After Divorce, the Treasure Marries a Tycoon

Staring at the man before her, Sophia Reed realized it had been a long time since she last saw her husband, Alexander Kane.

The last time had been in her private clinic — when he brought Vanessa Cole in for a wellness treatment.

He’d looked at Vanessa with tenderness, yet when his eyes fell on Sophia, there had been only disgust.

“Sophia, you make me sick.”

Tonight was the Kane patriarch’s 80th birthday gala, and the reception hall was filled with laughter and champagne flutes.

Sophia knew Alexander didn’t want to see her, but some things still needed to be said — especially now that the divorce papers were already signed.

Just as she was about to approach the Kane grandmother, a familiar voice stopped her.

“Sophia.”

Vanessa stepped in front of her, holding up her phone. On the screen was a pregnancy test report.

“Look, my child is the heir to the Kane family.”

Sophia froze, her gaze shifting from the report to Vanessa’s belly. Beneath the tight evening gown, it was unmistakably rounded.

So the last “wellness treatment” had been for fertility preparation.

“Do you know why Alexander doesn’t come home anymore?”

Vanessa’s voice dripped with mockery. Seeing that Sophia stayed silent, she smiled smugly.

“Because you’re filthy.”

The words hit Sophia like a knife.

She had loved Alexander since she was young. During their threeyear marriage, she had cooked for him, cared for his home, tried to be the perfect wife.

But no matter how hard she tried, his heart always belonged to Vanessa Cole — his first love.

Seeing Sophia remain quiet, Vanessa took a step forward.

“You really live up to your name — humiliated and worthless. Just step aside already.”

Her face twisted with malice.

“If it hadn’t been for your Reed family’s scheming, if you hadn’t tricked the Kane grandmother, I would be Mrs. Kane right now.”

“Sophia Reed, you deserve to die.”

She grabbed Sophia’s wrist. Sophia, startled, instinctively pulled back.

Vanessa screamed as she stumbled backward, crashing into a tower of crystal champagne glasses — not without yanking Sophia down with her.

Crash!

Glass shattered, and crimson spread across the marble floor.

Sophia fell too, landing hard beside her.

“Ah! She’s killing her!” someone screamed.

Alexander rushed forward.

“Alex…” Vanessa gasped weakly, “It’s not her fault. I slipped… Sophia didn’t mean to…”

She gave Sophia one last glance before fainting.

Alexander’s fury was icecold. He glared down at Sophia, voice trembling with rage.

“Why did you push her?”

The accusation drained all color from Sophia’s face.

Without another glance, Alexander scooped Vanessa into his arms and stormed away.

Moments later, Sophia was dragged into the study.

The noise from the gala faded. Only sunlight filtered through the halfdrawn curtains when Alexander returned, tossing a stack of papers onto the desk.

“I was planning to give this to you after the party. Sign it now.”

Sophia flipped through the divorce agreement — the compensation was generous: thirty million dollars and two downtown apartments.

Her heart sank.

“Is this because of Vanessa?”

Her voice quivered. “It wasn’t my fault. I can prove my innocence. I’ll call the police—”

“Enough!” he snapped. “Haven’t you embarrassed me enough already? I don’t have time for this.”

Sophia’s frail body wavered; she clutched the edge of the desk, tears trembling in her eyes.

“Alexander… are we really divorcing?”

He gave her a look of contempt.

“Three years as Mrs. Kane wasn’t enough for you?”

The words cut deeper than any knife.

To him, she was just a woman who had married for money.

“Sign it.”

He turned and walked away, leaving her in silence.

Through blurred vision, Sophia dialed a number she hadn’t called in years.

“Brother… it’s me. I want to come home.”

A pause. Then a sigh.

“Alright. I’ll come get you.”

No questions, no judgment — only quiet concern.

For Alexander, she had crossed an ocean, stolen her family’s legal documents, and given up a prestigious position at a top medical center.

Now, as she stepped out of the room, she saw her luggage thrown carelessly down the stairs.

Her brown suitcase lay open, clothes scattered everywhere — and among them, the shattered pieces of a mahogany box.

Inside were her stethoscope and medical instruments, now scattered across the marble.

Ignoring everything else, she knelt and carefully gathered them, heart aching.

She hadn’t used this box much since marrying into the Kane family — but it was still her treasure.

When she looked up, someone was standing over her.

A woman leaned lazily against the doorway, phone in hand, looking down at her with a smirk.

“Finally decided to show up? Pack your cheap junk and get out. We don’t need you lowering the Kane family’s class when Vanessa becomes Mrs. Kane.”

“Vanessa…?” Sophia whispered, her heart twisting painfully.

