The instant Sophia uttered those words, a slow, almost imperceptible smile flickered across Arthur's lips, carrying with it an unmistakable air of mischief.
His gaze locked onto hers, dark and unreadable, as if savoring the moment before delivering a response.
But just as he parted his lips to speak, the sudden vibration of his phone shattered the tension in the air.
Sophia watched as Arthur reached into his pocket with practiced ease, retrieving the device.
Yet, even as he answered the call, his piercing gaze never wavered from her, a silent indication that he was still deeply attuned to their conversation.
He didn't say a word.
His silence stretched on, the only sound filling the space between them being the faint murmurs of the person on the other end.
It was clear—he was simply waiting, allowing the speaker to deliver the information he sought.
Then, just as the call neared its end, a shift occurred.
