She Used Me for a Dare… Now I Own Her Mother Chapter 436: Empty Throne

Marcus returned to the table, his cell phone still noticeably warm in his grasp.

The others were already immersed in a vibrant discussion. Sophia chuckled softly at something Tyler had remarked, while Robert leaned in with a wide grin, evidently pleased. The mood around the table felt decidedly buoyant.

He slid his chair out and took a seat.

Instantly, Sophia turned toward him, her smile radiating warmth and sweetness.

"Who was that on the phone?" she inquired, her voice gentle and tinged with concern.

"It was my father," Marcus responded.

"Everything alright?" she pressed further, tilting her head slightly, a clear line of worry etched in her eyes.

From the periphery, Jennifer emitted a low, sarcastic titter. Sophia's excessive sweetness grated on her nerves, feeling entirely disingenuous. In fact, everything about Sophia that day seemed manufactured.

Marcus responded with a slight shake of his head, a faint smirk playing on his lips.

"Yes, everything is fine."

Truthfully, he was reveling in this moment. Their relationship had been characterized by a chilling distance for weeks, leading him to believe Sophia had lost all interest. However, this past week had brought a significant shift; she had become noticeably warmer and more attentive, effectively dispelling his growing paranoia.

He surveyed the table before asking with an air of casualness,

"So, what exactly were you all debating?"

Sophia beamed and provided the answer,

"Well... we were discussing post-college plans. Debating the ideal place to settle."

Tyler and Robert quickly chimed in.

"Yeah," Tyler affirmed. "We were actually planning an outing for tonight, but the destination is still undecided. Jennifer was suggesting..."

"Apologies, everyone," Marcus interjected smoothly, his tone dripping with smugness. "I already have quite distinct plans for Sophia this evening. I trust you'll manage without our company."

He then directed his gaze solely at her.

"What do you say, Sophia?"

Without the slightest pause, Sophia’s smile widened as she replied,

"Absolutely. My apologies, Tyler and Robert... perhaps another time."

She bestowed upon them a playful wink.

Both young men nodded, their smiles strained and unconvincing. Yet, their eyes betrayed a vastly different emotion—irritation, perhaps even suppressed anger. Though their exact feelings were difficult to pinpoint, they were undeniably far from pleased.

Marcus pushed his chair back, rising to his feet.

"Shall we?" he prompted, a subtle smile gracing his features as he looked at Sophia.

Sophia nodded without hesitation, rising as well. She offered a swift wave to the others at the table.

"See you all later," she chirped sweetly, then followed Marcus out of the cafe.

The instant they departed, an uncomfortable silence descended upon the remaining group.

Tyler and Robert exchanged a brief glance, their disappointment palpable. Their evening's agenda had just been unceremoniously derailed.

Jennifer observed both of them, her own expression mirroring their clear dissatisfaction. She leaned forward slightly, her eyes fixed intently on them.

"It appears you two were quite set on this outing," she remarked, her tone laced with distinct sarcasm. She then added, "Has anyone else noticed anything unusual about Sophia's behavior recently?"

Both Tyler and Robert immediately shook their heads.

"What do you mean?" Tyler inquired, attempting a casual demeanor, though a tremor of unease laced his voice. It was evident they harbored fears of Jennifer suspecting something.

Jennifer remained unwavering, her gaze steady.

"I mean... she's been acting rather peculiar lately. More vibrant, sweeter than her usual self. I assumed you two, being in her constant company, might have some insight."

Tyler and Robert shared a fleeting second glance. Following this, they both reiterated their negation.

"No," Robert stated firmly. "We haven't observed any such changes."

"Indeed," Tyler added swiftly. "She appears perfectly normal to us."

Robert suddenly stood, his attention drawn to his watch.

"It's nearly time for classes," he announced. "And my focus needs to be absolute. My father would be furious if my final grades aren't stellar."

Without awaiting a response, he retrieved his bag and exited with haste.

Tyler offered an awkward smile before also rising.

"Yes... I really must be off as well. I have some work to wrap up," he mumbled before hurrying after Robert.

Jennifer watched their receding figures, a smirk spreading across her face.

"Stellar grades, huh?" she mused aloud, her voice barely a whisper. "Since when did they become so concerned with academic performance?"

She settled back into her chair, the smirk intensifying.

She was now convinced—whatever transformations Sophia was undergoing undoubtedly involved these two. Their reactions were overly guarded, excessively defensive.