Her fingers clenched around the stethoscope — hard enough that her knuckles went white.

So it was true. Alexander and Vanessa were together.

“Just so you know,” sneered Clara Kane, “Vanessa never actually left my brother. The inheritance trust from Grandma has already been transferred. You’re worthless to the Kane family now.”

She scrolled lazily through her phone. “Leave. Don’t waste my time.”

Clara was twentyeight, twice divorced, notorious for her affairs and indolence.

To her, Sophia was nothing more than a gold digger — the woman who had bewitched the Kane grandmother into forcing Alexander’s marriage for inheritance rights.

Her disdain turned venomous.

“Still dreaming of your fairytale? Without the Kane family, you’re nothing.”

A trophy wife?

Sophia almost laughed.

After placing her instruments back in the box, she rose and followed Clara inside.

Clara had just started another mobile game when Sophia suddenly snatched the phone from her hand.

Smack!

The device hit the floor, screen cracked.

“You bitch! Are you out of your mind?” Clara screamed, lunging forward.

She wasn’t strong — multiple miscarriages had left her frail — and within seconds, Sophia had pinned her down.

Slap!

“If it weren’t for me, your brother would’ve been dead a hundred times over! Who’s the ungrateful one here?”

“You dare hit me?” Clara shrieked.

Another slap.

“I cooked for you, cleaned for you, treated your illnesses — and you call me a trophy wife? Your family is the real parasite!”

“You— you lunatic!”

Clara’s scream turned into a sob. She hadn’t expected the gentle Sophia to snap.

“Siri, call my brother! Now!”

By the time Alexander rushed back, the room was chaos.

Both women were disheveled, bruised, and furious.

“Look at her!” Clara wailed. “Is that how your wife behaves? Like some gutter woman!”

“Sophia,” Alexander’s voice was low and seething. “Apologize to my sister.”

Sophia gave a bitter laugh.

“Apologize? To them?”

She looked at the man she once loved, her heart hollow.

“I must’ve been blind.”

“Apologize. Now.”

Tears burned her eyes, but she held them back.

Instead, she straightened, took out a few folded pages, and spoke quietly — almost peacefully.

“Alexander Kane — let’s divorce.”

“And remember — it’s me, Sophia Reed, who doesn’t want you.”

“From this day on, we’re strangers.”

She flung the divorce papers into his face, grabbed her suitcase, and walked out.

Alexander stood frozen. When he finally reacted, she was already gone.

Bang!

His fist slammed into the wall.

“That damn woman.”

Outside the Kane Mansion, a sleek Alfa Romeo was parked at the gate.

Sophia recognized the plate, smiled faintly, and got in.

“Welcome back, Sophia.”

The deep male voice carried a note of warmth she hadn’t heard in years.

Sophia let out a soft laugh and threw herself into the man’s arms.

“Ethan, I missed you.”

Her second brother, Ethan Reed, chuckled, ruffling her hair affectionately.

“Do you need me to teach that jerk a lesson?”

“No need.”

Sophia’s voice trembled. She sniffled, forcing back her tears.

“From now on, the eldest daughter of the Reed family is back. There’s no more Mrs. Kane.”

“That’s my girl,” Ethan said softly. “You’re the jewel of this family. You don’t need to suffer for anyone.”

“Dad and everyone are waiting at home.”

He wiped the tears from her eyes.

As the car pulled away, Sophia glanced back at the Cole Villa, her expression firm and cold.

Meanwhile, at the Kane Mansion, Alexander sat in silence.

The image of Sophia’s tearstreaked face haunted him.

He rubbed his temples — he must have lost his mind to still be thinking about that “vicious” woman.

The phone rang.

“Speak.”

“Mr. Kane, Miss Cole’s having another bleeding episode—”

Without hesitation, Alexander grabbed his coat and left.

Moments later, he arrived at the VIP suite of a Manhattan hospital.

Vanessa lay pale and weak on the bed.

“What happened?”

“Mr. Kane,” said his assistant James Quinn, bowing slightly, “Miss Cole heard about what happened at the mansion and insisted on finding you. Miss Carter tried to stop her, but she fainted from stress. The doctor’s checked her — the pregnancy isn’t stable. He suggested calling the Ghost Doctor, but… she’s been missing for over three years.”

James’s voice trailed off. The air around Alexander turned frigid.

“From now on, I want updates on Vanessa immediately.”

James nodded but hesitated again.

“There’s… something else. About Mrs. Kane.”

Alexander’s brows furrowed.

“Say it.”

“All traces of her — her photos, her records — they’re gone. It’s as if she never existed.”

Alexander’s eyes narrowed dangerously.

