CHAPTER 85: CHAPTER 85: MS. LOWELL GETS SHY

Noon the next day.

Grandpa Sterling’s small courtyard was settled.

Not rented, nor transferred.

But the property was directly transferred to Sophia Lowell’s name.

She was flattered and shocked.

Wanted to refuse.

But the procedure was personally overseen by Eugene Sterling, leaving no room for rejection.

Originally, it was just to find a place for Hugh Irving’s studio.

Unexpectedly, The Sterling family simply gave the ownership to Sophia Lowell.

And conveniently nipped Grandpa Sterling’s thoughts of continuing to work.

Hugh Irving teased while holding the red book.

"Survived a disaster! I thought I’d be kicked out of the Sterling’s for badmouthing, didn’t expect they’d compete to stabilize your position in the harem."

Sophia Lowell sat in the courtyard, looking at the red book in her hand, her face turning red as well.

In the eyes of The Sterling family, wasn’t Sophia also that beam of light in Zane Sterling’s life?

"Proceed according to plan." Sophia Lowell said.

Grandpa Sterling went for a check-up, the shop had no orders, it was entrusted to them completely.

"Guess who else I saw on the participant list?" Hugh Irving asked.

"Who?"

"Tim Sawyer! Your husband’s ex-girlfriend."

Sophia turned her head to look at Hugh Irving.

Tim Sawyer quit and also wanted to take on the government cooperation?

Hugh Irving opened the information on the tablet beside. "Recently she started her own studio, it’s not very popular yet, but this time it’s different."

With the government’s endorsement, the studio’s rise is just around the corner.

"Her capability is also top in the design circle. If we want to secure our position, we must work harder. Best to meet some insiders and get to know the leaders’ preferences." Sophia Lowell.

Hugh Irving nodded, "And the final competition is coming, we mustn’t lose to her."

——

The annual gala unfolded.

"We’re on holiday tomorrow! Finally, a break for this poor life!" Lily Ellison pulled at her dress in the powder room, adjusting her bust.

Sophia Lowell chuckled, glancing at her bun that could fit in one hand.

Lily hurried to cover it, "Small as it is, it’s still flesh, don’t look."

"I’m not interested, it’s not like I don’t have one." Sophia glanced at the hickey covered on her neck, worried it wouldn’t stay hidden.

Last night’s scene vividly replayed.

"Sophia... relax..."

When that man loses control, he nearly devours her major artery.

She took a breath, supporting her waist.

It hurt a lot.

Elsie Erickson’s voice came from the washroom.

"The boss must have made a fortune this year, can’t believe they booked Brighton Gardens, never thought I’d eat here in my lifetime."

Chloe Vance reminded beside her, "Be careful with your words later, many business partners will be here tonight."

"Of course! If some rich guy takes a liking to me, I’ll soar next year!"

"Haha..."

The women in the washroom buzzed with chatter.

The gala was about to start soon.

They entered the venue one by one.

"Ms. Lowell."

While heading to the venue, Sophia heard someone calling her from behind.

She paused and looked back.

It was Tim Sawyer.

She actually came too.

"Manager Sawyer."

Sophia smiled.

Tim Sawyer was in a sexy black spaghetti strap dress with a V-neck, perfectly hugging her flawless figure.

"Just call me Tim."

"Tim."

Sophia didn’t intend to chat with her.

Seeing her reminded her of Nancy Sawyer.

Tim Sawyer seriously assessed the dress Sophia was wearing.

Pineapple-shaped corset, light yellow pleated skirt reaching the ankles.

Revealing smooth round shoulders, a delicate collarbone, and a swan-like neck adorned with a pearl necklace.

With golden hair hanging down, she radiated brilliance.

"This outfit, over a hundred thousand? Which designer made it, it’s stunning." Tim Sawyer exclaimed.

Sophia lowered her eyes with a smile, "Just a simple design of my own, the craftsmanship is average."

Tim was shocked, totally unexpected.

This style didn’t seem like something a two-year designer could create.

Sophia Lowell was indeed impressive.

At this time, Hugh Irving approached. "What are you two discussing? It’s about to start, let’s go in."

"Chat next time." Tim Sawyer didn’t push the conversation.

Sophia nodded.

Tim Sawyer didn’t expect Sophia Lowell to know someone as famous as Hugh Irving, and be so familiar with him.

