Divorce To Marry a CEO

Chapter 51: Jessica Got Nina's Secret

Back in Valmere, Sophia stirred awake, her head pounding from the excess of the previous night. She groaned, squeezing her eyes shut against the sunlight streaming through the window. Just as she contemplated the merits of staying in bed, Alexander entered the room, a warm smile spreading across his face as he carried a steaming cup of herbal tea.

“Good morning, wild woman,” he teased, placing the cup on her bedside table. “I brought you something to help with that hangover.”

Sophia squinted at him, confusion mingling with embarrassment. “What did I do last night?” she mumbled, rubbing her temples.

Alexander chuckled, leaning against the doorframe. “Let’s just say you were quite the party animal. You were ready to take advantage of me when I was trying to be the gentleman.”

Sophia’s eyes widened in disbelief. “No way! I mean, I know I can get a little… out of hand when I drink, but that’s pushing it. You must be exaggerating.”

He stepped closer, amusement dancing in his eyes. “Oh, it was all in good fun. You were flirting and telling me how much you admired my ‘strong leadership.’ It was hard to take you seriously with your antics, but you certainly kept the mood lively.”

Her cheeks flushed, and she took a sip of the tea, grateful for the soothing warmth. “I can’t believe I would say something like that. I don’t remember anything after the third drink.”

Alexander’s gaze softened. “Just be careful, next time don't lose yourself. Unless I'm around, okay?

Sophia frowned, sensing a deeper meaning behind his words. “What do you mean? Did something happen? Is there something you’re not telling me?”

He hesitated, a flicker of concern shadowing his expression. “Just… promise me you’ll take a day off. You need to rest and recover.”

Sophia shook her head, determination flaring in her eyes. “I can’t just take a day off! I’d rather report late than abandon my responsibilities. I’m not that kind of person.”

Alexander stepped forward, his voice steady. “Sophia, it’s not just about work. It’s about you. You’ve been through a lot recently, and I want you to prioritize your well-being. Just for one day, let me take care of things.”

She searched his face, finding a mix of worry and affection. “I appreciate that, but I’m fine. I’ll manage. Besides, I’m not someone who hides from life’s challenges, especially when there’s work to be done.”

Alexander reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “I know you’re strong, but sometimes strength means knowing when to rest. Just think about it, okay?”

Sophia felt a warmth in her chest, touched by his concern. “I will. But right now, I really just need to shower and get dressed. I’ll see you at the office.”

As he turned to leave, a heavy silence lingered, filled with unspoken words. Alexander hesitated, his back to her, but then he stepped out, closing the door gently behind him.

Unbeknownst to Sophia, Alexander’s protective instincts ran deeper than she realized. He knew the darkness that surrounded them and the schemes that lurked in the shadows. He just wanted to shield her from it all, even if it meant keeping her in the dark about the threat that loomed.

Once Nina got home, she rushed to the bathroom, stripping off her clothes again. She stood under the shower, the water scalding hot, and scrubbed her skin furiously. The memories of the night wouldn’t leave her mind. She scrubbed harder, trying to wash away the filthy feeling the men had left on her skin. Her hands shook as she ran them over every inch of her body, as if scrubbing away the dirt could somehow erase what had happened.