Chapter 398

Sophia Laurent knew all too well that her relationship with Alexander Valdemar was far from intimate.

His refusal to divorce stemmed partly from business interests tied to Valdemar Holdings.

The other reason likely involved the unexpected child growing inside her.

She never imagined this baby would be Alexander's.

Under these circumstances, maintaining their contractual marriage seemed reasonable.

Alexander's tense expression softened at her response.

"Let me handle the online controversy?" His deep voice resonated near her ear.

Sophia met his penetrating gaze and nodded. "Alright. Thank you."

The shadows lifted from his brow. "My responsibility."

Straightening his suit sleeves, he stood. "Shall we proceed to the hospital?"

This was their scheduled prenatal appointment—the real reason he'd been waiting.

Sophia reached for her handbag. "Let's go."

In the suite's living room, Ethan Winston sat with stormy eyes.

Gavin Winslow fidgeted beside him, worry etching his features.

The opening door drew their attention.

Alexander and Sophia emerged side by side—one aristocratic and imposing, the other radiantly beautiful. A painfully perfect match.

Ethan's breath hitched.

The atmosphere between them had shifted dramatically since they'd entered the room. Gone was the previous distance, replaced by unspoken harmony.

"Sophia, have you decided?" Ethan's gaze burned into her, disregarding propriety.

"I'll accompany you to the hospital."

Before Sophia could respond, Alexander stepped between them.

"Mind your place, Ethan." His voice could freeze molten steel.

Ethan clenched his fists, childhood deference toward his cousin dissolving into resentment.

"Three years together isn't something you just erase." His eyes reddened. "I won't abandon her."

Alexander studied his cousin's obsessive demeanor with narrowed eyes.

"She's my wife." Each word carried finality. "My family affairs require no interference."

Ethan laughed abruptly, the sound bordering on hysteria.

"If you cared, you'd convince her to abort that bastard!"

Alexander grasped Sophia's wrist, turning away with a parting remark: "We're keeping the baby."

Ethan froze, staring at their retreating figures in disbelief.

Madness.

Alexander had clearly lost his mind!

In the hotel's underground parking lot, Daniel Lowell slumped against his car seat.