Kyle Grant's words still hung in the air when Sophia Laurent's dull eyes suddenly brightened.

The broken trail had finally taken a turn.

He gazed at the flickering light in her eyes, his voice gentle. "I would never lie to you."

The corners of Sophia's lips lifted. "Shall we leave now?"

She turned toward her car.

"Take mine," Kyle stopped her. "We're in the dark about our enemy's moves. Safety first."

Sophia frowned, recalling Diana Grandelle's suspicious behavior the previous day. Though she'd warned Vincent Grandelle to stay vigilant, that old fox was full of tricks.

"Alright." After a brief pause, she walked toward Kyle's car.

When the door opened, she noticed the driver and assistant seated in the front.

Her steps faltered.

Kyle circled to the other side and got in.

"Wait for me!" Iris Evans rushed over and plopped down beside Sophia.

Kyle's gaze cooled. "Buckle up."

Silence filled the car.

Iris, never one to hold back, stared at Kyle's sharp profile. "Mr. Grant, what's your type?"

Kyle remained silent.

"Someone like Sophia?" Iris leaned closer. "Too bad she's taken. How about me?"

Kyle kept his eyes forward. "Got a mirror?"

"Huh?"

"Take a look at yourself."

Iris froze as if struck by lightning. "I'm not bad-looking! I'm talented, capable, and low-maintenance. Perfect, right?"

Kyle closed his eyes, ignoring her.

"Sophia..." Iris pouted and leaned against her.

Sophia patted her shoulder. "You're amazing."

"If only you were a man!" Iris pretended to rest her head on Sophia's shoulder.

During a break, Sophia asked, "How are things with Zane Riveron?"

"Just buddies!" Iris waved a hand. "Zero chemistry, even if we were naked!"

"Tried it?"

"Of course not!" Iris lowered her voice. "Sophia, do you think I have a chance with Kyle?"

Sophia stayed quiet. She wanted Kyle to find happiness but wouldn't force it.

Back in the car, Iris's phone rang.

"Drinks tonight?" Zane's voice came through.

"Busy chasing a man!" Iris sneaked a glance at Kyle.

A beat of silence. "Who's the unlucky guy?"

"What's wrong with 32A? I've got looks and curves!" Iris huffed and hung up, finding Kyle's silent allure even more captivating.

Two hours later, the convoy arrived.

As they entered the neighborhood, Sophia spotted a familiar figure—Ethan Sullivan, tall and composed, surrounded by bodyguards.

Her heart skipped. She quickened her pace. "What are you doing here?"

Ethan turned, his gaze shifting between her and Kyle. "Found out Nicole Evans changed her name to Ann Branch and lives here."

Sophia's eyes burned. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"You were already on your way," Ethan said calmly. "Perfect for throwing them off."

Iris discreetly texted Ethan: Watched them like a hawk. Not a single step apart!

After receiving a transfer, she grinned: I'm going after Kyle. Permanently solving your problem!

Ethan replied: His standards are high. Only Sophia fits.

Iris stared at her phone, on the verge of tears.

The group reached the fourth floor.

A bodyguard knocked. "Property management. Checking for leaks."

The door cracked open, revealing a haggard face.

It was Nicole Evans.

The moment she saw Sophia, her expression twisted in panic. She tried to slam the door shut.

Ethan blocked it. "Ann Branch, formerly Nicole Evans. You were involved in a baby trafficking case twenty-four years ago."

The woman's hands trembled. "You've got the wrong person! I'll call the police!"