Flashes of flash were immediately apparent when Tristan, Raphael, and Aurora entered the auditorium in the Foxtail Corporation building. All journalists seemed to be competing to cover the process of inaugurating the CEO, who in the future will lead the largest construction company in the United Kingdom.

Tristan, dressed in a navy suit, sat quietly next to Raphael. There wasn't the slightest hint of nervousness on his handsome face. After years of study, apprenticeship, and direct involvement in various tenders with Raphael, Tristan continues to try to convince all shareholders and company officials.

At the age of only 25, he is trying to prove to everyone that he deserves to be in the position his father once held. After two general shareholders' meetings, an agreement was finally reached that Tristan was indeed worthy of the position. For this reason, today, he will be officially inaugurated by the commissioners to carry out his duties correctly immediately.

"Thank you for your presence and the trust that the higher-ups of Foxtail Corporation have given me."

Tristan was now standing confidently in front of the pulpit. Gives his first speech as a CEO. Meanwhile, the media crew present immediately scrambled to capture the best moments from Tristan.

He has indeed attracted the broader public's attention in the past year because of his breakthroughs in the business world. Whatever it is when it comes to Tristan, it must be very in demand for news.

"As a newbie in the business world, of course, it is an honor for me to occupy the CEO position. I have high hopes that after leading this company, Foxtail Corporation will continue to grow. To become the only multinational construction company whose activities have shot up to various parts of the world."

The sound of applause from all the participants in the meeting could be heard filling the room. Flashes of camera lights hit Tristan, who was so fiery in explaining his vision and mission after being officially appointed leader.

"As the new CEO, what's the first thing you're going to do with this company?" asked one of the reporters.

Tristan smiled then answered so calmly. "Recently, I agreed to joint venture offers with several large companies from the Middle East to build the tallest building globally. I am optimistic that this project can be completed on time. international business scene."

Everyone clapped again. So many were amazed by Tristan's flexibility in explaining and dealing with the many questions asked. He looked relaxed, as if he didn't have the slightest burden.

"About the couple..." one of the reporters asked another question. "Does Mr. Tristan already have a potential partner and intends to end his single life soon? Given your current popularity, there must be a lot of women out there waiting in line to become a wife."

Again, Tristan smiled. He kindly answered the one by one the questions are given.

"For now, I haven't thought about getting married. As for my partner, later you will know who the woman who stole my heart was."

After finishing the question and answer session with several reporters, the man accompanied by Raphael and Aurora chose to leave the auditorium. Prepare to go to the CEO's room and start his work for the first time.

***

"Tristan Quartararo, are we bothering you?"

Tristan has just finished his first job as a CEO. Entering the lunch hour, he was surprised by the presence of friends who suddenly came to his office without contacting him first.

"Gosh, why are you guys here all of a sudden?" Tristan hastily got up.

The man then approached three men who seemed to be standing not far from the room's doorway.

"This was Edward's idea," one of them pointed. "That rancid playboy wanted to surprise you on purpose. Just like a child."

The man named Edward immediately chuckled. Then immediately handed over the cake box that he previously held.

"Oh, come on, Nick. Why are you talking so much? Wasn't this the three of us's idea? Why are you making me a scapegoat now?"

"But you were the originator, weren't you?" offense Nicholas. "You're the one who's been whining. In fact, you asked Jacob and I to pick you up immediately and accompany you to buy a birthday cake for Tristan," the man added.

"Is that true?" Tristan's turn to make sure. He looked at each of his friends in disbelief. He often joked that he didn't think his friends could be cute.

"Well . . . fine. I admit it. What Nicholas said is true."

Scratching the back of his neck uncomfortably, Edward finally acknowledged what Nicholas had said. He was closest to Tristan from the start of their friendship among his three friends. They always do something together.

Edward had considered Tristan like his own brother. Jacob and Nicholas even called them are twins.

"Indeed I dragged the two of them to come see you. After all, we really deserved to wish you a birthday and congratulations on your achievements today. Honestly, I'm personally even so proud of you."

