Chapter 195

Jason's eyes flickered with a dangerous glint as his lips curved into a predatory smile. When it came to warding off admirers, he was an expert.

At Roscente Group headquarters, Zachary strode into the CEO's office with a tablet in hand. "Mr. Roscente, Mr. Liu from Heng'an Group requests dinner at eight tonight."

Ethan glanced at his watch and snapped a file shut. "Decline."

"But... this project is crucial."

"The Rolands' birthday gala." Ethan adjusted his cufflinks, his sharp jawline reflected in the mirror.

Zachary blinked. "Didn't you already refuse?" He distinctly remembered his boss tossing the invitation into the trash, calling it "mind-numbingly dull."

"Changed my mind." A shadow crossed Ethan's eyes as he straightened his tie.

"I'll prepare the car immediately."

The Roland mansion blazed with light, its grand birthday banquet drawing the city's elite. Jason noticed Sophia's empty glass. "Not drinking?"

"On antibiotics." She swirled her water, condensation beading on the crystal.

Jason nodded in understanding. Then Sophia's phone buzzed—"Professor Orlando" flashing on the screen.

"Excuse me." She wove through the champagne-sipping crowd to a quiet corner.

"Professor?"

"Sophia, a lucrative opportunity." Theodore's voice was warm. "Apple TV's career education show wants you as a guest."

Sophia froze. "Career Insight?"

"Live broadcast. Generous compensation." He paused. "Plus, it promotes architecture."

Her knuckles whitened. "But I'm a university lecturer—"

"The dean approved." Theodore chuckled. "Perfect timing with college admissions season."

A waltz floated through the phone. Sophia gazed back at the ballroom, where Jason stood encircled by socialites beneath the chandelier. She bit her lip. "Let me think about it."