Chapter 59 Just as James was about to rip her clothes off, Sophie quickly pulled out the taser she had hidden behind her back. The next second, James was on the ground. Staring at James lying on the ground with a flushed face, Sophie rubbed her temples. This situation needed to be handled properly, or it could get worse. She dragged James toward the bathroom, and filled the tub with cold water, making sure it was not cold enough to be lethal, then began to remove James‘ clothes. Just then, James opened his eyes. Sophie paused in her action of undressing him. Damn, it seemed the taser wasn’t powerful enough. “Listen to me, I’m trying to help you. I don’t mean anything else.” Sophie raised her hands defensively. The effects of the drug were still increasing, but James had regained some consciousness due to the shock. “Get out!” James‘ voice was raspy to the extreme. This time, Sophie obediently ran out of the bathroom and closed the door behind her. Soon, the sound of splashing water could be heard Taking this opportunity, Sophie went upstairs and as she entered the guest room, she was hit by a peculiar sweet scent mixed with James‘ usual aromatherapy. James had trouble sleeping, so he had a habit of using aromatherapy before bed. It seemed Bea had evaporated the drug into the aromatherapy. No wonder she was unaffected. Thinking this, Sophie immediately extinguished the harmful fragrance. More than an hour later, James emerged from the bathroom looking normal. Sophie breathed a sigh of relief. But before Sophie could say anything, James gave her a cold glance. That look said it all. Whether in this life or the past, James” thoughts about her were the same. Deep down, He felt that she and Bea had set him up. “Stop using that aromatherapy in your room. After saying that, Sophie went upstairs. James quickly realized Bea had drugged the aromatherapy. Sure enough, the next day, that aromatherapy was mercilessly thrown into the trash. After last night’s incident, James‘ attitude reverted to normal, and they were like strangers sharing a space. James arranged for Colt to take her to Eastwood College. As Sophie entered the classroom, she noticed that a seat in the last row was empty. Harold, who typically liked to skip classes, now didn’t even bother to show up after the recent news. *Sophie, stay for a moment at lunchtime,” said Adler seriously. Sophie nodded, it was probably Colby who wanted to see her. Sure enough, at noon, Colby’s car was parked at the entrance of Eastwood College. Most students at Eastwood College came from wealthy families, but Colby’s limited edition SUV still attracted many admirers. “Look, Nichole, he’s so hot!” exclaimed Krystal, pulling on her friend’s arm as they walked out of class. Nichole immediately recognized Colby leaning against his car, wearing sunglasses. Colby exuded a wild and dangerous aura, mesmerizing yet perilous.
Category: Revenge is Best Served… After Reborn Novel
Revenge is Best Served… After Reborn Novel”
What do you do when your husband betrays you for another woman and leaves you to face death on a cold, sterile surgery table?
Just when all hope seems lost, fate steps in, granting you a miraculous second chance at life. Now buckle up, because it’s payback time and you’re on a relentless mission to exact a deliciously sweet revenge on the ones who shattered your world and stirred a fire within you like never before.