Tristan smiled sadly. Without awkwardness, he immediately hugged his friends one by one. Say Thank you because since he first entered college until now, he has been working, and these three friends are always by his side. Not the slightest move in times of trouble or joy.

"Oh my God, I'm really touched by your words." He then asked his three friends to sit on the sofa immediately. There they all began to chit chat casually.

"So, how was your inauguration today? I saw in the headline news, your company's stock went up significantly after you officially became the new CEO," said Jacob. There was a hint of admiration tucked into his words. Of course, as a young CEO, he is also proud of what his friend has achieved.

Tristan immediately nodded. While cutting the birthday cake Edward brought, he casually took Jacob's question.

"I'm also very surprised, Jack. This is really a great achievement for me as a newbie. I didn't know this inauguration would even affect the company's stock. The commissioners also talked about it."

"That means, your existence is really awaited by the public at large."

Nicholas took it seriously. "It seems that they are indeed interested in all your recent endeavors and pursuits. I have to admit, all the brilliant ideas you have shown have brought a breath of fresh air to this business."

"Tristan, you really are proud." This time it was Edward who spoke. The man did not want to lose congratulating his best friend.

"For God's sake, I'm so jealous of you. Hopefully one day, I can occupy the position of CEO of Alexis and shine like you are today," he chuckled in awe.

Then, the three chose to enjoy the cake that Tristan had just cut and handed. While devouring it, they continued to discuss various topics casually.

"By the way, isn't there a small party? Some kind of celebration of your birthday and your success today?" Edward asked, taking a bite of the cake in his hand. It has become a tradition for all of them when celebrate something, and there will be a party. Either on a large scale or privately with close friends.

"Gosh you're right. Since the past few days have been so busy, I didn't even think about going there. But how about we have a party tonight?" Jacob placed her cake plate on the table. Reaching for the teacup, then took a sip of the drink.

The man nodded in agreement with the idea Tristan had just put forward. "I agree. Let's celebrate at the American Bar."

"Yes, Jacob is right. The American Bar is the perfect place for all of us to celebrate this." Nicholas joined in.

"But, can you bring a partner tonight?" Edward asked carefully. "I mean, tonight's party will be just us and we. Or can you bring a girlfriend too?"

Nicholas, who sat across from Edward, immediately put on a cynical face. He knew where his friend's conversation was headed. "So what if I may? You want to bring a partner?"

Edward nodded. "Of course."

"What other woman would you like to bring Edward Oliviera with this time?" asked Nicholas. "There's a woman you eyeing right now. I meant to introduce her to you. I think I get along well with that woman."

Nicholas snorted. He was tired of hearing the pearls of wisdom that Edward often said. Almost on every date Edward introduced, he always said the exact words. "So that you know, I'm even tired of reading, let alone hearing your news on gossip portals that are always rumored to change partners."

"It's called Playboy, isn't it?" debate Edward didn't want to lose. "Besides, it's hard to enjoy life when I'm still young. After all, they're the ones who are always chasing after me. But most importantly of all, I've never cheated on anyone or dated anyone else's partner."

Nicholas chuckled lazily. He knew very well the nature of this one friend. It's no secret that only Edward likes to change partners or date the most among the four of them.

"I pray that one day you get hit by the stone. Who knows, one day you'll have to bother chasing the woman you have a crush on." Edward pressed his lips together tightly. He wanted to swear at the ugly prayer that his best friend had just said.

But because he saw Jacob, who gave a signal not to fight back, Edward could only take a breath and then try to answer casually. "That's not going to happen, Nicholas Alistair."

***

As mutually agreed, the four friends decided to gather at America Bar at precisely eight o'clock in the evening. Tristan himself, this time, brought along Aurora to accompany him.

After making reservations and ordering appetizers, Tristan could see Jacob arriving first at the venue with Tita, his girlfriend with him. Then, not long after, Nicholas was also present, bringing Claire, his fiancée.

"We're not late, are we?" Jacob asked as he pulled out a chair and motioned for his girlfriend to sit down.

"Don't worry. Aurora and I only arrived 10 minutes ago," said Tristan. After that, he sat down and started a conversation.

