Chapter 329

Ethan Roscente's eyes darkened as his knuckles rapped against the desk.

"Soft embraces and sweet whispers?" His laugh was cold. "With you gone, should I whisper to the air?"

Sophia Lowell turned her face away, nails digging into her palms.

"I heard you're getting married." Her voice was icy. "Congratulations."

Ethan stiffened.

"Isabella told you?"

"Does it matter?" Sophia's lips twisted. "We ended things long ago."

Rain slanted outside, tracing winding paths down the windowpane.

"About Dominic Valrose..." She hesitated. "Consider it repayment for your last favor."

Ethan shot to his feet, his shadow engulfing her.

"Repayment?" His voice tightened. "You think that settles it?"

Sophia met his gaze.

"I'll return the money." Each word was deliberate. "But honor your promise to Vivian."

The air turned brittle.

"Because of the marriage?" Dark currents churned in Ethan's eyes. "Is this your way of cutting ties?"

Sophia suddenly laughed.

"Poor memory, Mr. Roscente." She tapped her temple. "I've said it a thousand times—I won't be the other woman."

Raindrops drummed harder against the window.

"Tiffany was right." She adjusted her collar. "I deserve this."

"Enough!" Ethan seized her wrist.

Sophia struggled but couldn't break free.

"Let go." Her voice was quiet. "Don't make me despise you more."

Ethan's pupils contracted.

"Despise?" A low chuckle escaped him. "Who was it that pursued me first?"

Sophia's face paled.

"And I've paid the price." Her gaze fixed on his tie clip. "The car accident... the falling flowerpot... nearly drowning..."

"Sophia!" Ethan cut in sharply.

She looked up, her eyes barren.

"Stay away from me." Her voice cracked. "I'm begging you."

Ethan suddenly released her, stepping back.

"Too late." He adjusted his cuff. "The moment you tangled with me, escape became impossible."

Through the rain, his silhouette blurred.

"The marriage..." Ethan paused. "I'll handle it."

Sophia turned to leave.

"Stop!" Fury laced his command.

She halted at the door, back still turned.

"Sophia." Ethan's voice softened unexpectedly. "Trust me this once."

The slamming door was her only reply.