Chapter 58 James had never been on quard around Ben, the woman who had raised him since he was a child. However, Sophie knew all about Bea’s manipulations In their past life, it was Bea who had orchestrated her union with James. At that time, Bea had slipped a drug into the red wine, without even informing Sophie beforehand. That’s why Sophie had deliberately avoided drinking any wine just now “Am I just bring paranoid?” she wondered after a fruitless search Late at night, as Sophie lay tossing and tuming in her bed, she faintly heard some noises coming from downstairs. Ever since James started coming home more often, he had prepared a quest room for himself, and they continued to sleep in separate rooms every night. Sophie opened her door and saw that the light in the kitchen downstairs was on. She followed the stairs down and saw James, loosely clad in a bathrobe, drinking cold water straight from the fridge. “James?” Sophie called out softly. The dim light in the room barely illuminated James, who seemed to stiffen at her voice. “Why are you out of bed?” James‘ voice was hoarse. “Go back up.” Sophie sensed something was wrong. She noticed a flush on James‘ cheeks, an unnatural, alarming red. A bad feeling washed over her. James had been drugged. “Are you… are you alright?” Sophie stood at the top of the stairs, not moving. This was the safest distance for her. “Tm fine,” James strained, his voice barely contained. “Get back to your room!” At his words, Sophie swiftly ran back to her own room. She wasn’t foolish enough to provoke James at such a critical moment Suddenly, the sound of shattering glass came from downstairs. Startled, Sophie immediately opened her door again, only to see James collapsed on the floor, unable to stand. “James!” Sophie rushed forward, the floor littered with pieces of broken glass. James seemed barely conscious, his cheek buming hot under Sophie’s touch. The next second, he grabbed Sophie’s wrist. Sophie’s heart skipped a beat. She should not have come out James tightened his grip on Sophie’s hand, his throat dry and his body feverishly hot. Her delicate, boneless hand felt like long–awaited nourishment to his parched body. “Is this what you wanted?” James rasped Sophie’s face fell as James, driven by the drug, pinned her to the floor, his gaze fixed on the woman beneath him. Sophie was stunningly beautiful, her lips lush like blooming roses. Now her eyes were filled with a trace of fear, irresistibly provoking the desire to tease. He had never paid much attention to these details before, but now it was clear, Sophie was indeed beautiful, a rarity even among the cream of Devonport’s society. Under the drug’s influence, James slowly leaned down, driven to quench the fire within. *James! Snap out of it! James paused, his anger ignited by her words. “Snap out of it? You and grandma drugged me, isn’t this what you wanted? Sophie, what’s with the innocent act now?” “This has nothing to do with me.” Sophie was at a loss for words, her preylous attempts to please Bea making it impossible for James to believe her. As expected, James grip on her wrists only grew stronger.
Chapter 57 “My brand–new ultra HD 98–inch TV!” Adler collapsed in front of the television, sobbing uncontrollably. He tumed to Colby and said fiercely. “You jerk! This TV kept me company so many nights, and just because you were in a bad mood, you destroyed it! You’re just “I’ll pay for it.” Colby interrupted coldly. Adler sniffled, changing his tune, “You’re just heartlessly extravagant.” Colby had no mood to bicker with Adler who continued, “Ms. Sophie on TV was all lovey–dovey with her husband. What’s there for you to be upset about? I think you should give up on her as a friendly advice from a friend.” “That was just for show.” “And her getting close to Harold at school, was that just for show too?” “I saw it coming. Colby replied indifferently. Colby knew that when such a valuable asset as Harold was placed before Sophie, she would definitely take action. Sure enough, within a few days, Harold and Sophie had met, and this time the Aldridge family even subtly helped Sophie, not entirely for the sake of their reputation. If it were about distancing themselves and slandering Sophie, the Aldridge family would be glad to do that as well. After all, Sophie was James‘ wife. But they didn’t do that, mostly because Harold intentionally helped “You saw it coming, so you’re not upset?” “Harold isn’t her type,” Colby stated confidently Adler rolled his eyes. “Ah, right, Harold isn’t her type. You are. Where do you get this confidence? Adler thought to himself. Of course, these were not words Adler could say to Colby’s face. It took him a while to retort, “Just don’t say you’re my friend when you’re out.” This man was embarrassing! At the Burke family, Bea felt better after watching the press conference When Sophie and James returned, they saw Bea the living room; instructing Marian to prepare a few more dishes, James immediately took Sophie’s hand. “Grandma what brings you he “I came to see my grandson and granddaughter–in–law Why? Are you afraid I’ll disturb your alone time?” Bea was all smiles, clearly taking the affection shown at the press conference to heart Sophie managed a strained smile Bea, being elderly, loved meddling in the affairs of the younger generation. Marian brought all the dishes from the kitchen to the table, then cast a meaningful glance at Sophie She suddenly had a bad feeling To be safe, Sophie decided not to drink any wine that evening, and the always cautious James abstained as well I After dinner, James put down his cutlery, “Grandma, Sophie and I are both tired from a long day. You should head back and rest early too “I understand. I won’t disturb you” Bea said as she got up and spoke to Manan, “You can leave early today and come back tomorrow to clean up.” Marian nodded understandingly The two seemed quite happy. Only Sophie felt something was amiss. Once Bea and Manan had left. James dropped all pretenses and said coldly. Ton going upstairs” Watching James ascend the stairs, Sophie began a meticulous search of the dining table.
