Revoking the Invitation
Sophia Sullivan naturally declined the jade bracelet.
As a chief designer, she had seen countless priceless jewels before.
The underlying meaning in Mrs. Winston's words was crystal clear to her.
She merely smiled faintly before shifting the topic.
"Chloe Evans gained the Winston family's approval the very day she returned to the country."
"Liam Winston mentioned you even dined with her and praised her for being sensible."
"That's why they reinstated their engagement, isn't it?"
Even Mrs. Winston's practiced composure faltered slightly.
In her heart, she knew Sophia was far more intelligent and capable.
But an orphan with no backing, no matter how gentle, couldn't be of much use.
She was simply annoyed that her son had revealed such details.
Chloe, though divorced, had substantial alimony and a family-owned farm that could support Liam's business.
A sharp-minded woman like Sophia would be harder to control.
"I no longer involve myself in company affairs. My future depends entirely on my son."
Mrs. Winston sighed but didn't deny it.
"That girl can't compare to you, but since she's family now, I must consider the bigger picture."
"I truly see you as a daughter, but if Liam's heart isn't with you, what's the point of forcing it?"
Sophia's smile deepened.
She almost wanted to applaud the flawless performance.
Their joint deception had been spun into a narrative of benevolence toward her.
Even the divorce was framed as sparing her further suffering.
What a masterclass in twisting the truth.
"No need. I have standards."
"Once it's over, it should be a clean break."
"I don't do lingering attachments."
Done with pretenses, Sophia cut straight to the point.
"Besides visiting Mr. Winston Sr., I'm here to reclaim The Decagon's invitation."
Her tone remained calm.
"If you truly regard me as family, simply let me see the old gentleman."
Mrs. Winston's smile stiffened.
Her gentle facade cracked, revealing cold calculation beneath.
"The old gentleman is occupied. There's no rush."
"The invitation was indeed secured through your efforts, and the Winstons remember that."
"But what use is it to you now?"
"Without the Winston name behind you, obtaining it wouldn't have been so easy."
Unlike Liam's impulsiveness, she understood how crucial this intelligence network was to their corporation.
"Sophia, I'm thinking of your safety."
"Alone and vulnerable, such a prize makes you a target."
"Consider it a favor to us. Should you ever need help, the Winstons will assist."
"A win-win is better than mutual destruction."
"You're still young. Don't burn all your bridges."
The veiled threat didn't surprise Sophia.
Yet hearing it aloud still chilled her.
Three years of devoted care had led to this.
She had personally brewed medicine and tended to Mrs. Winston day and night during her migraines.
Beneath Sophia's composed exterior lay a fiery spirit.
If I suffer, no one gets to walk away unscathed.
She lifted her gaze slowly, lips curving in derision.
"The Winstons as my safeguard?"
Under her piercing stare, Mrs. Winston felt exposed, as if every hidden scheme had been laid bare.
This woman was far more formidable than she'd realized.
"If The Decagon truly valued the Winstons, why did they require my presence initially?"
Sophia's tone was mild, yet each word struck like a needle.
"Even if you keep the invitation, my name remains on it."
"Since Liam and I are divorced, the Winstons no longer have any right to use it."
Mrs. Winston nearly choked on her tea.
Her expression darkened instantly.
Sophia had outmaneuvered them.
Losing access to The Decagon—the most extensive intelligence network—would leave them blind to A-City's advertising trends.
Their corporate strategy would be severely compromised.
If only they'd investigated thoroughly before finalizing the divorce!
Just then, commotion sounded at the estate's entrance.
"Master Liam and Miss Chloe are back!" Lily Lowell announced cheerfully as she opened the door.
Chloe clung to Liam's arm, her voice saccharine.
"Thank you, Lily."
Entering the parlor, they froze at the sight of Sophia.
Shock flickered in Liam's eyes.
Was this the same plain, docile woman he'd known?
Clad in an emerald dress without a single jewel, yet radiating an undeniable brilliance.
More striking than even that night on the Royal Princess Cruise.
Especially those clear, icy eyes—their detachment unsettled him deeply.