Chapter 171

Sophia's toes curled involuntarily as a soft moan escaped her lips.

The sound was sweet and sultry, sending a shiver down Ethan's spine.

He pulled back slightly, gazing down at her defiant eyes. "Do you understand your mistake now?"

The kiss had been fierce and relentless, leaving Sophia dizzy. Gasping for air, her swollen lips parted slightly—an irresistible sight.

Ethan's eyes darkened with desire as he leaned in again. Sophia quickly surrendered, her voice soft as cotton candy. "I understand..."

The fire in Ethan's chest subsided. Seeing her unusually docile expression, his grip loosened slightly.

Seizing the moment, Sophia shoved him away and darted off like a slippery fish.

A dull thud echoed as Ethan's lower back slammed against the stair railing. He winced in pain, looking up just in time to catch a glimpse of Sophia's retreating figure.

This woman played dirty.

Grimacing, he straightened up slowly, all romantic notions thoroughly knocked out of him.

Sophia didn't stop running until she was certain Ethan wasn't pursuing her. Catching her breath, she smoothed her disheveled clothes and stormed back to the private dining room.

Felix and Vincent were leisurely sipping tea, discussing details of the Republic-era Resort Project.

Noticing her return, Felix was about to resume contract talks when his gaze froze on her swollen lips. Spotting Ethan's murderous expression as he entered behind her, Felix raised an eyebrow suggestively. "Did you encounter a ruffian, Sophia? You look rather disheveled."

Sophia knew there was no hiding it. Their prolonged absence and current states made the situation obvious.

She took a calm sip of water and remarked casually as Ethan sat down, "Ran into a beast."

Ethan stiffened, shooting her a cold glare.

"Oh?" Felix drawled, glancing pointedly at the man beside him. "A beast indeed—one with no concept of gentleness."

Ethan's warning glare silenced him.

Vincent wisely pretended not to hear, focusing on his tea.

Eager to change the subject, Sophia prompted, "Felix, where were we?"

Taking the hint, Felix smoothly continued, "Regarding the construction adjustments—can you oversee them?"

"Of course. It's part of my responsibilities."

"Great. Let's proceed with signing—"

"Wait." Ethan cut in sharply, his intense gaze fixed on Sophia. "Before signing, I have additional requirements."

Sophia arched an eyebrow. "Go ahead, Ethan."

"This is a joint investment between Roscente Group and Roland Holdings. Perfection is non-negotiable." Ethan spoke deliberately. "I expect you to supervise the entire construction process to ensure flawless execution of the design."