Chapter 116

　　The back of Emily's head throbbed slightly, the image of the child replaying in her mind incessantly. 　　She rubbed her temples, then rose to start her morning routine, washing up and applying makeup. 　　After that, she glanced at the time: eleven-thirty in the morning. Emily adjusted her purse and headed out the door, intending to hail a cab, but a sleek black car pulled up elegantly in front of her. 　　Derek parked and gracefully opened his door. He wore a dark black suit adorned with subtle golden lines on the cuffs, exuding an air of elegance and perhaps a hint of arrogance. He gestured toward the passenger seat, saying, "Emily, please, get in." 　　Emily obliged, sitting down and reaching for her seatbelt, but before she could fasten it, Derek leaned over, carefully securing it for her. Emily held her breath, feeling a flutter of nerves. 　　Derek suppressed a chuckle at her adorable apprehension, returning to the driver's seat and then started the car. 　　Emily gazed out the window,