---
The next morning in the US estate dawned with the sound of birds chirping and the distant hum of life stirring in Mr. Lee’s sprawling mansion. Sophia stretched, sunlight filtering through her window. It was strange being back. Her heart felt torn between the memories she left in Seoul and the chaos waiting to unfold here.
She dressed quickly, opting for something simple but presentable. The estate had its own dress codes, unspoken but enforced by the subtle judgment of Samantha and Penelope. By the time she stepped out of her room, Ji-hyun was already waiting, looking fresh and full of energy.
“Morning, Unnie!” Ji-hyun greeted with her signature enthusiasm. “Ready for the circus?”
Sophia raised an eyebrow. “Circus?”
Ji-hyun laughed, linking arms with her as they walked down the grand staircase. “You’ll see.”
---
The dining room was already abuzz. Samantha sat at the head of the table, sipping her tea like royalty. Penelope hovered nearby, offering occasional comments that Samantha absorbed like praise.
Kai lounged casually in his seat, tossing grapes into his mouth, while Crystal busied herself setting out plates.
Lucius—or rather, Mr. Lee—sat at his usual place, his presence commanding yet aloof. His gaze flicked to Sophia as she entered, and for a moment, the room seemed to still.
“Good morning,” he said, his tone low but firm.
Sophia nodded, trying to ignore the flutter in her chest. “Morning.”
“Morning, Oppa!” Ji-hyun chirped, sliding into a seat next to him.
Kai grinned. “And good morning to the dynamic duo. How was your first night back?”
“Peaceful,” Sophia replied, before adding, “for now.”
Crystal set a cup of coffee in front of Sophia with a wink. “Brace yourself. It doesn’t stay peaceful for long.”
Samantha’s voice cut through the air like a knife. “Sophia, you really should join me and Penelope for planning today. I’m hosting a dinner party tomorrow, and your input could be… useful.”
Sophia glanced at Lucius, who looked utterly disinterested in the conversation but didn’t intervene.
“I think I’ll pass,” Sophia said politely.
Samantha’s smile tightened. “It wasn’t a request.”
Before Sophia could respond, Ji-hyun burst out laughing. “Sophia? Planning parties? Good one, Samantha.”
Even Kai couldn’t suppress a chuckle. “Yeah, I don’t think that’s her style.”
Samantha’s eyes narrowed, but Lucius finally spoke. “Sophia has other matters to attend to. If you need help, ask Penelope.”
Samantha’s expression soured, but she nodded stiffly. “Of course.”
Crystal shot Sophia a triumphant look. “Saved by the boss,” she whispered.
"Whatever"
° All I just need is my peace and quiet°
---
Later that day, Sophia found herself wandering the estate’s gardens, trying to clear her mind. The sprawling greenery was both calming and overwhelming, with its maze-like paths and ancient trees. She was lost in thought when she felt a familiar presence behind her.
“You’re avoiding me,” Lucius said.
She turned to find him leaning casually against a tree, his hands in his pockets. The sunlight filtering through the leaves made his features even sharper, almost otherworldly.
YOU ARE READING
SMITTEN BY HER (unedited)
Romance"Beyond Shadows" In a world where darkness whispers secrets and power knows no bounds, a young orphan's dreams of becoming a veterinarian are crushed by the cruel betrayal of her own blood. Sold into an unforgiving fate, she finds herself in the eni...
