Since the heated argument between herself and Tristan that night, Sophia didn’t find her husband coming in for the last two nights to sleep or change into work clothes in their room. They didn’t even meet face to face at breakfast or dinner. Samanta knew that her husband spent time after time resting in his study.
Sophia had been trying to ignore it. It was even hard to instill in him the belief that what Tristan was saying right now was just a big lie. Until the turmoil returned, Sophia couldn’t stand it. Then chose to take his feet down the stairs for the sake of visiting at night to Aurora’s room.
“Aurora …” she called softly as he knocked lightly on Aurora’s door. Sophia’s eyes were wary. Looking around, afraid that Tristan or someone else would see what he was doing.
“Sophia,” Aurora exclaimed when she opened the bedroom door. Without permission, Sophia immediately brought her right hand to purse Aurora’s lips without allowing the beautiful woman to ask a lot of questions. Gently pushing the woman’s body to step back into the room immediately.
“Sssss!” Still silencing Aurora’s lips, Sophia could be heard hissing. “Don’t make a fuss, Aurora. I don’t want others to know that I’m in your room at this time of night,” she said, then slowly removed his hand from Aurora’s face.
“What’s going on?” asked Aurora almost in a whisper. Being warned by Sophia made her join in on speaking quietly. Not immediately answering, Sophia pulled Aurora’s wrist again. Brings the woman to immediately sit on one side of the sofa in the room.
“There’s something I want to ask you. And I think it’s very important. That’s why I can’t put it off any longer.”
For a split second, Aurora was stunned. Of course, he was curious about what kind of important things brought Sophia to his room late at night.
“What do you want to ask?” Aurora couldn’t hold back her curiosity anymore. The woman changed her sitting position to be more inclined towards Sophia.
“If I had known, I would have told you,” she continued. “Looks like this…” Sophia said as she stared at the other person in front of her. “Right now, I’m confused. At first, married Tristan because I felt he loved me so much. But as I have told you, he suddenly turned into a person I didn’t know right on the first night. So, what I want to confirm with you is, Is it true that Tristan deliberately married me because he wanted revenge for the death of his parents?”
For the sake of hearing this, Aurora choked on her saliva. She was, of course, surprised and, at the same time, wondering how Sophia knew about this. Was it Tristan’s intention to tell, or maybe Sophia did find out herself.
“Aurora …” Sophia called when she found the other person was silent. “Please, please answer my question. Is it true that Papa Tristan died because of my Papa’s actions?”
Aurora seemed to sigh repeatedly. Thinking about where to start this story.
“My …”
“Yeah. What am I, Aurora?” Sophia continued to chase. Can’t wait to hear an explanation from a woman who has known Tristan all this time.
“Before that, may I ask you something?” Aurora slowly began to speak. “How did you know about Papa Tristan’s cause of death?”
“Tristan himself said it a few days ago,” Sophia answered loudly without hiding it. “He also confirmed that he had been marrying me on purpose because he wanted revenge on the Adelaide family. Tristan even accused him openly that it was my Papa who killed Papa Andrew.”
Aurora changed her facial expression. Looking more serious, Sophia was immediately affected by the change in the other’s expression.
“Look, Sophia,” said Aurora, starting the conversation fairly calmly. “About five or six years ago, Uncle Andrew and your Papa were involved in a dispute that strained their relationship for some time. Until then, one day, the two of them were reunited in an important meeting. After the meeting, your Papa took Uncle Andrew and my Papa to lunch together. He reasoned that he wanted to talk about their friendship and wanted to fix it.”
“Then what happened then?” interrupted Sophia impatiently.
Aurora brought her hand to pat Sophia’s thigh lightly.
“Between the three of them, it was my Papa who couldn’t go because he had to entertain a business colleague who came from Zurich. That’s why your Papa and Uncle Andrew decided to go without my Papa. Unfortunately, in the middle of the road, the car they were traveling in suddenly lost control and crashed into the concrete barrier of the tunnel. The three victims, including the driver, were seriously injured. Uncle Andrew even lost his life exactly six hours after the incident.”
