Chapter 377

Sophia Lowell sat stiffly at the dining table, unaware of Ethan Roscente's grip tightening around her wrist beneath the tablecloth.

From the opposite end, Isabella Valentine observed them with narrowed eyes.

She forced a saccharine smile. "Sophia, I need help choosing my wedding reception dress. Come to the bridal boutique with me today? We have similar tastes."

Sophia winced as Ethan's fingers dug into her flesh. She picked up a spoon with her free hand. "I'm covering a colleague's lecture today."

"What about tomorrow?" Isabella pressed. "Tiffany mentioned you only have morning classes on Thursdays."

"I'm moving back to Seattle next month." The moment Sophia spoke, Ethan's grip turned crushing.

She yanked her hand free, spotting angry red marks. Under the table, she kicked out in retaliation.

"Jesus!" Jason Roscente hissed, drawing everyone's attention.

Sophia froze. Wrong target.

Ethan's voice cut through the silence. "Well played, Sophia."

His chair screeched as he stood, abandoning his untouched breakfast.

Mr. Roscente Sr. frowned. "Leaving already?"

Without a word, Ethan strode out.

The patriarch turned to his grimacing grandson. "What's your problem now?"

Jason shot Sophia an annoyed look before smirking at Isabella. "Who invited the buzzing fly to breakfast?"

Isabella's lips trembled. "I'm sorry for disturbing—"

"Then shut up."

"Outrageous!" The old man slammed the table. "Is that how you speak to your future aunt?"

Jason pushed back his chair. "Let's see if she actually makes it down the aisle."

Tears welled in Isabella's eyes as Jason sauntered out.

"Pay him no mind," Mr. Roscente Sr. huffed. "That wild boy needs discipline after years abroad."

Sophia hid her smirk behind lowered lashes. Neglect your grandson for years, then blame his manners?

Outside, Jason summoned the family driver.

His confiscated sports car left him deflated—a plucked peacock without his prized feathers. Each step felt heavier without the roar of an engine.