Chapter 421

Sophia crooked her finger at Vivian.

Vivian immediately leaned in closer.

There were construction issues at the Luming project that required both Sophia and Theodore Orlando to inspect the site. Just as they entered, they unexpectedly ran into Sebastian Valdemar.

"Professor Valdemar?" Sophia's eyes widened in surprise.

Sebastian stood amidst steel beams and concrete in his crisp white shirt, looking utterly out of place. He adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, the lenses glinting in the sunlight.

"Father accompanied Vivian to Lingyin Temple," he explained. "I'm here to oversee things in his stead."

Sophia suddenly remembered that Vivian Valdemar had been struggling with insomnia during her third trimester. Her mother, a devout Buddhist, had taken her to the temple for peace. But Theodore had gone with them too—he hadn't mentioned a word about it during their call last night.

"How have you been?" Sebastian's gaze lingered on her.

"Quite well," Sophia smiled. "Professor Orlando and his wife visit often, and Vivian keeps in touch too."

Since returning to Seattle, the Valdemars had treated her like family. Mrs. Orlando frequently brought homemade dishes, while the professor sent nourishing supplements, filling the void in her heart.

Sebastian's eyes dropped to her flat stomach. "You shouldn't overexert yourself during pregnancy."

Sophia wore a loose sun-protective jacket and wide-leg pants for mobility. At a glance, no one would guess she was four months along.

"How were your last prenatal results?" He recalled recommending the doctor himself.

"Everything's normal," Sophia instinctively cradled her abdomen. "Just some appetite issues."

After exchanging pleasantries, silence settled between them. Fortunately, the site supervisor arrived just then, breaking the awkwardness.

The inspection revealed more severe problems than anticipated. Sophia frowned at the blueprint. "This load-bearing column can't be altered—it'll compromise the entire structure."

She made an immediate decision. "I'll stay to supervise the construction. We'll address any issues as they arise."

Under the scorching sun, heat waves rippled across the site. Sophia stood beneath a makeshift canopy, discussing solutions with the workers. Sweat trickled down her cheeks, her back already drenched.

The initially skeptical crew gradually grew respectful. This seemingly delicate woman far surpassed those theoretical experts who only knew how to talk.

Sebastian watched from a distance, his gaze unconsciously following her. Bathed in sunlight, Sophia seemed to glow as she worked.

"Is there something on my face?" She suddenly turned, meeting his stare.