Chapter 458

Ethan Roscente glanced at the ominous sky.

Zachary Evans lowered his voice. "Mr. Roscente, the weather service issued a storm warning. We should wrap up the inspection soon."

Ethan's gaze swept across the leaden clouds, his brow furrowing slightly. Without acknowledging Sophia Lowell, who had just emerged from the restroom, he turned and strode deeper into the construction site.

Sophia paused at Zachary's words. Watching Ethan's retreating figure, an uneasy feeling settled in her chest.

"Let's go," she said, taking a deep breath before addressing Vincent Laurent beside her.

As they walked side by side, Vincent hesitated several times, clearly wanting to speak.

"Just say what's on your mind," Sophia prompted.

Vincent hesitated a moment longer. "You and Mr. Roscente—"

"We're strictly professional," Sophia cut in, her smile faint but firm.

Vincent nodded understandingly and quickened his pace to catch up with the group.

Halfway through the inspection, a fierce wind kicked up, and the clouds darkened further.

"The rain might come earlier than predicted," Zachary murmured, eyeing the sky with concern.

Vincent handed Sophia a bottle of water, noticing her distant gaze fixed on the steep cliffs ahead.

"That's Lovers' Leap," he explained. "Precarious terrain with dangerous undercurrents—even shark sightings. It's technically part of the development zone, but current engineering can't handle it yet."

"Lovers' Leap?" Sophia repeated softly.

"Legend says heartbroken souls would end their lives there," Vincent said in a hushed tone. "Over time, the name stuck."

Sophia twisted open the water bottle with a quiet laugh. "Fitting."

"Zachary mentioned Phase Three will develop the area, but not for another two years." Vincent's eyes suddenly brightened. "I think it'd make a perfect observation deck—ideal for sunrises and sunsets."

"Add some extreme sports facilities," Sophia added. "It'd be a major tourist draw."

Vincent grinned. "Felix Roland already decided you'll design Phase Three too—keeps the aesthetic consistent."

Sophia froze. She knew once the baby arrived, all ties with Ethan would be severed. This project wouldn't be hers. But she simply smiled and said nothing.

As the inspection concluded, raindrops began to fall. Just as the group prepared to leave, a worker came running in panic.

"Foreman! Daniel Mackillop collapsed—he's having seizures!"

The foreman paled, hastily apologizing to Ethan before rushing off with the worker.

"Mr. Roscente, should we—" Zachary started, but Ethan was already striding after them.

"Let's go," Ethan ordered tersely.

Zachary hurried to follow as the group disappeared into the thickening rain.