"Tristan, congratulations on your birthday and your achievements today. I know this gift is not much. But at least Nicholas and I are sincere in giving it to you," Claire said as she handed a black box as a birthday present for Tristan this time.

"Gosh, there's no need to bother. You just came. I'm very grateful," said the man.

"But no matter what, you deserve all this." Tita, in her seat, also added. The woman then took out a parcel then handed it to Tristan.

"It's me and Jacob who chose it specifically. We hope you'll like it."

"Of course." On the sidelines of their conversation, Edward, who had been waiting for so long, finally arrived. With a smile, the man immediately approached the woman he was carrying.

"Sorry, I'm a little late. I have to get a present first," Edward said as he handed over the things he had brought. A box containing a watch he especially gave to his best friend. "Once again, happy birthday Tristan. At your age this time, I hope all the dreams that have not been realized can be rushed."

Tristan, standing at that time, immediately hugged Edward with great emotion. When unraveling the hug, his focus was immediately on the beautiful woman his best friend was carrying.

"Ed, don't you want to introduce this beautiful woman next to you?"

"Oh my gosh. I almost forgot," Edward replied. The man then turned to the woman standing right next to him.

“ Let Me Introducing my friends. This beautiful lady is Sophia Walters."

Tristan stared intently at the brown bead in front of him. Seconds later, he held out his hand while smiling a meaningful smile.

"Tristan Quartararo. Nice to meet you."

Tristan sat pensively. His gaze was straight, watching the rows of skyscrapers from behind the glass of his study.

Sometimes looks like he's smiling. Not without reason. It was as if a spark of joy was running through his heart that had been empty for a long time. This all happened because of yesterday's meeting with the woman Edward brought to his birthday party.

"So Sophia has been living in Germany all this time?" asked Tristan while eating the dinner already on the table. Listening to Edward, who continued to chatter about the pair he brought, Tristan was also curious.

"Yes …" The woman named Sophia nodded. "Since I was a child, I have lived in Germany. I just moved in a year ago and finally decided to settle in London," he explained as he took a sip of Edward's wine.

"By the way, who do you live with? Are you alone or maybe with your family?" Again, Tristan asked a question. He was so enthusiastic about whatever Sophia told him. Not the slightest bit of attention shifted. As if already glued to the beautiful woman sitting next to his best friend.

"Right now I live alone. My parents and sister are in Germany. But soon, they too will follow to move to London."

"It must not be easy living alone in the city you just lived in."

"Yes..." Sophia nodded in agreement. "At first, I found it difficult. But it's okay. Honestly, I'm happy to be living alone in London. Here, I am free to do my job and all my hobbies without anyone disturbing me."

Once again, Tristan silently smiled. Not a happy smile because he met a beautiful woman. But a happy smile seemed happy because the target he had been looking for appeared by itself.

"Mr Tristan, I brought you what you asked for."

From behind the door. There was a knock on the door and the entry of a man whom Tristan knew so well. Stepping slowly, I walked closer to where the man was sitting.

"What information have you got, Mario? Please show me," replied Tristan.

"I have summarized everything in one document. Sorry in advance, there may still be some missing information. But I promise, I will find the rest for you."

Tristan nodded, then grabbed the black map that was handed to him. Start reading carefully. Explore all the information he might need.

"Sophia Walters. The first child of Alfonso Walters and Anna Maria Walters."

Tristan read what was written there. The man glanced and looked deeply into his assistant's face.

"That means, this woman is indeed the person I was looking for."

"It is certain that it is, Sir," said Mario. "From all social media pages. Biodata listed on the agency's website and photos circulating, it can be ascertained that this woman is indeed the daughter of Alfonso Walters; a property entrepreneur from London who is now moving into the construction world and living in Hamburg, Germany."

Tristan looked back at the sheet of paper in his hand. He was looking at some photos while rereading them carefully, as if not wanting to miss a single piece of information.

"Only 24 years old. Single. Modeling by profession and well-known as a social activist. Several relationships with artists. And currently living alone in Marylebone Square's Penthouses."

"That's right, Sir," repeated Mario. "I've tucked in some Miss Sophia's show schedule which was officially released by her agency. I've also attached data on who is close to that woman. And one of them is your own best friend."

