Chapter 17

Dominic's cheeks burned with humiliation as he ran a hand through his hair, attempting to disguise his irritation. "You know how women are. Sometimes they need space. Let me try one last time."

He pressed the call button again, hope flickering in his gaze, only to be greeted by the robotic voice of an automated system. "The number you're trying to reach is unavailable—"

The realization hit him like a tidal wave. Dominic carefully placed the phone down and took several steps back from Adrian.

The truth was undeniable—Vivian had blocked Adrian's number.

Adrian's piercing stare remained fixed on the silent device, his jaw clenched tight.

A storm of emotions raged behind his eyes—betrayal mixing with barely contained fury.

The festive mood of Adrian's gathering had been destroyed when the unexpected divorce papers arrived by courier.

Adrian had just returned from seeing Serena home, the night fully embracing the city.

Ethan, seated in the front passenger seat, turned with concern etched on his features. "Mr. Blackwood, where should we go tonight?"

Adrian's first thought was Seabreeze Villa, but the memory of Vivian sent a fresh wave of pain through him.

"Take me to Blackwood Manor," he commanded, his voice like ice.

Ethan nodded in silent understanding.

The driver immediately changed course toward the imposing gates of the Blackwood estate.

At dawn the next morning, Ethan and the chauffeur arrived to collect Adrian once more.

Sitting pensively in the backseat, Adrian listened as Ethan reviewed the day's schedule, his steady voice cutting through the morning quiet.

Midway through, Ethan hesitated, his sudden silence drawing Adrian's attention.

"Is there something you're not telling me?" Adrian demanded.

Ethan cleared his throat nervously. "Mr. Blackwood, there's an urgent contract in Crystalpeak that requires your signature tomorrow."

Adrian raised an eyebrow. "It's just an overnight trip. Pack a few essentials. What's the issue?"

With visible discomfort, Ethan explained, "Your travel preparations were always handled by Mrs. Blackwood. She took care of everything—your wardrobe, toiletries, all the details."

The staff had attempted to fill this role on occasion, but their efforts never matched Vivian's impeccable standards—standards Adrian had come to expect.

A shadow crossed Adrian's face at the mention of his wife.

After a moment's hesitation, Ethan cautiously suggested, "Should I contact Mrs. Blackwood to assist with—"

Adrian's glare cut him off mid-sentence.

The tension in the car became palpable.

Ethan immediately dropped the subject, realizing his mistake.

The remainder of the ride passed in heavy silence.

Adrian stared out the window, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts.

The cityscape blurred past as the car moved steadily toward its destination.

Each passing building seemed to mock him with memories of what he'd lost.

The weight of Vivian's absence pressed down on him more heavily than he cared to admit.

His fingers tightened around the armrest as frustration built within him.

Ethan wisely kept his eyes forward, giving his employer space.

The morning sun cast long shadows across the pavement as they arrived at the office.

Adrian stepped out of the car, his expression unreadable.

The day stretched before him, filled with meetings and obligations.

Yet his thoughts kept returning to one unavoidable truth—Vivian had walked away.

And he had no idea how to get her back.