Daniel Lowell's fingers absently traced the cuff of his suit sleeve.

The memory of Sophia shining at the design awards sent a dull ache through his chest.

"Evidence?"

A cool female voice cut through the tension.

Everyone turned to see Sophia leaning against the doorframe. The champagne-colored dress hugged her slender waist, while diamonds at her throat scattered light like shattered stars.

Two black-clad bodyguards flanked her.

"Found the surveillance footage?" Sophia's lips curved. "Or am I the scapegoat again?"

Her stilettos clicked against marble as she entered the boardroom.

William Lowell's back grew damp with sweat.

"You're not welcome here."

"Just helping a friend." Sophia's gaze swept the room. "Seems Lowell Entertainment is falling apart without me."

Her eyes landed on Dr. Quincy's research documents.

"A Lowell employee?" She arched a brow. "That justifies theft?"

Richard Lowell snatched an ashtray.

"Ungrateful wretch!"

The glass hurtled through the air.

A bodyguard's kick sent it exploding against the wall. Shards rained down, leaving a bleeding gash on Richard's cheek.

Sophia didn't even blink.

"My doing?" She tilted her head. "Or the thief's?"

She pulled out her phone with a flick of the wrist.

"Shall we call the police?"

Richard's facial muscles twitched violently.

A crimson bead rolled down his wound.