Chapter 183

Evelyn's fury caught Sophia completely off guard.

"I don't need that!" Evelyn snapped, her voice sharp, her expression unyielding.

"Evelyn, I—" Sophia hadn't anticipated this reaction. It left her momentarily speechless. "D-Did I do something wrong?"

"Of course you did!" Evelyn repeated firmly. "What do you think of yourself? What do you think of me? I know DR Holdings is developing new products because they've been recycling the same old formulas for too long. Without innovation, they won't survive."

"But I don’t care about their new formulas or their secrets, Liv—Sophia." Evelyn corrected herself, frustration lacing her words. "You've been in this industry long enough to know the line between right and wrong. Do you really think I need you to spy for me? Do you believe I can't compete fairly?"

She exhaled sharply before continuing, softer this time. "Sophia, I don’t need you watching my back like that. Come work with me. Be my assistant. That’s where you belong."

Sophia fell silent, chastened. After a long pause, she murmured, "I'm sorry."

I was wrong. The realization hit her hard. I thought this was the best way to help Evelyn get revenge. But if I did this, I’d be no better than Dominic and Vanessa.

Dominic and Vanessa had stolen Evelyn’s work. Now, Sophia had nearly crossed the same line by trying to uncover their secrets.

"Sophia, I know you meant well," Evelyn said, her tone gentler now. She nudged the contract toward her again. "But if you really want to help me, come join Phoenix Labs. I’ve been working on something new, and I could use your expertise. It’s time you left DR Holdings behind."

This time, Sophia took the contract. Scanning it, she teased, "The salary isn’t any better than what I’m getting now."

Evelyn laughed. "Prove yourself at Phoenix Labs, and the bonuses will make up for it."

"Fine," Sophia sighed dramatically, though inside, she was elated.

This was worth celebrating. No more suffocating corporate politics—just her and Evelyn, doing what they loved.

By the time Evelyn got home, it was nearly midnight. Work had consumed her lately, keeping her out late most nights. Alexander had been just as busy, buried in his own projects. Days had passed since they’d last seen each other.

Standing in their empty bedroom, a pang of longing hit her. She missed him.

Back when she was with Dominic, she’d worked late often too. She’d come home alone, slept alone, handled everything alone. Dominic had occasionally joined her for dinner, but he never stayed.

Yet she’d never felt this ache of loneliness with him. Now, she was used to Alexander’s presence—his warmth, his devotion. She hated admitting it, but she’d grown dependent on him.

After a quick shower, she climbed into bed. Hesitating only a moment, she sent him a text: "Coming home tonight?"

Exhaustion overtook her before he could reply. She didn’t stir when he finally slipped in beside her, nor when his arms wrapped around her, pulling her close.

Half-asleep, she turned toward him, murmuring something incoherent. Then, instinctively, she draped herself over him, clinging like a koala.

Alexander sighed, amused and utterly helpless.