Chapter 433

His palm suddenly covered the back of her hand, his long fingers slipping between hers with undeniable insistence.

"Dr. Xavier was my mentor in medical school," he said in a low voice, leaving no room for argument. "He's over seventy and flew back from his mission just to meet my girlfriend."

Sophia's breath hitched at his unexpected move.

"So he's a doctor?" She forced her tone to remain steady.

"A Doctors Without Borders physician. He's saved thousands in war zones."

Her heart clenched. A man his age still healing the wounded amid gunfire—such devotion commanded reverence.

"I'll make a good impression," she promised softly.

Ethan gave her fingertips an approving squeeze. "You've always been good at charming elders."

As the car door opened, Sophia wobbled in her heels.

His strong arm steadied her waist. Amusement flickered in his eyes. "Can't even stand properly. Want me to carry you in?"

Before she could retort, she spotted the housekeeper approaching from the villa entrance.

Instantly, she pitched her voice into a sugary tone. "I'm just not used to wearing heels~"

The corner of Ethan's mouth lifted as he pulled her closer.

Their intimate posture made the housekeeper beam. "Mr. Roscente brought his girlfriend!"

"Margaret." Ethan nodded in greeting.

A booming shout came from inside: "You brat! Did you crawl here?"

Without missing a beat, Ethan replied, "If you're in a hurry, I can book you a prime burial plot right now."

"You little—!" Dr. Xavier's beard quivered with indignation before he turned to Sophia with grandfatherly warmth. "Don't mind him, dear. This rascal's needed discipline since childhood."

Sophia stifled a laugh. The spirited old man before her bore no resemblance to the stern medical authority she'd imagined.

"Hello, Dr. Xavier. I'm Sophia Lowell." She offered a demure greeting, presenting a gift box. "A small token of my respect."

The doctor accepted it cheerfully. "Such a thoughtful girl! Unlike certain people who show up empty-handed and still call themselves my student!"

The "certain person" massaged his temples in resignation.

Sophia shot Ethan a smug blink.

Dr. Xavier suddenly frowned. "Dear, your complexion is off." His sharp gaze scanned her. "Have you been fatigued lately?"

Her pulse jumped. The old physician's eye was frighteningly acute.

"Just work stress," she demurred, ducking her head shyly. "I was so nervous about meeting you, I barely slept this week."

Dr. Xavier immediately glared at Ethan. "How are you taking care of her?"

Ethan smoothly drew Sophia against his side. "I'll be twice as attentive from now on."

"Better be!" Satisfied, the doctor tugged Sophia toward the sitting room. "Come keep an old man company."

Over her shoulder, Sophia stuck out her tongue at Ethan, earning a warning look. The warmth of their interlaced fingers still lingered—this performance was only beginning.