Chapter 120
Dominic Reeves unexpectedly strode toward the door.
“What do you mean, you’re fine?” Sophia’s mother raised her hand and smacked her arm. “You don’t look fine. I thought you were on leave, but here you are, lazing around! What were you planning to do, lying around like this instead of going to work?”
Her mother punctuated each word with another light smack. Sophia didn’t dodge, only sighing in exasperation. “Mom, don’t worry about it. Just go run your errands.”
“It’s not about bossing you around—it’s about responsibility! Even your boss had to come looking for you! Now tell me, when are you going to pull yourself together?”
“Mom…” Sophia groaned, thoroughly defeated.
Dominic lingered at the doorway, watching the scene unfold like some twisted comedy.
He waited until Sophia had endured a few more maternal reprimands before clearing his throat. “Mrs. Grant, I believe Sophia might have her reasons. There’s no need to scold her. I’m not here to reprimand her—just to check if she’s unwell or facing any difficulties.”
“Mr. Reeves,” Sophia cut in sharply, her patience fraying, “if you have something to say, let’s talk outside.”
She had underestimated him. He was far more underhanded than she’d imagined—showing up at her home and using her mother to pressure her.
But he’d gotten what he wanted.
Dominic spread his hands in mock surrender. “Of course. Why not?”
Sophia’s mother had just set down the teapot, frowning at her daughter’s tone. “Mr. Reeves, I’ve spoiled Sophia a bit. She can be stubborn, but she’s a good girl. If she’s slacking at work, please discipline her. She needs this job!”
“Mom, stop,” Sophia hissed, pressing her fingers to her temples. This was spiraling out of control.
Her mother shot her a look, clearly thinking Sophia didn’t appreciate her efforts.
Dominic, ever the charmer, smiled smoothly. “Don’t worry. Sophia is valuable to DR Holdings, and we value her just as much.”
“Good!” Her mother nodded vigorously before nudging Sophia. “Quick, thank Mr.—” She faltered, blanking on his name.
“Mr. Reeves,” Sophia gritted out, already at the door. “Let’s go.”
Her mother leaned in as Sophia passed, whispering, “Be nice.”
Sophia barely resisted rolling her eyes.
They ended up at the café downstairs. Dominic ordered two coffees, but Sophia had no intention of drinking hers.
“Mr. Reeves,” she said coldly, “what’s the real reason you came to my house?”
He took a leisurely sip before answering. “Just checking on my employee.”
“Cut the act. I know what you want. But I don’t know Evelyn’s formula. Every perfumer guards their secrets—she wouldn’t share them with me. I was just her assistant. Why would she trust me now?”
Dominic listened, unfazed, his expression unreadable.
When she finished, he nodded. “You’re right. But I didn’t come for formulas. Did you really think DR Holdings would crumble without Evelyn? That we wouldn’t uncover her little tricks? You overestimated her.”
Sophia stiffened. Had they already solved the crisis?
She hadn’t been to the office in days—was she already obsolete?