Chapter 180

The elevator plunged into darkness without warning, freezing Sophia Lowell in place.

Ethan Roscente immediately sensed her distress. His arm tightened around her. "Don't be afraid," his deep voice cut through the blackness. "I'm here."

Her slender fingers clutched desperately at his suit lapels as her breathing grew ragged. "It's too dark...everything's black..." Her voice dwindled to a barely audible whimper.

When she suddenly went limp in his arms, Ethan's heart lurched. "Sophia!" He shook her shoulders urgently, his voice uncharacteristically frantic. "Wake up! Stay with me!"

Harsh fluorescent lights flickered on as the elevator resumed operation. Ethan took in her ashen face and closed eyelids, his chest constricting painfully.

Ding—

The doors opened on the ground floor where Zachary Evans nearly barreled inside. "Mr. Roscente, are you—" His words died as he gaped at the unconscious woman in his boss's arms, mouth hanging open.

The maintenance worker blinked in astonishment. Since when did elevator malfunctions lead to romantic conquests?

Isabella Valentine arrived just in time to witness the scene. The blood drained from her face as her manicured nails dug crescent moons into her palms.

Felix Roland sauntered up moments later, leaning against the wall with amusement. "Seems we're superfluous here."

Vincent Laurent was the first to voice concern. "Is Sophia unwell?"

Ethan was already striding toward the exit with his precious burden. "Get the car ready. We're going to the hospital!" His command sliced through the air like ice.

Zachary snapped to attention and rushed to retrieve the vehicle.

"Ethan!" Isabella moved to intercept him but was brushed aside without acknowledgment. The man disappeared through the doors without a backward glance, leaving her trembling with rage. Strands of her meticulously styled updo came loose in her distress.

Felix's voice dripped with mock sympathy. "Should I call an ambulance? You look positively green."

"Stop gloating!" Isabella hissed through clenched teeth.

He shrugged. "Just showing concern for my future sister-in-law."

The derision in his eyes stung worse than the words. Felix had never concealed his disdain for her.

An uncomfortable silence settled over the elevator bay. The maintenance worker cleared his throat awkwardly. "Uh...the elevator's fixed now..."