Chapter 434

Dr. Xavier pulled Sophia's hand eagerly. "Come, my dear, let's play a game of chess with this old man. Pay no mind to that rascal."

The obsidian chess set Ethan had brought gleamed softly under the light, its black and white pieces warm to the touch—clearly a rare treasure.

Sophia glanced at her empty hands, cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

Dr. Xavier caressed the chessboard lovingly, his eyes crinkling with delight. "You've truly warmed this old man's heart with such a thoughtful gift, my dear."

Ethan stood nearby, a faint smile playing on his lips.

Sophia's ears turned pink. "Actually, it was Ethan who reminded me—"

"Hmph. At least he still has some conscience."

The chessboard was quickly set up. Sophia took the white pieces, moving swiftly. Though she had learned from her grandfather since childhood and had solid fundamentals, Dr. Xavier soon had her on the retreat.

"Your skill is unmatched, Professor. I concede defeat." Sophia placed down her last white piece, admiration shining in her eyes.

Dr. Xavier stroked his beard with a hearty laugh. "You little rascal, you deliberately let me take three moves. Did you think this old man wouldn't notice?"

Sophia pressed her lips together, amused. "Nothing escapes your sharp eye."

"Your playing style..." Dr. Xavier mused. "Who taught you?"

"My grandfather."

Dr. Xavier's eyes brightened. "He must have been a master. To have raised such a skilled granddaughter, he must have been a man of great wisdom."

At the mention of her grandfather, Sophia's gaze softened. "He adored me. My mother was always busy with work, so he and my grandmother raised me."

"I'd love to meet this gentleman someday."

Sophia's fingers stilled. "He... has passed."

Dr. Xavier's expression faltered. "And your grandmother?"

"Gone as well."

"Poor child..." Dr. Xavier sighed, patting her hand gently.

Sophia shook her head. "Talking about them with you makes me happy."

In the bathroom, Sophia studied her reflection in the mirror and exhaled softly.

Back in the living room, the housekeeper poured tea for Dr. Xavier and whispered, "What do you think of Miss Sophia, sir?"

Dr. Xavier rubbed a chess piece between his fingers, his eyes warm. "That boy has good taste."

"So you approve?"

"He's had a hard time all these years. It's good that he has someone who truly cares for him now."

The housekeeper nodded knowingly.

When the next game began, Sophia held nothing back. After two rounds, Dr. Xavier couldn't stop marveling at the prowess of the younger generation.

Ethan watched from the staircase landing, an unfamiliar warmth blooming in his chest.

At the dinner table, the three raised their glasses, sharing a quiet moment of joy.