Sophia Laurent froze for a moment when Kyle Grant's voice reached her ears.

That "Ms. Laurent" made her fingertips tremble slightly.

She turned instinctively and saw a strikingly handsome face with sharp angles.

A completely different profile from Ethan.

"Mr. Grant?" She quickly adjusted her expression, forcing a professional smile.

Kyle pulled a gold-embossed business card from his holder. "Feel free to contact me directly if you need anything."

Sophia accepted it with both hands. "Thank you."

"We have many high-end clients who collect antique paintings. I can recommend you for restoration work."

"I'd be honored."

The corner of Kyle's lips lifted slightly. "Let's stay in touch."

Inside the elevator, Iris Evans studied Sophia curiously. "The atmosphere between you two was... strange."

Sophia stared at the changing floor numbers. "His eyes remind me of someone from my past."

"Ethan Sullivan?" Iris gasped. "No wonder he looked familiar!"

Sophia didn't respond.

Once in the car, she unlocked her phone. "Is your number linked to your Venmo?"

"Yeah."

A soft chime sounded.

Iris pulled out her phone, eyes widening. "Ten thousand dollars?!"

"For your help."

"This is too much!" Iris fumbled to return the money.

Sophia stopped her. "Keep it."

Iris threw her arms around her, kissing her cheek. "You're the best, Sophia!"

Laughing, Sophia gently pushed her away and texted Ethan: 7 PM, rotating restaurant.

Ethan was in a meeting when the message arrived. He immediately canceled his evening business dinner.

Night fell.

The restaurant rotated slowly three hundred meters above ground, offering a panoramic view of the city's glittering lights.

"The last time we were here was your birthday," Sophia murmured, gazing at the neon glow outside.

Ethan sliced his steak with precise movements, his long fingers gripping the silver knife. "We can come more often if you like."

"Special occasions make it meaningful."

He pushed the neatly cut steak toward her. "Eat while it's hot."

Sophia suddenly slid a card across the table. "For you."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "What's this?"

"I earned it." Her eyes sparkled. "The PIN is your birthday."

He chuckled. "Now you're calling yourself my sugar mama?"

"Financial independence determines household hierarchy." She tilted her chin up proudly.

Ethan ruffled her hair affectionately. "My little capitalist."

"That Ink Lotus painting sold for twelve million." She lowered her voice.

"Impressive." His admiration was genuine.

Sophia's expression turned serious. "I need to become exceptional—so your father has nothing left to criticize."

Ethan's gaze darkened as he reached for her hand. "You don't have to—"

A ringing phone cut him off.

Sophia answered. "Mom?"

"What's this five million about?" Grace Langley's voice crackled through the speaker.

"Earnings from a restoration. Spend it however you like."

"You impossible girl!" Grace's voice broke with emotion.

After hanging up, Sophia noticed Ethan's expression had shifted abruptly.

His eyes were fixed on the business card beside her purse.

"Contact details for Grant Auction House." She tucked it away casually.

Ethan's smile turned cold. "Why didn't you come to me if you needed money?"

Sophia stiffened as if struck by lightning.

She stared at him in disbelief. "Do you think I'm selling paintings—or myself?"

Realizing his misstep, Ethan massaged his temples. "I'm sorry."

When he reached for her hand, she pulled away.

"I don't like you being near him," he said hoarsely.

Sophia took a deep breath. "Kyle Grant isn't Ethan."

Her voice softened as she watched the city lights shimmer beyond the glass. "Ethan's surname was Grant. He's been gone for thirteen years."