Chapter 56 James spoke coolly, and Sophie was somewhat surprised. In the past, James wasn’t like this with Nichole. What had gotten into him today? Soon, Sophie realized it was probably because of the question a reporter had asked earlier, which made James more cautious. Hearing James speak like this, Nichole could hardly hide her disappointment. Ever since her birthday night, James had been distant and cold to her, and even when she took the Initiative to call him, it hadn’t helped much Nichole nodded obediently, “Okay, I’ll go back now.” Seeing Nichole’s dejected expression, James felt a twinge of regret. Had his tone been too harsh just now? Sophie watched Nichole leaving and said, “A girl’s heart is very fragile, if you want to make amends, go ahead.” “You want me to comfort her?” James frowned, his tone also carrying a hint of skepticism “After all, she is your protégé. You’ve always been so kind to her, and now suddenly you’re so cold, of course she’s upset.” James pursed his lips. Sophie added, “If you don’t go now, it might be too late. Lee drives really fast, you know.” “There’s no need for reverse psychology: James took Sophie’s hand and said lightly, “You are the real Mrs. Burke.” Sophie was taken aback. James was already holding her hand and leaving the venue. Sophie looked up at James‘ profile and suddenly remembered the first time she met James years ago. He had taken her hand like this and they had walked home together. Perhaps James didn’t remember, but back then, the Russell family had a mischievous twelve year–old girl. And at that time, James was still studying, just a seventeen–year–old boy. It was then she had thought to herself, how wonderful it would be to marry a man with such a handsome profile one day. But now, she was no longer that girl filled with youthful dreams. With that thought, Sophie withdrew her hand from James Feeling the emptiness in his palm, James turned back to watch Sophie, who stood still. He asked, “Are you okay?” “There are no reporters here. You don’t have to hold my hands anymore.” Sophie’s expression looked upset, with a trace of gloom in her eyes. James indeed couldn’t find a suitable reason. He had just acted on instinct. “Let’s go home.” Sophie walked ahead quickly, not waiting for James behind her. James didn’t understand what he had done wrong, as Sophie’s mood had suddenly worsened. Are women’s moods always this unpredictable? *James! Come down and drive!” Sophie’s voice echoed from the elevator. James took a deep breath. Sophie was becoming more and more of an enigma to him. Meanwhile, Colby, with a grim expression, threw the dart he held in his hand directly at the television. Suddenly, the TV screen cracked under the impact
Chapter 55 Sophie appeared relaxed amidst the various camera positions set up in front of her. James remembered that Sophie rarely attended such events in the past. What he didn’t know was how much effort Sophie had made in her previous life to bridge the gap between them. Unfortunately, even until her previous life ended, James never knew what she had done for him. Soon, after the product manager finished his introduction, James took Sophie’s hand and they stepped onto the stage together. The media below eagerly raised their cameras, eager for a story about the couple that had been making waves online. “This time, Burke Intemational’s new residential development is divided into two sections, A and B. The larger spaces with four and five bedrooms are in section A, while the one to three bedroom apartments are in section B. The development is surrounded by major shopping malls, elementary and high schools, and is well serviced by subways and buses. The community’s landscaping has been designed by top landscape architects, and the layout of the apartments is aimed at creating cozy family apartments, making each homeowner feel the warmth of home.” As he spoke, James tightened his grip on Sophie’s hand. Sophie, in turn, flashed a sweet smile just at the right moment. This scene further stung Nichole, who was sitting in the back row. Soon, it was time for the press to ask questions. A reporter suddenly asked, “Mr. Burke, there have been rumors circulating online. Would you like to take this opportunity to respond?” From this question, Sophie could tell that James had arranged it. Otherwise, who would dare to ask such a sensitive question first? “Rumors are just rumors. I never interfere in my wife’s life because I trust her completely, James replied, looking towards Sophie, who smiled knowingly at him. At that moment, James‘ image as the perfect husband was unmistakable. While Sophie was checking the camera positions, she accidentally caught a glimpse of Nichole in the corner. She hadn’t expected James to have also invited Nichole. Just then, for a split second, Sophie thought she saw jealousy in Nichole’s eyes, but that expression w was fleeting. Sophie wondered, had she seen it wrong? 