Straightening her body, Sophia seemed unmoved. Letting her gaze linger on Aurora’s face. Even though it’s been explained in such a way, many things are still bugging her heart.
“How did Tristan know that my Papa was at fault in this accident? He even became a victim. I remember, at that time, my Papa came to Hamburg in a physical condition that was not fine. Even almost paralyzed because of the accident. Then, how can he be accused of being the mastermind behind Uncle Andrew’s death?”
Aurora sighed softly. She wasn’t surprised when Sophia doubted what she had just said. “I’m confused about it, Sophia. We were not at the scene of the crime. But according to my Papa’s story, long before this accident happened, the cause of Uncle Andrew and Uncle Alfonso’s relationship was strained because your Papa had cheated. He is trying to take over Foxtail secretly. Most likely, your Papa deliberately planned the accident to regain control of Foxtail. Your papa is also a victim to trick people so that he doesn’t become the accused,” Aurora explained at length.
“But there is no concrete evidence that my father is guilty in this matter, right?” Sophia interrupted again. “This story is only from your Papa’s point of view. Aurora.”
Aurora nodded. Didn’t argue with Sophia’s thoughts.
“Not only that, Sophia. Uncle Andrew’s driver even testified that your Papa strongly forced Uncle Andrew to come with his car at that time. Even though since the first time they were friends, they always went everywhere in their vehicles.”
This time Sophia shook her head in disbelief. She openly refused to believe what Aurora had said. “No, Aurora. This is not true. I’m sure this is all nothing more than a misunderstanding. My father is not a murderer. It could be that your Papa made up all these stories,” Sophia accused later.
Another sigh escaped Aurora’s nose. She was lazy to get involved in this kind of problem. So, instead of arguing or taking sides, the beautiful woman decided to act neutral because neither of them held any real evidence.
“Sophia, I hope this is just a misunderstanding so that the grudge running through Tristan subsides. And that way, he can immediately divorce you and marry me as he promised.”
After hearing the last sentence, Aurora said, Sophia’s brow furrowed deeply. She didn’t expect this one fact.
“Tristan wants to marry you?”
Aurora nodded casually. It didn’t matter. The woman in front of him looked disappointed. “Before meeting you, Tristan and I had agreed to get married, Sophia. Then suddenly, he has a plan to marry you to avenge the death of his parents. What can I do? After all, he has promised to keep marrying me after proving your Papa’s guilt.”
“No, Aurora.” Sophia objected again. “I told you my Papa was innocent. Your accusations are completely unfounded.”
Aurora smiled faintly. Then returned to Sophia’s words.
“I’m pretty sure Tristan must have told you that he was gathering evidence. My advice, if you want to make sure it’s true, why don’t you ask your Papa right away so you can hear this story from both sides.”
To hear Aurora’s suggestion, the next day, Sophia deliberately vacated her schedule to meet her father in his office. A little hasty steps, he immediately brought his feet to go to the leadership room on the 25th floor of the Beckley building.
However, just like what happened in Tristan’s office the other day, Sophia accidentally overheard her father’s conversation with his assistant this time. There is one important fact that finally made him shocked.
***
Exactly one day after Sophia’s confusion, she celebrated her birthday as planned. Located at the residence of the Adelaide extended family, a garden party was designed to be so private but still seemed luxurious and festive.
Since morning Sophia seemed so busy preparing everything. As soon as night fell, she entertained all guests to enjoy the ongoing party. Tristan himself has not seen the bridge of his nose at all. After all, Sophia didn’t care if the man didn’t show up for the event she had organized tonight.
“Sophia… congratulations on your birthday.” Edward, who then came with his two friends, immediately greeted. The well-built man, without even being awkward, immediately threw a warm hug to Sophia. “Thanks, Edward,” he said after breaking the hug. Seconds later, Sophia’s gaze shifted to another figure standing next to her. “Thank you also to Jacob, Tita, Nicholas and Claire for the time you have taken to attend this party. I am really honored to receive your arrival,” she said sincerely.