“Find her.”

So the woman had found someone else already?

Back in New York City, at the Reed Estate, Ethan and Sophia stepped inside.

An elderly man with silver hair hurried toward them, voice trembling.

“Why… why didn’t you come home sooner? My child…”

He studied her face, tears glimmering in his eyes.

“Dad…”

Her voice cracked.

Three years — and her father, Mr. Reed, looked so much older. Each wrinkle seemed carved by her absence.

“Come now, Reed,” said a calm male voice beside them.

Sophia turned — it was Adrian Scott, the family’s business partner and Alexander’s fiercest rival.

But she remembered meeting him once before — at a fashion event with Ethan. She had tripped on the stairs, and he had caught her.

He’d smelled faintly of cedar and cold air — like his expression, distant yet strangely familiar.

She had thanked him. He had frowned and replied flatly,

“It was nothing.”

Now, looking into his deep eyes again, Sophia felt that same inexplicable familiarity.

Her lips parted, but no words came.

“You’ve been gone for years,” Adrian said quietly. “Spend time with your family. They’ve missed you.”

Sophia’s cheeks warmed with shame. She had been too stubborn — too selfish.

“Get our guest some water,” Mr. Reed said kindly.

Sophia poured a glass and handed it to Adrian.

“Thank you for everything these years,” she said softly. “Please, have some water.”

The old Sophia Reed would never have acted like this. The new Sophia, however, seemed every bit the polite, graceful woman she had once pretended to be—the perfect wife.

Nathan Torres tightened his grip on the phone in his hand, his tone cool and distant. “No need.”

Sophia’s smile faltered slightly. She was about to politely offer him a seat when he suddenly added, in a low voice, “Thanks.”

The next second, he reached out to take the glass of water from her hand. His fingers brushed hers—accidentally, but unmistakably.

His hand froze for a moment before he snatched the glass and drank deeply.

Sophia looked up at him in surprise.

“I suddenly felt thirsty,” Nathan said, his eyes sliding away, his tone flat. “I’ll be leaving now.”

She watched his back as he walked away, dazed. There was something about him—his aura was dark, selfcontained, and cold.

He was such a strange man, she thought. His moods shifted like the tide—now warm, now distant.

Mr. Reed chuckled gently, his words full of implication. “That young man isn’t bad, is he?”

Sophia lowered her gaze, her voice soft. “I’m not thinking about things like that anymore.”

Once you’ve been wrecked by love, how can you ever believe in it again?

Seeing her sadness, Ethan Reed quickly said, “Since our little sister’s back, we should throw a welcome dinner. Invite everyone from the business and political circles—give her a proper celebration.”

Mr. Reed nodded approvingly. “Good idea. But let’s wait until Sophia’s settled in first. Ask her what she wants. Daniel’s busy with his research, and Liam’s still on set. They won’t make it back right away.”

The Reeds could barely contain their excitement at having Sophia home again, but they kept it beneath the surface, treating her with comforting normalcy.

It was that natural warmth that allowed her to finally relax.

Outside, Nathan lingered at the door for a long moment, watching the family through the open window. His expression softened.

The image of Sophia in that living room lingered in his mind, stirring something unfamiliar.

A longburied memory resurfaced—the face of a much younger girl, bright and fiery.

Back then, she hadn’t been gentle or quiet at all. She was bold, stubborn, quick to anger.

Whenever her parents scolded or punished her, she’d argue right back, her chin lifted defiantly.

It was one autumn years ago. Nathan’s parents had taken him to a small town outside New York to visit a hot spring resort while surveying a new development project.

That day, he tasted the sweetest fruit he’d ever had—given to him by a little girl in a pink sweater.

They’d quickly become friends. When he asked her name, she’d told him it was Sophia Reed.

He never knew that wasn’t her real name—that even her parents didn’t know she used it. Afterward, no matter how hard he searched, he couldn’t find her again.

By the time he finally heard news of her, she was already married. And she hadn’t recognized him—not even as an acquaintance.

The realization had left him bitter for years. He’d spent all this time regretting not finding her sooner, not telling her who he was—leaving Alexander Kane the chance to take her first.

Tonight, he had come back to the Reed Estate. He didn’t want to regret it for the rest of his life.

Later that night, a drowsy Sophia murmured, “Did we know each other before? You seem…familiar to me.”

Her smile pulled him straight back into those sunlit afternoons of their youth—and reminded him of how powerless he’d been back then.

Nathan opened his mouth but said nothing.

Finding the silence dull, Sophia finished the last sip of her water and stood. “If you’re not going to talk, I’m going to bed. Oh—my dad asked you to see him in the study. He said he’s got something for you.”