12 Suddenly, a male voice rang out, “But Mr. Burke, there are reports of you being intimately involved with a female college student. Is that true?” The room fell silent at the question. James stared at the journalist, his gaze shifting from icy cold to gentle. “That’s just a student Im sponsoring. There’s no intimate relationship. Sophie glanced at the journalist’s badge, which seemed to be from the media group owned by the Tredgold family. Was this question planted by Adler? “I love my wife very much, and I believe she feels the same way Sophie felt James‘ gaze on her and as she tumed to look at him, she caught the intensity of emotion in his eyes. For a moment, Sophie was stunned. She had never been looked at with such intensity by James before. For that second, it seemed as if James truly loved her deeply. However, Sophie soon realized that in the eyes of a businessman like James, who was focused on profit, even deep affection could be feigned. After the press conference ended, Nichole made her way against the crowd to approach them. Colt initially wanted to stop her, but Nichole moved too quickly. By the time Colt caught up, Nichole had already reached James and Sophie. “Mr. Burke, Ms. Sophie, what you both said was enlightening. I really learned a lot,” Nichole said. Sophie couldn’t help but give a wry smile. She and James had been openly affectionate throughout, and Nichole’s comment seemed to suggest they were just putting on a show, Nichole wasn’t entirely wrong though. Sophie and James, after all, had never really shared any affectionate bond. “There are too many prying eyes here; you should head back to the university.”
Chapter 54 As a man who had weathered many storms, how could James not know that this scandal was trivial? Otherwise, he wouldn’t have just called her in the morning and left it at that. Sophie said. “Fine, since I was the one who made the mistake first, of course you call the shots.” “Just accompany me to a media event.” “That’s it?” Sophie was puzzled. Could James really be so generous as to pass up the opportunity to use her? James put down the newspaper he was holding, “Playing the loving couple is not as easy as you think.” Sophie understood his thoughts. Indeed, acting affectionate with someone you dislike could be nauseating. That’s why in the past, James always resisted attending high–profile events with her. Playing the loving couple wasn’t so simple for James. “I’ll cooperate unconditionally.” Sophie regretted her words as soon as she said them. James had Marian prepare a set of dignified and formal attire for her, the pure and flawless white of which reminded her of Nichole. In her past life, this dress should have been wom by Nichole. James had it custom–made for Nichole when she returned from studying abroad. Now, it wom by Sophie. “I don’t like it” “Endure it.” James said coldly. To dispel the public’s image of you frequenting nightclubs, you must appear noble, elegant, and pure.” Sophie had no choice but to reluctantly wear the dress. This media event was to promote a new property launch by Burke International, so all the major media outlets were present. Sophie followed James out of the car, holding his hand, maintaining a perfect smile under the flash of cameras, appearing as a loving couple in front of everyone. Nichole, in contrast, wore a simple, unremarkable Chanel–style dress, quite inconspicuous among those present. James often had Nichole attend such events to broaden her horizons, and this time was no exception. However, what was different this time was that the person standing next to James was Sophie. Soon, the press conference began, and Nichole hadn’t found her seat for a long time. Colt at the door came over and said, “Ms. Nichole, Mr. Burke said your current status is sensitive, so he’s arranged a seat a bit further back for you.” Further back? Nichole was stunned. She followed the direction Colt pointed and saw James had placed her in the most inconspicuous comer. A sudden tightness gripped Nichole’s heart. She used to sit next to James. “Ms. Nichole, don’t blame Mr. Burke Today’s event is special, and Mr. Burke is considering your situation, with the ongoing rumors about you and him,” Nichole managed a strained smile, “I know, how could I possibly blame Mr. Burke? My status isn’t suited for the front anyway. I’m more comfortable in the back.” Colt was somewhat relieved by Nichole’s understanding and compliant nature. Nichole sat in the last row, from which she could see Sophie and James in the front row, chatting and laughing. James even thoughtfully had a blanket placed over Sophie’s knees. Seeing this scene, Nichole clenched her fists tightly. “Relax” James‘ voice was low, seemingly casually reminding Sophie by his side. “I’m not nervous.”
