Chapter 150
I guided Sophia toward the ladies‘ room, aware of the stares following us and the whispers that would inevitably circulate through Manhattan’s social circles by evening.
In the luxurious restroom with its mirrored walls and soft lighting, Sophia dabbed at her ruined blouse
with wet paper towels, tears silently streaming down her face.
“Why didn’t you fight back?” I asked, handing her more towels. “You just stood there and let her assault
you.”
Sophia shook her head. “Not everyone is as brave as you are, Aria. I just wanted to get away.”
I sighed, pulling out my phone. “Hold on. I’ll have Melanie bring over something for you to change into.”
I stepped out of the bathroom to make the call, keeping an eye out for Owen or Chloe. Melanie, my
assistant, promised to bring a change of clothes within wenty minutes.
–
–
When Sophia emerged in a new outfit a simple black dress that Melanie had rushed over we headed toward the restaurant’s exit, only to find Owen and Chloe still in the lobby, engaged in a heated argument.
Owen broke away when he saw us. “Sophia, are you okay? I’m so sorry about=”
“Touch her again and the engagement is off!” Chloe threatened, yanking his arm.
Owen’s face hardened. “Then it’s off! I’m sick of your controlling behavior and my family’s pressure!”
Sophia looked increasingly uncomfortable. “Let’s just go” she whispered, tugging at my arm. “I don’t want
any more drama.”
I noticed her designer heels were slick with wine. As she turned toward the restaurant’s revolving door,
Chloe lunged forward and grabbed her arm.
“Don’t you dare walk away! We’re not finished here!” Choe hissed.
Sophia’s foot slipped on the polished marble floor, and he began to fall toward the steps leading down to the exit. I grabbed her hand to steady her, but the momentum pulled me forward instead. I tumbled down the short flight of stairs, my arm slamming hard agains the marble edge.
Pain shot through me, but I pushed myself up, pointing an accusing finger at Chloe. “You did that on
purpose!”
Chloe backed away. “I didn’t–I wasn’t trying to-”
Several staff members rushed forward to help. As a waiter helped me to my feet, I heard a cold,
commanding voice.
“I’ll take it from here.”
Devon Kane stepped from a black Bentley that had just pulled up outside, his tall figure imposing in a perfectly tailored suit. The entire lobby fell silent as he entered. His gray eyes surveyed the scene before settling on me, concern flickering behind his usually impassive expression.
With gentle but firm movements, he lifted me into his arms, ignoring my protest that I could walk. Up close, I could feel his heart racing despite his outwardly calm demeanor.
“Devon, I can walk on my own,” I said quietly.
He didn’t acknowledge my statement as he carried me toward his waiting car.
3
Owen stepped forward, shock evident on his face. “Cousin? What are you doing here?”
Devon’s gaze slid coldly to Owen. “Is there a reason I shouldn’t be here?”
Owen’s eyes darted between Devon and me, clearly trying to piece together our connection.
“We’ll discuss this situation later, cousin,” Devon said, his tone making it clear the conversation would not be pleasant. “Right now, I’m taking Ms. Harper to have er injuries checked.”
As Devon carried me to his car, I couldn’t help but notice how securely his arms held me, and how, despite everything, I felt oddly safe in his embrace. The realization was unsettling, but as pain throbbed through my arm, I found myself relaxing against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.
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Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.

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