Chapter 178

Sophia Lowell stood backstage, her fingertips trembling slightly.

Her performance had been flawless. So why hadn't the audience erupted in thunderous applause?

What unsettled her more was Ethan Sullivan's empty seat.

"Sophia, are you okay?" Her roommate Lydia handed her a water bottle with concern.

Sophia forced a smile. "Just tired."

"Why did your family leave early?" Lydia glanced around. "They missed your grand finale."

Sophia's nails dug into her palms.

"They went to the VIP lounge." Her voice remained sweet, but her eyes darkened. "They said they have a surprise for me."

Lydia's face lit up with admiration. "Only the Lowells get such special treatment!"

A genuine smile finally touched Sophia's lips.

Meanwhile, Evelyn Laurent massaged her temples.

That piano recital had been auditory torture. How had Sophia managed to hit every wrong note?

And the girl had looked positively enraptured with herself.

Evelyn shook her head, noticing her parents had already left. The Lowells had shown remarkable restraint by staying this long.

"Let's go," she murmured to Lillian Rothschild.

They slipped out unnoticed—or so they thought.

Sophia slithered after them like a venomous snake.

She'd discover who this imposter was meeting!

"Miss Lowell!"

A male voice halted her.

Sophia looked up at a tall young man in a tailored suit, his designer watch glinting under the lights.

"I'm Nigel Winthrop." He lowered his voice. "Heir to Winthrop Realty."

Sophia's pupils dilated.

While not among the elite four families, the Winthrops were still high society. Why would he know her?

"The pleasure is mine." She extended her hand gracefully, pulse racing.

Nigel grasped it eagerly. "The honor is all mine, Miss Lowell."

A sudden realization struck Sophia.

Did he...mistake her for Evelyn?

The thought ignited equal parts fury and excitement. If true...this misunderstanding could prove useful.