Chapter 362

Julian Roscente burst into laughter.

"What's so funny?" Sophia Laurent glared at him.

"Should I cry for you instead?"

"Go ahead. I've got tissues."

"......"

Julian pulled out his lighter.

Sophia reached out.

He thought she was offering to light his cigarette, but—

Smack!

She slapped his hand away. "I want the cigarette! Why are you handing me the lighter?"

Julian: "?"

He lit his own first, then wisely leaned in to light hers.

The flame flickered, illuminating her face.

She lowered her head, biting the filter between her lips. The red stain of her lipstick lingered on the paper.

Julian stared, mesmerized.

"Hey. Put it away."

"......Oh!" He fumbled to pocket the lighter.

They stayed at the bar until dawn, finishing an entire bottle of wine.

Too drunk to drive, Sophia opened the ride-hailing app.

Thirty-six people ahead in the queue.

She: "......"

"Don't bother. You won't get a driver here at this hour."

"Then I'll take a cab and pick up my car tomorrow."

The taxi app showed an even longer wait.

Sophia rolled her eyes. "How are you getting home?"

Julian: "I'm not."

"Hm?"

He pointed across the street. "See that hotel?"

Sophia arched a brow. "And?"

"It's mine."

"So?"

"Just stay there. Easy."

Sophia's eyes lit up. "Makes sense. Let's do that."

Cough—

"We?" Julian choked on his own spit.

Sophia was already striding toward the road. "What are you waiting for? Let's go check in!"

The night breeze lifted her hair, her silhouette striking against the city lights.

Julian hurried after her. "Watch for cars!"

The front desk clerk immediately greeted him. "Good evening, Mr. Roscente."

"Get her a room."

Sophia: "What about you?"

"I have a permanent suite."

"Then I want one too."

Julian scoffed. "No shame, huh?"

"As your official girlfriend, shouldn't I get some perks?"

"Fine." Julian turned to the clerk. "Prepare a permanent suite for her as well."

Sophia took the keycard with satisfaction.

They rode the elevator to the top floor, their rooms facing each other.

Julian had just showered and settled in when the doorbell rang.

The manager stood there, grinning obsequiously as he ushered in a woman. "Mr. Roscente, this is Danielle. New here."

"Take good care of him." The manager winked.

"Hello, Mr. Roscente." The woman curtsied, her voice dripping sweetness.