Dawn's first light filtered through the curtains.

Sophia Laurent opened her eyes to find Ethan Sullivan propped on one elbow, gazing at her intently.

Amusement danced in his eyes as his long fingers gently played with her eyelashes.

"Awake?" He leaned down to brush a kiss against her forehead.

She burrowed into his embrace, her fingers absently tracing the defined lines of his waist.

Ethan's breath hitched as he captured her wandering hand. "Behave."

"What's wrong?" Sophia blinked innocently.

"Last night was..." He pinched the bridge of his nose, exasperated. "We should follow scientific conception practices."

She burst into laughter. "Mr. Sullivan, are you trying to be a precision planter?"

Ethan massaged his temples. "That mouth of yours..."

Their playful banter continued as they got ready for the day.

Descending the stairs, Ethan insisted on supporting her elbow.

"I'm not made of porcelain," Sophia protested, amused.

"Practice makes perfect," he declared without shame.

The dining room smelled heavenly with breakfast prepared by Maggie.

Ethan lifted a spoonful of red date congee to her lips. "Open."

"I can feed myself."

"My way tastes better," he insisted.

Relenting, she accepted the bite from his hand.

"If it's a boy, we'll name him Vincent," Ethan announced suddenly.

Sophia arched an eyebrow.

"After your grandfather's surname," he explained. "For a girl, Sophie."

Warmth flooded her chest.

After breakfast, they visited the bridal boutique.

The attendant greeted them immediately: "Madam Laurent has already made selections for you."

In the workroom, Margaret Laurent was deep in discussion with the designer.

Spotting Sophia, she enveloped her in a crushing hug. "My precious granddaughter!"

"You know?" Sophia gasped.

"Dr. Ren told me." Tears of joy streamed down the older woman's face. "Vincent has an heir!"

She personally selected the most exquisite dragon-phoenix gown, woven with golden threads depicting mythical birds in flight.

Even Ethan's dragon-embroidered ceremonial attire was commissioned.

Audrey Sullivan arrived during measurements.

"Don't pair mine with Victor's," she said with distaste.

They ultimately chose a pixiu-printed jacket for Victor.

As the group exited, a Bentley glided to the curb.

Vincent Laurent stepped out, his gaze inadvertently lingering on Audrey.

"Long time no see," he said gently.

Audrey turned away, the tips of her ears pink.

Ethan's eyes narrowed.

After the Laurents departed, he immediately called Victor. "Father, you'd better step up your game."

"What's happened?" Victor sounded bewildered.

"Someone's eyeing your territory." Watching his mother's retreating car, Ethan spoke meaningfully.