Ethan's slender fingers tapped rhythmically on the table as he finalized wedding security details with Kyle and Shane. Sophia quietly refilled their teacups, the aromatic steam rising between them. The three men's profiles looked strikingly defined under the lamplight, absorbed in their discussion.

The domestic scene made her eyes prickle with emotion.

She only wished Kyle would meet his destined partner, and Shane would reclaim his rightful family name. Such perfect outcomes were what she truly desired.

After several rounds of tea, Kyle rose to leave. "I shouldn't keep you from resting."

His gaze lingered briefly on Sophia's pale lips before he discreetly stepped toward the door. Ethan immediately understood, gently restraining Sophia as she moved to stand. "The night air's chilly."

Sophia smiled helplessly. "It was just a minor procedure."

"Be good." Ethan pressed a kiss to her hair. As he turned, he suddenly remembered something. "Wait a moment."

He hurried upstairs and returned with a black briefcase.

The three men crossed the courtyard together.

Moonlight stretched their tall silhouettes across the ground. Ethan deliberately slowed his pace and exchanged a meaningful glance with Kyle.

Once Shane was out of earshot, Ethan extended the briefcase. "Pocket money for my brother."

Kyle frowned. "He's under my care now."

The statement made Ethan's eyes narrow sharply.

"It's my responsibility to provide for him," Kyle added.

Ethan responded with a drawn-out, "Oh... I see."

Kyle narrowed his eyes. "Ethan Sullivan, control your imagination."

"I said nothing." Ethan raised his hands in mock surrender, but lowered his voice as he turned away. "Though your taste is certainly... distinctive."

Kyle abruptly seized his wrist. "Shall I remind you who nearly lost Sophia?"

Ethan's jaw tightened instantly.

Shane's voice called from ahead, urging them forward. Kyle released Ethan's wrist and continued walking as if nothing happened. Watching his retreating figure, Ethan realized for the first time that this former rival had two entirely different personas.

The briefcase ultimately found its way into the backseat.

As the car merged into the night traffic, a sentimental love song suddenly filled the cabin: "Falling in love isn't wrong..."

Kyle abruptly changed the track.

"No one can take you from my side..."

Another abrupt switch.

"Now I finally dare say I love you."

Kyle turned off the stereo entirely.

Shane suddenly rolled down his window. "We've got company."

The rearview mirror reflected a black Ferrari tailing them closely. Kyle smirked and deliberately reduced speed. The Ferrari accelerated sharply, cutting them off.

The door opened to reveal Adrian's insincere smile at the window.

"What a coincidence." He leaned against the frame. "Let me buy you drinks."

Kyle remained expressionless. "We're not acquainted."

"One drink changes that." Adrian's gaze lingered on Shane. "Do me the honor?"

"Your honor isn't worth much." Kyle raised the window without hesitation.

The Ferrari's taillights gradually disappeared into the darkness.

Shane finally spoke. "He was probing."

Kyle turned the steering wheel. "Same father, yet worlds apart."

"In what way?"

"You're endearing." Kyle glanced at the rearview mirror. "He's insufferable."