Watching her leave, Nathan cursed his own cowardice. Just as he turned toward the study, a startled cry broke out—he looked up just in time to see Sophia miss a step and tumble down the stairs.

For a heartstopping moment, everything froze. Then Nathan lunged forward, catching her before she hit the ground.

Even as he held her safely in his arms, the suffocating fear refused to fade.

Before Sophia could even thank him, Mr. Reed emerged from the study, smiling at the sight of the two of them tangled together.

“What are you two up to now?” he said with a laugh. “I heard quite the commotion from my study.”

“It’s wonderful that you’ve come home, Sophia—and your birthday’s just around the corner. We’re planning a gala for you. How does that sound?”

Mr. Reed had waited years for this moment. From the day Sophia married Alexander Kane, he’d known it was a mistake. Now that she’d finally returned, how could he not celebrate?

Sophia’s smile dimmed.

Ethan immediately knelt beside her, saying softly, “Don’t worry. We’ve got nothing to do with him anymore. The gala won’t include him. Just let us spoil you this time.”

Holding her brother’s hand, Sophia felt a warmth she hadn’t known for years. She nodded.

Half a month later, Vanessa Cole had recovered from her injury—but there was still no news of Sophia.

One afternoon, Alexander sat in his office, staring blankly into space when his assistant approached.

“Sir, the Reed family is hosting a gala—but they didn’t send us an invitation.”

The Kanes and Reeds had business ties; not being invited was a direct slap in the face.

But looking at Alexander’s haggard expression, the assistant sighed quietly. “I’ll leave you to rest, sir.”

Alexander turned his gaze toward the city skyline. It had been more than a month since the day Sophia handed him the divorce papers and walked away.

During that same time, Sophia had been surrounded by her family’s affection.

When the night of the gala arrived, she looked ethereal—like a goddess descended from the stars. Her gown shimmered with diamonds, and around her neck gleamed a sapphire necklace said to have cost Ethan two hundred million dollars at auction.

Watching his sister, Ethan’s chest filled with pride.

“You look incredible,” he said warmly. “You stayed with Alexander all those years, and that idiot still chased after some cheap thrill. At least now you’ve kicked him out of your life.”

Their sibling bond was the envy of everyone in the room.

Just as they raised their glasses, Mr. Reed’s voice echoed from the stage.

“Thank you all for coming to my daughter’s birthday gala. Tonight, I have something special to announce. I’m transferring sixty percent of our family company’s shares to my daughter as her birthday gift.”

The ballroom erupted in astonishment. But Mr. Reed wasn’t done.

“And one more thing—our company has invested twenty million in Nathan Torres’s new development project. My daughter will be comanaging it with him.”

Applause thundered through the hall. Mr. Reed smiled, satisfied.

“Dad, I just came home, and you’re giving me so much? Aren’t you worried my brothers will think you’re playing favorites? And why am I joining that project at all?”

Sophia had never seen herself as a businesswoman, and her father’s sudden announcement felt rash.

Ethan ruffled her hair affectionately. “We’d give you everything if we could. None of us would ever be jealous.”

Seeing his children so close warmed Mr. Reed’s heart. He was about to explain the project when Nathan arrived.

Sophia hurried over to pull him in, completely unaware that their hands brushing together had turned her father’s ears red—something he noticed immediately.

“Nathan, tell my dad the truth. I’m hopeless at this kind of work. If I get involved, I’ll only drag you down.”

Nathan’s heart thudded in his chest, but he kept his tone cool. “If Mr. Reed has made the decision, then even if you slow me down, I’ll accept it.”

Sophia nearly groaned in frustration, but Mr. Reed clapped his hands with a laugh.

“See? He doesn’t mind. Work closely with him and learn what you can. I’ve entrusted you with important shares, and you’ll take on more responsibilities soon.”

Just a few words—and Sophia’s eyes welled with tears. She had hoped to live quietly, but her father was pushing her into the business world.

While she was still reeling, Mr. Reed shot Nathan a meaningful look. Whether his daughter’s future would belong to him—or to Alexander—was now up to the younger man.

Then Mr. Reed said, “There are still guests outside. You two should go greet them with your brother.”

Out in the ballroom, Sophia sighed, swirling the wine in her glass. “Maybe Dad thinks I’ve been too lazy lately, so he’s burying me in work.”

Ethan burst out laughing. “Ha! Maybe so. But if Dad’s letting you handle this project, there’s a reason. Don’t stress too much—you’ll do fine.”

“Daniel, it’s barely morning—why are you already fussing with your plants again?”

Yawning and rubbing her sleepy eyes, Sophia stared at her eldest brother, amazed by his energy. Not only had he finished his morning run, but he was also pruning the flowers.

