As Sophia and kate made their way down the stairs, Sophia’s eyes immediately met her father’s. He sat beside Maya, though his usual lively energy seemed noticeably absent.

A deep crease had formed between his brows, and for a moment, Sophia wondered what had dampened his mood.

Her attention shifted from the small group of familiar faces gathered around them. While she couldn’t recall every name, she recognized most of the guests.

“Where exactly are you heading, Sophia?” her father asked, his tone sharp with disapproval.

She had anticipated this reaction. After all, he was her dad—he preferred to keep her close, always within sight.

“I’m going to the club...