Chapter 40

Ethan Roscente pushed open the apartment door to complete darkness.

He flicked the switch absentmindedly. Cold white light instantly flooded the empty living room.

His phone screen lit up with Sophia Evans' name flashing repeatedly.

He ignored the accumulating unread messages without hesitation.

After showering, Ethan draped a robe over his shoulders and lit a cigarette.

Amidst the curling smoke, he finally answered the call.

"Ethan, did I wake you?" Sophia's voice was tentative.

"Get to the point."

"Theo kept asking about you today. Said he misses Uncle Ethan."

The ash at Ethan's fingertips trembled slightly.

"Put him on."

"He's already asleep." Sophia's voice softened. "Lately he keeps asking if Uncle Ethan doesn't want us anymore."

She quickly added, "Kids say the darndest things. Don't take it to heart."

"I'll visit this weekend."

"Ethan... thank you for always looking after us." Sophia's voice cracked. "My health issues keep burdening you."

"My duty."

Several seconds of silence passed.

"Ethan..." Sophia hesitated. "That woman who answered earlier..."

"Just a friend." Ethan stubbed out his cigarette.

"Is she still there?"

The image of another woman in Ethan's bed made Sophia dig her nails into her palms.

"None of your concern."

"I only care about you." Sophia's voice turned plaintive. "Those online rumors about us..."

"Don't care."

"Well... goodnight."

Sophia hurled her phone onto the couch after hanging up.

The world thought she was Ethan's secret lover.

Only she knew the truth behind his special attention.

But the title of Mrs. Roscente would be hers.

Her eyes darkened as she dialed another number.

"Victoria, still awake?"

"Sophia?" Victoria Roscente sounded surprised. "You never call first."

"About your brother returning..."

"Don't remind me." Victoria groaned. "Father's furious, thinks he's coming for the company."

Sophia lowered her voice. "Has Ethan been seeing anyone?"

"I wouldn't dare ask." Victoria shivered. "His glare could kill."

"Do me a favor." Sophia softened her tone. "Find out who he met tonight."

"Sure." Victoria agreed readily. "But you owe me."

"Name it."

"My perfume company wants Julian Cortez as spokesperson." Victoria gushed. "You know him, right?"

Sophia frowned. "He never does endorsements."

"That's why I need you!" Victoria wheedled. "Landing his first deal would..."

"I'll try." Sophia said dismissively. "Or just ask Ethan."

Victoria snorted. "Him? I'm lucky if he doesn't yell at me. Though I am seeing him tomorrow... to ask for money!"