Chapter 339

Sophia had just left Ethan's office when Mr. Roscente Sr. emerged from the elevator, leaning heavily on his cane.

He paused at the entrance of Roscente Tower, tilting his head to study the cold glare reflecting off the glass facade. His thumb absently traced the dragon engraving on his walking stick.

"Sir?" The butler spoke softly.

The old man's gaze sharpened as he turned. "Something's off between Ethan and that Lowell girl."

The butler's pulse jumped. "You mean—"

"That face is too striking." Mr. Roscente snorted. "Since when has my grandson lacked female company?"

The butler hesitated. Everyone knew Ethan Roscente avoided women like the plague—he'd even dodged the Valentine family's marriage proposal. Sophia's sudden appearance was indeed suspicious.

"Dig deeper." The patriarch slid into the car. "I want her entire background."

The butler immediately made calls as the black sedan pulled away. The rearview mirror captured the old man's stormy expression.

——

Inside the executive suite, Ethan tapped his phone screen with dangerous rhythm.

"Why was he here unannounced?"

Zachary wiped his brow. "My oversight. We received no advance notice."

The air turned glacial. Ethan's voice dropped below freezing. "Consider your bonus forfeited."

Zachary's heart twisted, but he kept silent. Leaning closer at Ethan's gesture, his eyes gradually brightened at the whispered instructions.

——

The next afternoon, Sophia was intercepted by her academic advisor outside the lecture hall.

"Congratulations!" The advisor whispered excitedly. "You're on the tenure list!"

Sophia blinked. Three months of grueling work had finally paid off—she'd secured her foothold in New York.

"But watch out for Professor Langley." The advisor glanced around nervously. "With his connections, he won't take this rejection lightly."

Sophia nodded, tightening her grip on the lesson plans. She remembered the elevator encounter yesterday—that suited man's gaze had made her feel like merchandise on display.

Around the corner, Professor Langley ended a call with a scowl. "Well? Who's backing Sophia Lowell?"