Joanna understood these women’s thoughts well. If it weren’t for Livinus’s no-nonsense attitude toward women, the number of colleagues trying to seduce him would be countless.
Once, a female employee tried to flirt with him and was immediately fired by Livinus on the spot. She was so humiliated she resigned without even taking her belongings.
Since then, rumors spread throughout the company, and everyone knew their president wasn’t someone you could win over with tricks. Still, there were always women trying to take shortcuts, hoping to climb the ladder and become a phoenix.
If female employees posed no threat, then what about celebrities? Several beautiful and cunning actresses had their sights set on Livinus. Only Sophia believed mutual trust was enough.
“In today’s world, temptation is everywhere. Being married doesn’t make much difference. Just look at Olivia, isn’t she a perfect example? Dr. Sophia, you should stay vigilant,” Joanna advised.
Though Joanna seemed carefree, she was tactful and perceptive. Her words always carried a hint of warning.
“Thank you, Joanna. I just feel that while I can keep an eye on him temporarily, I can’t do it forever. He’s not a dog, and I can’t put a lock on him. What good would that do?” Sophia replied candidly.
Joanna was momentarily stunned by Sophia’s bluntness. She coughed lightly. “All I’m saying is, men can have an affair in the time it takes to go to the bathroom. Cheating is too easy, and modern women lack moral boundaries. Keep an eye on President!”
Sophia smiled but didn’t say anything further.
She reviewed her dance steps once more, then decided to take a walk with Joanna. To avoid unnecessary trouble, she wore a mask. Unexpectedly, as soon as they stepped out, they ran into Olivia.
Olivia was clearly dressed to impress, looking both gentle and elegant. With her pregnancy glow, she could even be considered a beautiful expectant mother.
Sophia was about to walk past her when Olivia spoke up.
“Are you President’s girlfriend?” Olivia asked.
Sophia paused, studying her for a moment. It seemed Olivia hadn’t recognized her. Olivia offered a polite smile.
“I’m Olivia, the wife of President’s nephew. We’ll be seeing a lot of each other in the future.”
Sophia’s lips curved slightly in an ambiguous smile. She said nothing. Olivia, mistaking her silence for shyness, continued smiling.
“I heard Livinus is opening the dance with his girlfriend tonight. I didn’t expect you to be so beautiful. You should come over to our house more often.”
Sophia casually brushed back her hair, revealing a ring on her right hand. Olivia’s eyes widened in shock as she exclaimed, “That ring… did he give it to you?”
Sophia nodded.
“My goodness! He’s so good to you! That ring must have cost a fortune!” Olivia said, full of envy.
Inside, she was bitter. Her husband, Henry, had given her a ring valued at tens of millions but costing less than a million in reality. She had been thrilled and flaunted it to the media. But here was Livinus, unmarried yet casually gifting his girlfriend a ring worth millions. Truly, there was no comparison. Livinus was the real epitome of wealth.
Seeing Sophia remain silent, Olivia forced a laugh. “He must adore you. Let’s meet up sometime at my place and chat properly. I’ll take my leave now.”
Sophia responded with a faint smile, lips slightly pursed.
After Olivia left, Joanna burst out laughing. “Dr. Sophia, if she knew you were President’s girlfriend, don’t you think her reaction would’ve been priceless?”
Sophia smirked mockingly. The surprises she had in store for Olivia were far from over.
—
The event began with two famous hosts delivering their opening remarks.
A renowned opera singer took the stage, followed by professional performers. Eventually, the actors arranged themselves into a formation, making welcoming gestures as the stage lights shifted toward the walkway.
Sophia took a deep breath. This was really happening—she was about to go on stage.
“Nervous?” Livinus asked, looking down at her with a slight smile.
“Not really.”
Having been in the spotlight since childhood, she wasn’t easily fazed. However, stepping outside her comfort zone did make her feel uncertain.
“Don’t worry. Just follow my lead,” Livinus said, his powerful aura palpable as he leaned close to her ear. “From now on, whenever you feel unsteady, you can hold my hand. I’ll never let go.”
Before Sophia could process his words, he led her onto the stage.
With music and lighting in sync, the actors applauded from the sides. The bustling stage dispelled any lingering nerves. Sophia followed Livinus’s rhythm, entrusting herself to him. As she twirled, she could feel his gaze—intense and scorching like the spotlight—making her heart race.
When the segment ended, thunderous applause filled the venue.
A host approached with a smile. “I’m surprised, President. I didn’t know you could dance.”
Livinus, familiar with the host, chuckled. “I’m no professional. Hopefully, my amateur attempt gives others more confidence to perform.”
