The crystal chandeliers in the banquet hall glittered brilliantly.

Applause surged like an unending tide.

Everyone was stunned by the man on stage—usually so aloof and composed.

He had just proclaimed his heartfelt devotion to his wife before the entire crowd.

Young women in the audience gazed with shining eyes.

"My God, Mr. Sullivan is always so icy, but who knew he could be like this!"

"They look like they stepped out of a magazine cover together!"

"I believe in love again!"

Amidst the joy, some wore darker expressions.

Victor Sullivan's face was livid.

His fingers clenched white-knuckled as he glared at his son on stage.

That ungrateful brat!

Not only had he gotten that woman pregnant, but now he dared to announce their marriage publicly!

Isabella Valentine dug her nails into her palms.

She had just introduced herself as Ethan's girlfriend moments ago.

Now she'd been publicly humiliated.

The pitying glances around her made her skin crawl.

"Isabella." Adrian Sullivan's low voice called to her.

She turned, eyes red-rimmed.

He offered a tissue. "Here."

"Thank you." Her voice trembled.

"Giving up so easily?"

She bit her lip. "What else can I do? He's already..."

"Men," Adrian chuckled, "are creatures of acquired taste."

Isabella's head snapped up.

"What do you mean?"

He leaned closer, whispering, "Once they've tasted something sweet..."

Her face flushed crimson.

"Would...would that really work?"

"Trust me." His smile was knowing. "I am a man, after all."

On stage, Ethan held Sophia Laurent's hand.

"Tired?" he murmured.

She shook her head but couldn't suppress a yawn.

Pregnancy had left her constantly fatigued.

"Let me take you home."

They exited under the crowd's admiring gazes.

Sophia moved with effortless grace, her condition betrayed only by the subtle curve of her abdomen.

Back in the banquet hall, executives took turns toasting Ethan.

After several rounds, his vision began to blur.

"Mr. Sullivan, are you alright?" his assistant asked worriedly.

"Fine."

He staggered to the restroom.

Cold water splashed on his face did nothing to cool the fire in his veins.

Something was wrong.

The alcohol's effects were too sudden, too intense.

Returning to his seat only worsened the burning sensation.

Flames licked through his bloodstream.

He loosened his collar.

"Mr. Sullivan?" The assistant noticed his distress.

"Take me home." Ethan's voice was hoarse.

He stumbled when standing.

Through blurred vision, he saw Isabella approaching.

"Ethan, you've had too much. Let me help—"

Her outstretched hand met violent rejection.

"Get away!"

The roar silenced the room.

Isabella froze, tears spilling over.

Ethan lurched toward the exit.

The inferno inside him raged hotter.

He needed Sophia.

Now.

Immediately.