Chapter 118

Vivian refused to humor his antics, flinging the water bottle toward Adrian before popping open her own soda with a satisfying hiss.

She took a slow, deliberate sip, her lips curling into a mischievous smile. "This cheap soda is far beneath your refined palate, Mr. Blackwood."

Adrian found himself unusually speechless, a faint flush creeping up his neck as he recalled his own mocking comments about Julian's beverage choices. Vivian's eyes sparkled with triumph, thoroughly enjoying his discomfort.

A deafening crack of thunder shattered the moment, followed by a brilliant flash of lightning that illuminated the rapidly darkening sky. The sudden storm startled Vivian, giving Adrian the perfect opportunity to swipe her soda can. His fingers brushed against the faint lipstick mark where her lips had touched the rim. When he drank from the same spot, the memory of her soft lips sent an unexpected jolt through him.

By the time Vivian recovered, Adrian was already smirking, tilting the nearly empty can in her direction. "Turns out stepping out of my comfort zone wasn't so terrible after all."

"Pathetic," she scoffed, rolling her eyes dramatically. Pulling out her phone, she decided it was time to end this charade. "I'm calling Ethan to come collect his wayward boss."

Adrian's expression darkened as she dialed, her voice sharp against the sound of pounding rain. "There's a storm raging outside. Would you mind retrieving your employer?"

Ethan's response came through with surprising hesitation. "My apologies, Mrs. Blackwood, but I'm currently occupied." Since Vivian was standing close, Adrian overheard every word. He settled deeper into the couch cushions, taking another leisurely sip with an air of satisfaction.

Vivian shot Adrian a suspicious glance before pressing the phone closer to her ear. "Surely there must be someone available? A driver? An assistant?"

"All vehicles are undergoing maintenance, and the staff has left for the evening," Ethan replied smoothly. The convenient excuse made Vivian's eyes narrow in disbelief, though she lacked the records to disprove his claim.

Retreating to the bathroom for privacy, she lowered her voice to a furious whisper. "If this is your attempt at matchmaking, it's wasted effort. His presence only causes more problems."

Ethan maintained his professional calm. "You're overthinking this, Mrs. Blackwood. I genuinely can't get away right now. Could you have him wait a bit longer? I'll be there as soon as possible."

"Your audacity is astounding," Vivian snapped before abruptly ending the call.

Returning to find Adrian sprawled comfortably on her sofa, she crossed her arms. "I'm tired of these games. Remember, this is a leased apartment. I can walk away anytime."

Adrian regarded her with genuine surprise. "You honestly believe I'd go through this much trouble just to follow you?" His baffled expression gave her pause.

Vivian studied him carefully, searching for deception but finding none. "So you're telling me this is all just... coincidence?"

He adjusted his position, his tone unexpectedly gentle. "Actually, I'm helping Dominic's cousin find an apartment. She's attending the international school nearby."