The Grandelle estate glittered with lanterns and overflowed with guests.

Sophia Laurent slipped away from the crowd and whispered to Vincent Grandelle, "Master, I need some air in the garden."

Vincent nodded affectionately. "Go ahead, but don't wander too far. Be back before the banquet starts."

Warmth bloomed in her chest.

This elderly man she'd only recently met treated her like his own granddaughter.

Passing through the corridor, she emerged into an open space.

A tranquil pond dotted with emerald lotus leaves swayed between artfully arranged rocks.

Sophia paused by the water's edge.

The lotus fragrance reminded her of her grandfather's small pond, where she'd been made to practice ink paintings of water lilies.

"First you steal Ethan, now my grandfather?" A shrill voice shattered the peace.

Isabella Valentine approached in stiletto heels, her dress fluttering.

Without turning, Sophia replied, "You're the one chasing a married man."

"Ha! Grandfather will always love me best!" Isabella suddenly lunged forward.

Splash—

Water engulfed Sophia's face.

She flailed desperately, only to see Isabella jump in after her.

"Grandfather, help!" Isabella shrieked while dragging Sophia deeper.

Two figures plunged into the water simultaneously.

Kyle Grant seized Sophia's wrist just as Ethan Sullivan swept her into his arms.

"Ethan!" Isabella thrashed in the water.

Kyle kicked her aside and turned to rescue the struggling Vincent.

Onshore, Sophia trembled beneath Ethan's jacket.

"Master, he..."

"He'll live." Kyle pressed rhythmically on Vincent's chest, his voice uncharacteristically gentle.

Isabella collapsed on the ground, her makeup smeared across her face.

With shaking hands, she reached for the old man's icy fingers. "Grandfather..."

The pond's surface rippled, reflecting the shattered sky above.