Daniel immediately set down his watering can and pulled out a chair for her.

“Take the day off,” he said. “Oh, and Dad mentioned a contract yesterday. You’re meeting a client about it today.”

Work again. Even with the luxurious breakfast before her, Sophia lost her appetite.

After breakfast, her new personal assistant arrived.

“This is your assistant,” Daniel said. “You can ask him about anything workrelated. He’ll take good care of you.”

The young man adjusted his glasses and extended a polite hand.

“Good morning, Ms. Reed. I’ll be managing your business collaborations from now on. Here’s your schedule for today, and this is the contract you’ll need to review in advance.”

Seeing the thick stack of papers, Sophia nearly cried.

A few hours later, she arrived at the meeting location.

“Has he left yet? Call Nathan Torres and tell him I’m almost at the restaurant,” she said.

Back at the Reed Estate, Mr. Reed dropped his teacup upon hearing that Sophia had left. “Hurry and call Ethan—tell him to remind Nathan she’s on her way!”

Nathan was already drowning in work, but when the call came, his tone remained calm. “Got it. I’m on my way. Meet me at the restaurant.”

His assistant glanced over. “Strange that Mr. Reed chose a restaurant for a business meeting. That’s not like him.”

Nathan shot him a sharp look, and the assistant quickly turned forward again, silent.

When Nathan arrived, he immediately understood.

Sophia was standing there awkwardly, clutching the contract like a shield.

He stepped closer and, with one finger, lowered the papers from her face.

“Why are you hiding? Weren’t you supposed to be meeting your father’s business partner today? What are you doing here?”

Sophia glanced around, confused. “Dad said the client was an older gentleman. I didn’t expect it to be you.”

But they were already here, and the deal was crucial to both families.

She put on a professional smile. “Doesn’t matter who it is—let’s just talk about the contract.”

Before they could enter the restaurant, however, an unwelcome voice interrupted.

“Well, if it isn’t my dear sister. Haven’t seen you since your little disappearance. I thought you’d starved to death by now.”

Sophia froze. That sharp, mocking tone could belong to no one but Clara Kane.

And beside her stood Alexander Kane, his arm around Vanessa Cole.

Sophia’s irritation spiked. Before she could reply, Vanessa sneered, “So that’s why you divorced so quickly. You’d already found yourself a new man.”

Alexander’s eyes flicked to Nathan. The man’s presence was commanding—but Alexander was convinced his own wealth far outmatched him.

He pulled out a black card, tossing it at Nathan’s feet with a smirk.

“The dinner here isn’t cheap. If your boytoy wants to impress you, he can earn it. Have him kneel down and kiss my shoes, and this card’s his.”

Sophia and Nathan exchanged a glance—utterly unimpressed.

Vanessa’s voice turned shrill. “What’s taking so long? Kneel already!”

Nathan stepped forward. They thought he’d submit, and anticipation twisted their faces into grotesque grins.

But instead, Nathan’s foot shot out, catching Alexander squarely in the chest.

At the same time, Sophia slipped behind Vanessa and pressed a pressure point at the base of her neck.

“Ah! Sophia—what did you do? I can’t see! Alexander, help me, I can’t see anything!”

Alexander, winded and speechless from the kick, could only gasp in pain.

Sophia’s voice turned icy. “You two came here to humiliate us, but you’re not even good at that. Keep running your mouths, and next time I’ll make sure you can’t speak at all.”

She bent down, picked up the contract from the floor, and nodded toward the restaurant. “Let’s go, Nathan. We’ve got business to discuss.”

“They’re just biting each other like stray dogs. Why bother with them?”

Sophia Reed wanted to hurry inside with Nathan Torres to sign the contract and finally go home to rest, but that shameless couple wouldn’t let them have peace.

“So that’s it? You can’t outtalk us so you’re leaving? Look at them—walking into a highend restaurant dressed like beggars. Can they even afford to eat here?”

Even after Sophia’s sharp retort had silenced them, Vanessa Cole still refused to back down.

Nervous but pretending to be bold, she clung to Alexander Kane’s arm like a peacock flaunting its feathers. “What’s there to be proud of? The man next to you might be dressed neatly, but he looks just as broke as you are.”

The upscale restaurant was full of wealthy couples coming and going. Hearing Vanessa’s shrill voice, several stopped to watch the commotion.

“What are they arguing about? Blocking the doorway like that—don’t they feel ashamed?”

That was exactly what Vanessa wanted—an audience. With so many people watching, she decided to humiliate Sophia even more.

“You left your husband so quickly because you already had another man lined up, didn’t you? Sister, why must you always rely on men to keep you?”