“No need to be shy, Sophia,” Nicholas replied. “We already consider you like a brother to us. So it’s only right that we are also present to enliven your birthday party this time.”
A smile continued to grow on Sophia’s tiny lips. He was so touched by the appreciation given. “Honestly, I’m really flattered.”
“No need to exaggerate.” It was Jacob’s turn to chime in. Then not long after that, the man suddenly asked a question that made Sophia stutter.
“By the way, where is Tristan? I haven’t seen him here since then.”
Sophia rolled her eyes. Trying to find the right reason so that her husband’s friends don’t have the slightest suspicion about Tristan, whose form has not yet been seen.
“Tristan had previously given the news that he would be arriving a little late. There are some jobs that he can’t just leave.”
“Tristan works on Sundays? Seriously Sophia,” Edward protested. His voice was palpable. “Besides, it’s your birthday. Maybe that guy is more concerned with his job.”
Sophia smiled awkwardly. In my heart, I cursed myself. Why was it so stupid to find the right reason to arouse suspicion in Edward’s eyes.
“It’s okay, Ed,” Sophia said, trying to calm down. He kept his face, so he didn’t look nervous. “Tristan has been really busy these past few days. Even if he’s late, it’s no big deal for me.”
“Well then,” Nicholas interceded. “We’d better just enjoy the party going on.”
Directing her husband’s friends to enjoy the available dishes immediately, Sophia returned to receive other guests. Until when she had a guest who was a friend of her profession.
“Sophia Adelaide,” one of the men greeted very kindly. Dressed in a semi-formal attire of the same color, he unhesitatingly stepped forward towards Sophia.
“God, Lucas Martin. I thought you weren’t coming tonight.” The man named Lucas smiled wryly. The sweet smile plastered on his face makes anyone who sees it immediately fall in love.
Lucas Martin is a male model who is so famous for his charming looks and already high flying hours. Sophia even felt lucky to be the man’s partner.
“How could I not come to the birthday party of a woman as beautiful as you, Sophia. Congratulations again on all the best wishes. To be honest you looked absolutely amazing tonight. Oh, no . . . no.” The man immediately corrected his words. “You’ve always been amazing in your every appearance.”
Sophia’s cheeks immediately flushed red with flattery. He cleared his throat to eliminate the awkwardness that hit before, then said again, “Don’t praise me too much, Luc. You embarrass me.” ”
I really do.” Seconds later, without awkwardness, Lucas grabbed Sophia’s wrist. He intended to kiss the back of the beautiful woman’s hand.
However, before the intention was realized, from behind, suddenly another figure appeared. He immediately hugged Sophia from behind without even the slightest hesitation as she reprimanded him.
“Honey…” he called affectionately. “I’ve been looking for you everywhere. It turns out that you are here.”
“Tristan,” Sophia muttered, turning her head. Of course, she was surprised to find his husband, who suddenly appeared behind her.
“Yes?” Still, in a state of hug, the man spoke softly again. “You don’t want to introduce me to your friends, hm?”
Having been stunned for a few seconds, Sophia nodded awkwardly when Tristan loosened his embrace.
“Lucas, introduce me this is Tristan.”
Lucas, who was silent for a moment, finally offered his hand. Kindly invite Tristan to get acquainted. “Lucas Martin. Sophia’s Partner. Nice to meet you.”
Tristan flashed a smile. Then he accepted Lucas’ hand.
“Tristan Quartararo. Sophia’s husband.”
The man then leaned slightly and then spoke again slowly but with emphasis.
“Since you two are work partners, you should also know that this beautiful woman already has a husband. So I hope you don’t even think about approaching her, let alone to dare to seduce her.”
Right after those words slipped from Tristan’s lips, he immediately pulled Sophia to come with him without permission. Bringing his wife immediately to one corner of the room, which is a little quiet, to talk one-on-one.
