Chapter 312

Sophia Laurent's lips twitched slightly at Adrian Valdemar's attempt to comfort her.

She truly wasn't upset. Visiting Alexander Valdemar was merely a formality.

"I'm really fine."

She settled into the chair beside the hospital bed, propping her chin on one hand as her gaze lingered on Alexander.

Valdemar Holdings' operations had stabilized.

A few more major deals, and she could gracefully step back, returning control to Patriarch Valdemar.

If Alexander never woke, the family would have to choose another heir.

She'd done all she could.

Adrian frowned at Sophia's distant expression.

He shot Alexander a glare but held his tongue.

Ten minutes later, Sophia rose.

"Adrian, I'm going to check on Aunt Margaret. Wait here."

He nodded. "Of course, sis. I'll stay with my brother. Call me when you're ready to leave."

"Alright."

The moment Sophia left, Adrian exhaled in relief.

Once certain she'd exited the floor, he lowered his voice.

"Bro, how long are you planning to keep faking this coma?"

Alexander's eyes opened. "Problem?"

"No."

Adrian raked a hand through his hair irritably. "I just don't get why you're hiding it from Sophia. You enjoy watching her suffer?"

Alexander's brow furrowed. "Did she cry?"

"Not exactly." Adrian scoffed. "But she's clearly unhappy."

Silence.

Alexander hadn't meant to deceive her.

They were practically strangers, and with his injuries still healing—he could barely stand—he didn't know how to face her.

When Alexander remained quiet, Adrian continued unprompted. "She's a good woman. Don't screw this up."

Alexander's icy glare cut through him. "Out."

Adrian snorted. "Fine. Like anyone besides Sophia wants to visit you anyway."

The door slammed behind him.

Alexander massaged his temples.

He reached for his phone, scanning the documents Henry Chamberlain had sent.

During his "coma," Vincent Valdemar and Genevieve Roche's collaborators had revealed their hands.

Some demanded exorbitant prices. Others imposed impossible terms.

All applications bore Vincent's associates' signatures.

Perfect for rooting them out.

Legitimate projects were quietly funneled to Sophia through Henry.

One month, max. Then the trap would spring shut.