Chapter 129

Theodore Orlando's temples throbbed with rage. He finally understood—Ethan Roscente was deliberately making things difficult for his prized student.

If he'd known Ethan was this despicable, he would never have introduced Sophia Lowell to this bastard.

A cold smile curled Sophia's lips as she plucked a fruit cocktail from a passing tray. She drained it in one gulp before giving Theodore a reassuring look. "Professor, I need to visit the ladies' room."

Theodore nudged his son. "Sebastian, accompany your junior."

Ethan watched their retreating figures with icy detachment, swirling his whiskey. The amber liquid cast frigid reflections in his merciless eyes.

In the restroom, Sophia bent over the toilet, expelling the alcohol. She splashed cold water on her face, droplets tracing her pallid cheeks.

"Bastard..." she hissed through clenched teeth. Though the drink had been minimal, the thought of her unborn child sent tremors through her.

Drying her face, she turned—only to meet Isabella Valentine's mocking gaze.

"Impressive tactics, Miss Lowell." Isabella blocked the exit, crimson lips twisting. "Chasing after Ethan when you know we're engaged?"

Sophia froze, her stare glacial. "If your vision's impaired, I suggest an emergency eye exam."

Isabella's gaze suddenly locked onto the jade hairpin in Sophia's hair. A vicious glint flashed in her eyes as she stroked her manicured nails. "Oh? Isn't this the custom piece Ethan commissioned for me? No wonder I couldn't find it."

Sophia's fingers twitched.

"He ordered it during that Denver business trip." Isabella leaned in, breath hot against Sophia's ear. "Pity I disliked the design. How does it feel, scavenging my rejects?"

Under the sterile restroom lights, the last vestiges of color drained from Sophia's face. She lifted her chin and laughed softly. "You're worshipping a man I've already discarded, yet dare lecture me?"