Chapter 498

Sophia Laurent stepped out of the elevator and immediately sensed the unusual tension in the corporate lobby.

Alexander Valdemar sat alone on the leather sofa in the lounge area, a three-meter radius around him completely empty.

Several female employees pretended to be busy near the water cooler, but their eyes kept darting toward him.

"Ms. Laurent!" Her assistant hurried over, whispering. "Mr. Valdemar has been waiting for you for half an hour."

Sophia arched an eyebrow and looked over.

The setting sun through the floor-to-ceiling windows cast a golden halo around the man. He wore an impeccably tailored black suit, his long fingers flipping through a financial magazine.

As if sensing her gaze, Alexander suddenly looked up.

Their eyes met. He closed the magazine and stood.

"Finished work?"

His deep voice made nearby employees gasp audibly.

Sophia heard a chorus of whispered reactions behind her.

"Oh my god, Mr. Valdemar's voice is so mesmerizing..."

"Is that level of attractiveness even real?"

"Did Ms. Laurent save the galaxy in her past life?"

Shaking her head in amusement, Sophia walked toward him.

Alexander naturally took her briefcase. "How are you feeling today?"

Ever since learning about her pregnancy, he'd been punctually waiting for her after work each day.

"I'm fine." She smiled. "You don't need to pick me up every day."

He didn't respond, instead carefully studying her complexion.

Lately he'd been poring over pregnancy guides and consulting obstetric specialists.

"The Patriarch wants us for dinner at the manor," he changed the subject. "Those old men from last night's birthday banquet called again today asking about you."

Sophia chuckled.

The Patriarch had thrown that lavish celebration specifically to show off his granddaughter-in-law to his friends.

They walked side by side toward the parking garage, their shadows stretching long in the sunset.

Alexander spoke suddenly. "The Patriarch knows about Emily Lowell."

Sophia's steps faltered slightly.

"He's displeased," Alexander said calmly. "Should I handle the Lowell family?"

"No." Sophia shook her head. "I'll deal with them myself."

She knew the Lowells too well—greedy, foolish sharks who smelled blood in the water.

Alexander studied her resolute profile, admiration flashing in his eyes.

This was what he admired about Sophia.

She never relied on others, always maintaining her clarity.

"Alright." He opened the car door. "Let me know if you need anything."

As the car pulled away from the office building, Sophia gazed at the passing scenery before remembering something.

"About the Matriarch yesterday—"

"Don't worry about her." Alexander cut in firmly. "I'm in charge of the Valdemar family now."

His tone brooked no argument.

Sophia's lips curved slightly.

This man always knew exactly when and how to give her the support she needed.