Chapter 130

Vivian watched as Sebastian's hands shot up in surrender, his voice trembling. "This isn't what it looks like! Total misunderstanding!"

She kept her composure flawless, turning to Adrian with icy calm. "Just an accident. He was trying to shield me. Don't make this dramatic."

The air crackled as Adrian and Sebastian locked gazes, an unspoken challenge passing between them.

Sebastian's voice dropped to a dangerous whisper. "If you've got issues with me, take it up directly. Leave her out of this. I'm the one who insulted Serena. Threw the first punch too. She took the hit for you. Cancel the endorsement if you want—"

Harrison pieced together the situation instantly. He stepped between the two men like a human shield. "Mr. Blackwood, youthful impulsiveness. Surely not worth your attention."

Vivian exhaled sharply, crossing her arms. "Really, Adrian? Picking on someone younger than you?" Her earlier protective stance made the words land like knives.

That phrase—"younger than you"—seemed to drain the fight from Adrian. Was that all this was? Some maternal instinct toward a naive boy?

Adrian's assessing gaze swept over Sebastian again. The expensive suit couldn't disguise the puppyish uncertainty in those eyes. For all his height, just a clumsy kid playing dress-up.

Seeing Adrian's shoulders relax marginally, Harrison pressed his advantage. "Mr. Blackwood, please consider—"

Adrian cut him off with a dismissive flick of his wrist. "Don't flatter yourself. He's beneath my notice."

The subtext screamed louder than words—Sebastian wasn't worth the energy.

Vivian jerked her chin toward the exit. "Harrison, take him and go."

Sebastian planted his feet. "Not without you," he growled, eyes never leaving Adrian. "I don't like you alone with him."

"Harrison," Vivian's voice turned steely, "I know Mr. Blackwood. Remove Sebastian. Now."

Adrian's lips twitched at her commanding tone. He turned away, granting silent permission for their departure.

Harrison's nervous gaze darted between them before he began apologizing profusely to Adrian while trying to steer Sebastian toward the door.

Sebastian resisted until Harrison hissed in his ear, "Fine, ruin your career. But ready to tank your idol's chances before she even debuts?"

The words hit like a gut punch. Shoulders slumping, Sebastian finally moved—but not without shooting Adrian a venomous glare over his shoulder, dragging his feet like a petulant child.

As they retreated, Harrison muttered under his breath, "Christ."

The heavy door clicked shut behind them.

Silence.

Then Adrian turned slowly, his gaze burning into Vivian. "Now," he purred, "where were we?"