Tristan, in his seat, nodded. "Yes, I know. This woman seems to be close to Edward." Tristan's eyebrows rose. The man pulled the corners of his lips meaningfully. "But I won't let them get in any further. Never, Mario."

Tristan's voice was low. But there's a definite undertone of threat tucked in there. His gaze was sharply drawn towards the photo of Sophia he was holding.

Mario could only move in his position. In addition to carrying out his primary duties in the office as a confidant, Tristan also asked him to investigate someone. The young man was willing to pay a high price for a private detective to find the whereabouts of a man named Alfonso Walters and his entire family.

From the first, Mario was curious. But until this moment, he never dared to ask clearly for what purpose the man was looking for Alfonso, who had long moved from London to Hamburg, Germany.

"Thanks for your report, Mario. If you have any other information about the Walters family, please let me know as soon as possible," Tristan pleaded.

Mario nodded politely. After giving what Tristan asked for, he chose to leave the room.

Not even a few minutes before Mario left, there was another knock on Tristan's door. This time it was Raphael's turn to visit the young man.

"Is Uncle interrupting your time?" Raphael asked as he stepped inside.

"Of course not, Uncle Raphael. No matter how busy you are, I'll always have time for you."

There was a sincere tone in Tristan's words. As an orphan, he felt genuinely indebted to Raphael. The man had been patiently taking care of him and even taking care of him.

He cared for and taught him so many things that he could succeed as he is today. Because of the magnitude of this service, Tristan was always determined to obey what Raphael said. He also tried his best not to dispute what his uncle ordered.

"You're really good at touching me," said Raphael. The man then sat quietly in the chair directly opposite Tristan.

"What's so important that Uncle came to see me here?" asked Tristan curiously. "Uncle wants to discuss your engagement with Aurora. In your opinion, when is the right time to hold this sacred procession?"

Tristan was silent for a moment. It seems very clear when is the right time to carry out what his uncle has ordered him to do. He has made a promise, and it is impossible to break. "Actually, I wouldn't mind having the event at any time. However ..." Raphael's brow furrowed deeply. Hearing Tristan deliberately pausing his sentence made him curious now.

"But what?" he asked for sure. "I recently met Sophia Walters. The daughter of Alfonso Walters I've been looking for, Uncle."

The statement from Tristan certainly made Raphael gasp in surprise. He remembered having sent his men to investigate Alfonso and his family.

But, it was a bit difficult for him to get information. And now, suddenly, the daughter of a Alfonso Walters appeared without needing to be searched. It was as if God had deliberately shown his kindness to Tristan, who had been around to look for the woman's whereabouts for a long time.

"Then what are you going to do after this?" he inquired.

Raphael was sure the son of his two best friends had prepared a well-thought-out plan long ago. He knew very well who Tristan was.

The young man was born with strong instincts. Never reckless. Always full of calculation in every action and decision to be taken. This is also what causes Tristan to be able to compete with competitors in the business world that she is currently in.

"I will slowly approach him, Uncle. For that, please allow me to win Sophia's heart first. When all plans are carried out smoothly, I promise to immediately marry Aurora."

Hearing those words, Raphael looked up and made their eyes meet. His emerald green eyes stared into Arsen's piercing blue beads. Trying very hard to read what plan the man was driving. "Are you sure about this plan of yours?"

Tristan nodded his head and gave a respectful gesture. "I've calculated it very carefully, Uncle. This is the only way to destroy Alfonso slowly."

"That's not what I meant," said Raphael. His face looked very worried. "What if you end up falling in love with Alfonso's daughter?"

"That won't be possible, Uncle." Tristan, full of confidence, immediately denied.

"How could I love the daughter of the one who destroyed my family."

Immediately Tristan's cold words eroded Raphael's worries. Especially seeing the look of hatred that didn't budge on the man's face, it was implausible that Tristan would fall in love with the child of his enemy.

"All right. Uncle entrusts everything to you. But you need to remember, Tristan." Raphael looked deeply into the face of the man he considered his son. "In any case, you still have to be careful. Uncle doesn't want anything bad to happen to you."