To describe Sophia Reed as someone who needed to be “kept”? That was beyond insulting.

Sophia immediately dropped Nathan’s arm and slapped Vanessa hard across the face.

“Watch your mouth. We’re here for a business meeting—this contract is in my hand. And you dare say we’re sneaking around? You’re the one playing the mistress!”

Now that she no longer pined for Alexander, Sophia stood tall. Backed by her family, she had every ounce of confidence she needed. Still, her palm stung from the force of that slap.

“Enough nonsense. If you came here to eat, no one’s stopping you. But if you came to pick a fight, take that slap as my warning to you both.”

The sound of Sophia’s hand striking Vanessa’s face echoed. With so many couples watching from outside, the embarrassment was complete.

“Who do you think was the real homewrecker here?” someone whispered.

Vanessa clutched her face, humiliated, while Sophia rubbed her slightly swollen hand and heard the murmurs around them.

She had just returned to her family; any gossip about her would reflect on all of them. So she raised her voice and said clearly, “You all know who I am—Sophia Reed of the Reed family. I come from an old New York business house. Do you think I’d waste my time on another woman’s man? I’m here for business, and this is the proof.”

Sophia lifted the contract high for everyone to see.

The onlookers gasped, and those who had been whispering insults at her turned their words toward Vanessa and Alexander instead.

“So it’s her—the other woman! And now she’s playing the victim. What a joke.”

Embarrassed beyond measure, Vanessa and Alexander quickly fled under the crowd’s scornful stares.

Watching them leave with their heads down, Sophia lifted her chin proudly. “At least they know their place. Next time they try this, they won’t just lose face in public—they’ll be viral online.”

After that, Sophia and Nathan entered the restaurant and signed the contract smoothly. Holding the finalized papers, Sophia smiled in satisfaction.

“No wonder I’m the best—signed faster than expected. I’ll head home now. Thank you for today.”

The name on the contract filled her with joy. She flipped through it a few times before tucking it carefully into her bag.

But Nathan, who had been thanked, didn’t leave right away. Opening the door, he gestured to his car outside. “You came here by cab, right? There are still a few details about the contract I want to clarify with your father. Let me drive you home.”

Sophia had hoped to keep her distance from Nathan, but since he offered a ride—and it was convenient—she got in.

As soon as she fastened her seat belt, her phone buzzed. She picked it up, intending to text her father and brothers that the deal was done, but instead saw a message from Vanessa.

“Don’t think humiliating me today means I’ll back off, Sophia. You’ve stolen from me long enough. Even with your family behind you, you’ll always be an insect beneath my feet.”

Sophia let out a low, chilling laugh.

“What’s so funny?” Nathan asked, eyes still on the road but clearly curious about that dark little smile.

Sophia switched off her phone. “Nothing. Oh, right—you mentioned some contract issues you wanted to discuss with my father. Why not tell me first?”

After all, she was the one responsible for the deal. If there were problems, she needed to know.

After Sophia Reed and Nathan Torres finalized the contract, Sophia rubbed her hands awkwardly.

“Sorry you had to see that mess today.”

Nathan, being an outsider, had unintentionally witnessed far too much of her personal drama with her exhusband. The embarrassment still lingered.

But Nathan didn’t seem the least bit interested in her gossip. He simply draped his suit jacket over his arm and said calmly,

“I’ll drive you home. Your exhusband might still be outside, and I’d rather make sure you get back safely.”

Sophia sighed. “God, today was such a disaster.”

When Nathan folded his chair and started to leave, Sophia followed behind, head down. Just as she raised the contract in her hand, Nathan stopped suddenly—and she crashed right into him.

“Ow!”

She winced, clutching her forehead, glancing around to see what she’d hit—but there was nothing there.

“Why’d you stop so suddenly? That’s gonna leave a bruise for days.”

Nathan turned back; Sophia was still rubbing her forehead, where a red bump had already appeared.

He stayed cool as ever. “Wait in the car. I forgot something inside.”

He returned to the restaurant, while Sophia muttered under her breath and slipped into his car. It was immaculate—just like the man himself.

She glanced around, studying the neat interior. “Of course his car’s cold and lifeless too. No wonder he doesn’t have a girlfriend,” she mumbled.

Before she could snoop any further, Nathan came back. Sophia froze, instantly transforming from snarky commentator to obedient passenger, buckling her seatbelt like a chastised schoolgirl.

“Why aren’t you starting the car? Did you forget something else?”

Ten minutes passed. Nathan still didn’t drive off. The silence inside was suffocating, and Sophia could practically hear her own heartbeat echoing.

