James was deeply concerned that Sophie might misunderstand him. Furrowing his brow, he exined,


    “I just…”


    “I know what you mean. I was just teasing you; don’t take it so seriously.” Sophie wore a smile, but her


    eyes betrayed ack of


    amusement.


    James was willing to introduce her to some key yers in the business world, and she was more than


    happy to ept. Whether it would cuters for her, she couldn’t be sure, but at least she’d be a


    familiar face.


    Sensing that Sophie wasn’t upset, James finally felt relieved. “Colt is waiting for us downstairs.”


    James extended his hand to Sophie, signaling his readiness to leave. Sophie understood the gesture


    but didn’t ce her hand in his.


    “You go ahead,” she suggested. “Just text me the location.”


    “Are we not going together?”


    “I’d like to change my outfit.” Sophie spread her arms wide, showcasing her simple attire. She hadn’t


    even put on makeup before leaving the house that day.


    James chuckled, “You look great in anything. There’s no need to dress up.”


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    “But how can that be? We’re meeting important people, after all. I should dress nicely toplement


    your handsome and dashing appearance.”


    This brought a shallow smile to James‘ face. “Alright, then I’ll have Colt escort you.”


    “No, thanks.” Sophie quickly refused, “I can manage on my own.”


    € 9 6 8 ￡ 7 9 § 9 5 5


    James watched Sophie for a moment, smiled softly, and said, “Just be safe on your way, then.”


    “Will do.” Sophie turned and left James‘ office.


    James watched her leave and sank into thought.


    Once downstairs, Sophie called Ada. “Has Nichole already left?”


    “She’s left, Ms. Sophie. Do you want me to call her back?”


    *Just arrange a meeting. I’ll send you the location shortly.”


    “But it’s gettingte.”


    “Don’t worry, she’lle.”


    Sophie knew that if James was expected to appear somewhere, Nichole would certainly make an


    appearance as well.


    After receiving the restaurant’s address from James, Sophie forwarded it to Ada.


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    Ada: [What if Nichole doesn’te?]


    Sophie: [Just casually mention that the CEO of Burke International will also be at the restaurant.]


    Ada: [Understood, Ms. Sophie.]


    After ending the conversation, Sophie returned to the Burke residence.


    Ca cheerfully came to open the door, but her face fell when she saw Sophie was alone.


    “Didn’t Jamese back with you?”


    “He didn’t. You seem a bit disappointed.” Sophie hinted, and Ca quickly responded, “No, ma’am,


    you’re overthinking it. I was just asking.”


    “Is that so? Well, I was also just asking, no offense meant.” Sophie smiled and said, “I’m just here to


    change and quickly put on some makeup.”


    =