Chapter 126
"Without consequences? Did I suddenly wake up in a world where Ms. Whitmore controls the entire entertainment industry?"
"If she wanted, even an A-list actor would grovel at her feet, and Oscar winners wouldn't dare cross her!" Adrian Blackwood's icy voice cut through the tension as he materialized from the shadows.
Adrian's mood was darker than storm clouds. When had Vivian Hartley become every man's obsession? First, she'd caught Damien Vaughn's attention, now she was openly siding with Sebastian Hartwell. Even Julian Montoya had defended her recently.
A disturbing realization struck Adrian - Vivian had always been drawn to beautiful people. He remembered overhearing her once complimenting his appearance to a friend. At the time, it meant nothing. But now, seeing Sebastian and Julian - both devastatingly handsome - and recalling Damien's reputation as the most attractive CEO in Crestwood, a cold dread slithered down his spine.
Adrian's expression turned glacial, his lips curling in silent derision. Was her affection really that shallow?
Serena noticed the shift in Adrian's demeanor. She understood his sudden outburst wasn't about defending her, but battling unexpected jealousy. Choosing to ignore it, she gently chided, "Adrian, darling, they're not worth your anger." She wanted Vivian to understand every word from Adrian's lips was for her protection.
"It's all just a silly misunderstanding," Gregory Thornton interjected hastily, swinging open the private dining room door to diffuse the situation. "Mr. Blackwood, perfect timing. We've just arrived. Serena must be exhausted from today's shoot. Let's not stand around - please, everyone inside."
Vivian's gaze lingered on Adrian's stormy expression, making her question whether his earlier apology at Sapphire Springs had been a fever dream.
Whenever Serena appeared, Adrian transformed into a stranger. Vivian had accepted his cold demeanor and emotional unavailability, but seeing him passionately defend another woman stabbed deeper than she cared to admit. Had she met Adrian before Serena entered his life, could things have been different? But the universe dealt no "what if" cards. Lowering her lashes, Vivian forcibly cleared her turbulent thoughts.
Treating Adrian like invisible smoke, she turned to Sebastian. "I'm starving. Let's go eat." Sebastian immediately brightened, opening the door wider as he smoothly changed topics. "Do you enjoy seafood? Their signature lobster thermidor is exceptional."
"Adrian," Serena murmured, her fingers lightly brushing his. Adrian's gaze reluctantly tore away from Vivian as he followed Serena into the adjacent private dining room. Did they expect him to compete for attention like some desperate reality star? His pride and upbringing would never allow such undignified behavior.
Inside Sebastian's private dining room, waiters efficiently laid out an extravagant spread of gourmet dishes, their presentation as lavish as their price tags. Sebastian enthusiastically described several house specialties to Vivian, showcasing his culinary knowledge. But Vivian remained distracted, her thoughts tangled in Adrian's unsettling behavior.
Sebastian noticed her preoccupation, misinterpreting it as concern over offending Adrian. He reassured her, "Don't worry. A few sharp words won't bring the world crashing down. Serena's powerful backers wouldn't dare touch you."
At that moment, Harrison Whitaker sharply interjected, "Sebastian! Mind your tongue before it gets you in real trouble."