Chapter 53 Who could it be? At that moment, Colby called her again, and Sophie answered it, trying to steady her voice, “Are you calling me about the news too?” Tve already sent Adler to look into this ID. I believe we’ll have results noon” Colby’s voice was calm providing Sophie with a bit of reassurance, “Any quesses on who might be behind this?” Sophie massaged her temples, images of numerous people flashed through her mind, all ending without a clue. “I don’t know, but it definitely wasn’t Harold” Colby chuckled, “So, the person you met secretly was Harold.” “Not the time for jokes.” “If it was Harold, then it would be easier to handle,” Sophie fell silent. Indeed, the trending news only mentioned her secret rendezvous with a man at a nightclub, but it didn’t disclose who the man was. This meant the person either didn’t want to reveal Harold’s identity or simply didn’t know who he was, guessing she was meeting a man based on her coat The latter seemed more likely. Nobody would dare do this knowing the man was Harold. Sophie asked, “Will the Aldridge family step in?” “Knowing Gordon, he will take action.” Her own brother meddled in the affairs of a married woman, and Gordon would certainly press down on this news. “So, I don’t need to bother?” *TII handle the investigation, and James must have already planned the PR strategy. The Aldridge family will handle the news. This won’t cause much trouble for you, just relax.” With Colby’s assurance, Sophie indeed felt relieved. That aftemoon, the news indeed sank like a stone. Colt came to pick her up personally, and obediently, Sophie returned to the Burke residence. The good news was, this incident hadn’t reached Bea’s ears yet. The bad news was, her attending Eastwood College couldn’t be hidden much longer. After all, in their circle, explosive news spread fast James was now sitting on the sofa, seemingly untroubled on the surface, but Sophie could see the stormy anger in his expression. James was angry, but he just didn’t show his emotions easily. “Give me a reasonable explanation.” “After school, my classmate Nina invited me out, considering the Shepherd family has a reputable standing. I didn’t want to offend, so I went “And then?” Sophie sat opposite James, honestly recounting the events, “Harold might have been holding a grudge over a past incident, so he wanted to play a prank on me, but in the end, we made up.” Hearing this, James looked up. Sophie felt uneasy under his gaze, aze. “What’s with that look?” “You went to a nightclub?” Sophie hadn’t expected James to focus on that, “It’s socializing, I don’t believe you’ve never been.” James‘ gaze was ze was as cold as if it could kill. Sophie quickly softened her stance, “The news about me secretly meeting a man is pure nonsense. If this affects the company’s image, Il cooperate with your PR unconditionally” “Ch?” Seeing James reaction, Sophie suddenly felt like she had been played.