’Could she possibly be interested in these two buffoons?’ she pondered momentarily, only to quickly dismiss the notion.

’Highly improbable... Yet, considering Sophia's recent conduct... anything truly seems attainable.’

She shook her head, attempting to clear the jumble of thoughts.

Her mind then began to drift, focusing on Alex. A faint, wistful smile graced her lips.

’If only I could simply visit him whenever the mood struck…’ she daydreamed.

***

Marcus and Sophia departed from the college side-by-side, their hands intertwined. The afternoon sun remained brilliant, bathing them in a warm, golden luminescence.

A persistent, uncontrollable smile graced Marcus's features; he was undeniably happy. After a period of frostiness between them, his father had finally granted his approval for Sophia, making it feel as though all was finally aligning correctly.

They arrived at his car, and Marcus, with the politeness of a true gentleman, opened the passenger door for her before proceeding to the driver's side. Sophia turned towards him, her face alight with excitement.

'Where are we headed?' she inquired with cheerful curiosity.

He ignited the engine and cast a look at her, his demeanor composed yet serious.

'We're going to my residence.'

Sophia's eyes widened slightly.

'Hmm?'

'Indeed,' Marcus affirmed, his voice unwavering. 'Today... I wish for you to formally meet my parents. As my girlfriend.'

He shifted slightly in his seat, gently grasping her hand. His gaze met hers directly.

'Listen, Sophia... I am truly regretful for my past actions,' he murmured softly. 'When you were navigating a difficult period... my state of mind was not optimal. I mishandled everything. But please... grant me your forgiveness. I genuinely desire you. And I hope that you won't turn me away.'

Sophia regarded him for a moment. Perceiving the profound seriousness and sincerity in his expression, she suddenly let out a delicate peal of laughter.

With a tender smile, Sophia looked at him, her fingers lightly pressing his joined hand. 'You tend to overthink things, my dear,' she cooed sweetly. 'How could I possibly refuse you?'

She leaned in slightly, adding, 'And truth be told, I harbors no anger towards you. How could I?'

Then, with a spark of excitement dancing in her eyes, she beamed and declared, 'Come on, let's go! I’m eager to meet Auntie and Uncle as well.'

Marcus’s visage radiated sheer delight. He nodded enthusiastically, his heart feeling significantly lighter than it had in many weeks.

Without further utterance, he engaged the car and drove towards his home, a small, satisfied smile still gracing his lips.

***

Blackwood University – President’s Office

The capacious, opulent office exuded tranquility. Sunlight permeated the expansive glass windows, casting a gentle light upon the meticulously polished wooden desk.

Miranda Whitman occupied the primary seat – the President’s chair. Her bearing was upright, yet her gaze seemed lost in thought, fixed upon the nameplate positioned precisely before her.

Miranda Whitman – The President

This specific position had been her ambition for years. She had envisioned it. She had strived diligently for it.

However, not under these circumstances. Never like this.

A profound sigh escaped her lips as she reclined in the chair. Her fingertips delicately traced the perimeter of the nameplate.

'Why did you do this, Gerald…?' she whispered, her voice barely a breath. 'Why?'

A solitary tear traced a path down her cheek, catching the light as it descended.

She had contended with him numerous times. Disagreed. Raised her voice. Even endured separation from him for months due to this issue. She had implored him, cautioned him, begged him not to oppose them. Yet, he remained unyielding.

'I consistently advised you against opposing them…' she murmured, her voice beginning to waver. 'But why? Why did you fall into their snare?'

They had dangled everything before him – influence, security, and a role lasting a lifetime. His sole obligation was to comply. But he chose a different path.

And now… he was gone.

She occupied the chair she had perpetually desired, yet it felt devoid of substance. Empty.

She was powerless.

She couldn't even reveal the true sequence of events to anyone. She was uncertain whom to trust. The individuals she could turn to were few… and those she could truly depend on were even fewer.

Miranda closed her eyes, another tear descending as the immense burden of it all settled heavily upon her chest.

A soft rapping at the door drew Miranda from her introspective state.

She swiftly brushed the tear from her cheek with the back of her hand and sat upright. Drawing a deep breath, she composed her features, compelling them to reflect professionalism and control.

'Enter,' she commanded, her voice steady.

The door opened gradually, admitting Tisha Wells. She was impeccably dressed in a formal blouse and pencil skirt, carrying a file. Her expression was serene, though a subtle undertone of concern was discernible in her eyes as she regarded Miranda.