Tristan nodded again. He grabbed Raphael's wrist and held it tight. As if giving confidence that nothing wrong will happen to him in the future.

"Trust me everything. What Alfonso has done, he is also the one who must be held responsible in the end."

***

Tristan took a sip of the caramel macchiato he just ordered. After finishing all the work, he decided to stop first at one of his regular coffee shops located not far from his office.

While watching the lights and vehicles going back and forth, Tristan enjoyed his solitude tonight. Now and then, the thought of his parents flashed. Showing the memories of happiness that they had been through. Until not long, a woman's rebuke disturbed what he had been doing all this time.

"Tristan," said a beautiful woman whose voice was unfamiliar to Tristan's ears. When he looked up, he found Sophia's figure standing straight in front of the table.

"I didn't expect to meet you here. Can I join you?"

Tristan smiled faintly. Rising from his seat, the man politely invited Sophia to sit down. "With pleasure, please have a seat. I just happen to be alone tonight." Sophia smiled happily. Without hesitation, he sat down.

"Would you like something to drink? I can order it for you," Tristan offered politely.

"Of course." Sophia immediately nodded. "A cappuccino latte seems fitting for me to drink with you tonight."

Tristan then waved a signal to call the waitress who was on guard. After ordering drinks, the man again invited Sophia to talk. "Where are you from? Just finished work?"

"Yes, I do. I just finished a photo shoot at a studio not far from here. You alone? How are you? How long have you been in this cafe?"

Tristan nodded, then stretched out his hand to reach for the caramel macchiato cup he had ordered. Take a sip slowly, then tell a story afterward. "My office is not far from here. Usually before returning home, I stop for a while to just sit and enjoy coffee."

"Oh, yeah? Are you always like this alone? Or sometimes with your partner?" Sophia asked cautiously.

Tristan glanced. Before long, the man chuckled softly. There was a sense of exasperation to see Sophia's face, which was waiting for an answer from her. "Always alone. Incidentally I don't have a partner at the moment."

"Ah, you're really good at bragging," Sophia said with a chuckle. How could he believe that there was a man as handsome as Tristan but without a partner?

"Do handsome men always say that? I mean, always claim to be single to a woman he just met?" "I'm not bragging,"

Tristan replied with a smile. "I'm really not in touch with anyone right now."

"Then who was the beautiful woman you were with that night?" Sophia inquired curiously. He remembered that Tristan seemed close to the woman he was with at the celebration the other day.

"Beautiful woman?" Tristan's brow furrowed for a moment. He tried to remember until soon the man called out softly. "Ah, you mean Aurora? The woman I was with at the birthday party?"

Sophia immediately nodded. "Yeah, he's your girlfriend, right? You two looked really close and got along very well that night."

"But he's not my lover," Tristan insisted. "I can say that Aurora is like my own sister. We are close because we have known each other and have been friends since we were little."

"Ah, I see."

"How About You yourself?" Tristan asked back.

"What do you mean?" Sophia asked, confused.

"Your relationship with Edward. Aren't you guys close at the moment?"

Sophia nodded. She did not deny at all what Tristan said. "In the last few months, the two of us have been really close. But so far we're just friends. Nothing more than that. I haven't thought about being in a relationship with any guy either."

"That means I don't have a chance to get close to you either?" joked Tristan with a small laugh. Which of these words made Sophia pause for a moment. As if digesting what the man had just said.

"Oh my gosh Sophia, I was just kidding." Tristan hastily corrected his sentence.

"You. It just makes me nervous," protested the woman.

The two then started talking again. They discussed light things until they lost track of time and finally decided to go home.

"You have a vehicle?" asked Tristan as she walked with Sophia to the cafe outside.

"No. I rarely use my own vehicle. Maybe soon I'll call the driver to pick me up."

"Then let me take you home," Tristan offered politely. He had to approach her slowly.

"No need. I don't want to bother you."

"Of course not," said Tristan quickly. "Besides, it's very dangerous for a beautiful woman like you to wait to be picked up here by herself." Called beautiful, Sophia's face immediately turned red. She also felt flattered by the sweet attitude of the man who had been with her.

