Chapter 228

Adrian's lips pressed into a thin line as he declared, "The receptionist has been dismissed."

Audrey let out a derisive laugh, tossing her hair dramatically. "How convenient. Passing the blame again, are we?"

Lydia swiftly pulled Audrey aside, shooting her a warning glance. "Audrey, enough. Don't push this."

Despite Adrian's attempt to shift responsibility, everyone could see he was still shielding Serena.

Vivian's voice remained steady, though her words cut like glass. "After all, if I, the temporary Mrs. Blackwood, were to leave, Blackwood Group's stocks would plummet. Whether it's your precious Serena's medical expenses or her entertainment investments, they're all bottomless pits, aren't they?"

Her gaze never wavered, her tone flat, yet the pointed remark made Adrian visibly flinch.

As she tucked a stray lock behind her ear, her sleeve slipped back, exposing angry red marks circling her wrist.

Adrian's eyes lingered on the marks, his throat working as if words refused to come.

The air grew thick with tension, an uncomfortable silence stretching between them.

Finally, Ethan stepped forward, taking Vivian's bag and slinging it over his shoulder. "Mrs. Blackwood, allow me."

He hadn't anticipated his attempt to score points with his boss would backfire so spectacularly.

Life was challenging enough without the added difficulty of being Adrian Blackwood's assistant.

Seabreeze Villa

Inside the lavish estate, Gwendolyn paced like a caged animal, her nerves frayed.

Two hours earlier, Ethan had called to inform her Adrian was bringing Vivian home to stay.

He'd instructed her to prepare for their arrival.

When Vivian had disappeared, Gwendolyn had secretly prayed she'd never return.

She hadn't expected the situation to backfire so completely.

Now not only was Vivian safe, she was returning to the villa.

Gwendolyn's anxiety had reached unbearable levels.

The chime of the doorbell snapped her from her spiraling thoughts.

Opening the door to Vivian's flawless face made her stomach drop.

Masking her dismay, Gwendolyn composed herself, forcing a polite smile.

She ushered Vivian in respectfully, presenting a fresh pair of slippers.

With feigned enthusiasm, she gushed, "I've been praying for your safe return, Mrs. Blackwood. My prayers have been answered. Now that you're back, everything will be perfect."

Adrian's tone brooked no argument as he stated, "An additional two thousand monthly in your salary."

Gwendolyn's eyes immediately brightened, her smile turning genuine. "Thank you, Mr. Blackwood! Thank you, Mrs. Blackwood!"