Isabella remained silent.

Sophia turned her head away dismissively. "Let's go inside."

Ryan noticed Isabella's tension and leaned in. "Don't worry about the drinking or what Miss Reed said. She's new. She doesn't know how things work here yet."

Isabella forced a thin smile. "Thanks, Ryan."

They entered the private room.

Opulence surrounded them immediately.

A crystal chandelier hung overhead, scattering light across a table laden with gourmet food and expensive wine. The air smelled rich with luxury perfumes and faint cigar smoke.

Sophia glided inside gracefully. "Mr. Lee, Mr. Hayes. I hope you haven't been waiting long."

The two men stopped chatting with their female companions and stood up. Their expressions shifted to polite eagerness.

"Not at all, Miss Reed. You're right on time," one replied warmly.

"Absolutely. We're honored you could join us despite your busy schedule," the other added with a delighted smile.

Sophia's smile brightened the room. Her eyes sparkled. "You're too kind. The pleasure is mine."

After exchanging pleasantries, everyone settled into the plush sofas.

Julian Hayes glanced at Isabella and Ryan. His curiosity was evident.

"Who are these two?" he asked.

Sophia feigned modesty. "These are my colleagues. Ethan was concerned about me drinking while I'm still recovering. He suggested I bring two assistants instead. I hope that's alright."

She emphasized "Ethan" with pride, hinting at their special connection.

Isabella's expression tightened. A bitter feeling washed over her.

In Sophia's story, Ethan was someone she mentioned with intimate familiarity. Isabella was reduced to just an assistant.

The two men exchanged knowing looks. Julian laughed heartily. "I've heard rumors about you and Mr. Blackwood. Now I see they're true. Should we start picking out wedding gifts?"

Sophia basked in the attention. Her eyes flicked toward Isabella's dejected form. A sly smirk touched her lips.

She leaned toward Julian, her voice playful. "You must be joking. Mr. Blackwood cares about all his colleagues."

She paused, letting her words hang in the air. "His kindness toward his team is well-known."

Her carefully chosen words implied a connection without confirming it. They left room for speculation.

The experienced men understood her implications. They shared amused glances.

As the conversation turned to business, Ryan focused on supporting Isabella.