Ethan Sullivan abruptly shook off Zoe Riveron's grip with such force that she stumbled backward several steps.

Her high heels skidded on the carpet, nearly sending her to the floor. She barely caught herself by grabbing the edge of the desk.

Her chest heaved violently, yet she maintained that sickeningly sweet smile.

Ethan strode toward Sophia Laurent. "She grabbed my arm out of nowhere. I was pulling away."

Zoe quickly interjected, "Don't misunderstand, Ms. Laurent. I just accidentally used Mr. Sullivan's cup and wanted to wash it for him."

Sophia gave her a frosty glance and didn't respond.

She knew Ethan too well.

But this Zoe Riveron—all prim and proper on the surface—who knew what schemes she was brewing underneath?

Two-faced people were utterly revolting.

Sophia pulled a disinfectant spray from her bag and spritzed Ethan's sleeve several times. "Let's sanitize this. Wouldn't want any contamination."

Zoe's face darkened instantly.

She clenched her fists but swallowed her rage—Ethan's presence kept her in check.

Ethan affectionately ruffled Sophia's hair. "Did the advertising department call you in?"

Sophia tilted her face up with a radiant smile. "Your father sent someone to consult me first before notifying you."

Ethan scoffed lightly. "The old man finally came to his senses."

Sophia knew better.

Victor Sullivan wasn't enlightened—he was terrified of that glass bottle.

Making her the spokesperson was just a two-birds-one-stone ploy.

Ethan tossed the cup into the trash and led Sophia to the sofa. "What would you like to drink?"

"Coffee."

He pressed the intercom. "One latte, double sugar, with macarons and tiramisu."

Hanging up, he frowned at Zoe. "Was there something else?"

Zoe forced a smile. "About the spokesperson position—"

"Save it," Ethan cut her off. "Your father and Zane have already deferred the decision to us."

Zoe pulled out her phone in disbelief.

Sure enough, both Zachary and Zane Riveron confirmed they wouldn't interfere.

She nearly gnashed her teeth in fury.

Useless fools!

Taking a deep breath, Zoe said, "I'll take my leave then."

Ethan didn't even look up. "Goodbye."

Zoe marched out in her heels, her back rigid.

Sophia stood. "Let me walk Ms. Riveron out."

Ethan glanced up. "Just to the elevator."

"Of course."

In the hallway, Sophia eyed Zoe's deliberately lowered neckline.

"Quite the daring outfit today," she remarked lightly. "No more power suits? Dressed up just for Ethan?"

Zoe tugged at her collar. "What I wear is none of your concern."

Sophia's smile deepened. "Wear whatever you like. But seducing someone else's fiancé? That's a moral issue."

Zoe finally snapped. "How dare you—"

"Lipstick marks, throwing yourself at him," Sophia narrowed her eyes. "If I weren't concerned about appearances, I'd paint your face right now."

Zoe sneered. "Since Mr. Sullivan chose you as spokesperson, don't embarrass the project."

"Don't worry," Sophia smoothed Zoe's collar. "I'll take very good 'care' of you."

The elevator arrived.

Sophia held the door open. "Remember that glass bottle Mr. Sullivan had?"

Zoe tensed, stepping back half a pace.

"It contained nitroglycerin," Sophia said sweetly. "Touch my man again, and I'd love for you to experience it firsthand."

Zoe paled. "Are you threatening me?"

"Try me." Sophia adjusted Zoe's collar. "Next time, dress more modestly."

As Zoe bristled, Sophia added, "I've also taken quite an interest in witchcraft. Picked it up quickly."

"Preposterous!" Zoe mocked. "The esteemed Ms. Laurent resorting to superstition?"

Sophia smiled. "Just joking. Though some parasites evade even modern medicine."

She leaned close to Zoe's ear and whispered, "Remember—Ethan Sullivan is mine. You're already divorced."

Zoe gritted her teeth.

"We'll remarry soon enough." Sophia patted her shoulder. "Don't provoke someone who plays fair. You won't like the consequences."

With a cold snort, Zoe slammed the elevator door shut.

Back in the office, Ethan handed Sophia her coffee. "That took a while."

She took a sip. "Warning her to stay away from you."

Ethan chuckled lowly. "You're getting possessive."

"Can you blame me?" She leaned against his shoulder. "First Isabella Valentine, now Zoe Riveron. It never ends."

Ethan pulled her onto his lap, kissing her hair. "I love this side of you."

Absolutely adore it.

Being cherished by her felt incredible.