Chapter 490

Ethan Roscente watched Sophia Lowell's retreating figure, dark emotions swirling in his eyes. Why was she so resistant to having a bodyguard? The question gnawed at him.

The second-floor restroom was under renovation, forcing Sophia to go downstairs.

After exiting, she lingered by the hallway vent. The breeze tousled her hair as she gazed at the endless stream of cars outside, lost in thought.

It would be a lie to say she wasn't moved. What woman could resist Ethan's meticulously crafted romantic gestures? Especially when he was the man she'd once loved deeply.

For two years, she'd fantasized about such moments. But as a secret lover, those dreams had to stay buried.

Now that she'd finally woken up, he kept reappearing, stirring up her emotions.

Ethan Roscente, you're truly despicable.

Sophia gently touched her abdomen, resolve hardening in her eyes.

"Junior?"

A familiar voice made her stiffen. Turning, she saw Sebastian Valdemar approaching with his usual gentle smile.

"Sebastian?" Her eyes widened in surprise.

This was a couples' restaurant. Why was he here? Only a week had passed since their awkward phone call, yet it felt like a lifetime.

"A friend dragged me here for a blind date," he explained with a helpless shrug. "But she stood me up. Ended up being two men sharing a romantic set meal."

Sophia couldn't help but laugh.

"And you?" Sebastian's gaze turned concerned. "Here with Ethan?"

She looked out the window, her voice distant. "Yes."

His brow furrowed. "Did he give you trouble again?"

"Not exactly." She shook her head. "It's just... unpleasant."

"How much longer will you put up with this?" Sebastian's tone grew urgent. "He's not right for you. The more this drags on, the more you'll get hurt. And now that you're preg—"

He cut himself off with a sigh. "You can't hide this forever. Unless you're willing to accept him having a fiancée while—"

"I know." Sophia interrupted him. "If he still won't let go, then I'll take the child and—"

Her words died abruptly.

At the end of the hallway, Ethan stood watching them. His tailored suit accentuated his tall frame, the white shirt hinting at his lean waistline. Passing women stole glances, admiration clear in their eyes.

He stood there like an unsheathed blade.