The projects across the company were running smoothly. Ken managed the technical aspects, and Daniel handled administration and overall decision-making. Even during Satan's three-year absence, The Great Wall Group retained its position as New York’s leading business powerhouse. As Emily browsed the recent news on her phone in the car, it was clear the city was engulfed in Christmas cheer, bright and bustling. Satan glanced over. “Any plans for Christmas?” She paused. “Not really. I’ll probably just stay in and watch TV with Bert.” He nodded without pressing further. Emily wondered what had prompted him to ask; he’d usually spend Christmas with his family. A slight smile crept across her face, but her expression held a tinge of sadness. The people in her life seemed to be growing fewer by the year. Christmas used to be difficult but joyful, a shared warmth despite the hardships. This year, it felt especially lonely. Sophia had long severed ties with the family, and William was gone. It was just her and Bert, which felt both serene and a little melancholic. Sensing her gaze, Satan looked over. “Got something on your mind?” Emily shook her head. “No.” “Don’t be formal with me. If you have something to say, just say it.” After a pause, Emily brought up Ken’s reminder. “Ken keeps pushing me to join the company’s annual party. Are you planning to go?” Satan cleared his throat, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. “Do you want me to?” “It’s not about what I want. You’re the CEO of The Great Wall Group. Technically, you should attend. But if you’re not feeling well, there’s no need. The event will probably involve speaking on stage. Are you sure your voice is up to it?” A faint smile crossed Satan's face. “With you there, I can manage.” “…I’m not some kind of cure.” “You are,” he replied. “Lucas will be there too, so you’ll get a chance to catch up with an old friend. Amanda has also been looking forward to seeing you.” Emily shifted uncomfortably. “I’d prefer to keep my identity low-profile. I’ve worked hard to create this new life; I don’t want to be dragged back into the past.” Satan nodded, respectful of her wish. “Of course. And as for Jackson... I’ll make sure he’s properly compensated.” …… In the hospital, Jackson was eating voraciously. After a large bowl of rice, he even asked for more. Allen Parker watched him with a raised eyebrow. “Why is your appetite so big today?” Jackson shrugged nonchalantly. “I’m starving. I haven’t eaten properly in days—I’m a big guy!” “You’re just lying around in bed. Keep this up, and you’ll turn into a chubby guy even our own mother won’t recognize.” Jackson pursed his lips, gesturing to the nurse for another serving. “Bring me another bowl.” The nurse looked at Allen for confirmation. With a resigned sigh, he nodded, and the nurse obediently brought Jackson another generous helping. Allen still seemed concerned. “So, what exactly did you and Emily talk about yesterday? You seem way too cheerful.” He was perplexed. Emily’s expression had been somber than she arrived. He knew something about Norman family matters. He had a good idea of what Emily's visit was likely about. The rumor had already spread that Vincent was planning a wedding, and the only woman he’d consider was Emily. And given the tension in Emily’s face, he had assumed she was there to end things with Jackson. That’s why he’d left them alone, giving them the space to talk. But the next morning, Jackson was practically a bottomless pit with food? This was anything but typical. As Jackson kept eating, he shrugged casually. “I’m just happy. Is that a problem?” “No problem. But if you’re feeling upset, you can let it out. Crying it out is better than overeating and making yourself sick.” Jackson scoffed, a slight sneer on his face. “Why would I cry? I’ve never done anything to be ashamed of. Emily’s the one missing out on me. She’ll regret it someday. I’ve moved on. She’s always had her mind on Vincent, so let her go marry him. I need to get better and back to my babies.” Allen raised an eyebrow. “How many ‘babies’ do you have?” Jackson winked. “Oh, not too many—haven’t hit a hundred yet. But once I’m up and about again, I’ll be back and have some fun with them.”“Jackson!” “Relax, bro. I’m just talking about my cars,” Jackson chuckled. “I’ve been in the UK for three years, and I haven’t taken any of them out for a spin. They must miss me.” Allen rolled his eyes. “Are you sure you’re alright? If you’re hurting, I’m here for you. We’re family…” Jackson shrugged, a touch of bitterness slipping into his voice. “No pain here. Honestly, I’ve always known she has feelings for Vincent. It’s better she came out and said it. Besides, once I’m back on my feet, the family has a lineup of potential dates for me, right? I’ll start with the ones they pick and see how it goes.” Allen seemed relieved. “Don’t forget you also have an engagement to Janet.” “Janet?” Jackson groaned. “She still looks like a kid. I just can’t be interested.” Allen gave him a bemused smile. “Do you even know what Janet has done because of your ‘no interest’?” “What do you mean?” Allen pulled out his phone and showed him a few pictures of Janet. Her new look was bold and provocative, with red lips and dramatic makeup—nothing like the innocent girl in a princess dress he remembered. Jackson was taken aback. “This… This is Janet?” Allen nodded, his phone buzzing with a call. “Think about the engagement seriously. I have to take this call.”