Ethan’s expression tightened with clear annoyance.

“I’m busy. Tell her to go.”

“But Miss Reed insists on seeing you. She refuses to leave,” the receptionist replied, her voice strained.

Ethan pinched the bridge of his nose, a dull ache forming behind his eyes.

“Fine. Let her come up.”

Minutes later, the door opened.

Sophia entered with practiced grace.

She wore a simple white dress, her hair loose around her shoulders. Her makeup was light, almost natural.

“Ethan,” she said softly, her eyes pleading.

Her bottom lip trembled slightly. Tears glistened at the corners of her eyes.

“I need you to know—I never intended to hurt Isabella’s grandmother. What happened was—”

“I don’t care. Stop explaining,” Ethan cut in, his tone sharp.

Sophia tried to speak again, but his cold stare silenced her.

“If that’s all, you should leave,” he stated firmly.

She took a slow breath, steadying herself.

“My birthday is in a few days. I was hoping we could spend it together. Like we used to.”

Ethan was quiet for a moment.

Then he gave a short nod.

“Alright.”

A flicker of hope lit up Sophia’s face.

“Thank you, Ethan.”

“Anything else?” he asked, his attention already drifting.

She hesitated.

“Your mother… she spoke out of turn that day. Please don’t be angry with her. She only wants what’s best for you.”

Ethan didn’t respond. He looked down at the papers on his desk, effectively ending the conversation.

Understanding the dismissal, Sophia turned and left quietly.

The office fell into heavy silence.

Ethan stared at the documents, but the words blurred together.

His mind was elsewhere.

He kept seeing Isabella’s sharp, determined eyes.

That evening, Ethan arrived at Hawthorne Residence.

He loosened his tie as he stepped inside.

The house felt too quiet. Too empty.

It was never this still when Isabella was home.

He headed straight for his study, intent on burying himself in work.

“Mr. Blackwood?”

A small voice stopped him.

Ethan turned.

Liam sat on the carpet, playing quietly with a set of toy cars.

The boy’s wide eyes were full of confusion.

“Did my mommy leave me?” he whispered, his voice trembling slightly.