Chapter 19

Daniel Clementson stood frozen in confusion.

Mrs. Clementson strode forward and slapped his back sharply. "Miss Valentine is right. Sophia is still technically a Roscente. If we secure this connection, the Clementsons will benefit tremendously."

Understanding dawned in Daniel's eyes. "You're absolutely right, Mother."

"Transfer ten million from the company account to Emily Laurent." Mrs. Clementson's lips curled into a cold smile. "The girl wants a dowry? She'll get it. Once she enters our family, I'll make sure she repays every cent with interest."

Sophia hurried away from the private dining club, only stopping when she turned the corner.

Vivian Ashcroft caught her arm worriedly. "Sophia, you look pale."

Sophia lowered her lashes to hide her emotions. "Vivian, what do you know about Isabella Valentine?"

"Isabella?" Vivian rolled her eyes. "A wannabe socialite who buys her way onto trending lists."

"How capable is she?"

"All money, no talent." Vivian scoffed. "She'd be nowhere without her tycoon father."

Sophia grew thoughtful. Isabella didn't seem to fit the mysterious figure's profile.

"Your father dotes on you too," Sophia changed the subject. "He just bought you that luxury penthouse."

Vivian pouted. "New money only knows how to throw real estate at problems. His illegitimate children keep flattering him - it's disgusting."

They entered a health-conscious hotpot restaurant.

"Damn Ethan Roscente!" Vivian stabbed the menu angrily. "Our reservation got ruined because of that jerk."

Sophia smiled reassuringly. "We'll go another time."

Later that night, Vivian dropped Sophia off at her apartment complex.

As Sophia collected her package and walked home, rustling came from nearby bushes.

The cold wind howled through the empty courtyard, her footsteps the only sound.

"Meow—"

A dark shadow pounced at her feet.

Sophia screamed, dropping the package.

It was just the neighborhood stray cat rubbing affectionately against her ankles.