Chapter 106

Ethan Roscente's slender fingers traced the phone screen absently as the coldness in his eyes gradually faded. He tilted his head back, draining the glass of whiskey in one swift motion. His Adam's apple bobbed as he murmured in a low voice, "Perhaps you're right. Connections do matter."

"What?" Felix Roland leaned closer, not catching the words.

The man shook his head and set the empty glass on the table, deftly changing the subject. "Has Luming Architectural Studio submitted the design drafts? How do they look?"

Felix's face instantly lit up. "Absolutely stunning! The design is brilliant—full of creativity and soul. It's exactly what I envisioned!"

Ethan arched an eyebrow, skepticism flickering in his gaze. "Really?"

"Why would I lie?" Felix thumped his chest confidently. "Wait till you see it for yourself. It’ll blow you away!"

"I only trust your taste about thirty percent of the time." Ethan chuckled, tapping the rim of his glass lightly.

"This time is different!" Felix insisted, frustration creeping into his voice. "The designer may not be well-known, but the concept is perfect!"

Ethan merely smirked, offering no further comment.

"Fine. Just wait till you see the designs!" Felix huffed, turning away indignantly.

Sunlight streamed through the classroom windows as Sophia Lowell packed up her art supplies. Her phone buzzed.

"Sophia!" Theodore Orlando's excited voice came through. "Your design passed the initial review! The client loves it and wants to discuss long-term collaboration!"

Her exhaustion vanished instantly. "Really?"

"Absolutely!" Theodore laughed. "There’s still a final review by his associate, but I have full confidence in your work."

"Thank you, Professor." Her voice softened. "If it weren’t for your encouragement—"

"Don’t be silly. You earned this yourself," he interrupted. "By the way, there’s an architecture industry gathering this weekend. Come with me."

Sophia twisted her fingers together nervously. "I—"

"I know social events aren’t your thing," Theodore said gently, "but networking is crucial in this field."

She took a deep breath. "Alright. I’ll go."

Hanging up, she gazed out at the sunlight, a faint smile touching her lips. Maybe it was time to step out of her comfort zone.