Chapter 142
“That’s good.” Ethan Chandler patted Sophie’s shoulder. “Now let’s go inside. Keep your scarf on so Mom and Dad don’t notice,”
“Okay.”
Sophie followed Ethan into the Chandler home, where their parents were waiting on the sofa. Fearing they might notice something, she gave only a brief account of the banquet and then excused herself, heading upstairs.
She asked the maid to run a bath and sank into the warm water.
Only now did Sophie truly feel how wild things had been with Marcus the night before.
Her fair skin bore marks like permanent brands–every red trace a reminder of his touch. She didn’t even need to think hard; flashes of last night came flooding back.
His husky growl in her ear, his struggle between restraint and madness, his commanding voice asking again and again if she knew who was holding her down…
Her cheeks burned crimson. She forced the memories away, trying to calm her racing heart.
Things had gone too far. What explanation could she possibly give Marcus? And how was she supposed to face him now?
Her phone rang, breaking her spiraling thoughts. She pressed the speaker button and set it aside.
“Sophie, what are you up to?”
The lively voice of Sherry Shaw filled the room, pulling a small smile from Sophie.
“I’m taking a bath. What’s up?”
“A bath this early? What, did you do something naughty?”
Sherry’s teasing hit too close to the truth. Sophie instantly tensed.
“Don’t be ridiculous. Why are you calling me?”
“Look at you getting all flustered. If I didn’t know you were such a good girl, I’d really think you were up to no good.” Sherry lowered her voice, pretending to be mysterious. “Anyway, I’ve got good news. I’m about to land. Come pick me up!”
Sophie blinked in surprise, then her eyes lit up.
“So sudden! Didn’t you say you had things to finish up before coming back?”
“Long story. I’ll explain in person.”
“Alright, text me your flight number.”
As soon as she bung up, the message came through. Sophie quickly rinsed off and changed into a fitted knit top, making sure all the marks on her body were covered before heading out.
Half an hour later, at Riverland Airport-
Sherry stepped out in a pale blue princess dress, her hair in a high bun. Her doll–like face glowed with a natural blush, making her look like a life–sized Barbie.
Codic’d Hic Uncle
50.4%
Chapter 142
Thick bangs only emphasized her large, sparkling eyes. She scanned the crowd all the spotted Sophie walking in
Sophie, tall and elegant, stood out easily even in a simple knit top and jeans.
Sherry ran over and threw her arms around her. “Sophie, we finally meet again
The force of the hug pushed Sophie back several steps. She instinctively shielded her stomach, her expression mary
Sherry leaned back, raising a brow,
“What’s with you? Not even a little enthusiasm?
Her eyes darted down and caught Sophie’s protective hand over her belly.
“Wait… why are you holding your stomach? Are you not feeling well?”
Sophie forced a calm smile. “No, you just startled me running at me like that.”
“Come on, let’s go to our old spot. You can tell me your big, mysterious story.”
Sophie led her outside, but Sherry lingered, watching her friend’s back with suspicion Something wasn’t right. Sophie wasn’t berseli today.
They drove to their favorite hangout, a retro–style milk tea shop tucked into a quiet alley. It had always been their secret refuge back in school
With drinks and snacks ordered, they settled into a comer booth.
“Alright, spill it,” Sherry said eagerly. “I can’t wait any longer.”
Sophie’s eyes sparkled. “You rushed back so suddenly–did your guy pull another stunt?”
But Sherry only narrowed her gaze, scanning Sophie up and downL
“My stuff can wait. You first. Did you do something… reckless? Did you get yourself into trouble–and maybe end up with more than you bargained for?
Sophie froze, her heart pounding. Sherry had cut straight to the truth.
“What are you talking about?”
“Don’t play dumb with me, Sophie. We grew up together. You think I can’t tell when something’s off?”
Her doll–like face turned stern, her tone dead serious.
“I already heard what happened last night. Word’s out that the Morgan family’s devil himself lost his cool looking for you. What’s really going on between you two?
“And another thing you never liked wearing high–necked clothes. Said they were uncomfortable. Yet today, in this heat, you’re wearing one. Why?
“When I hugged you, you didn’t hug me back. Instead, you clutched your stomach. What exactly are you hiding in there that’s so precious?”
Sherry leaned forward, her eyes sharp.
“So tell me the truth, Sophie–whose child is it?”
Sophie fumbled for her milk tea, sipping nervously as her eyes darted away.
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