Page 8 of Chasing Sophia

“Hi, man. I like your watch. Isn’t this Patek Philippe’s latest launch? This must have cost you a fortune.”

A heavy ball of doubt lodges in my throat, making it difficult to swallow, which is only intensified by Nicoleta’s sharp squeal.“I never thought you’d ever date a rich guy, Sophia. You used to hate everything about rich folks.”

“Really, Sophia?” Miss Tee’s eyebrow arches in question, and even though I know my opinions aren’t wrong, I squirm.

“I don’t think it’s fair that people get undue advantage based on the family they’re born into. It’s not like we have any control of it. Talent should always be a determining factor for success and opportunities.”

Miss Tee seems satisfied, but Nicoleta deadpans, “Yet, you’re with Asher.”

I’m speechless because even though Asher told me he was at The Queen’s honoring an invitation, I don’t know what he does for a living. From the silky fabric of his suit and his polished demeanor, it’s clear he isn’t a driver or a farmer.

When I look at Asher, he smiles and then replies to Nicoleta. “My friend’s father works at the watch company, and they often receive gifts. I knew today was a big day for Soph, so…” He shrugs, and Miss Tee finishes his sentence.

“You borrowed it. That’s so nice of you to do that for Sophia.”

How does he do that? Impress everyone effortlessly with that regal charm.

But Nicoleta isn’t done yet. “What do you do for a living, Asher?”

“I work at The Queen’s,” he replies without hesitation.

“How did you two meet?”

“Coincidentally, at The Queen’s. Sophia was there to meet a… friend.” His jaw clenches, and I bite back my shiver at the sight of his over-the-top jealous nature.

“Do you—”

Thankfully, Miss Tee interrupts the burning line of questions. “Let the poor boy catch a breath, Nicoleta.”

“Would you like a drink?” I ask Asher.

He shakes his head. “I’ll be driving us home.”

Handsome and responsible. For a second, I wish Asher wasn’t afakeboyfriend.

“Do you play… or sing?” Miss Tee queries.

Asher’s controlled mask lowers for a beat as he chuckles, and the deep, rich sound vibrates in my limbs. “I do not have a musical bone in my body.”

“But you love listening to Sophia play, don’t you?” Miss Tee grins.

Nervousness flows inside me when Asher shrugs. What kind of boyfriend doesn’t love to hear his professional pianist girlfriend play?

“Sophia wants me to hear her play at the New Year’s Gala for the first time. That’s why performing in this event is so important to her.”

Holy moly! He didn’t just say that.

The daggers Nicoleta was shooting my way have turned into bombs, but Miss Tee doesn’t seem to mind at all. “Then we have to make sure that happens, because your girl is very talented.”

“I have no doubt about it.” He grins and places a kiss on my hair.

6

ASHCROFT

“I don’t knowwhat to say,” Sophia whispers at she waves a goodbye to Miss Tee from the passenger seat.

I turn on the ignition of William’s Fiat. “You can say you’d like to go out with me tomorrow.”

---