Chapter 126

The banquet hall buzzed with clinking glasses and murmured conversations. Discreet glances kept drifting toward Sophia Lowell. Guests who couldn't penetrate Ethan Roscente's inner circle now flocked to the rising star designer.

Sophia swirled her champagne flute with slender fingers, maintaining a polished smile. Her attentive gaze and professional discourse disarmed even the most skeptical guests. After hearing her insights on architectural aesthetics, their initial probing turned to genuine admiration.

"Professor Orlando's protégé has an extraordinary future ahead."

"Her mother was Lilian Lowell? No wonder she's gifted."

Theodore Orlando's eyes crinkled with pride at the surrounding praise. His son Sebastian Valdemar approached with a cocktail, murmuring, "Father, this gala isn't just about architecture, is it?"

"Brat." Theodore chuckled. "Sophia needs a proper stage. With her talent, she'll surpass her mother's legacy."

Sebastian's gaze lingered on Sophia's slender waist. "Since Aunt Lilian helped you when the family pressured you to abandon architecture..."

"Do I need reminding?" Theodore huffed. "Without her intervention, I'd be stuck in business meetings instead of designing buildings."

Near the banquet's edge, Sophia discreetly massaged her lower back. Pregnancy had sapped her stamina, forcing her to seek refuge in a quiet corner.

Suddenly, murmurs rippled through the entrance.

Ethan Roscente strode in with commanding presence, his tailored suit accentuating his broad shoulders. The room's atmosphere shifted palpably at his arrival.

Sophia's fork clattered against her dessert plate.

The chandelier light carved sharp angles across his stern features, his aura deterring even the boldest socialites. Though guests fidgeted with anticipation, none dared approach first.

Sophia ducked her head, her pulse throbbing painfully. She fixed her gaze on the tablecloth, yet still felt the weight of his attention like a physical touch.

"Still have a sweet tooth?"

That familiar baritone voice rolled over her as a manicured hand slid a Black Forest cake toward her. The whipped cream's sweetness suddenly overwhelmed her senses, stealing her breath.