Chapter 324

"Cut to the chase." Sophia Laurent's gaze swept over his sports car. "Got a cigarette?"

"You smoke now?"

"One won't kill me."

Julian Roscente hesitated before retrieving a cigarette case and lighter from his car.

Sophia didn't reach for them, crossing her arms with an amused smirk.

"Fine," Julian sighed in resignation. "I'm not dating a girlfriend—I'm worshipping a living goddess."

He leaned in to light her cigarette.

The flame illuminated her delicate profile.

This marked Julian's first time lighting a woman's cigarette.

Also the first time he realized smoking could look so damn elegant.

"Spit it out." Sophia exhaled a wisp of smoke that veiled her striking eyes.

Julian raked fingers through his hair. "My mother somehow found out about us. Demands I bring you home."

"Our deal was mutual cover, no strings attached."

"Remember." Sophia tapped ash from her cigarette.

"Time to return the favor."

"Sure." Her response came crisp. "Meeting the parents? Consider it handled."

"Seriously?" Julian narrowed skeptical eyes.

"One condition."

"Knew it! What?"

"Let me borrow this car for two days." Her fingertips traced the hood's curve.

Julian's heart lurched. "Easy there!"

"Deal or not?"

"Fine!" He tossed the keys through gritted teeth. "Two days max!"

Sophia caught them midair. "Text me the details. What's your mom's ideal daughter-in-law?"

"Necessary?"

"Obviously." She arched a brow. "I'm a professional."

The cigarette butt spun between her fingers before landing perfectly in the trash.

Julian blinked.

"Come here." She crooked a finger.

"Why?" His feet moved despite the protest.

"Hand on my shoulder."

"Really?" His palm already rested there.

Sophia's eyelid twitched. "What do you call me?"

"Sophia?"

"Wrong."

"Darling?"

"Disgusting."

"How about...tigress?"

"Julian!"

"Vivi—"

"Better."

Julian froze. "Wait—that wasn't me."

They turned in unison.

Evelyn Langley stood at the alley's mouth, her handbag hitting the pavement with a thud.