Chapter 287

Sophia briefly introduced Lydia to Sebastian. "This is Mr. Valdemar from Valdemar Group."

Sebastian gave a slight nod. "Pleasure."

Lydia forced a smile, her eyes darting between them. She glanced at her watch with feigned regret. "Mr. Valrose needs me. I should go."

Once Lydia was out of sight, Sophia slumped onto the bench in relief. "Thank goodness you showed up. I didn't know how to get away."

Sebastian sat beside her, shaking his head. "You always put others first."

"They're Ethan's business partners," she murmured.

Sebastian hesitated. "About you and Ethan—"

"It's transactional," Sophia said plainly. "He pays, I attend events with him."

Sebastian recalled how Ethan had forcibly taken her away last time, his brow furrowing. "He hasn't given you trouble?"

Her fingers absently traced the strap of her bag. "Just business. No trouble." She quickly changed the subject. "What brings you here?"

"A friend's baby shower."

Meanwhile, inside the private room...

Dominic noted Lydia's return and lazily asked, "Where's Ms. Lowell?"

"Chatting with an acquaintance," Lydia replied, then felt a sharp gaze on her.

Ethan set down his teacup. "What acquaintance?"

"A Mr. Valdemar," Lydia added casually. "They seemed... close."

Ethan's lips thinned as he stood. "Excuse me."

Watching him leave, Dominic pulled Lydia closer. "Seems Mr. Roscente cares deeply about his secretary."

Lydia leaned into him. "Might be harder than we thought."

Dominic smirked. "Patience. There's always a way."

Back in the garden, Sebastian mentioned his sister. "Father's upset, but he dotes on her. She's gained weight resting at home." His eyes softened with concern. "You're working while pregnant. That can't be easy."

Sophia gently touched her stomach, a tender smile playing on her lips. "The baby's been kind. Not much fuss."