Then her phone buzzed sharply, shattering the tension.

She expected it to be from her brother, but the nickname flashing on the screen made her stomach twist. It was her.

The message dripped with malice:

“Pathetic. You think you can play the victim when you’re just the mistress who got caught? Didn’t that slap earlier hurt enough?”

Sophia muttered curses under her breath. Nathan glanced over briefly, then started the car without a word.

When they reached the Reed Estate, Sophia bolted from the car clutching her folder, not even bothering to say goodbye.

Nathan watched her sprint off. “What, is there a maneating lion waiting inside?”

No lion—but plenty of cunning foxes. Nathan was no ordinary man; she’d learned that much today.

Inside, Sophia tossed the folder and her phone onto the couch. “I’ve already signed everything. Nathan said he’ll come by to see Dad later—he’s probably parking now. I’m heading upstairs.”

Without waiting for a reply, she hurried up the staircase, phone in hand, calling someone she hadn’t spoken to in years.

“Hey, my little princess! I thought you’d forgotten about me—it’s been ages.”

The familiar warmth in his voice calmed her nerves, though she stayed cautious. “I ran into Vanessa Cole at the restaurant today. Things got ugly, but it’s over. Now she’s texting me threats—calling me shameless, saying she’ll make me pay. Can you find out what’s going on?”

There was no way Sophia had sent anyone after Vanessa; she’d left the restaurant immediately after the deal. It could only be investigated by her trusted friend.

A while later, Ethan Reed showed up with a basket of fruit.

“Dad wants you to start getting familiar with the company. Most of the shares will be under your name, so he’s pushing hard. Don’t take it personally—he just wants you prepared.”

Inside her room, Sophia was nibbling an apple, her brow furrowed. Ethan looked at her worriedly but still reminded her, “Don’t overwork yourself.”

“I know Dad means well,” she said softly. “But honestly, shouldn’t you be the one running the family business?”

Ethan didn’t answer—he had his own plans. He handed her a glass of milk. “I know you were up late last night. Drink this and get some rest. Oh, and Dad wants Nathan to stay for dinner tonight—so be ready.”

They both knew what that meant. Mr. Reed clearly wanted Sophia and Nathan to grow closer—maybe even spark something. Anything to make her forget Alexander Kane, that worthless man.

Sophia groaned inwardly. Marry Nathan? That cunning fox? He’d peel my skin before kissing me.

“I know, Ethan. You can go.”

The next day, Sophia finally had a rare quiet morning. She was lounging in the sundrenched garden when her phone rang, shattering the peace.

“You’ve been quiet forever—cat got your tongue?” she snapped.

The caller hesitated, stammering nervously, “Wait—Vanessa Cole wants to talk to you.”

Sophia frowned, rubbing her temples. “Vanessa? What does she want now? If she’s got a grudge, she can come to my house and say it to my face. No need to stalk me through you.”

“You forgot? Before your divorce, she fell sick—she’s been trying to contact the Ghost Doctor for treatment. That’s… you. Naturally, she reached out to me.”

Sophia smirked. “Oh, that’s interesting.”

As ideas for mischief danced in her head, the voice on the phone hurried her. “She’s ready to pay up front. Do you want the job or not? If you don’t, I’ll just decline her offer.”

“Take it. Tell her to meet me at Uptown Café.”

She hung up, stroked the cat sleeping in her lap, then stood. “Time to handle some business.”

But just as she grabbed her coat, Ethan appeared at the garden gate.

“Dad wants you to attend a gala tonight—with Nathan Torres. Maybe pick out a new dress while you’re out. You’ve been gone for years, Sophia—you deserve some new clothes.”

Sophia stopped midstride. “Nathan again? And a gala? Why am I suddenly his plusone?”

Ethan chuckled. “Can’t tell you that. Just don’t forget the dress.”

He left her to stew in frustration. Sophia glared at his retreating back, then down at her cat. “You live the good life, huh? I’ve got work to do.”

She tossed on her coat and left for the café.

A few blocks away, Vanessa Cole arrived in a chauffeurdriven car, sunglasses and all, dressed like she was heading for a fashion shoot.

“Remember,” she told the driver, “the Ghost Doctor doesn’t like chatter. Let me do the talking.”

The chauffeur just sighed, pocketing the keys before following her inside.

Vanessa scanned the café, then froze.

“Well, well. Sophia Reed. Didn’t your sugar daddy have you on a leash? What are you doing here alone?”

Sophia stirred her coffee lazily. “You really don’t learn, do you? Keep running that mouth, and it’s your face that’ll pay for it.”

Vanessa’s smile turned sharp. She lunged to grab the cup and throw it—but Sophia flicked it aside before she could.

