Chapter 394

Sophia Laurent's fingers unconsciously tightened around her skirt when Alexander Valdemar posed his question.

She had believed the child was Ethan Winston's, but his attitude had shattered her heart.

Not only had Ethan denied paternity, but he'd looked at her with disgust—as if she were something filthy.

The composure she'd maintained in front of everyone crumbled.

"I don't know."

Her voice was feather-light, her lashes trembling slightly. "I truly don't know."

Growing up in an orphanage, she'd yearned for family but remained achingly alone. Keeping this child had been her one solace.

Now, even that was slipping away.

Suddenly, the warm scent of pine enveloped her.

Alexander had moved beside her without her noticing, drawing her into a gentle embrace.

It was perfect—supportive without being suffocating.

"Mr. Valdemar?"

Sophia looked up in confusion, meeting his deep gaze.

Alexander released her abruptly, his ears tinged pink. "Apologies."

Seeing her reddened eyes and how the blue dress accentuated her fragility, his chest tightened inexplicably.

"I'm sorry."

Sophia blinked. "For what?"

"That night..." His Adam's apple bobbed. "I was at the gala too."

"I know." She forced a weak smile. "How could anyone not recognize the illustrious CEO of Valdemar Group?"

A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes. "You know me?"

"Alexander Valdemar. Business legend." Her voice softened. "Hard to miss."

He chuckled, the stern lines of his face relaxing.

Sophia stared, momentarily entranced.

"A shame..." Alexander sighed.

"A shame?"

"That Mrs. Valdemar doesn't think much of me."

Her eyes widened. "What Mrs. Valdemar?"

He held her gaze, enunciating clearly.

"You."