Chapter 227

Sebastian Valdemar lunged forward, gripping Ethan Roscente's wrist like a steel vise.

"Mr. Roscente, forcing someone against their will isn't gentlemanly behavior." His voice was icy. "You're hurting her."

Ethan halted, dark turbulence swirling in his eyes.

"Get out of my way." He shook off Sebastian's hand and adjusted his cuff. "This is a private family matter. Outsiders have no say."

Sebastian stood firm, shielding Sophia Lowell.

"My junior's concerns are mine." He didn't budge. "If she refuses, no one can force her."

Ethan let out a low chuckle that sent chills down the spine.

"What devoted senior-junior camaraderie." He leisurely unbuttoned his suit jacket. "But what's mine stays mine—even if I have to break it before letting others have it."

He stepped closer until their noses nearly touched.

"The last person who dared take what's mine is still hospitalized." Ethan narrowed his eyes. "Care to join him?"

Sophia suddenly grabbed Ethan's arm.

"Was Daniel Clementson's incident your doing?" Her voice trembled.

Ethan smirked disdainfully.

"Just a warning." He traced her pale cheek. "Who do you think will be next?"

Sebastian yanked Sophia behind him.

"Quite the display of power, Mr. Roscente." He sneered. "What kind of man bullies a woman?"

Ethan's gaze lingered on their clasped hands before turning glacial.

"Sophia." His tender tone was unnerving. "Are you sure you want him fighting your battles?"

Sophia recoiled from Sebastian as if electrocuted.

"I'll go with you." She bit her lip. "Leave the innocent out of this."

Sebastian moved to intervene, but Sophia shook her head.

Their silent exchange fueled Ethan's rage. He roughly dragged Sophia and shoved her into the car.

The black Maybach sped off, leaving Sebastian standing alone, his knuckles white.

The car's atmosphere was suffocating.

Sophia rubbed her reddened wrist, breaking the silence first.

"What's today's performance about?" She mocked. "An inquisition? Or catching me in the act?"

Up front, Zachary Evans nearly choked on his saliva.

Ethan seized her chin.

"Who gave you permission to join that show?" He gritted his teeth. "From today onward, you're staying home—no exceptions."