Liam Winston's gaze pierced through Sophia Sullivan like an ice blade.
They had done thorough research before coming—not only checking the membership list but specifically verifying Sophia's name. The system showed she wasn't a member at all.
A complex mix of emotions swirled in Liam's chest—disappointment mingled with secret satisfaction.
This institution only dealt with elite families. Even they couldn't obtain membership. How could Sophia possibly have connections?
Her evasiveness now only confirmed his suspicion—the woman was clearly bluffing.
"You just got lucky with the medicine last time. Times have changed. Don't tell me you'll be publicly thrown out today!"
Sophia nearly laughed at his words.
Post-divorce Liam seemed to have developed even worse delusions.
She smoothly took Emma Sullivan's hand. "Let's go in. No need to listen to stray dogs barking at the door."
Ethan Sullivan casually adjusted his cufflinks. "Some creatures aren't even worth comparing to dogs."
Liam's face instantly darkened.
That was clearly a veiled insult!
But the trio had already turned toward the institute's entrance without sparing him another glance.
Chloe Evans quickly linked arms with him. "Don't get angry, Liam. Let's follow them in."
They exchanged glances and hurried after the group.
He wanted to witness Sophia's public humiliation firsthand!
As they stepped into the lobby, two black-clad staff members blocked their path.
One raised a restraining hand. "Invitation only."
Liam felt smug. "A pheasant pretending to be a phoenix? Getting lucky once doesn't make you important."
Chloe's lips curved sweetly, her voice dripping with honey. "If sister isn't actually familiar with this place, why put on airs? You're just wasting our treatment time—"
Before she finished, the staff stepped aside for Sophia's group while blocking her and Liam.
"Please leave." The black-clad man's tone brooked no argument. "No unauthorized personnel allowed."
Another staff member gave Sophia a respectful smile. "Ms. Sullivan, the director has been expecting you."
Sophia nodded slightly. "Please lead the way."
Chloe and Liam stood frozen in place.
They were the ones being barred?
Even more unbelievable—Sophia seemed to be on familiar terms with the director!
Understanding flashed in Ethan's eyes. If Sophia promised to cure Emma, she must have her methods.
"Leave immediately!" The staff's tone turned icy.
Chloe suddenly shrieked, "Why can she bring people in? Doesn't this institute have rules?"
Liam laughed bitterly through his anger. "What shady methods did she use to climb her way in? I'll report this to your superiors!"
The thought of all the people constantly defending Sophia made his chest tighten.
Chloe clenched her fists. Her mole at Breeze Perfumes had just been sent to prison by Sophia—old and new grudges rose together.
"Did sister trade something improper for this privilege?" She deliberately raised her voice. "After all, the members here are all M-Country nobility."
Sophia turned with a cold smile. "Is your brain only capable of dirty thoughts? No wonder your face grows more spiteful by the day."