Ethan Sullivan pushed open the bathroom door and stepped out.

The crisp scent of aftershave lingered around him.

His gaze turned icy the moment he spotted Victor Sullivan. "What are you doing here?"

"I heard you were injured." Victor's eyes swept over him. "How bad is it?"

Ethan smirked coldly. "Thanks to you, I'm still alive."

Victor's expression stiffened. "They said you were attacked by robbers?"

"Someone took the opportunity to strike." Ethan stared at him pointedly. "Either your old rival..." He paused. "Or your precious son, Adrian."

"Nonsense!" A vein throbbed at Victor's temple. "Adrian would never do such a thing!"

Ethan's eyes sharpened like blades. "I hope not. Otherwise..." He left the threat hanging.

A doctor entered, informing Ethan it was time for his examination.

Sophia Laurent stepped forward to support him.

Victor frowned. "Ms. Laurent, you're divorced now. Let the bodyguard handle it."

Sophia ignored him, tightening her grip on Ethan's arm instead.

"I know Ethan's condition best." She shot Victor a defiant look. "The bodyguard can follow for protection."

Victor's face darkened, but he had no retort. He could only trail behind them toward the examination room.

In the hallway, Victor finally showed his true colors.

"Ms. Laurent," he hissed under his breath, "know your place. You took the money. Why cling to him?"

Sophia chuckled. "You've got it backward, Mr. Sullivan. It's your son who won't let go of me."

"Marry someone else," Victor suddenly demanded. "Within ten days, and I'll give you a billion."

Sophia arched a brow. "Are you trying to buy my marriage?"

"Call it what you will." Victor sneered. "If you cheat me, you'll regret it."

"Take the deal, girl!"

A booming voice interrupted.

Sophia turned to see Richard Grant approaching with a cane.

Though nearing seventy, the old man exuded vitality, twirling a rare Blood Lotus Bodhi bracelet in his hand.

"Uncle Richard?" Sophia gasped.

Richard grinned. "Marry within ten days and pocket that billion first."

Victor paled. "Cousin?"

"Don't call me that." Richard waved dismissively. "Bullying a young woman—have you no shame?"

He turned to Sophia. "My son Kyle happens to be single. Marry him and spite this old fool."

Sophia's eyes widened in shock.

"But I was married before..."

"So what?" Richard shrugged. "My boy needs a wife who knows antiques."

Victor's expression grew uglier.

"My family background is ordinary..."

"The Grants value character, not pedigree!" Richard declared with a flourish. "It's settled!"

Sophia's eyes stung.

Both men bore the surname Sullivan, yet their morals couldn't be more different.

She bowed deeply. "Thank you, Uncle Richard."

Richard patted her shoulder. "I mean it. Kyle would adore you."

With that, he strode off, leaving Victor seething in silence.

Sophia straightened her back, finally feeling vindicated in Victor's presence.

The slap to his pride burned, but he had no words left.