Chapter 116

Ethan Roscente's slender fingers retrieved something from the storage compartment.

Sophia Lowell felt her stray strands being gently gathered as he swiftly tied up her loose hair.

"Don't move." He pressed down on her hand when she reached up to touch it.

Before she could speak, he pushed the car door open and stepped out. His polished black shoes crossed the asphalt as he rounded to the passenger side.

"Get out." He pulled the door open, his tone brooking no argument.

Sophia hesitated briefly when the restaurant's interior came into view.

It was the same place she'd visited at noon—even the seating arrangement was identical.

Ethan pulled out a chair, his gaze heavy as it settled on her.

When the menu was handed to her, Sophia ordered seven or eight dishes in one breath. She deliberately avoided anything unsuitable for pregnancy, checking off everything else.

"That hungry?" Ethan tapped the table lightly with his fingertips.

Sophia hummed in response without looking up, passing the menu to the waiter. "Please hurry."

The moment the waiter left, Ethan chuckled lowly. "I should've fed you something in the car."

She shot him a glare.

"What are you thinking?" He raised a brow. "I meant the snacks in the trunk."

Sophia didn't bother responding. They both knew exactly who those snacks were for.

She used to keep biscuits and candies in his car too. Every time, he'd toss them out with disdain, complaining they ruined his image. Now he kept them stocked for Isabella Valentine.

The line between love and indifference couldn't be clearer.

The food arrived quickly. Sophia pulled the plates closer to herself. "We'll eat separately."

Ethan frowned. "You can finish all that?"

"I'll take the leftovers." She picked up a spare rib. "Dutch treat. No freeloading."

The memory of him tricking her into paying last time was still fresh.

Ethan leaned back, amused. "Do I look like I can't afford a meal?"

"Not my problem." She focused on her food.

His expression darkened. Flipping open the wine list, he ordered a bottle of Petrus.

The sound of red wine pouring into the crystal glass made Sophia's throat tighten. It was her favorite brand.

Too bad she couldn't drink it now.

Ethan sipped leisurely, his eyes never leaving her face. By the time he finished his glass, she still hadn't reacted.

This wasn't like her. Normally, she'd be leaning over eagerly by now.

Swirling his wine, his gaze deepened.