Upon hearing that Burke International had responded, Sophie curiously unlocked her phone, only to see that Burke International had indeed set up a separate social media ount, freshly created under the name James Studio.


    The only post read: [No to sensationalism.]


    This update from James Studio made Sophie sit upright on the couch, her brows furrowed as she asked Tricia on the phone, "Is this ount reliable?"


    "People have looked into it already. It''s verified by the social media tform, so it should be legit."


    The tone and approach used were so characteristic of James.


    He had always disliked being entangled in troubles. Hence, his actions were always decisive and straightforward.


    Yet...


    Sophie reminisced about their life-and-death experiences on a deserted ind and wondered why James would now use such tactics to strike at her and S Corporation.


    Tricia said, "Ms. Sophie, everyone thinks we are seeking publicity, and your public image has taken a hit. Even the previous adored pairing between you and James has..." "I understand."


    Fans witnessing their public spat transformed, with the better ones bing neutral, but the majority, driven by disappointment, turned against her, severely impacting her personal image. Sophie acknowledged the current state of her public image online and said indifferently, "Let it be; no need to fuss over it."


    "But..."


    "Remember, I''m no longer the CEO of S Corporation, so my personal image won''t affect thepany. Don''t worry, this will blow over soon."Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Sophie''s words were light, but Tricia couldn''t help but worry about how others would perceive Ms. Sophie.


    "By the way, keep an eye on Burke International."


    Then, Sophie hung up the phone.


    She and James had once turned their rivalry into an alliance, with bothpanies maintaining a friendly rtionship. Now that


    James had unexpectedly turned


    hostile, causing several of S Corporation''s projects to fail, she régretted not having anticipated his actions sooner...


    Sophie, worn out, rubbed her temples.


    As dusk fell, she fell asleep on the couch, vaguely feeling someone lifting her up and cing her gently on a soft bed.


    Barely awake, Sophie opened her eyes to indeed find Colby''s face. In the dim bedroom, lit only by moonlight, Colby''s features appeared softer than usual.


    "Lazy kitten." Colby gently kissed her forehead.


    Sophie smiled, her eyes filled with tender affection. "Finished with work?"


    "Everything was hands-on, and the venue was decorated with your favorite roses."


    Colby''s voice was deep, his eyes shimmering with unhidden joy as he lightly brushed a stray hair from Sophie''s temple, asking, "Do you like the engagement dress I picked out for you?" "I absolutely love it."


    Sophie wrapped her arms around


    Colby''s neck His kisses moved down from her forehead, inch by inch, kissing her skin until his lips met hers. The taste of citrus candy seeped into her mouth, prompting her to kiss him back greedily.


    In the heat of the moment, Colby''s voice was low, filled with restraint and longing. It turned into a whisper, "Sophie, I am yours."


    The engagement day arrived, and


    Lennon had booked the Regent


    Hotel for the banquet, insisting onavish seven-day and seven-night feast, while the Burke family''s engagement party was held at the Four Seasons Hotel next door.