Chapter 134

Sebastian's pupils contracted. "You didn't know?"

"What should I know?" Theodore's face paled with shock before sudden understanding dawned. "No wonder the girl's been scrambling to take on extra projects..."

He'd assumed his father already knew about Sophia's condition. Regret twisted his gut for the careless slip. "Dad, forget what I said. I'm worried about how Sophia might—"

Theodore raised a hand, cutting him off. "Understood." His gaze hardened as it landed on Sophia in the distance. "When I find out which bastard took advantage of her, I'll skin him alive!"

He sighed heavily. "But this complicates your pursuit. That girl's stubborn like her mother—once she sets her mind, it's for life. If she's decided to keep the baby..."

Sebastian's eyes remained fixed on Sophia's retreating figure. "I won't give up."

"That's my boy!" Theodore clapped his son's shoulder. "I'll be waiting for that wedding toast."

Sophia's breathing grew labored, a sheen of sweat glistening on her forehead. Her fingers fumbled at her collar before she jerked her head up in alarm.

Recognizing Sebastian, she relaxed slightly. "Finished with your work, Professor?"

His brow furrowed at her flushed cheeks. "Are you unwell?"

"Just... stuffy." Her weak nod barely concealed her exhaustion. "No energy."

Sebastian pressed a palm to her forehead—normal temperature. "You need rest. Now."

Theodore hurried over. "What's wrong with Sophia?"

"Overexertion." Sebastian supported her swaying frame. "I'm taking her upstairs."

Opting not to disturb his father's recovery, Sebastian guided her straight to reception.

The clerk's fingers froze mid-air when taking Sophia's ID.

"Problem?" Sebastian's sharp eyes caught the hesitation.

"N-none at all!" The receptionist stammered, hands trembling as she processed the check-in.

The elevator doors had barely closed when she grabbed the phone. "Miss Tiffany? They're heading to 1808."

Tiffany's crimson lips curled. "Excellent. Someone will collect the keycard shortly. You know the drill."

"My payment—"

"Will be delivered in full." The line went dead as Tiffany's eyes glittered with malice.