Chapter 160

Vivian hesitated before accepting the bag, murmuring a quiet "Thank you."

Ethan looked visibly relieved, giving an approving nod before offering some comforting words and turning to leave.

"So what do you think of Ethan?" Vivian asked casually, studying Isabella with curious eyes.

"He seems decent enough," Isabella replied with a nonchalant shrug.

"Just decent?"

Vivian arched an eyebrow but didn't press further, her attention already shifting to the food Ethan had delivered.

Isabella, however, seemed more intrigued by examining the contents. The porcelain soup container was exquisite and substantial, radiating understated elegance.

"This definitely isn't from some ordinary takeout place!" Isabella exclaimed, her face brightening. "Vivian, Mr. Blackwood treats you exceptionally well. A wealthy, gorgeous CEO pampering you? That's every girl's fantasy."

Vivian's lips curved into a faint, knowing smile. "These gestures mean nothing to someone with his resources. For men like him, it's the easiest way to show attention."

Isabella paused, considering her words. "You're right," she said thoughtfully. "Though I heard when Serena was ill, he personally carried her to the hospital and stayed by her bedside the entire time. Even with all his devotion, he still couldn't escape being... well, typical male behavior."

She had meant to generalize, but as a particular face flashed through her mind, her words trailed off.

Looking at Vivian with sudden admiration, Isabella added, "You're so level-headed. No wonder Sebastian respects you so much."

Vivian forced a smile, changing the subject. "Have you eaten? There's too much here for one person. Join me?"

Was she truly level-headed? If she were, she wouldn't have allowed herself to remain in such a precarious, humiliating situation. If she were truly sensible, she wouldn't have hesitated when their contractual year ended.

After lunch, Isabella left for work, leaving Vivian alone in the quiet room. Fortunately, the sedative she'd been given was mild, leaving no lasting effects. Between hydration, rest, and a satisfying meal, she quickly regained her usual energy.

After a revitalizing shower, she changed into a simple yet elegant long-sleeved nightgown. Settling against the headboard, she retrieved the Ambermyst script and began rehearsing her lines with quiet intensity. Seeing the story she'd written through an actress's perspective brought fresh insights, as if she were uncovering hidden layers within her own creation.

Time passed swiftly when immersed in creative work. Before she noticed, daylight had surrendered to twilight's deep hues. The rhythmic patter of heavy rain outside enveloped the room in cozy isolation, making it feel like a solitary island adrift in a stormy sea.

Her concentration was broken by a knock at the door. Assuming it was Isabella or perhaps Sebastian bringing dinner, she padded to the door still holding the script, her mind elsewhere. But when she opened it, she was met with an entirely unexpected sight.

Adrian stood there, rain-drenched and intense. Her brow furrowed as she lowered the script, blurting out, "What are you doing here?"