Chapter 272

Sophia didn't bother to turn around, continuing to wash her hands with deliberate calm.

"Escort girl!" Ava's voice dripped with icy command, sharp enough to cut glass. "My ankle is injured. Bring me my shoes. Did you hear me?"

Sophia felt sweat prickle her palms. She finally turned to face Ava.

The woman was stunning—almost unnaturally so.

In contrast, Sophia looked exhausted, her tone flat. "Thanks for the offer, but no."

Ava tossed her long hair over one shoulder, stepping forward to block Sophia's path. "You're just a paid companion. Don't act so high and mighty. I'm trying to help you. You know what you are—Ethan Blackwood's plaything. One day, he'll destroy you. Do me this favor, and maybe I'll save you when that happens."

Sophia had no patience for this. She pinched her nose, disgusted. "Move."

Ava froze.

How dare this nobody dismiss her like this?

Before Ava could react, Sophia shoved past her, sending Ava stumbling to the floor.

This time, her ankle really did twist.

Ava scrambled up, limping after Sophia. She grabbed her arm. "Do you have any idea who I am?"

Rage burned through her.

She might not be fully accepted in high society yet, but in the entertainment world, she was royalty. Companies begged for her endorsements. Socialites fawned over her. Fans would kill for her autograph.

Tonight, she might even get to shake Ethan Blackwood's hand. Maybe share a private dinner.

But this escort girl treated her like dirt. It was unacceptable.

Sophia glared. "No. And I don't care."

"Why are you covering your nose?" Ava snapped.

"Your perfume is nauseating." Sophia walked away without another word.

She had no interest in fighting with some random woman. They were both just accessories to rich men. What was the point?

When Sophia returned to the table, Ethan had just finished a call.

She sat beside him just as Ava strutted back to her own date, hips swaying. Before Ethan could introduce Sophia, Ava flashed a dazzling smile at the man beside her. "Daniel, darling, won't you introduce me to your friend?"

Daniel Whitmore—Noah's cousin.

Years ago, the Whitmores had been one of Harborview City's elite families. But when Noah's grandfather took two wives, the family split. Daniel's father got the overseas assets. Noah's father inherited the hollowed-out Whitmore Group, drowning in debt.

It took Noah's parents years to stabilize the company.

Now, Daniel was back.

And he had just watched Ava make a fool of herself.

Sophia didn't care.

Ethan's hand settled on her waist, possessive. "Ready to go?"

She nodded.

They left without a backward glance.

Ava's nails dug into her palms.

This wasn't over.