Chapter 368

Sophia jerked her hand away with a cold laugh. "You married well, but are you truly happy trapped in this gilded cage? That small business you secretly started—even though you got scammed, you were glowing during that time."

Her gaze was resolute. "Design is my life. No matter how hard it gets, I'll embrace it."

"So you're determined to leave?"

Sophia nodded without hesitation.

Emily studied her for a long moment before letting out a bitter chuckle. "You hate it here, don't you? The Roscentes, even this entire city."

Sophia's lashes fluttered slightly. Her voice was barely audible. "You know better than anyone what it's like to live under someone else's roof."

Emily's eyes reddened. She thought of all the humiliation Sophia had endured because of her these past two years. Her fingers tightened unconsciously. "It's my fault..."

Her princess should have been cherished, but because of her useless aunt, she'd tasted the bitterness of the world.

A pang of sorrow struck Sophia. "Come back to Seattle with me. I can take care of you."

Emily froze, then slowly shook her head. "Your uncle's spirit is here. I won't leave."

Her tone turned sharp. "Besides, what can your salary even cover? At least here, you don't have to worry about food or clothes."

Sophia's lips curled in mockery. "So in the end, you can't let go of this luxurious life."

When faced with wealth and comfort, her niece meant nothing.

Emily turned away. "Think what you want."

"Then I wish you all the best." Sophia turned to leave.

Emily grabbed her arm in panic. "Is there really no other way?"

"None."

Defeated, Emily sighed. "You're as stubborn as your mother."

"Then stop trying to change my mind."

Emily clutched her hand tightly. "Call me if anything happens."

"Mm."

"Where are you going?"

Mr. Roscente Sr.'s voice cut in from behind. Sophia stiffened, recalling Ethan's warning in his office that day. Her breath grew shallow.

Emily instantly put on an ingratiating smile. "Sophia's job is relocating her back to Seattle." Her voice was laced with cautious flattery, nothing like Victoria Langley's composed demeanor in front of the patriarch.