Seeing the sincerity on Tristan's face, those sky-blue eyes blinked for a moment. He seemed to be contemplating whether to accept the offer he had just been given.

Then, a sweet smile spread from Sophia's lips. He thought it was not wrong to accept Tristan's invitation, who was not a random man.

"It's okay if you insist. Besides, there's nothing to lose with a handsome man like you," he said honestly. Yes, Tristan is so handsome in Sophia's eyes. He couldn't deny this fact. Tristan politely guided Sophia to walk toward her car, parked right in front of the cafe. Without hesitation, help open the door and let the woman in. Then escort Sophia to her destination.

Tristan : [Sophia, are you resting?]

Tristan : [I happen to be not far from your agency location. Do you mind if I take you to lunch?]

Sophia : [Hi. I'm currently relaxed. Of course, I don't care]

Tristan : [Then get ready. Maybe in five minutes I will arrive at the location]

Sophia : [OK. I'll be waiting for you in the lobby].

Tristan smiled as he watched the short messages he had just sent. Right at the last meeting between him and Sophia, he quickly got the beautiful woman's cellphone number.

"Thank you, Tristan. You went to the trouble of walking me to the apartment." Sophia said as she unbuckled the seat belt around her body. After wholly detaching, the woman grabbed her shopper bag in the back seat.

"You're welcome. There's no need to hesitate Sophia. I'm just doing what a gentleman should do."

Sophia laughed. She was amused by what she had just heard. This, of course, caught Tristan's attention.

"Why are you even laughing? Is there anything funny?"

Sophia shook her head hastily. A sweet smile still etched beautifully on her face.

"No. I was just imagining how many women you've seduced with this sweet attitude."

Tristan's brow furrowed deeply. Pointing his index finger, the man immediately pointed at his face.

"I seduce a lot of women? Oh my goodness, Sophia. I'm not a man who likes to spit sweet words to all the women I know," he said with a witty smile.

"You sure?" Sophia's face had an expression of doubt. Her blue beads twitched, searching for any lies that might be tucked away in Tristan's pair of blue dots.

"What are you looking at, Sophia? You doubt what I'm saying?" Tristan scolds when she realizes that Sophia is seriously looking at his face.

"I just wanted to make sure you were serious or bragging."

A smile was still growing on Tristan's handsome face. The man turned his seat to face Sophia directly. When he was comfortable, he then spoke again. It is necessary to clarify this one thing.

"If you like watching television or gossip shows, it's Edward Oliviera, not Tristan Quartararo, who always appears in the media."

While chuckling softly, Sophia agreed to the man's words next to her. What Tristan said was true. So far, what is often hot news is Edward's glamorous life and likes to change partners.

Meanwhile, Tristan is mostly reported in business affairs and all the achievements he can get. "I guess I really have to believe you."

Hearing that, Tristan laughed softly again. Not long after, Sophia said goodbye to get out of the car.

"Thank you again for your kind heart for taking me home. I hope we can meet again another time."

Tristan nodded in agreement. "Of course. But by the way, the next time I take you out to lunch or dinner, would you mind?"

"Sure. Why, not?"

Sophia answered without hesitation. After all, according to him, Tristan is a good and polite person. There was no reason to refuse the man's invitation.

"OK. If I have free time I'll call and treat you to a meal."

Hearing Tristan's words on this one, Sophia's eyes immediately narrowed.

"Is this some kind of mode of asking for a cell phone number?"

The man shyly nodded. "If you do not mind."

Sophia then reached into her purse from the bag she was carrying. She took out a business card and handed it to Tristan.

"Here's my business card along with my cell phone number. Please write it down and keep it safe. You can call me anytime."

Since that night, Tristan has occasionally contacted Sophia, even though she only greeted the woman via text message. And it was only today that he dared to invite us to go out to lunch together directly.

Tristan thought he should approach Sophia as naturally as possible. Slowly attracting attention, creating a comfortable and deep impression that will make the woman never forget what she did.

"Hi, sorry if I kept you waiting."

Lowering the car window slightly, Tristan immediately greeted Sophia. The woman seemed to be waiting for him directly right in front of the lobby of the agency building.

