Chapter 80

Sophia's brow relaxed slightly as her fingertips tapped lightly on the book cover. "There's no such thing as a free lunch. You should be more cautious."

"Ugh, you're so annoying!" Emily flung the new dress onto the bed. "You ruined what should've been a happy occasion. I never should've invited you back!"

Sophia closed the book, her gaze sweeping over the luxury shopping bags strewn across the bed. She stood to leave, pausing briefly to glance at the six-figure dress.

The night was deep, the Roscente estate garden alive with the hum of insects. As Sophia turned the corner, a strong hand yanked her into the rose bushes. She instinctively raised her elbow to strike—then froze at the familiar scent of cedarwood.

"Three days of avoiding me." Ethan's thumb traced the pulse at her wrist. "Finally decided to show yourself?"

Sophia jerked her hand back, only for him to lock an arm around her waist, crushing her against him. Rose thorns scraped her bare calves, sending shivers down her spine.

"Let go!" she hissed. "If the old man sees—"

Ethan chuckled, warm breath grazing the shell of her ear. "Scared?" He nipped at her flushed earlobe. "Isn't sneaking around more exciting?"

Moonlight filtered through the blossoms, casting dappled shadows across his sharp features. Sophia caught the dangerous glint in his eyes—her heart skipped a beat.

"Disgusting," she muttered, turning her face away.

Ethan gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. His thumb dragged roughly over her lips. "This mouth..." His eyes darkened. "Needs to be silenced."

Before she could retort, his lips sealed over hers. The heady mix of roses and his commanding presence overwhelmed her. Her fingers twisted in his shirt, nails nearly piercing the fabric.

Footsteps approached in the distance.

Ethan didn't pull away. Instead, he cradled the back of her head, deepening the kiss. Only when the steps halted five meters away did he finally release her.

"Go on," he taunted, licking his lips. "Keep scolding me."

Trembling with rage, Sophia aimed a kick at his knee. He anticipated it, pinning her against the ivy-covered wall.

"Twelve million," he murmured, lips brushing her ear. "Plus yesterday's six..."

She went rigid. Under the moonlight, she watched him leisurely undo his cufflinks, his gaze simmering with a threat she knew too well.

"Care to test me?" His low laugh sent a chill down her spine. "How much is this one worth?"