Chapter 343

Ethan Winston froze at Patriarch Valdemar's question.

His Adam's apple bobbed several times before he managed to speak. "There are indeed... some misunderstandings between Sophia and me."

The old man's sharp gaze pinned him down. "I know Sophia well. She's not the type to two-time anyone."

The implication was clear - Ethan was the one causing trouble.

Ethan's face turned deathly pale.

"We shared three years together—"

Patriarch Valdemar cut him off with a raised hand. "Take your feelings to Sophia."

The patriarch took a sip of tea before adding, "Remember - no harassment. If she rejects you, stay away."

His admiration for Sophia was evident.

He'd already considered making her his adopted granddaughter if she couldn't become his daughter-in-law.

"Sophia will always be part of the Valdemar family."

The declaration rang with finality, leaving no doubt about his protection.

Ethan's eyes widened in shock.

He'd assumed Sophia was just a pawn to the Valdemars.

The old man scoffed. "What? Thought I'd discard her after use?"

Ethan hastily lowered his head. "I wouldn't dare presume."

He left with unsteady steps, his mind reeling.

Westmount Villa blazed with lights.

Sophia Laurent returned home under heavy security escort, followed by armored vehicles transporting jewelry.

She nearly collided with Adrian Valdemar in the foyer.

"Quite the entourage," Adrian remarked, eyeing the procession.

Since joining the "Empress" production, his acting had improved dramatically.

Director Lucas Sheridan had progressed from harsh critiques to occasional praise.

Despite the grueling schedule, Adrian seemed more energized than ever.

"Precautions for valuable cargo," Sophia explained calmly.

Adrian nodded in understanding.

Sophia realized with surprise that the once-antagonistic young man hadn't bickered with her in ages.

She couldn't resist teasing him. "No commentary? I just spent three hundred million of the Valdemar fortune today." Her tone deliberately lingered on the sum.