Sophie silently repeated those words in her heart. She didn’t understand why Asher Land would say such things in front of so many people, but once he did, everyone’s gaze towards her transformed. The original contempt and disdain instantly turned into awe and envy.
Hazel Quinn said no more; this reason was enough.
The show went ahead as scheduled. Due to Asher Land’s involvement, no one took issue with film star Hazel Quinn’s sudden withdrawal or Sophie taking her place as the finale guest.
Sophie wore a new design by the famous designer Mike as she walked onto the runway. The red strapless fitted floor-length gown had a reasonable cut, a waist-cinching design, and a smooth texture. It looked simple yet sophisticated on her.
Although the design seemed conservative, it undoubtedly highlighted the elegant beauty of Oriental women.
Asher Land’s lips involuntarily lifted; his woman truly was beautiful.
After the runway show ended, Sophie had just changed her clothes when she noticed Asher Land already waiting for her.
"Let’s go have dinner together," Asher asked, leaning slightly against the wall, watching her remove makeup at the dressing table.
"I’m a bit tired and want to go back and rest first," Sophie declined.
Asher wasn’t expecting her refusal. He thought for a moment and then said, "Then let me take you home."
What’s with this woman today? He’s been patient, yet why does she always treat him so indifferently?
"You don’t have to be polite with me. Not driving you home means I’m heading home anyway; you’re just catching a ride," Asher found it amusing—weren’t they living together?
"But, I don’t want to go to your place."
This woman, will she not be content until she provokes him every day?
"Whether you want to or not, you have to go home. I can’t bear to be apart from you for even a moment." He slowly approached her, bending down to kiss her soft lips.
"Mm, you, what are you doing..." Sophie was blocked by his kiss, unable to speak; it was a tender, loving kiss that left her somewhat intoxicated until Asher reluctantly let her go.
"Feeling better?" Asher raised an eyebrow and asked. He could tell her mood wasn’t good, but he didn’t know the reason.
As if her thoughts were revealed, Sophie felt a little ashamed and lowered her head, admitting she was easily placated. Could Asher resolve it with just a kiss?
Sophie sat somewhat sullenly in the car. Her displeasure was only due to Asher’s words.
He said, "Because she’s my woman."
His words echoed in her ears; she wasn’t as bothered as before about him labeling her. It was about how long this label would last?
He surely didn’t know how helpless she felt when Hazel asked her to take off her clothes and leave the show, while no one spoke out for her. His appearance was like a timely ray of sunshine, dispelling the chill of despair from her heart. She just wanted to cling to him, because she coveted the security he brought.
But if one day, he truly grew tired of her, and she was no longer his woman...
She didn’t want to think further.
A sense of loss arose in her heart. Sophie hated herself now because she could never understand her own feelings, couldn’t delve into herself; she felt waves of guilt for her sudden ideas.
"What are you thinking?" Asher couldn’t help but ask, seeing her distracted throughout the drive.
"Are just two simple words supposed to dismiss me?"
"I..." Sophie was about to say something when an ear-piercing screech of brakes shattered the night’s peace.