Ethan Sullivan took a seat beside her.
His long legs forced him to bend slightly, his knees pressing against the underside of the front row seats.
"Julian Roscente didn't achieve his current status easily."
Otherwise, the man wouldn't have developed anxiety disorder.
As he spoke, commotion erupted nearby.
A lavishly dressed socialite sat down with visible impatience.
Her entire body glittered with jewels, yet her demeanor reeked of new money.
"Why hasn't it started yet? I'm losing patience! Any more delays and I'll file a complaint!"
Sophia Sullivan glanced up.
The ruby necklace around the woman's neck looked strangely familiar in both design and luster.
Ethan remained oblivious to her reaction, casually remarking:
"That's the work of a famous French designer. The Red Moon necklace—only three exist worldwide."
While limited editions were rare, acquiring one posed no difficulty for someone of his wealth.
"Do you like it, Ms. Sullivan?"
At the mention of "famous French designer," Sophia's expression shifted slightly.
Now she remembered.
This was actually one of her early amateur designs that had somehow skyrocketed in value.
Sophia joked dryly:
"Not particularly. I'm just concerned such a heavy gemstone might cause cervical spine problems."
Frankly, reviewing her old design now, it struck her as overly flashy.
Her lips curved involuntarily.
"Though it does look quite expensive."
Ethan's gaze flickered across her profile.
Her radiant smile lifted his mood, prompting playful banter:
"Ms. Sullivan isn't scheming how to fleece me, is she?"
"Do I seem like that kind of person?"
Ethan deadpanned:
"You're quite skilled at swindling people."
A barely perceptible smile touched his lips as if recalling something amusing.
Numerous eyes in the banquet hall turned toward them.
Unlike the younger crowd outside, most attendees here were middle-aged.
The few juniors brought by elders to gain experience nodded respectfully at Ethan's presence.
Several senior uncles exchanged meaningful glances seeing Ethan and Sophia conversing so congenially.
"Their relationship seems harmonious."
"Indeed. This Ms. Sullivan carries herself with grace—quite unlike the gold-digger rumors suggested."
"Old Mr. Winston has sharp eyes. Even gifting her the blood jade symbolizing heirship—she must possess remarkable qualities."
During the chatter, Isabella Robinson arrived after handling some matters.
She unceremoniously embraced Sophia from behind.
"Darling! I'm back! Ran into those nuisances Chloe Evans and Liam Winston earlier—gave them some well-deserved payback."
Sophia chuckled.
"What reward would you like?"
"Later." Isabella tossed her head triumphantly. "I'm counting on you for something I've got my eye on."
Sophia agreed with an indulgent smile.
Ethan gave her a sidelong look that clearly said "Weren't you just crying poverty?"
Meeting his gaze squarely, Sophia declared:
"What Isabella wants, I want. Tonight's entire event is on Mr. Sullivan."
After a brief silence, Ethan laughed softly.