Chapter 191 Not Afraid of Taking the Wrong Path, Just Afraid of Not Knowing How to Repent
"What's wrong?"
James noticed Ophelia suddenly tense up. His own nerves kicked in as he followed her gaze.
"Nothing. You've got me all paranoid," Ophelia said, shaking off her earlier suspicion. She relaxed and turned back to James.
James let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.
"To keep you safe, I'll give you new contact info later. Follow our instructions, and you'll get what you want. Have you decided to cooperate with us?" Ophelia asked again.
This time, James didn't hesitate. His ambition shone in his eyes. "Absolutely. Looking forward to working with you."
He extended his hand, and Ophelia shook it briefly before they each went their separate ways.
Their conversation was inaudible to those around them, but York, an expert in lip-reading, had caught every word. He quickly prepared the transcript and video to send to Daniel.
Daniel read through the material, his expression unchanged. His deep-set eyes reflected a strategic mind at work.
"Mr. Smith, what’s our next move? Should we keep James abroad?" The implication was clear.
A predatory smile played on Daniel's lips. "Let's mess with him a bit. Give him a taste of success, but keep an eye on him and Ophelia. I want to see their next move."
The person behind Ophelia was Daniel’s true target. So far, they had been cautious, never showing themselves. Daniel would have to wait.
"Got it," York replied, knowing Daniel planned to draw out the real threat. He left to carry out the orders.
The night was deep, and York soon retreated. Daniel stood on the balcony outside his room. He had chosen this house because it gave him a clear view of the lights in the apartment across from him.
He stood there, watching the lights in Emily's apartment go from bright to dark. The cool breeze brought a chill, making him realize how long he had been standing there. He turned and went back inside just as his phone rang.
"Daniel, I managed to arrange the meeting you wanted. I’ve booked a restaurant for tomorrow. Will you join us?" Charles asked. He had found a designer who blended traditional craftsmanship with modern design—a perfect match for the surprise Daniel was planning for Emily’s upcoming birthday.
"Send me the details. I’ll be there," Daniel replied.
Charles, knowing Daniel well, had already sent the address and time before the conversation ended.
"Good," Daniel said, hanging up quickly to avoid Charles's tendency to ramble.
It was a restless night for many, but Emily slept soundly. She woke up early, ready for her morning workout, focusing especially on her combat skills. Though she had learned them in a past life, her current body needed the practice to handle the demanding moves.
After a rigorous session, she felt invigorated. She showered, dressed in loose workout clothes, and went downstairs.
Violette and Atticus were waiting. Sofia was staying at school and would only come home on weekends.
As they ate breakfast, Emily asked Atticus about his new job. "How’s it going?"
Atticus blushed for some reason, which Emily quickly noticed. "Is someone giving you trouble?"
Atticus shook his head. "No, it’s not that. It’s just…"
Violette jumped in, teasing him. "He’s a handsome guy, and everyone’s trying to set him up."
Emily nodded, acknowledging Atticus's good looks. "What do you think about it?"
"I just started. It feels too soon, but I don’t want to offend anyone," Atticus admitted, still influenced by the timid example set by Rhett.
"Focus on your work. If you’re unsure about something, ask us. Relationships can wait, but don’t miss out on good opportunities. If they want to set you up, you can go if you’re interested," Emily advised.
Atticus thanked her, appreciating the guidance. Emily then turned to Violette.
"Violette, don’t forget your divorce cooling-off period is almost over. If you’re scared, I’ll go with you."
Violette had grown more confident and cheerful, looking much healthier and even younger. Emily’s goal was to help Violette become strong enough to face her challenges.
"No need, Emily. I should be the one protecting you. I’m ready to face Rhett. He’s just a bully. If I’m not weak, he’s the one who should be scared," Violette said firmly.
Emily felt proud of Violette’s progress. She decided it was time to share something important.
She put down her utensils and retrieved some documents from a drawer.