Chapter 56

At the other end, Sophia remained tense.

Trapped in this whirlwind of power and deception, she was fully aware the Thornton family wouldn’t let her off easily. She knew Isabella’s kindness was nothing but pity, and she understood Ethan only kept her here because of his mother’s intervention.

In this ruthless world, she was the most vulnerable. Her only defense was caution.

After returning to Ethan’s penthouse, she locked herself in her room, refusing to come out even when hunger gnawed at her.

It wasn’t until nearly midnight that she finally emerged, assuming Ethan and Isabella would have retired. Clutching a basin, she tiptoed toward the bathroom—only to freeze when she spotted Ethan sitting alone in the dimly lit living room.

Sophia approached him calmly. "Mr. Blackwood, you don’t need to keep Isabella away on my account. I’ll stay out of sight and won’t disturb you."

Ethan’s cold gaze flicked over her.

Without waiting for a response, she turned away.

That night, sleep eluded her. Knowing the Thorntons, they’d blame Ethan for Isabella’s absence—and Sophia would bear the brunt of their anger.

The next morning, exhaustion weighed on her, but she forced herself to work. The office was as hectic as ever, leaving no room for idle thoughts.

Around noon, her design director summoned her. "The portfolio you submitted during your interview—those were all your original works?"

Sophia nodded. "Yes."

The director slid a stack of files toward her. "Review this new project brief and draft a preliminary design. As a newcomer without formal credentials, fast-tracking you will raise eyebrows. So—"

Excitement surged through her. Before he could finish, she blurted, "I’ll keep it discreet. I’ll work on it at home and only reveal the results if they’re approved. I won’t let you down."

Pleased, the director dismissed her with a curt nod.

Her spirits lifted—until her phone buzzed. Gregory Wilson, the owner of Prime Lens Rentals, was calling again.

She answered without hesitation. "Mr. Wilson, I’ll be there in thirty minutes!"

Hanging up, she exhaled. She’d rented equipment for one day but kept it for four. Of course, he’d demand payment.

Fortunately, Liam’s loan covered the overdue fees.

During her lunch break, she rushed to the rental shop—only to stop short at the sight of two unexpected figures inside.

"Well, well," a familiar voice sneered. "Look who finally showed up."