Chapter 191

The tension between them was palpable as Adrian forced a tight smile. "Thank you, darling," he said through clenched teeth. Perfection had always been his standard, yet here was his wife constantly outshining him in their most intimate moments.

Leonard and Beatrice exchanged knowing glances, mistaking their heated exchange for playful marital banter. The dining room fell into an uneasy silence, each occupant lost in private thoughts.

As dessert plates were cleared, Beatrice turned to them with hopeful eyes. "Must you leave so soon? Stay another night."

Vivian shook her head gently. "I wish we could, Beatrice, but my script revisions can't wait."

Adrian dabbed his lips with a linen napkin, his tone deceptively light. "And I've got that merger presentation tomorrow. My team expects my full attention."

The constant one-upmanship from Vivian left Adrian craving solitude.

Beatrice's voice trembled slightly. "Promise you'll visit more often? This old house echoes with just Leonard and me."

Vivian hesitated before offering a polite nod. "We'll try."

Beatrice signaled a maid who brought forth an insulated cooler. "These are my special herbal tonics - keep them chilled. When you run out, I'll send more."

"Thank you," Vivian reached out.

But Beatrice bypassed her, placing the package directly into Adrian's hands. "You're driving Vivian to her office, yes?"

Vivian opened her mouth to object when Adrian cut in sharply. "Would you rather walk through that downpour and end up bedridden again?" Her protest died on her lips.

After farewells were exchanged, they stepped into the torrential rain.

Vivian moved toward the backseat when Adrian's icy glare stopped her. "Do I look like your chauffeur?"

She slid wordlessly into the passenger seat, jaw clenched.

Adrian navigated the sleek sedan away from Blackwood Estate in silence. Midway through the drive, Vivian suddenly pointed. "The courthouse."

Adrian glanced at the neoclassical building. "Indeed it is," he mused, remembering their rushed marriage license three years prior.

In Northshire tradition, the third anniversary symbolized toughened leather - a relationship tested by time. In Azurevale culture, it represented golden wheat - the fruitful harvest of partnership.

As Adrian contemplated anniversary plans, Vivian's voice sliced through his thoughts. "Pull over. We're filing for divorce."

The tires screeched against wet pavement as the luxury car jerked to a stop.

Rain pounded against the windshield like a thousand accusing fingers.

The space between them had never felt wider.

The leather seats creaked as Vivian reached for the door handle.

Adrian's hand shot out, gripping her wrist with surprising gentleness. "Talk to me," he demanded, his voice rough with uncharacteristic vulnerability.

Vivian froze, her reflection in the rain-streaked window showing eyes bright with unshed tears. "Three years is enough pretending, don't you think?"

The storm outside mirrored the tempest between them.

Adrian's grip tightened imperceptibly. "What if I don't want to pretend anymore?"

The words hung in the air like a challenge.

Like a promise.

Like a new beginning.