"It's OK."

Sophia then entered and sat quietly beside Tristan. Let the man take him to a restaurant to have lunch together.

"I didn't expect you to actually invite me to have lunch together," Sophia scolded when the two of them arrived and were choosing the menu to eat.

Tristan turned. The man smiled. "You thought I was just making small talk before?"

Sophia shrugged her shoulders. "I told you, who knows you're just a mode because you want to ask for my cell phone number."

Tristan smiled again. I don't know how many smiles he gave to look cute in front of Sophia. "But the proof is I'm not like that, right? I told you too, I don't have the talent to be a playboy, Sophia."

"OK... OK..." Sophia giggled, amused at Tristan's expression. "From now on, I'll learn to trust that you're not a playboy like Edward."

The two of them then laughed together. Get into the conversation. She was exchanging stories while enjoying the lunch they had ordered.

Sophia needs to admit that Tristan is a fun person to talk to. Broadminded. Even understand almost all the topics that Sophia brings up. There was a bit of amazement in his heart.

"After this do you want me to take you back to work or straight back to the apartment?" asked Tristan when the two of them had finished their lunch.

Sophia glanced at the clock in her hand, and it was already one in the afternoon. That means she has to go back to the agency building to continue her work.

"I still have one more photo shoot. Today I collaborated with Tita, your best friend's lover," she said.

"Then, I'll take you right now so it's not too late."

Sophia didn't refuse. She chose to get up from her seat and followed Tristan's steps toward the restaurant parking area. Going down the stairs to the car, Sophia suddenly slipped, walking a little hastily. Luckily, Tristan, right behind him, immediately held the woman's body so she wouldn't fall.

"Sophia, are you OK?" Tristan shouted while holding Sophia's body.

"I'm fine," the woman replied confidently.

However, when she was about to step back, Sophia reflexively screamed. There was an excruciating pain that ran through her right leg.

"Sophia, are you OK?"

Sophia grimaced. The look on her face was that of someone who was in pain. She didn't know what's going on with her leg. "I don't know. My leg hurts a lot," she said, grinning.

Tristan, without much to say, immediately looked down. He was grabbing Sophia's right leg as if checking something there. "Your legs look red. Can't you walk at all?"

Sophia slowly raised her right leg. She was trying to check if he could step back. At least to Tristan's car, probably less than 50 meters from where he was standing.

"Ouch!" Once again, Sophia screeched. The pain in his legs was utterly intolerable.

"I think I sprained my leg."

Seeing the woman next to her groaning in pain, without asking for permission again, Tristan grabbed Sophia's body. Seconds later, he carried her carefully to the car.

Of course, what Tristan did make Sophia gasp. She never imagined that Tristan would care for her so much.

"You shouldn't have bothered to carry me," Sophia scolded as she settled into the driver's seat.

"How could I let you walk alone, while your legs are sore like now," said Tristan in a worried tone. "In that case, I'll take you to the hospital to see if the pain is serious or not." Sophia shook her head. She refused Arsene's offer, this time to take her to the hospital.

After all, Sophia believes that her leg can heal independently without being treated by any doctor. "No need. Just take me to the apartment. I just need some rest."

Tristan was silent for a moment. He seemed to be considering whether to obey Sophia's words or keep insisting on taking the woman to the hospital.

"I'm fine," Sophia said once again when she saw Tristan's worried expression. "You don't have to worry so much."

Tristan finally nodded, then complied with Sophia's request. Even though there was a feeling of doubt, he still couldn't force his will on the woman.

"OK, then I'll take you home right now."

Then Tristan helped Sophia fasten her seat belt. Pulling the hook, then looping it carefully around the woman's body. Being so close to Tristan made Sophia feel breathless.

Not to mention the citrus woody scent of the perfume that Tristan wears wafting sharply to disturb the sense of smell. It felt like he wanted to lean on Tristan's body to take a deep breath of the perfume.

Why does this man smell so good, he thought. While Tristan was focused on driving, Oliva seemed to rub his chest once in a while. Trying to seduce his crazed heartbeat to return to a normal beat.

