Chapter 288

"Let me know if you need anything. I know a very professional obstetrician." Sebastian Valdemar handed her a business card.

Sophia Lowell was about to thank him and stand up when she caught sight of a tall figure in the distance.

Ethan Roscente leaned against a tree trunk, a cigarette burning between his fingers. Through the swirling smoke, his hawk-like eyes locked onto her.

Her fingers trembled, nearly dropping the card.

"How long has he been standing there?" Sophia's voice tightened.

Sebastian followed her gaze and frowned. "Don't worry. He couldn’t have heard us from this distance."

"I think he came specifically to catch me." Sophia gave a bitter smile. "That look in his eyes is like he caught me in bed with someone else."

Sebastian hesitated but only sighed. "Go back. Don’t let him misunderstand."

As she approached, the scent of tobacco mixed with cold cedar enveloped her.

"Having a nice chat?" Ethan crushed the cigarette underfoot, his voice icy. "Ms. Lowell, you never miss a chance to reconnect with old flames, do you?"

Sophia met his gaze. "Thanks to you, Mr. Roscente. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have had the chance to meet an old friend."

"You—" Ethan grabbed her wrist and pinned her against the tree. "Don’t forget your place."

The rough bark dug into her back. Sophia glimpsed Sebastian walking away and exhaled in relief.

"Looking for what? Hoping he’d play the hero?" Ethan gripped her chin. "Too bad your dear senior left without a second glance."

Sophia slapped his hand away. "With such a vivid imagination, maybe you should switch careers and write scripts."

She turned toward the lounge. "I’m skipping the golf this afternoon. I need to catch up on sleep at the hotel."

The crunch of leather shoes on fallen leaves followed her.

"A secretary with a million-dollar salary, slacking off to date during work hours." Ethan yanked her arm. "Have I been too lenient with you?"

Sophia shook him off. "Then fire me!"

"Fine." Ethan adjusted his cuff calmly. "Consider your severance and interest voided."

"You’re despicable!" Sophia trembled with anger. "That interest was part of our agreed travel terms!"

Ethan stepped closer, his warm breath brushing her ear. "Ask yourself, Ms. Lowell. Have you fulfilled your duties as my secretary these past few days?"

The image of Lydia Merovingian shadowing Dominic Valrose flashed in her mind. Sophia fell silent.

"...I’ll go with you this afternoon." She bit her lip in surrender.

Ethan scoffed, turning away with a faint smirk.

Same as always. The mention of money always made her yield.