“Ethan, you’ll be in Room 316.”

As Olivia spoke, her hand accidentally nudged a glass, sending it tumbling. Water spilled across the table, soaking several keycards.

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” Olivia said, quickly grabbing a napkin to soak up the liquid.

“It’s alright, Ms. Sterling,” Sophia replied, forcing a calm smile over her initial alarm.

Sophia sorted through the dampened cards and picked one she assumed was for Room 316, handing it to Ethan.

Unknowingly, she had actually given him the key to Room 319—the room meant for Isabella.

A quiet thrill shot through Sophia. They were staying at Silverwood Estate tonight. It felt like destiny was finally cooperating.

Ethan accepted the card with a slight nod, not bothering to inspect it.

Olivia observed the exchange, a curious smile touching her lips. The tension in the air was more entertaining than she had anticipated.

Evening fell, and Silverwood Estate began to glow under the emerging stars.

At the bar, Sophia swirled a crystal glass gently in her hand.

When no one was looking, she retrieved a small vial from her clutch and emptied its contents into the drink. Her movements were swift and concealed.

The powder dissolved without a trace. She caught the eye of a nearby server and discreetly passed him a roll of hundred-dollar bills.

“Take this to Mr. Blackwood, please,” she instructed.

The server’s eyes widened at the money, and he nodded eagerly.

“Of course, Miss Reed. I’ll make sure he gets it.”

Satisfied, Sophia turned and headed to her room. She changed into a light purple silk nightgown, leaving her hair down to frame her face. She looked alluring, perfectly prepared.

If everything went according to plan tonight, she could very well become Mrs. Blackwood.

And if she ended up pregnant? Even better.

Ethan stood in the kitchen, bathed in warm golden light. He removed the slightly damp apron and casually draped it over a chair.

Olivia leaned against the doorframe, her red lips curling into a playful smile.

“Trying to impress someone with your culinary skills, Mr. Blackwood? It’s not every day we see you in the kitchen. Who’s the lucky recipient?”

Her tone was light, but her eyes drifted meaningfully toward Isabella’s room.

Ethan shot her an indifferent glance and moved toward the dining area. His tall frame cast a long shadow under the lights, emphasizing his commanding presence.

Olivia smiled softly. His silence spoke volumes. She knew better than to push further.

Just then, a server approached carefully, holding a tray.

“Mr. Blackwood, a whiskey cocktail from the bar. It’s meant to help you relax and sleep,” he said, keeping his eyes lowered.

Ethan’s brow lifted slightly as he eyed the amber liquid. The rich, sweet scent of whiskey filled the space around him.