Chapter 313

"Isabella, Mr. Roscente truly dotes on you like a precious jewel." The socialite beside her giggled behind her hand, eyes brimming with envy.

Sophia Lowell traced the rim of her champagne glass with delicate fingers, but her gaze remained fixed on the tall figure outside the floor-to-ceiling windows. A faint blush colored her cheeks as she murmured, "Don't tease me..."

She turned to leave, only to be blocked by a familiar silhouette.

"Can't handle it already?" Dominic Valrose swirled his wine glass, amusement glinting in his eyes. "What will you do when they actually get married? Faint from crying?"

Sophia met his gaze coldly. "If you're so free, Mr. Valrose, perhaps you should go donate to charity."

His smile faltered momentarily before returning with a roguish tilt. "I'm just concerned about you, darling. With me, you'd have far more... excitement than with Ethan Roscente."

"Save your kindness for those who need it," she replied evenly. "Like your dear Isabella."

Dominic's expression darkened. "How did you—"

"Lucky guess." Sophia arched a brow. "Who else could make you so smug?"

"Clever girl." He leaned in, voice dropping to a whisper. "She's much more obedient in bed than she lets on..."

Sophia took a deliberate step back and clapped slowly. "Impressive skills, Mr. Valrose."

"Well?" He smirked, tilting his chin up. "Join me, and I'll show you paradise."

"No, thank you." She shook her head. "I'd rather not risk an STD."

Rage flashed across his face. As he reached for her arm, a frigid voice cut through the tension.

"What exactly are you doing to my secretary, Mr. Valrose?"

Ethan Roscente stood at the end of the hallway, his suit jacket draped over one arm, tie slightly loosened. He strode forward, the night's chill clinging to him.

Before Dominic could respond, Ethan pulled Sophia firmly against his side. She stiffened, but his low command halted her resistance: "Don't move."

Dominic's face cycled through several shades before settling on a strained smile. "A misunderstanding, Mr. Roscente. Sophia and I were just having a pleasant chat."

Ethan's fingers tightened imperceptibly at her waist, his smile razor-thin. "Really? Because my secretary looks about three seconds from tears."