Chapter 47

Adrian stepped out of his office, his brow furrowing at the unexpected commotion outside. "What's going on here?"

His sharp gaze immediately landed on the two children standing near Sophia.

Sophia gently set Daisy down and rose to approach him. "These are my niece and nephew. Royal Crown just signed them, so I brought them to meet you."

Liam stepped forward, holding Daisy's small hand. They bowed politely in unison. "Hello, Uncle Adrian."

Adrian studied them intently, his piercing eyes narrowing slightly. There was something oddly familiar about their features. He crouched down to their level, gently ruffling Daisy's hair. "What are your names?"

"I'm Daisy," the little girl beamed. "And this is my brother Liam."

Adrian straightened, turning to Sophia with a questioning look. "Since when do you have a niece and nephew?"

Sophia scratched her cheek awkwardly. "They're my best friend's kids. They call me Godmother, so they might as well be family."

"Your best friend's children?" Adrian repeated slowly.

Sophia nodded vigorously. "That's right."

"Come inside," Adrian said after a moment's hesitation.

Sophia quickly gathered the children and ushered them into the lavish office.

Adrian settled onto the couch, crossing his long legs as he observed the trio. "Who's their father?"

Liam met his gaze steadily. "We don't have a father."

Adrian's perfect eyebrows shot up in surprise.

Sophia sighed dramatically. "Adrian, their mother raised them alone. It hasn't been easy for her. That's why they signed with Royal Crown - to help support their family."

Daisy and Liam exchanged amused glances. Their godmother was laying it on thick!

Adrian picked up his coffee cup, taking a slow sip before speaking. "The entertainment industry is brutal, especially for children. You brought them here expecting special treatment?"

The siblings shared another look. This actor was sharper than Sophia had warned them about. Things were getting interesting.

Sophia gave an awkward laugh, ducking her head. "You caught me."

Adrian set his cup down with a soft clink. "Was this their idea or their mother's?"

Sophia's eyes widened, but Adrian continued smoothly. "We grew up together, Sophia. I know you wouldn't come asking favors unless someone pushed you to it."

Liam's expression darkened. "It was our decision. Our mom doesn't even know we're here. She didn't want us in this industry at all."

"Godmother, stop lying for us," Daisy tugged at Sophia's sleeve with a pout. "We only asked you to bring us because we know you're Mr. Boucher's cousin."

She stood up abruptly. "Uncle Adrian, we're not begging for your help. If you're not interested, we'll leave. Come on, Liam."

Liam gave Adrian one last measuring look before rising. "Let's go."

"Wait, Daisy—" Sophia reached out anxiously as the children headed for the door.

Adrian chuckled softly, his voice carrying across the room. "Come back here."

Sophia turned to him in shock. Was he actually agreeing? Daisy and Liam exchanged triumphant smiles before returning to their seats.