Chapter 228

"Don't you dare tell me how to do my job!" Sophia Lowell slapped Ethan Roscente's hand away, the sequins at the corners of her eyes glinting sharply under the lights.

Her stage makeup was heavy tonight. The eyeliner accentuated the seductive curve of her eyes, and her lips were painted a startling red. The pale dress clung to her waist, outlining curves that would make any man's blood run hot. Her wavy hair swung in a graceful arc as she turned in anger.

Ethan's temple throbbed as he took in her appearance. The thought of her flaunting herself like this all evening in front of Sebastian Valdemar—while countless fans called her "wifey"—made his gaze darken.

With a sharp snap, he seized her slender wrist and pinned her to the seat.

"Ethan, have you lost your mind?" Sophia struggled, her skirt riding up to reveal pale thighs.

His eyes darkened further. His other hand gripped her waist. "Try moving again."

"You—!" Her cheeks flushed with fury. "If you're looking for a woman, go find Isabella Valentine. Don't take it out on me!"

Ethan smirked, fingers tracing her waistline. "Gaining weight?"

The words struck a nerve. Sophia froze. She was only two months pregnant—her stomach hadn't shown yet—but her waist had softened slightly.

"None of your damn business!" She slapped his hand away and hastily smoothed her skirt. "I earn my keep with my own skills. You have no right to interfere!"

Ethan stared at the red mark on his hand, an odd feeling flickering in his chest—gone as quickly as it came, replaced by deeper rage.

"Need money?" His voice was ice. "You refuse what I offer, but you'll sell smiles for it?"

Sophia's pupils constricted. She raised her hand to strike, but he caught her wrist mid-air. He leaned in, breath hot against her ear. "What? Hit a nerve?"

"Ethan Roscente!" She trembled with anger. "We're done! Does Isabella know you're harassing me like this?"

His expression turned stormy. Sophia instinctively shrank back, only for the back of her head to meet a warm palm—Ethan had shielded her at the last second.

"Scared?" He scoffed, complex emotions churning in his eyes.