Chapter 398

Ethan Roscente's slender fingers lightly brushed the tip of her nose, his eyes filled with helpless amusement.

"You little heartless thing," he murmured.

He turned and walked into the bathroom, returning with a warm towel. Gently, he wiped her flushed cheeks, then carefully cleaned every inch of her skin.

By the bedside, his deep, rich voice hummed a lullaby as his palm rhythmically patted her back.

Sophia Lowell's furrowed brows gradually relaxed. Like a kitten, she nuzzled against the hem of his shirt and drifted into sleep.

The crystal chandelier in the upscale restaurant cast dazzling reflections.

Isabella Valentine sat poised by the window, her fingertips tracing the rim of her wine glass. She had deliberately postponed her return to New York this morning, all for this rare lunch date.

Her phone vibrated, and a sweet smile curved her lips.

"Ethan is finally coming..."

The click of high heels approached from a distance. She turned eagerly, but her smile froze instantly.

"Zachary?" Her voice turned icy.

Zachary Evans took a seat across from her, placing his briefcase aside. "Mr. Roscente is currently tending to Miss Lowell, who's fallen ill. He asked me to attend in his stead."

"Ill?" Isabella's nails dug into her palm, though her face showed concern. "Is it serious? Does she need a doctor?"

Her mind raced—if they went for a medical checkup, that secret would be exposed...

"Just a common cold," Zachary said sharply. "Mr. Roscente is personally looking after her. She'll recover soon."

Isabella exhaled in feigned relief. "That's good. Since Ethan is occupied, I won't trouble you further."

She made to stand, but Zachary stopped her.

"Miss Valentine, please stay." He slid a document toward her. "Mr. Roscente has something he'd like you to review."

Her chest tightened, but she forced composure as she opened the file. The moment her fingers touched the paper, her expression changed.