C10 Provocation!

Ryan Dwyer gave Finley Quinn a polite nod. Turning to Sonia Reed, he said, "Connor mentioned you've studied dance. How about teaching me a few steps?"

Sonia's spirits were surprisingly high. "Sure, no problem."

Together, they made their way to the dance floor. Finley, snapping out of a daze, shook his head with a sigh. "That model's got some moves."

Ryan, with his modeling background, picked up the dance effortlessly. He had even had the DJ switch up the lighting to set the mood, and their movements were in perfect sync.

Connor looked on, sipping his drink and whistling appreciatively.

It might have been years since Sonia last danced; she lost her balance and took a tumble.

Quick as a flash, Ryan caught her in his arms.

Sonia's head rested against his chest, and she could feel the rapid thumping of his heart.

Just then, Toby Fuller walked in to find the usually poised and proper Sonia Reed in the arms of another man, looking every bit the enchanting and sensual siren.

Toby's expression turned stormy.

Ryan murmured in Sonia's ear, "Sis, he's arrived."

Sonia had already spotted Toby in the reflection of a large mirror. Pretending not to notice him, she smiled, adjusted her hair, and said, "I'm getting a bit hungry. I think I'll grab a bite."

Releasing her, Ryan accompanied her away from the dance floor.

As she passed Toby, Sonia paused briefly and lifted her chin slightly—a clear challenge in Toby's eyes.

"Sonia Reed, stop right there!"

She halted, turned with a smile, and said, "Mr. Fuller, what brings you here? I don't recall extending an invitation."

Toby's gaze shifted to Ryan, meeting his defiant stare, and his eyes narrowed.

He addressed Sonia, "You're stirring up quite the scandals so soon after our divorce. You're tarnishing the Fuller family's reputation."

Sonia couldn't help but laugh. "You've no right to preach to me. Who I choose to be with is none of your concern."

"You're mistaken. I'm not interested in meddling, but word has reached Grandmother," Toby said, his stare icy.

Sonia's smile wavered. "The old lady's returned?"

"She wishes to see you," Toby continued. "But if you're too occupied with your dates, feel free to decline."

Without another word, Toby turned and left. Sonia watched him go, her expression a mix of emotions, before deciding to follow.

"Sis."

Ryan moved to join her, but she reassured him with a turn of her head, "Don't worry, I'll be fine."

Ryan watched Sonia's retreating figure, the light fading from his eyes.

At that moment, he caught sight of someone lurking in the corner.

Finley Quinn emerged, looking embarrassed, and cleared his throat. "I was outside for a smoke and couldn't help overhearing their conversation."

Ryan gave him a frosty look and said nothing.

Finley touched his nose, amused by Ryan's hostility. "You've got a thing for Sonia Reed, huh? Relax, I'm not here to compete."

Ryan shot him a chilly glance. "It's windy outside, Mr. Quinn. Perhaps you should head back in." With that, Ryan walked away.

Finley stood there for a moment, then shook his head with a chuckle.