Chapter 455

"That appears to be the situation."

Sophia nodded, her demeanor far calmer than expected, as if incidents like this were nothing out of the ordinary.

"You're telling me a four-year-old traveled to Newport City alone?"

"Technically, he's four years and three months."

"But—how? He's a child. How did he manage that? Why aren't you more concerned? Aren't you worried he might run into dangerous people?"

"For most four-year-olds, this would be alarming. But not Adrian. This isn't his first time pulling something like this. He's escaped before. His mother would catch him and discipline him, but instead of stopping him, it just made him better at slipping away. At this point, it's impossible to keep him contained. My best friend has given up trying!"

A proud smile tugged at Sophia's lips as she spoke about her godson. Her confidence was unwavering.

"Besides, you don’t need to worry about him getting hurt. He’s more than capable. If anything, the people who cross him should consider themselves lucky if he doesn’t torment them."

Her concern wasn’t for Adrian—it was for Nathaniel. The boy had despised him since childhood, vowing to make him pay.

"Seriously? That kid is extraordinary. Is he… Mr. Blackwood’s son?"

William hesitated, testing the waters carefully.

Sophia, usually carefree, tensed instantly. Her eyes narrowed. "Why the sudden interest in my best friend? First, you ask where the kid is, now about his father. Are you investigating her background?"

William’s expression flickered with guilt. He cleared his throat. "You're jealous, aren’t you? I only ask because Miss Lockhart is your best friend. My concern for her stems from my concern for you."

"I’m not jealous. I’m warning you. Don’t even think about messing with her. If you dare hurt her, I’ll make sure you regret it."

Lately, Sophia had begun questioning William’s motives. He wasn’t as simple as he seemed.

She could handle being fooled—but she wouldn’t drag Vivian into it.

"Given recent events, I think we should take a break. Let’s stop seeing each other until things settle. That way, you won’t be tempted to act on any… ill intentions."

With that, she grabbed her bag and stood.

William panicked, seizing her wrist. "Are you breaking up with me? You’re accusing me without proof. Isn’t that unfair?"

"It’s temporary. Once Vivian’s situation is resolved, maybe I’ll reconsider."

Her tone was icy as she shook him off and strode out of the restaurant.

She had liked him—but his sudden interest in Vivian’s life raised too many red flags. For Vivian’s sake, she had to walk away.

"Wait!"

William watched her leave, an unexpected ache in his chest.

Only now did he realize—he’d fallen for her.

But what did that mean for Cassandra?

As he wrestled with the thought, his phone buzzed. Cassandra’s name flashed on the screen.

After a long pause, he answered.

"What took you so long?" Her voice was sharp, impatient. "Get to Harbor Market. I need you to deliver something."