Noah Valentine initially thought this was just another overzealous fan trying to cut in line.
He never expected to see Sophia Sullivan here.
The woman he believed he'd never meet again in this lifetime.
Sophia's gaze lingered on his face, her lips curving into a faint, knowing smile.
"What a coincidence."
Noah's breath hitched for a fraction of a second.
He quickly composed himself, flashing a practiced, professional smile.
"Indeed. Let's talk in the lounge."
He turned to whisper instructions to a staff member.
Then bowed apologetically to the waiting readers.
"Please excuse me for a moment. A private matter requires my attention."
"All drinks today are on me."
He led Sophia backstage, his steps slightly hurried.
The lounge dazzled with ostentatious decor.
Sophia scanned the surroundings, her smile turning icy.
Every poster and illustration on the walls bore traces of her discarded drafts.
Those abandoned sketches had become someone else's golden goose.
Noah eagerly poured her tea.
"Sophia, it's wonderful to see you again."
"I was so worried when you suddenly disappeared."
His tone dripped with convincing sincerity.
Sophia rotated her teacup slowly.
"Your manga isn't original."
The air froze.
Noah's smile stiffened.
He inhaled deeply, adopting a regretful expression.
"I did reference your leftover manuscripts from Italy."
"But I thought something terrible had happened to you..."
"Such brilliant work shouldn't be wasted."
His words sounded earnest, but his eyes darted nervously.
Sophia locked eyes with him.
"Why put your name on them?"
Noah's fingers tightened imperceptibly.
"You always hated publicity."
"Besides, I completely reworked these pieces..."
"They're nothing like your old drafts anymore."
His voice gradually darkened.
Ten years of poverty in Italy had hardened him.
Now that he'd finally achieved success, no one would take it away.
Sophia's voice cut like winter frost.
"You once said you despised plagiarism most."
The words stabbed Noah like a blade.
He shot to his feet, face darkening.
"Dreams?"
"When you're starving with empty pockets..."
"You'll understand how ridiculous dreams are!"
A decade of struggle had eroded his principles.
Noah smirked coldly at Sophia.
"Why play the victim?"
"They were just trash you threw away."
"Consider this a favor."