Chapter 52 Threats? Revenge? That’s what he planned, but Sophie had been here for such a long time without suffering any losses. On the contrary, it was he who felt Intense frustration and imitation. Harold was somewhat gloomy. He had never been so repeatedly bested by a w a woman before. “Did you know James has another woman in Devonport?” “I know.” It was just Nichole. Seeing Sophie’s indifferent expression, Harold asked, “You don’t care?” “It’s a marriage of convenience, so what’s there to care about?” Sophie shrugged nonchalantly and said, “Harold, are you trying to stir up trouble between me and James?” Harold snorted coldly, “I’m just saying this man is unreliable. You two aren’t suitable.” “I know.” She and James were bound to divorce sooner or later. “Thanks for the heads–up, Harold. I’m leaving now.” Sophie waved at Harold and was just about to step out of the private room when he took off his coat and threw it over Sophie’s head. “There are too many prying eyes here, take care of yourself, and don’t just hop into anyone’s car.” Sophie knew Harold was referring to Nina. She was well aware of the relationship between Nina’s family and the Aldridge family, which was why she had gotten into Nina’s car. If it were anyone else, she would have been much more cautious. Sophie smiled and said, ‘I’ll take that as you caring about me.” Harold rolled his eyes. This swoman was overly confident. Sophie, wearing Harold’s coat, left the nightclub, completely unaware of a camera capturing her silhouette not far away. The next moming, Sophie’s phone buzzed incessantly by her bedside. Thinking it was her alarm, she picked it up only to see several missed calls. Calls from James, Colt, and Perry, and the last missed call was from Colby. Sophie frowned, sensing something was amiss. She quickly redialed James‘ number The call was abruptly disconnected. Then, Sophie redialed Perry’s number, and this time the call was quickly answered. Perry angrily demanded, “Sophie! Where were you last night?” “Me? I was out with friends last night.” “Were you at a nightclub?” Sophie frowned, “What happened?” “What happened? Someone posted your photo online, claiming you were being promiscuous. They said you met a man in a nightclub late at night!” Sophie immediately hung up on Perry’s call and opened her social media app. The trending page blatantly displayed a headline, ‘CEO’s wife of Burke International seen in late–night rendezvous with a man at a nightclub‘. Sophie’s mind buzzed. Was this Harold’s doing? Impossible, there was no benefit for Harold in doing this. It definitely wasn’t him.
Chapter 51 As he watched the smile slowly fade from Sophie’s face, a sense of immense satisfaction surged through Harold. But a moment later, Sophie laughed again, saying, “I didn’t expect you to be so childish.” Harold frowned. “What did you say?” “If you really had the guts to hurt me, would you secretly arrange a private meeting like this?” Sophie gently pushed Harold away and wandered casually around the room. “There are no cameras here, and it’s noisy outside. No one will notice this small private room. You’re afraid of our meeting being discovered by James or Gordon, so how could you dare to touch me here?” Sophie sat on the sofa and nonchalantly bit into an apple. She had been in situations like this before. The privacy level of these kinds of rooms was top notch, usually reserved for big shots making deals. Not a whisper could escape. Sophie watched Harold. “Harold, drop your childish threats. You can’t intimidate me Compared to the last time Ryan had kidnapped her, this was miner. Harold’s expression faltered, darkening further due to Sophie’s casual provocations. “Do you really think I wouldn’t dare do anything to you?” I’m right here. Do what you want.” Sophie wore an expression of noble sacrifice. As long as she remained James‘ wife, Harold wouldn’t dare touch her, not even if he had a hundred times the courage. As expected, Harold made no move after a while. Sophie didn’t want to push him too far. She said, “I’ll admit, the first time I met you, I knew you were Harold. My actions weren’t meant to get your attention. I just thought it a shame to bury your talent, so I provoked you to enroll at Eastwood College.” Sophie’s words were a mix of truth and fabrication, Harold could tell that Sophie was giving him a way out, but he quickly retorted, “My talent? What talent?” Everyone in Devonport knew that the second son of the Aldridge family was nothing but a playboy, sent abroad by his brother Gordon to temper his wild ways incompetence. No o one believed Harold possessed any real talent. Such guys were historically linked with in you Sophie