“You—!”

“What, me? I reserved this table, ordered this coffee. You trying to steal from me now? Has your family gone so broke you’ve resorted to scavenging leftovers?”

The entire café went silent. Every head turned toward Vanessa.

“She’s dressed to impress but can’t afford her own drink,” someone whispered. “Guess even the rich can go broke.”

Vanessa’s cheeks flushed crimson. She yanked her sunglasses back on, hissing, “You only have money because your man pays for everything. I’m not here to fight—I’m here to meet someone important. You’re not worth my time.”

The chauffeur frowned. “Strange. The Ghost Doctor should be here by now… but everyone here’s on a date. Are we early?”

“Doesn’t matter,” Vanessa said stiffly. “We’ll wait. It looks better that way.”

From her corner, Sophia smirked. Watching Vanessa make a fool of herself was almost too easy. She picked up her coffee and began walking toward them, ready to play her next move.

Sophia Reed swirled the coffee in her cup, glancing at Vanessa Cole, who was sitting with the Kane family’s butler. A teasing smile curved her lips.

“Vanessa, you really don’t have much taste, do you? You’re actually out on a date with Alexander Kane’s butler?”

Vanessa, humiliated, slammed her hand on the table and shot to her feet.

“What the hell are you talking about? I’m here with the butler to meet someone, not that it’s any of your business. Stop standing here making a scene. If you keep running your mouth, I’ll have you thrown out.”

The outburst drew curious stares from around the Uptown Café. Customers were now glancing their way, whispering.

Sophia raised a brow. She hadn’t come here to provoke anyone today, but seeing as the café was part of the Reed family’s chain, Vanessa had no right to kick her out.

So Sophia calmly took a seat, coffee in hand. “Why so nervous? The more worked up you get, the more I think I’m right.”

She took another slow sip, savoring it.

“You said you’re here to meet someone. Care to tell me who?”

“You have no right to know. Besides, don’t you dare sit there—you’re in Ghost Doctor’s spot. You’re not even worth a single finger of his. Get up.”

Sophia almost laughed out loud. The Ghost Doctor you’re waiting for is sitting right in front of you, and you can’t even tell.

But she didn’t bother explaining. After a few sarcastic remarks, she returned to her seat, enjoying her drink in peace.

The butler gave Vanessa a stern look. “Why are you bickering with her? We’re here on business. If we fail to meet the Ghost Doctor because of your temper, it’ll be a real problem back home.”

Vanessa shut her mouth, but impatience crept in as time dragged on. “Is something holding the Ghost Doctor up? We’ve been waiting for half an hour already. Why isn’t he here yet? Call him.”

Sophia twirled her phone between her fingers, waiting for that call.

A moment later, the butler pulled out his phone and dialed. “Dr. Ghost, may I ask when you’ll be arriving at the café? My lady and I have been waiting quite a while. Are you on your way?”

Sophia crossed one leg over the other, examining her nails with detached amusement before responding.

“I’ve been here for quite some time already. You just didn’t recognize me—and tried to provoke me instead. Tell me, why should I help you now?”

The butler froze. What? They had followed the instructions exactly. He scanned the café, realizing the only person they had argued with was… Sophia.

His face went pale. “Dr. Ghost… may I ask what you’re wearing today?”

“Pink. Figure it out yet?”

It hit him like a thunderbolt.

Vanessa, still oblivious, asked anxiously, “Where is the Ghost Doctor now? The patient is waiting! If we can’t find him, it’ll be a disaster!”

The butler sighed and pointed toward Sophia, who was lazily inspecting her manicure. “There. The Ghost Doctor is right there. We just quarreled with her. Tell me, why would she treat us after that?”

Vanessa stared in disbelief. “You’re saying Sophia is the Ghost Doctor? That’s impossible! She’s a useless nobody!”

Sophia didn’t bother replying. She simply said into the phone, “Our appointment’s long past, and after that little argument, there’s no reason to meet anymore.” Then she hung up, left a tip on the table, and walked out.

Vanessa sank into despair. The Ghost Doctor is Sophia? If she’d known, she would never have come. But now it was too late—Sophia was the only one who could help, and she’d just walked away.

The butler looked equally frustrated. How could we have lived under the same roof and not known she had this identity?

“This is serious,” he muttered. “We’d better go back. I need to report this to Mr. Kane.”

Meanwhile, Sophia sat in her car outside, watching through the window as Vanessa and the butler argued, their faces twisted with humiliation. That sight alone made her trip worthwhile.

Once they left, she put on her sunglasses, started her Alfa Romeo, and drove off—smiling, utterly satisfied.