Chapter 33

Vivian Ashcroft's red sports car pulled up outside the office building, drawing curious glances from colleagues.

Sophia Lowell had barely opened the passenger door when Vivian let out a loud whistle. "Hop in, babe!"

"I could've driven myself," Sophia said, buckling her seatbelt as her fingers brushed against the leather upholstery.

Vivian slammed the accelerator, the engine roaring to life. "No way. Those bitches who messed with you need to know who's got your back."

Sophia chuckled. "Thank you for your generosity, my benefactor."

Vivian suddenly reached over and tilted Sophia's chin up, her gaze suggestive. "Words aren't enough. Impress me tonight, and I'll reward you handsomely."

"As you wish, my queen." Sophia playfully batted her lashes.

Neon lights flickered at the entrance of the club. Sophia hesitated, slowing her steps.

"Scared?" Vivian arched a brow.

Sophia bit her lip. "I don’t usually go to places like this."

"Exactly why you need to broaden your horizons." Vivian slung an arm around her shoulders. "Tonight, we’re being bad. And as for that bastard Ethan Roscente? Screw him."

Sophia suddenly asked, "Do all men like this kind of thing?"

"Just for fun." Vivian scoffed. "But they still want a saint waiting at home. Hypocrites, aren’t they?"

Sophia glanced down at her flat stomach.

"Enjoy yourself while you can," Vivian lowered her voice. "Once you're showing, there’s no more wild nights."

In the dressing room, Sophia stared at the sheer black mini dress, her fingers trembling slightly.

"Relax, I checked—a little dancing won’t hurt." Vivian had already changed with practiced ease.

As the makeup brush glided over her face, Sophia watched her reflection transform. Smoky winged liner, bold red lips—her usual cool elegance replaced by striking allure.

Her entrance into the dance floor was like a stone dropped into water. Men’s gazes turned predatory, their advances relentless.

Up in the VIP section, Felix Roland held up his phone, zooming in on the dazzling figure below.

"Ethan, guess who I just spotted?" he said into the phone.

At the Roscente family dinner, Ethan half-listened as the elders debated wedding dates. Isabella Valentine dutifully served dishes, her smile sweet.

"Your mom again?" Ethan replied absently.

"Your mom!" Felix nearly dropped his phone.

Ethan paused. "Send her my regards."

Felix rolled his eyes. The bastard knew damn well his mother was long gone.

On the dance floor, Sophia swayed to the music. She didn’t notice the amused gaze from above—or that her every move was being watched through a phone screen by another man.