Chapter 4: Showing My Edge

1111words2026-01-19 05:36

The business banquet was held at the Hyatt, the most luxurious hotel in the city. Richard wore a custom-tailored suit that accentuated his good looks, while I chose a simple yet striking black evening gown—a far cry from the sweet, princess-style dresses the old Emily Reed would have worn.

"You look stunning tonight," Richard whispered in my ear, his hand settling possessively on my waist. "Everyone's staring at you."

In my previous life, such intimate gestures would have made my heart race. Now, they only triggered waves of nausea. Still, I forced a smile. "Thanks. You clean up well yourself."

The banquet was packed with business elites. Richard guided me through the crowd, introducing me to various power players. In my previous life, I'd have been a nervous wreck. Now, I remained composed and graceful, even offering sharp insights on business topics that earned me appreciative nods and newfound respect.

"Miss Reed is not only gorgeous but surprisingly sharp," a senior investor remarked, clearly impressed.

Richard's face showed pride, but I caught that familiar calculating gleam in his eyes. "Emily has always been brilliant. She just doesn't usually flaunt it."

As we chatted, the room suddenly hushed. Following everyone's gaze, I spotted a tall figure at the entrance. He appeared to be about thirty, with chiseled features and penetrating eyes that missed nothing. Every gesture exuded an effortless aristocratic confidence.

"William Montgomery has arrived." Richard whispered in my ear, undisguised venom in his tone.

William Montgomery moved unhurriedly through the crowd, exchanging brief pleasantries as he went. When his gaze swept our direction, it lingered briefly. Then, to my surprise, he changed course and headed straight for us.

"Richard." He nodded curtly, his voice deep and commanding.

"Mr. Montgomery." Richard forced a smile. "Didn't expect to see you slumming at a company event."

"Some matters require personal attention." William's gaze shifted to me. "And who might this be?"

"My girlfriend, Emily Reed," Richard replied with a hint of smugness. "Daughter of Reed Technologies' CEO."

William's expression shifted subtly as he extended his hand. "I've heard quite a bit about you, Miss Reed."

I shook his hand, noting the warmth and strength of his grip. "Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Montgomery."

"I understand Reed Technologies has a new project in the works?" William cut straight to business.

"Yes, a collaboration with Montgomery Enterprises," I replied evenly. "My father has high hopes for it."

"Oh?" William raised an eyebrow. "Is Miss Reed also involved in the family business?"

"I've taken an interest recently," I smiled. "After all, understanding my father's legacy is my responsibility."

Richard cut in quickly: "Emily isn't really into business. She studied art history."

"Art and business aren't mutually exclusive," I countered smoothly. "In fact, art develops the insight and creativity that drive innovation in business."

William nodded approvingly. "Miss Reed makes an excellent point. I'm quite passionate about art myself, particularly works that capture societal transformation."

We discussed art for several minutes, unexpectedly finding common ground. Richard stood beside us, his expression growing increasingly strained.

"Emily, we should greet the Wilsons." He interrupted, grabbing my hand to pull me away.

But William smoothly intercepted: "Richard, I'd like a word with Miss Reed about some art acquisition matters."

Richard's expression darkened. "Mr. Montgomery, my girlfriend isn't familiar with investment matters."

"It's merely about art," William smiled coolly. "Richard, surely you're not that insecure?"

Richard, cornered, could only reluctantly agree: "Keep it brief, Montgomery."

"I'd like to speak with Miss Reed alone," William emphasized. "Just five minutes of your precious time."

Richard hesitated, then finally nodded. "Fine. I'll go chat with Director Wang. Emily, I'll be back in five minutes."

Once he'd stalked off, William guided me to a quieter corner.

"Miss Reed, how much do you know about your father's collaboration with us?" he asked bluntly.

I answered carefully: "Not much. My father keeps business and family separate."

William studied me thoughtfully. "Yet you've suddenly developed an interest in business. Because of this particular project, perhaps?"

My heart skipped a beat. How did he know? I kept my face neutral. "I simply want to understand my father's world better."

"Miss Reed," William locked eyes with me, "I strongly suggest you scrutinize this contract, particularly the clauses regarding fund allocation."

I feigned surprise. "Why are you telling me this?"

William didn't answer directly. Instead, he handed me a business card. "Should you discover any... irregularities, you can reach me here."

"You and Richard... there seems to be bad blood there," I probed carefully.

William's lips curved slightly. "There's always... competition in business." He gave me a meaningful look. "Richard is clever, but dangerously ambitious. Too eager to prove himself."

I wanted to press further, but Richard was already stalking back toward us.

"Finished your little chat?" His tone dripped with barely concealed hostility.

"Yes. Mr. Montgomery gave me some fascinating advice on art investment," I lied smoothly, slipping his card into my purse.

After the dinner ended, Richard drove me home. In the car, he suddenly asked: "Emily, has your father mentioned anything about work lately?"

"No, he never talks shop at home," I lied. "Why?"

"No reason." He took my hand. "Just curious. By the way, there's a signing ceremony next week. Care to join me?"

"Of course." I smiled, already plotting how to use this opportunity.

Back home, I found Dad still working in his study. After knocking and entering, I saw him reviewing the revised contract.

"Still burning the midnight oil?"

"Yes, going over the revised contract." Dad looked up. "You were right—that clause was a disaster waiting to happen. Legal rewrote it. Much tighter now."

"That's great." I exhaled with relief. "Dad, what do you know about William Montgomery?"

Dad looked surprised. "How do you know that name?"

"Met him at tonight's banquet," I said truthfully. "He seemed quite interested in our company."

Dad thought for a moment. "William Montgomery keeps a low profile, but they say he's brilliant. If he's suddenly interested in us, he must have his reasons."

Back in my room, I examined William's business card, turning his words over in my mind. Why warn me about the contract? Was he genuinely helping, or playing some deeper game?

After a moment's hesitation, I decided to take a risk. I texted William: "Mr. Montgomery, this is Emily Reed. About your suggestion tonight—I'd like to know more."

Ten minutes passed with no response. Just as I was about to give up, my phone chimed.

"Miss Reed, if convenient, shall we meet tomorrow at 3 PM at the 'Tranquil Mind Tea House' on the west side? It's discreet—perfect for our conversation."

I replied: "Perfect. See you then."