Chapter 7: cracks in the foundation

Sophia expected gossip after their announcement, but she hadn't anticipated the stares. Some were curious, some were impressed, but others… others looked resentful.

She noticed it the most in meetings. When she spoke, some colleagues hesitated before responding, as if second-guessing whether she had real authority or if she was just "the CEO's wife." It made her blood boil.

But the worst part? Ethan didn't seem to notice.

"Great job today," he said that evening as they rode the elevator down to the parking lot.

Sophia folded her arms. "You didn't see the way they looked at me."

Ethan frowned. "Who?"

"Daniel. Lisa. A bunch of others. They don't see me the same way anymore."

Ethan sighed. "Sophia, we knew this would happen. People will talk, but it doesn't change your skills."

"That's easy for you to say," she muttered. "You're not the one they think got handed a job."

Ethan reached for her hand, but she pulled away. "Soph—"

The elevator doors opened, and before he could finish, a voice called out.

"Mr. Caldwell."

It was her.

Madison Clarke.

Sophia's jaw tightened as the tall, stunning woman approached. She was one of the company's biggest investors—and Ethan's ex-girlfriend.

"Madison," Ethan said smoothly. "I didn't know you were in town."

Madison smiled, her red lips curving in a way that made Sophia's stomach churn. "I wanted to check in on the company. And, of course, say hello to an old friend."

Sophia clenched her fists.

Old friend, my ass.

Madison's gaze flickered to Sophia. "Ah. The wife."

There was something about the way she said it—like Sophia was some insignificant piece in a game only she and Ethan understood.

Sophia straightened her shoulders. "Yes. And you are?"

Madison's smile widened. "Oh, Ethan didn't tell you? We go way back."

Ethan shifted slightly, as if uncomfortable. Sophia caught it immediately.

So, there was something he hadn't told her.

The realization stung.

Madison turned back to Ethan. "We should catch up soon. You know, for old times' sake."

Sophia fully expected Ethan to decline. Instead, he nodded.

"Of course. Let's set something up."

Sophia's heart dropped.

Madison smirked, as if she had won something, then walked away, her heels clicking against the marble floor.

Ethan turned to Sophia. "That wasn't what it looked like—"

But Sophia had already started walking ahead.

"Sure," she said flatly.

Because right now, she wasn't sure of anything anymore.

—

To be continued…