She couldn’t help but feel a bit envious.

Sophia Lowell was led away by Hugh Irving.

As soon as they entered, Hugh went to the backyard while Sophia stayed in the front yard.

This year’s company event was quite lively, with a lottery, bonuses, and various awards being given out.

Then the dance began, followed by eating, drinking, and entertainment.

Sophia Lowell achieved her wish and got first place in the company’s fashion design contest.

The veteran employees in the company all looked at her with admiration.

The previous prejudices seemed to have completely disappeared.

"Miss Lowell." A man in a suit holding a glass of red wine approached Sophia Lowell, who was chatting with colleagues.

Everyone looked towards them.

He wasn’t an employee of Spectra.

He was invited by Zane Sterling.

Only important guests were in the backyard.

He was Colby Jennings from the Department of Defense, responsible for liaising with Sophia Lowell.

In the final round of competition a few days ago, her design was selected, and Sophia had to come forward.

She was initially supposed to be received by another officer, but for some reason, he ended up coming instead.

For someone of his rank, these minor matters shouldn’t require his involvement.

"Mr. Jennings." Sophia Lowell.

He smiled and nodded to the colleagues nearby as a greeting.

Everyone wisely nodded back and left.

"Who is that? So handsome!"

"My gosh, he looks so perfect with Ms. Lowell!"

"Did you see the calluses on his hands? He must have abs!"

...

Colby Jennings had a reassuring face, tall stature, and his suit couldn’t hide his strong build.

"Shall we take a walk?" he asked.

"Mm."

The two avoided the crowd and walked toward the backyard.

The backyard had fewer people; ordinary employees couldn’t enter, only important figures and special guests could.

"I didn’t expect you to work here."

Sophia chuckled softly, "Just making a living."

Colby Jennings looked at her with admiration. "Your fashion design skills are quite impressive."

"You’re flattering me."

"Why is your online alias ’Clueless’?"

She swirled her wine glass, "Just a random name I chose when I was younger."

Colby Jennings laughed out loud, "I didn’t mean anything by it, I just thought it was cute."

Sophia paid no mind, taking a sip of red wine.

Colby Jennings said, "We should have a meal together sometime."

Sophia wasn’t sure if he was being serious or just polite, but agreed, "Sure."

As they stepped into the yard, they climbed two steps.

Colby Jennings bent down to help her lift her dress hem.

She was startled, gathered her skirt, smiled awkwardly, and nodded.

Colby Jennings also nodded and took a step to the side, remaining courteous.

He understood it wasn’t necessary.

"Director Jennings." Not far away, Zane Sterling approached with a wine glass, Tim Sawyer by his side.

Sophia and Colby Jennings: "Mr. Sterling."

Colby Jennings and Tim Sawyer nodded at each other.

Zane Sterling pursed his lips, tilting his head slightly to look at Sophia’s neck.

Sophia bit her lip, her face turning red, too shy to look at him.

If she looked at him any longer, she feared he might pull her into some corner and kiss her again...

"Is Ms. Lowell shy?" Zane Sterling mocked with a smile.

Colby Jennings glanced sideways at Sophia, laughing lightly, "She probably had a bit to drink earlier."

"Oh?" His interest piqued, "Director Jennings, do you know Ms. Lowell?"

He knew someone would ask that.

Thankfully, she had previously mentioned to Colby that she didn’t want her identity revealed, otherwise, it would all be out now.

"My cousin Nina Lynch’s dress for the company event was designed by Miss Lowell, so we met once."

Hmm?

Nina Lynch turned out to be his cousin; what a coincidence.

Sophia quickly agreed, "Yes, I took on some private commissions in my spare time; I hope Mr. Sterling doesn’t mind."

"Ms. Lowell is indeed a key player in our company; her design abilities are undeniable." Tim Sawyer smiled lightly.

Zane Sterling seemed displeased with the word "our," his brows furrowing. "Director Jennings, may I have a word?"

Colby Jennings glanced at Sophia, "I’ll have a brief chat with Mr. Sterling."

Sophia looked puzzled, feeling there was no need for an explanation.

It was as if she was playing the role of his date.

She innocently glanced at Zane Sterling.

Zane Sterling’s eyes darkened, but he didn’t speak.