But unfortunately, the heart seemed to refuse to cooperate. Still beating so fast that it overwhelmed Sophia. "Oh my heart, cooperate. If this continues, I might die suddenly by you."

***

After taking Sophia home, Tristan did not immediately return to the office. The man turned the wheel to meet his friends gathered in one of the cafes in the middle of London.

It has become a routine schedule for all of them. Every weekend, they will get together for a while, even if it's to eat lunch or dinner together.

"Sorry I'm a little late." The three men who were talking spontaneously turned their heads simultaneously. Edward immediately patted the sofa's surface he was sitting on, asking Tristan to join him and sit next to him immediately.

"Not really. We just got here," Nicholas replied, taking a sip of the caramel frappuccino. "What are you guys discussing? From the front I see how fun it is?" asked Tristan curiously. He took a sip of the Raspberry Blackcurrent that Edward had ordered. His best friend knew what kind of drink or food he liked the most.

"We're talking about valentines," Jacob replied.

"Valentines?" Tristan repeated as he turned to the oriental-looking man.

"Isn't that a long time ago?"

"Yeah, still a month to go." Jacob replied. "It's just that, we are discussing what interesting gifts to give to each partner. As you know, Tita and Claire already have a lot of luxury items. That's why, we wanted to give something unusual."

Tristan nodded in understanding. This time the man's gaze shifted to the figure of Edward, who had been sitting quietly next to him.

"What about yourself, which woman this time are you going to go on a date abroad?" investigate Tristan.

"It's not that you always act the same. Always bring your date to go on vacation together, hmmm?"

"Edward isn't going on vacation this time," interjected Nicholas as if he knew best.

"Oh, yes? Then what will this playboy do?"

"Edward wants to propose to someone."

Hearing Nicholas's answer, Tristan immediately gasped. He did not know about this one news. As he recalled, the man did not want to commit or have a serious relationship before he turned 30. Then, who is the woman who managed to change the mind of Edward Oliviera?

"You want to propose to your lover? Who?" Tristan's expression was that of a confused person. "It's not serious, is it?"

When asked that, Edward just smiled lopsidedly. The man didn't deny what his best friend said in the slightest. Without hesitation and enthusiastically told her wishes.

"I want to propose to Sophia Walters on Valentine's Day next month."

Tristan immediately pulled his face in. "Huh? Sophia Walters? Are you really sure?"

Edward nodded in response. This expression made Tristan ask another question.

"Oh come on, Edward. You don't even know her. Are you sure she feels the same way as you?"

Edward smiled again. He realized that his best friend would doubt this news.

"Out of the many women I've been close to and dated, for some reason I feel like Sophia is the one that fits my personality the best."

"Gosh! You even say that to all women, Ed," Nicholas glared, not accepting his friend's words that seemed to be boasting.

"I'm serious, Nicholas Alistair. This time I'm really serious. Sophia is completely different from most other women. She is so special. There are so many similarities between the two of us that make me feel comfortable and don't want to be away from her. been separated for a long time," he said at length.

"You're hyperbole. You're exaggerating, Edward Oliviera." Again, Nicholas sneered at his best friend.

"So you really want to propose to Sophia? I mean are you sure that woman has the same feelings as you?" Tristan resumed his delayed question.

"I mean it," Edward answered quickly. "I also feel that Sophia has the same feelings as me." feeling the doubtful expression that did not fade from Tristan's face, Edward immediately reached out his hand.

He was gently patting the shoulder of the man next to him while chanting words that might be able to relieve the anxiety that arose. "No need to worry. Just pray that my good intentions can be carried out according to what I expect."

Tristan nodded slowly. The man awkwardly threw a hug toward his best friend.

"Yeah, I'll always wish you the best, Ed."

"I even pray that you are able to meet a woman who really fits and is good for you. Not a murderous child like Sophia. That's why I have to act fast before it's too late," thought Tristan.

After breaking the hug, they continued to chat. At the same time, Tristan seemed a lot silent. He had many plans in mind right now. Her target, for now, was only one, to get Sophia's attention as much as possible so she could stay away from Edward. Of course, he didn't want her to have a serious relationship with a man he considered his brother. Will never!