The closeness of their embrace, the protective way Ethan held Isabella, ignited a furious storm inside Sophia. They were wrapped up in each other, so completely absorbed that nothing else seemed to exist.

A bitter jealousy tore through Sophia’s chest, sharp and relentless. She couldn’t understand it. Why did Isabella, of all people, get to receive such gentle care from Ethan?

As Sophia moved closer, her smile softened even more, her hand reaching out warmly toward Ethan. Her voice, dripping with tender concern, sliced through the moment. “Ethan, let me take care of Isabella, please.”

There was a sweetness in her tone, layered with just enough worry to make it seem like she was the only one who truly cared. But instead of loosening his grip, Ethan pulled Isabella even closer against him, his brows furrowing with confusion and a hint of irritation.

“What are you doing here?” he asked, his voice edged with clear annoyance.

Sophia’s hand closed around empty air. She paused, a flicker of confusion crossing her face before she smoothly drew her hand back. With a casual gesture, she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, hiding her embarrassment. Keeping her composure, she replied softly, “Ethan, don’t tell me you’ve already forgotten? I mentioned it last night. You were overwhelmed, so I offered to handle the contract talks with Mr. Hayes from Horizon Tech.”

Ethan’s mind vaguely recalled the conversation. After dropping Sophia off at the hospital, his thoughts had been completely consumed by Isabella’s condition. He’d only half-listened, nodding absently before rushing off. That casual dismissal, though unintentional, had cut Sophia deeply.

Still unaware of the hurt he’d caused, Ethan pressed, “And Isabella? Why is she here with you?”

Sophia spoke with practiced ease, as if discussing the weather. “Ethan, you know these business dinners always involve drinking. With my heart condition, I can’t risk it. I heard Isabella is very dedicated at work, so I thought she could step in. That’s why I brought her along.”

She watched Ethan’s face closely, searching for the gentle understanding he’d always shown her—hoping he would let it go like he usually did. But this time, his response was cold and firm. “Isabella isn’t feeling well either.”

What?

Sophia froze, stunned. For a second, she wondered if she was trapped in some bizarre dream. Was he actually defending Isabella?

The thought pierced through her like a shard of glass, sparking a wildfire of envy. She lifted her gaze and met Ethan’s intense, unwavering stare. There was a chill in his eyes, a silent warning she had never seen directed at her before.

Her chest tightened, but Sophia fought to keep her composure. She clenched her fist so tightly her nails dug into her palm. With a voice tinged with innocence and a hint of self-blame, she murmured, “I had no idea about Isabella’s condition… I never would have involved her if I’d known. Remember, after I saved you from those kidnappers, I was left with this heart condition. You promised, Ethan—you said you’d always take care of me.”

Ethan stayed silent, his deep eyes fixed on her as if seeing straight through her soul.

After a long pause, he looked away, his expression shadowed and unreadable.

“I haven’t forgotten my promises. Blackwood Enterprises is the only thing keeping Horizon Tech afloat,” he said, his voice low and steady. “You don’t need to bow to its CEO. When it comes to partnerships, he’s not our only option. And you had no right to involve Isabella.”

Sophia’s heart hammered painfully in her chest.