Chapter 221

Emily's voice came through the phone in a rushed flurry, cutting the call short after just two sentences.

Sophia stared blankly at her darkened screen.

Her aunt was always the picture of composure. This abruptness was unlike her.

Shaking her head, Sophia turned and stepped into the television studio.

Sebastian leaned against the hallway corner, waiting. The moment he spotted her, his lips curved. "Done with your call?"

"Yeah."

"Let's go. Recording starts soon. We'll review the script first, then touch up your makeup."

Originally, the show had only invited Sophia. Later, the director decided to bring Sebastian on as an expert consultant to add depth. Their pairing—theory meeting practice—elevated the program instantly.

Sophia fell into step beside him.

With no rehearsals for this live broadcast, the director noticed her tension and smiled reassuringly. "Relax. Just standing there, you two are ratings gold."

It wasn't an exaggeration. Together, they outshone even the A-list celebrities present.

"Thanks, Director." Sophia chuckled.

The live show began—a mix of games and interviews.

Among the six guests, four were actors promoting their new drama. Only Sophia and Sebastian were non-celebrities. Thankfully, the seasoned host kept the energy high through rounds of games.

During team assignments, Sophia was paired with the drama's second male lead.

The spoiled heir played his narcissistic, sleazy persona to perfection. Even on live TV, he couldn't resist hitting on her.

"Don't hold back, Professor Lowell," he flexed with a smarmy grin. "If you want to thank me, how about—"

"You're stepping on my shoe." Sophia's icy interruption cut through his act.

The man stumbled back, flushing. "S-sorry—"

"Just stay away," she said flatly. "I'm allergic to cheap cologne."

In the break room, Zachary nearly dropped his phone laughing.

So Miss Lowell's sharp tongue spared no one. He couldn't wait to share this clip with Mr. Roscente.

A knock sounded at the CEO's office door.