Chapter 438

Sophia Laurent heard rapid footsteps approaching from behind and immediately stood up in alert.

She took two steps back to create distance as her bodyguard swiftly moved to shield her.

Emily Lowell's outstretched hand grasped empty air as she collided heavily with the backrest of the bench.

"Ah!"

Her knees hit the hard ground with a painful thud.

"Sophia! How despicable!" Emily glared up with fury.

Sophia arched an eyebrow. "You tried to push me, then blame me when you fell?"

The shrill scream drew curious glances from nearby guests.

Emily's eyes flickered before instantly transforming into a pitiful expression.

Her choice of pink chiffon dress now accentuated her fragile vulnerability.

"Sister, I know you're jealous of me..."

Her voice trembled with feigned emotion. "I just came to wish Patriarch Valdemar happy birthday. Why would you treat me like this?"

The onlookers' gazes toward Sophia turned judgmental.

"Nonsense!" The bodyguard snapped. "You attacked first!"

Emily flinched and turned away, deliberately displaying the scrapes on her knees.

"Emily!"

Ryan Cunningham rushed over and helped her up with visible concern.

"Is this how the Valdemar heiress treats her sister?" He glared at Sophia.

Sophia gave a light laugh.

"First, we share no blood relation."

"Second, my bodyguard stated the facts."

Ryan refused to listen.

He had to defend Emily—she'd promised to obtain Dr. Quincy's research data.

"Alexander!" Ryan turned abruptly. "Is this Valdemar hospitality?"

All eyes shifted toward Alexander Valdemar.

Such an accusation could indeed damage the Valdemar reputation.

Emily hid in Ryan's embrace, flashing Sophia a triumphant look.

She'd nearly choked on envy upon seeing that three-billion welcome gift.

All this should have been hers!

If only she hadn't let Sophia take her arranged marriage spot...