Chapter 69

Zachary Evans studied Ethan Roscente's shifting expression before speaking cautiously. "How should we handle this now?"

Ethan's long fingers tapped rhythmically against the desk, a dangerous glint flashing in his eyes. "Follow protocol."

Understanding immediately, Zachary turned to make arrangements.

Outside the CEO's office, Jessica Piente paced with a stack of files. "Where is Mr. Roscente? These documents need his signature."

Sophia Lowell glanced at the empty office, her lips curling into a cold smile. "He's busy accompanying Miss Valentine. No time for company matters."

"How do you know?" Jessica asked, puzzled.

Sophia pointed to Isabella Valentine's vacant seat. "Isn't it obvious?"

She had anticipated Ethan would prioritize Isabella, which was why she'd sent that final message directly to Zachary.

Jessica sighed. "Miss Valentine is so fortunate, born into such a prominent family."

"What do you mean?"

"With her looks, she'd never become the future Mrs. Roscente without that pedigree." Jessica gave Sophia an appraising look. "But you—standing next to Mr. Roscente, you two look like a match made in heaven."

Lowering her voice, she added, "I've always shipped you two."

Sophia's eye twitched. "Some ships can be niche, but this one is just wrong."

"No, no," Jessica said mysteriously. "Shipping everyone keeps my life balanced."

Sophia: "..."

As the workday neared its end, Ethan strode into the office, his presence icy.

He stopped abruptly at Sophia's workstation, his gaze sharp as a blade. "Secretary Lowell. Inside. Now."

From his stormy expression, Sophia knew trouble was coming.

But she was prepared. Calmly, she followed him into the office.

Ethan was flipping through a document, his face dark with fury.

Sophia recognized it as the project proposal Isabella had taken.

"Mr. Roscente." She stood composed before his desk.

He looked up, his piercing stare cutting into her. "Did you prepare this tender proposal?"

"Yes," she admitted without hesitation.

Ethan let out a cold laugh and slammed the file down in front of her. "Leaking company secrets—do you understand the consequences?"

Sophia paled. "I don't know what you're talking about."

To her, his accusation was utterly baffling.

He seized her chin, his grip painfully tight. "Still pretending?"

Sophia tried to pull away, but he only tightened his hold.

"I truly don't understand," she said through gritted teeth.