Sophia Sullivan carried Emma Sullivan out of the examination room.
She turned to Ethan Sullivan. "The test results are ready. I know you're concerned, so I contacted Ian Gallagher from the top medical team to oversee the treatment."
A gentle voice spoke behind them. "Sophia, long time no see."
Sophia turned. A blond man with blue eyes stood there in a white coat, his black shirt collar slightly open. He adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses with a warm smile.
Sophia looked surprised. "Ian? It really is you."
"Of course." Ian stepped closer. "I cleared my schedule when I heard you were coming."
His gaze lingered on Sophia's face with quiet assessment. "You've changed."
The old Sophia had been like an unsheathed blade—sharp and unyielding. Now she resembled polished jade, smooth yet still formidable beneath the surface.
Sophia smiled faintly. "People change."
"Even your tastes?" Ian raised an eyebrow. "Last time, you loved that steakhouse. I bought and renovated it just for you. Pity you never returned."
Ethan stood nearby, his brow furrowing slightly. The foreign doctor spoke flawless English, and his familiarity with Sophia was... unexpected.
Sophia replied evenly, "I don't care for steak anymore."
Ian studied her thoughtfully before turning to Ethan. "You must be Mr. Sullivan. Ian Gallagher, overseeing this case."
Their eyes met across the hallway.
Ethan's expression remained neutral. "The patient's guardian."
Ian's eyes narrowed slightly behind his glasses. "An honor."
The brief exchange crackled with unspoken tension.
Ethan sensed the underlying hostility. This doctor's attitude toward Sophia went beyond mere acquaintance.
Ian smoothly redirected to Sophia. "I'll monitor the treatment personally. Dinner tonight? There's a new Japanese place—"
Before Sophia could answer, Ethan stepped forward. "She has prior commitments."
Ian smiled. "Mr. Sullivan seems very familiar with Sophia's schedule?"
"Naturally." Ethan's voice stayed calm. "I'm her fiancé."
The air turned glacial.
Sophia stared at Ethan in shock. Ian's smile faded, his glasses glinting coldly.
"Fiancé?" Ian repeated softly, his gaze shifting between them. "That's... new."
Ethan pulled Sophia closer. "So your concern is unnecessary."
Ian adjusted his glasses, his smile returning. "In that case, I should be an even better host. After all..." He paused meaningfully. "I know Sophia's preferences best."
Their three shadows stretched long under the hallway lights, locked in silent confrontation.
The tension broke when Emma stirred slightly in Sophia's arms.