Chapter 311

The dress had appeared silently at her bedside that morning, nestled in an exquisite paper bag with matching lingerie folded neatly inside. Every measurement was precise. Sophia didn't need to guess who was behind this.

Though her rain-soaked clothes from last night had been dried, the clammy discomfort still clung to her skin. This dress arrived just in time to rescue her from that lingering unease.

Its deceptively simple cut concealed meticulous craftsmanship, demanding a figure of near-perfect proportions. Yet on Sophia, it fit as though tailored specifically for her.

The fitted skirt accentuated her slender waist and graceful hips, while the hem revealed legs that were pale and impossibly long. Her upswept hair exposed the delicate curve of her neck, transforming her into an elegant swan.

Eyes throughout the ballroom began gravitating toward her. The weight of those blatant stares felt like being devoured alive.

"Mr. Roscente has exquisite taste," someone murmured. "A dignified fiancée and such an alluring secretary."

"If she were mine, I'd have—"

"Wake up. That's Ethan Roscente's woman."

"Word is Mr. Valrose already struck a deal with him. Tonight they'll—"

"Look at that tiny waist..."

Sophia's skin prickled under the scrutiny. She turned to leave when a saccharine voice stopped her.

"Leaving so soon, Ms. Lowell?" Isabella Valentine approached on Ethan's arm, a flash of venom in her eyes.

"I'm not feeling well." Sophia kept her tone frosty.

"But this farewell gala was specially arranged by Mr. Valrose for Ethan." Isabella clung to Ethan's shoulder with faux affection. "Wouldn't an early departure be... unprofessional?"

Ethan's gaze lingered on Sophia before he remarked coolly, "Now that you're here, at least pretend to enjoy yourself."

"I didn't come by choice." Sophia's laugh was sharp. "Mr. Valrose claimed you were too drunk to function and insisted I retrieve you. Clearly, I overstepped."

The man's brow furrowed. "When have I ever been incapacitated by alcohol?"