Chapter 55

I followed Lukas, a flutter of nerves dancing in my stomach. I hadn't expected to encounter Lukas's arch-nemesis so quickly, or to be mistaken for his accomplice and used as provocation against him.

Mediopolis knew Lukas as the undisputed king of the jewelry world, his word carrying significant weight within the industry. However, his background remained shrouded in mystery. Six years ago, he emerged from obscurity, elevating Strakovski Jewelry to unparalleled heights of success. Those who dared to obstruct or offend him reportedly suffered unfortunate fates, contributing to the aura of fear surrounding him. In recent years, even when facing significant trouble, he seemed untouchable, leading some to believe he was backed by powerful, mysterious forces.

A tinkling laugh cut through the tension. "Lukas, that was swift!"

"Doesn't take long to brush aside the irrelevant," Lukas retorted, his voice cutting like ice.

My lips twitched, but I refrained from comment.

Elias, head cocked, examined me trailing behind Lukas, admiration evident in his eyes. "I see now why Lukas was in a hurry. Miss Lopez, you're a national treasure indeed."

I tugged at my lips, the gesture feeling unnatural.

Just then, Ava whispered, "Thank you for helping us get Sophia out. Can we leave now?"

"Ava!" I quickly stepped out from behind Lukas.

Meeting her gaze, I saw a mixture of complexity, grievance, and worry in Ava's eyes.

"Mr. Strakovski, thank you for today!" I said, approaching Ava.

Lukas raised an eyebrow and glanced at me, his eyes flickering. "No need. James troubled you because of me."

I nodded, appreciating his understanding.

"Then we'll leave first."

(Third-person POV)

Lukas watched the two women leave and returned to his private room. Elias quickly glanced at the departing Sophia and Ava, then caught up with Lukas, a sense of resignation evident. "Lukas, wouldn't it have been courteous to invite them in for a moment?"

"No need," Lukas's voice remained frigid.

Elias harbored a slight fondness for Ava, who reminded him of a little white rabbit. She was unlike any other woman, captivating his interest with a single glance. He couldn't help but say, "You had a girlfriend before. Couldn't you have extended a more gentlemanly invitation and offered them a ride home?"

Lukas cast a sidelong glance at Elias. "No ulterior motives towards her."

"Her?" Elias blinked in surprise.

"Sophia!" Lukas replied directly.

Elias's curiosity was piqued. While Ava held his interest, he was intrigued by Lukas's feelings for Sophia. He grinned. "Why not? Give me a good reason. She's gorgeous and your type, you know."

A displeased furrow formed on Lukas's brow. He pushed open the private room door. "She is my wife—"

"What? What did you—" Elias struggled to process this.

Lukas, regarding him as if explaining to a child, settled onto the sofa and spoke leisurely, "Sophia is my wife. Spare me your impure thoughts."

"What? Are you serious?" Elias was nearly speechless.

"Do I appear to be joking?" Lukas took a sip of whiskey, lounging casually. Although he had no inclination to discuss his feelings, it was undeniable that he was married to Sophia.

After a pause, Elias recovered from the shock. "Well… I suppose you're right. Now that I think about it, it does make sense. You wouldn't treat a woman so well without a reason!"

(Unspoken Farewell at 30,000 Feet)

Lukas offered an affirming hum, saying nothing.

With a grin hinting at mischief, Elias pressed on, "So, what about Emily? Are you two over?"

"What do you think?" Lukas arched an eyebrow.

Elias chuckled, acknowledging the tease. "All right, all right, just messing with you. I'm not after your wife, but I must admit, her friend has caught my attention."

Lukas huffed, dismissing Elias's chatter. After all, Elias was a player through and through; Lukas was accustomed to it.

(Sophia POV)

Meanwhile, Ava and I exited the private room.

Noticing Ava's distant expression, I voiced my concern. "Shouldn't we keep searching?"

Ava shook her head, a tinge of disappointment in her expression. "No, maybe I misunderstood. It's not the first time I've been wrong."

Hearing Ava's words, my heart ached.

Unexpectedly, Ava asked, "Is that Lukas guy your husband?"

I was momentarily taken aback. "Yes, he's my husband."

Ava shared her unfiltered thoughts. "He's incredibly tall and devilishly handsome. The type that sweeps you off your feet at first glance."

I was at a loss for words, attempting to lighten the mood. "Indeed, he's quite tall. And besides his neck, it's all legs!"