“Sophia, are you really a bitch?” Tristan said bluntly. His eyes were fixed on Sophia’s blue bead.
“What do you mean?” Sophia asked disapprovingly.
“You ask what I mean?” From the corner of Sophia’s eye, she could see how her husband was smiling wryly at his appearance tonight. Wrapped in a tight gold-colored long dress, slightly transparent. And the high cleavage almost touches the top of the thigh. Sophia does look so sexy.
“Oh come on. Don’t play dumb.” Tristan continued speaking. “Why are you dressed so sexy, huh? Are you deliberately trying to attract the attention of the single men present at your birthday party?”
Sophia brought her hands together, then deliberately wrapped them around Tristan’s neck. Smiling, the woman whispered.
“Why is that? Are you jealous?”
Tristan smiled back. Seconds later gently pushed Sophia’s body so that both of her shoulders were leaning against the room’s wall.
“Me? Jealous? Don’t be too confident, Sophia.”
“So what’s the name?” Sophia’s eyes narrowed sharply.
While Tristan brought his face closer, then answered slowly. “I told you. I don’t like my belongings to be disturbed, let alone to be touched by other people.”
“You think I care?” Sophia replied, not wanting to lose. “If I wanted to, I could even kiss Edward in your presence.”
“Sophia, you—-” The sentence no longer continued. Sophia immediately silenced Tristan with one demanding deep kiss. Bite without hesitation. Even holding the man’s face while trying to walk away.
“Sophia stop!” Tristan exclaimed as he broke their kiss. “Don’t play with me.”
“I’m not afraid of you, Tristan,” Sophia replied casually. “If you really think I’m a Bitch, then I can act like the Bitch you mean. If necessary, I’ll take Edward Cullen to sleep with me.”
Before he could reply, Sophia immediately left Tristan just like that. After being satisfied with arguing, he finally returned to continue the event with the guests.
“Mr. Tristan,” called Adrian, who found Tristan had just finished chatting with his friends. “Anything?” he answered kindly. “I was asked to lead you to Mr Alfonso’s workspace. He would like to speak with you for a moment.”
Tristan, without saying a word, nodded immediately. Then followed Andrian’s steps to go to the second floor, where Alfonso was already sitting, waiting for his presence.
“Tristan … please come in,” said Alfonso when he found his son-in-law already at the door. He graciously entertained the son of his late old friend. “Sit down. Papa wants to talk to you for a while,” said Alfonso, pointing to the sofa in front of him.
“What exactly did Papa want to talk to me about tonight?” Tristan asked when he had settled into a comfortable position directly across from his father-in-law.
“Papa doesn’t want to make small talk. Actually you were called here because Papa wanted to thank you.”
“Thank you?” Tristan repeated with a questioning look on his face.
“Yes.” Alfonso nodded. “Wasn’t it you who recently bought almost all of Beckley’s stock? That would mean you saved Beckley from going bankrupt.”
Tristan nodded in understanding. After a while, he smiled a very thin smile. “But I’m sure Papa knows what this is all about, right?”
Alfonso smiled, then nodded. “Whatever your goal, Papa believes you’re doing this for good.” This time Tristan laughed discreetly. He was intrigued by what he had just heard. “Come on, Pa. Don’t be naive. I’m sure you’re smart enough at this.”
“Yes.” Alfonso nodded. “That’s why I didn’t choose you to be my son-in-law. But unfortunately, until this moment you have made the wrong choice, Tristan.”
Right after Alfonso finished his sentence, Tristan smiled disdainfully again.
“Don’t try to influence, Pa. I assure you it won’t work.” Alfonso smiled again. He got a map given by Adrian. Then without hesitation handed it over to Tristan.
“Please take a look at the files it contains. After that, you are free to draw conclusions.” Tristan complied. Raising his hand, he received a map from Alfonso. He was immediately taken aback when he took out one sheet at a time from the map.
“Uncle Raphael…”