Chapter 18: Who Do You Think You Are?

Preston glanced down at Sophia, who frowned as the elevator doors opened. Just as she was about to step out, Preston grabbed her arm. "No rush."

After the crowd thinned out, Preston finally released her. Sophia watched his tall figure and thought, despite Preston's modest achievements, he was steady and gentlemanly. Spending her life with such a refined person seemed agreeable to Sophia.

Over the next two days, Sophia took time off to care for Fiona at the hospital. Grandma Lewis stayed quiet, not causing any trouble. With Sophia's encouragement, Fiona's appetite improved, and she looked much healthier.

"Mom, why don't you stay with me after you're discharged?"

Fiona hesitated at Sophia's suggestion. "I can't stay with you. Where would Grandma Harris stay then?"

Their apartment was a small two-bedroom place, and Fiona always considered Sophia's needs above her own. She sighed, putting down her cup. "I'll handle my affairs. I'll be discharged tomorrow. You should go back to work."

Sophia sensed something was off with Fiona but couldn't get her to talk about it. The next day, Sophia took Fiona back to the Larry family. Only after Sophia left did Fiona go inside. Watching her mother's lonely figure at the door, Sophia felt sorrowful.

Parked on the roadside, Sophia hesitated before taking out her phone. She considered asking Grandma Harris about her plans. If she wasn't coming soon, Sophia could bring her mother to stay with her temporarily. But after typing a message, Sophia sighed and put her phone away. Grandma Harris treated her like a granddaughter and doing this felt like a betrayal.

Calculating her meager salary, Sophia felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness. She leaned back in her seat, closing her eyes. Preston's call broke the silence.

"What's wrong?"

"Where are you?"

Preston had planned to pick Sophia up from the hospital but sensed something was off from her voice. He switched his phone to his left ear. "What happened to your voice?"

"Nothing, just catching up on sleep."

Relieved Preston didn't press further, Sophia drove back to the office. After a meeting, Preston called his secretary. "Look into what's happening with the Larry family."

Secretary Clarke, known as Preston's right-hand man, worked quickly. By afternoon, he had the information. Knocking on Preston's door, he reported, "Mr. Harris, Gordan Larry’s ex-wife wants to remarry him. Miss Welsh's mother is having a hard time at the Larry family."

Preston paused, gripping his pen. Sophia must be troubled because of this. "Find a single apartment by tomorrow."

Preston glanced up at him. "I want the keys by tomorrow afternoon."

"Understood."

At work, Sophia constantly worried about Fiona. Every call reassured her that Fiona was fine, but Sophia's eyelids twitched, filling her with unease.

"Sophia! Don't forget tonight's dinner with the publisher."

"Got it."

Sophia patted her face, trying to stay alert. This was her first major project being published, and she couldn't afford to mess it up.

"Don't worry, I'll go with you."

Isabella thought Sophia was stressed about the dinner. Grateful for Sophia's help during her divorce, and with Preston recommending a good lawyer, Isabella wanted to return the favor.

At six, Sophia and Isabella arrived at a high-end hotel near their office. Sophia pushed open the door to find the publisher, Mr. Walker, already there.

Mr. Walker stood up, smiling. "Welcome, ladies. I saw the artwork and knew such talent must come from a beautiful woman."

"Thank you for the compliment!"

Isabella, responsible for administrative duties, was strikingly beautiful and eloquent. She skillfully shielded Sophia, her red lips curving into a smile. "Mr. Walker, our little sister here is quite the bookworm. Besides drawing, she doesn't do much else. I'll make sure you have a good time tonight."

As they settled in, Isabella engaged Mr. Walker in conversation. "It seems Miss Welsh is quite popular. I've heard that you're a tough nut to crack, Miss Vincent."

Isabella's reputation preceded her. Pouring Mr. Walker a drink, she clarified, "Mr. Walker, Sophia is different."

She admired Sophia's dedication to her dreams. When Sophia pursued her passion for art, Isabella saw her shine.

"How is she different?"

Isabella carefully clinked glasses with him, allowing Sophia to toast with water instead of wine. "Mr. Walker, even though Sophia doesn't drink, she must show respect. Your support will be remembered when she succeeds."

Sophia went along with the flattery, making Mr. Walker laugh heartily. "Alright, Miss Vincent, you truly are an industry elite!"

Mr. Walker had seen Sophia's artwork and believed her success was inevitable. "Helping Miss Welsh is my honor."

Mr. Walker's eyes lingered on Sophia. "I'm someone who appreciates talent. Here's to your success, Miss Welsh."

Sophia appeared non-threatening, with a fair complexion that blushed easily when she was nervous. Sitting there, she evoked a protective instinct in others.

In his thirties, Mr. Walker was already well-known in the industry. He asked for Sophia's contact information, claiming it was for discussing future projects. With the contract signed, Isabella and Sophia breathed a sigh of relief. Sharing contact details felt natural.

After several rounds, Mr. Walker was thoroughly drunk. Isabella, in high heels, moved briskly. "Sophia, help him into the car. Be careful he doesn't throw up on you. I'll find a designated driver."

Sophia nodded, opening the car door and helping Mr. Walker inside. Just as she pulled out her phone, Mr. Walker grabbed her waist, pressing her against his chest.

"Sophia, I fell for you at first sight..."

"Mr. Walker! Please respect yourself!"

Unlike Isabella, whose beauty was intimidating, Sophia seemed more compliant. Mr. Walker continued his advances, slurring, "Sophia, give me a chance?"

"You're drunk."

"I'm not!"

Sophia struggled to get up, but Mr. Walker followed. Realizing he was faking his drunkenness, Sophia's eyes widened. "You pretended to be drunk?"

Mr. Walker gripped her hand tightly. "Sophia, how else could I get a chance to be alone with you?"