smiled, introducing them. "This is Emily. You might not have heard that name, but you should be more familiar with her other one—Jane."
Stanley turned to Emily, his eyes showing appreciation. "Jane! I've heard so much about you. I've seen your designs—very talented work."
Emily nodded politely. "Mr. Morgan, you're too kind. Your work is truly iconic."
After a few pleasantries, the atmosphere quickly warmed.
Stanley was deeply interested in Emily's design philosophy, and the two discussed many professional topics. Carol sat beside them, smiling contentedly, occasionally adding a comment.
Just as they were engrossed in conversation, the restaurant door opened.
Gerald walked in.
He was dressed casually today—light blue shirt with white trousers—his smile sunny, looking like any ordinary wealthy heir.
He walked over with a smile. "Mrs. Rose, Mr. Morgan, what a coincidence seeing you here!"
Carol's eyes brightened at the sight of him. "Gerald? What are you doing here?"
Gerald shrugged. "Had plans with a friend, but got stood up. Happened to see you all, thought I'd say hello."
Stanley laughed as well. "Mr. Rivera, always so easygoing. Since you're here, why don't you join us?"
Gerald's gaze shifted to Emily, a barely perceptible gleam in his eyes. "Ms. Johnson, we meet again."
Emily nodded coolly. "Mr. Rivera."
Gerald sat across from her, his posture natural as if among old friends.
Carol and Stanley clearly both liked him. The three chatted happily. Gerald was skilled at conversation, knowing exactly how to charm his elders—within moments he had Carol laughing heartily.
Emily sat quietly, listening, occasionally offering polite responses.
She could feel Gerald's attention constantly on her.
Gerald suddenly turned to her. "Ms. Johnson, I'm looking to commission a collection of gowns for our family's upcoming celebration. Would you be interested in taking on the project?"
Carol immediately chimed in: "Emily's designs are wonderful, Gerald. You couldn't pick anyone better."
Stanley nodded as well. "Emily is exceptionally talented."
Emily inwardly scoffed.
Gerald was deliberately ingratiating himself, and cleverly using Carol and Stanley's endorsement to do it.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Rivera. I'm in Seraphim for the Arcturus show, and my schedule is extremely tight. I'm afraid I won't be able to take on other projects."
Gerald didn't seem offended, still smiling. "No problem. Perhaps another time then."
He paused, then added: "Oh, there's a charity gala tomorrow night. Many important people will be attending. Would you like to come, Ms. Johnson? I'd be happy to introduce you around."
Carol immediately said, "That's a wonderful idea! Emily, you should go network."
Stanley nodded. "It really is a great opportunity."
Emily looked at Gerald's smiling face, a wave of revulsion rising within her.
"Thank you for the kind offer, Mr. Rivera, but I already have plans tomorrow evening."