said, “You glanced at my exam paper during the test and knew I deliberately didn’t answer the last question. It shows understood the questions thoroughly but chose not to complete them. You’re perceptive, able to see through my thoughts. That alone proves you have potential, but you choose not to show it.” Her words considerably cooled Harold’s anger. He sat back, tilted his head back, and downed a bottle of wine. “What else?” “I guess you think one Gordon in the Aldridge family is enough” Sophie rested her chin on her hand and said, “It seems the rumors that you and your brother are at odds are false. You really love your brother.” The heads of the Aldridge family had passed away early, and Gordon had taken charge of the entire family at seventeen. It had been ten years since then. A brother like a father–it was hard to say that Harold, who had always been protected by his brother, would be at odds with him. Sophie remembered, in her past life, when Gordon had passed away, Harold had knelt in front of the mourning hall for seven days and nights. On the eighth day, when he emerged, he was a changed man. Afterwards, when Harold took over the Aldridge family, his methods were decisive and swift, shocking all of Devonport. w known. Clearly, the brothers shared a deep bond, though not widely Perhaps Sophie had guessed his thoughts correctly, as Harold turned his head away and said, “Don’t assume you understand me.” “I don’t understand you. I was just guessing.” Sophie stood up. “Alright, Harold, I’ve stayed long enough. Can I go now?” “Stay right there” Harold frowned, clearly not intending to let Sophie feave so soon. Sophie said, “You’ve made your threats, and had your revenge, what more do you want?”
Chapter 50 Nina grasped Sophie’s hand, their closeness apparent. In their entire graduate class, each student belonged to high society, making relationships exceptionally complex. Upon joining the class, Sophie had discreetly surveyed everyone, confident that the others had done the same. Nina led Sophie to her car and drove to a nearby club. Exiting the car, they found that a private room had already been reserved. Contrasting with the noisy exterior the private room was relatively quiet As soon as the door opened, Sophie spotted Harold lounging on a o sola He was dressed in punk attire, his gaze colder than usual, his inherently stem face now exuding a wild aura. Sophie had recognized the car behind Nina and knew Harold wanted to see her. Sure enough, Nina left at just the right time. Now, it was just Sophie and Harold in the room. “Harold, was it necessary to meet here?” Sophie asked. She turned to leave, but the room’s door was almady shut. Still, Sophie wasn’t afraid. As James‘ wife, Harold wouldn’t dare harm her, which emboldened her to come alone. “It’s safe here, unnoticed “The news of a late–night meeting between the younger Aldridge son and James‘ newlywed could scandalize both families, Sophie shrugged indifferently. Tm already notonous. A bit more won’t hurt. But what about your brother? Would he skin you if he knew?” Sophie knew Harold’s vulnerabilities well. Harold narrowed his eyes dangerously and stepped closer, his large frame casting a shadow over Sophie, “No one plays me. You’re the first His voice was low and seductive, his words laden with meanings. Sophie raised an eyebrow, “Harold, that’s not fair. When have I ever played you?” “From the first meeting, you did it on purpose, didn’t you?” I “Honestly, I did not.” Sophie’s expression was innocent, “Harold, are you suffering from paranoia?” “Don’t act dumb. I can spot a lie instantly.” Harold chuckled, “But I truly didn’t expect you to be James‘ wife.” Sophie replied seriously, “Everyone in Devonport knows I’m James‘ wife. It seems you’re the only one out of the loop.” Harold frowned. He had just returned from abroad and wasn’t well–versed in recent local events. Moreover, he generally paid little attention to the social elite, so he was unfamiliar with the name Sophie. “Enough, Harold, Drop the fantasies. I have no designs on you, and even if I did, it would be towards your brother.” It was common knowledge that in the Aldridge family, only Gordon held real power, while his younger brother was merely a frivolous dependant. “Stop right there!” Harold grabbed Sophie’s wrist. Her casual remark had ignited his anger. “So, you’re saying I’m less capable than my brother?” “What do you think, Harold?” His grip tightened suddenly. Even he knew that Sophie spoke the truth. Suddenly, Harold laughed, his wild eyes twinkling mischievously, “The Burkes and my family have always been at odds. What if I did something to you today? Could you still be Mrs. Burke then?”