Chapter 283

"The suburbs are indeed cooler than downtown." Sophia rubbed her bare calves.

Ethan Roscente's gaze lingered on her thin skirt, displeasure flickering in his eyes. "Stop pretending."

A tailored suit jacket still warm from his body suddenly draped over her head.

Flustered, Sophia pulled it off and recognized Ethan's custom-made suit. She hastily offered it back. "No need, I—"

"Wear it," Ethan cut her off. "If you catch a cold, don't expect me to approve sick leave."

Sophia gritted her teeth.

This man had serious persecution complex.

The entrance of the hot springs resort swarmed with Dominic Valrose's welcoming committee.

Sophia tightened her grip on the seatbelt. "Mr. Roscente, perhaps I should stay in the car? With so many people, I might embarrass you."

Ethan glanced at her white-knuckled fingers and gave a curt nod before exiting with Zachary Evans.

The crowd surged forward like a tidal wave, swallowing his tall figure.

Sophia exhaled in relief.

She wasn't lying. Crowded places always made her chest feel like it was crushed under a boulder.

Stepping out, the crisp mountain air greeted her.

She inhaled deeply, letting the earthy fragrance of grass and trees dispel the suffocating weight in her chest.

"Excuse me, are you Mr. Roscente's secretary?"

A gentle female voice came from behind.

Turning, Sophia saw a polished woman in a beige suit. Her makeup was impeccable, her smile perfectly measured.

"I'm Mr. Valrose's secretary, Lydia." She offered a business card. "Mr. Roscente mentioned you weren't feeling well. Mr. Valrose asked me to escort you to rest."

Sophia accepted the card politely. "Thank you, Ms. Merovingian. I just had slight motion sickness and needed fresh air."

"Shall I arrange some lemonade for you?" Lydia suggested considerately.

"That would be kind of you."

Lydia gestured toward a distant garden. "This is Mr. Valrose's private retreat. The surroundings are lovely. Feel free to stroll if you're uncomfortable."

After Lydia left, a server soon brought a glass of lemonade.

Sophia thanked him but only touched it to her lips before setting it aside.

In unfamiliar settings, she never consumed anything carelessly.