Chapter 319

William Lowell pushed open the door to find Emily curled up on the couch watching TV.

"Big brother!" Emily's eyes lit up as she sprang from the sofa.

She wore pink loungewear, her damp hair dripping water droplets from a recent shower.

William's Adam's apple bobbed slightly as he averted his gaze.

"You're home so late?" Emily took his briefcase, her fingertips brushing his knuckles.

His body stiffened. "Had a project deadline."

"It's ten o'clock!" She frowned. "You'll ruin your health like this."

Rising on tiptoes to check his temperature, she found him deftly avoiding her touch.

"I'm fine." His smile looked strained.

Emily bit her lip and suddenly grabbed his sleeve.

"Let me help at the company."

William blinked. "You?"

"I know I'm not as capable as Sophia," her lashes lowered, "but I could handle minor tasks."

"No." His refusal came sharp as a blade. "It's too demanding."

Emily's eyes instantly glistened.

"You think I'm incompetent..."

She turned to leave when William caught her wrist.

"Emily..."

"Then why was Sophia allowed?" Tears pooled in her upturned eyes. "I can learn too."

William's heart clenched.

Finally he sighed. "Fine. Start as an assistant."

"Really?" Her tears transformed into a radiant smile. "Can I use Sophia's old office?"

After a hesitation, he nodded.

Emily squealed and threw herself against him.

The soft warmth of her body pressed close, her shampoo's floral scent enveloping him.

William shoved her away abruptly.

"I need a shower." He practically fled.

Under the cold spray, William slammed a fist against the tiles.

How could he entertain such thoughts about his sister?

Outside, Emily traced where he'd touched her, lips curving in a knowing smile.

When William emerged, the living room stood empty.

Only the lingering warmth on the couch proved it hadn't been a dream.