Chapter 86

The notebook lay open on the desk. Sophia Lowell's slender fingers tapped lightly on one page.

"Professor Sullivan, I don't quite understand this part." Her voice dripped with sweetness as she traced circles on the notes.

Ethan Sullivan's gaze swept over the handwriting. His brows knitted tightly. "I explained this three times during last Wednesday's lecture."

His long fingers drummed against the desk with dull thuds.

Sophia's shoulders trembled. Her lashes fluttered rapidly. "Perhaps I'm just too slow..."

She leaned forward abruptly. A wave of overpowering perfume flooded the space between them.

Ethan shot to his feet. His chair screeched against the floor. "Keep your distance when speaking."

His voice carried the chill of winter frost.

Sophia's eyes instantly reddened. Her fingers twisted the hem of her blouse. "I'm sorry, Professor..."

As she bowed her head, the diamond pendant at her collarbone caught the light with a blinding flash.

Ethan's pupils contracted sharply.

"It's just that..." Sophia suddenly looked up, tears glistening in her eyes. "You remind me so much of someone from my past."

A cold laugh escaped Ethan's lips. "That pickup line went out of style a decade ago."

"No!" Sophia clutched the necklace desperately. "This...this was left by the person who saved me."

Her voice cracked. "When I was twelve, after the kidnapping...I woke up wearing this."

The office air turned to ice.

Ethan's knuckles whitened, though his expression remained impassive. "Finished?"

Sophia bit her lip and reached for the notebook. Her wrist "accidentally" knocked over the teacup.

Scalding liquid splashed across Ethan's trousers. "Let me help you—"

As she bent closer, the office door burst open.

Evelyn Laurent leaned against the doorframe. Her sharp gaze flickered between them. "Am I interrupting?"

The corner of her mouth curled in sardonic amusement.

Ethan retreated to the window instantly. His face darkened like a gathering storm.