Sophia pushed open her front door, squinting against the harsh sunlight.

Ethan's car was parked just outside the gate.

He leaned against the doorframe, a cigarette dangling between his long fingers. The curling smoke accentuated the sharp angles of his strikingly handsome face.

Her heartbeat stuttered.

"Get in." He crushed the cigarette, his voice deep.

The car interior carried a faint trace of ambergris.

"For you." Ethan handed her a blue velvet box.

Inside lay a mutton-fat jade carving. The craftsmanship was rustic yet refined, the smooth stone glowing softly in the sunlight.

"It's too valuable." Her fingers trembled.

Ethan leaned closer, threading his fingers through her hair. The cool touch sent shivers down her spine.

"Wear it for protection." His breath brushed her ear.

Sophia clenched her skirt. The intimate gesture made her eyes burn.

The Sullivan manor blazed with light.

"My dear granddaughter-in-law!" Eleanor rushed forward with surprising vigor, showing no sign of illness.

Sophia was ushered to the dining table where her bowl quickly piled high with food.

"Of all the girls back then, you were the one I chose." Eleanor patted her hand. "Ethan's recovery is thanks to you."

Sophia glanced at Ethan. He ate quietly, his lashes casting shadows across his face.

"I just want to hold my great-grandchild." Eleanor suddenly coughed. "This old body of mine..."

Sophia hurriedly offered water, but Eleanor seized her wrist.

"You're staying tonight." Eleanor's eyes gleamed. "No leaving until you're pregnant!"

In the bedroom, Sophia stared at the single large bed in dismay.

"Close your eyes and sleep." Ethan unfastened his watch, the metal clasp clicking softly.

The shower stopped running.

Sophia tightened her robe when her phone buzzed.

"Is Ethan there?" a sugary voice asked.

"He's showering." Sophia answered truthfully.

Ethan emerged with a towel around his waist, water droplets trailing down his abs. Sophia's ears burned crimson.

"Isabella attempted suicide." His expression darkened as he read the message. "What did you say to her?"

Sophia's blood turned to ice. "She said...she was your sister..."

William insisted she accompany them.

The hospital corridor glared stark white.

When the door opened, Sophia's breath caught.

The face on the hospital bed—

bore an uncanny resemblance to her own.