Chapter 241

The only reason Vivian didn't suspect Adrian was being forced out of Blackwood Group was knowing any leadership change would make front-page news.

Adrian's fingers stilled on the keyboard. His icy gaze met hers as he stated, "This is my rightful place too."

Vivian blinked, momentarily speechless.

Their tense silence was interrupted by Gwendolyn's arrival, bearing an exquisite crystal bowl of steaming soup. Fresh papaya slices floated atop the creamy coconut milk broth, creating an artful presentation.

"Mrs. Blackwood, I brought you our signature papaya coconut fish maw soup," Gwendolyn offered with practiced grace, placing it before Vivian with hopeful expectation.

Vivian took a delicate sip. "Not quite as refined as Beatrice's version at Blackwood Manor," she remarked casually.

Her thoughts drifted to that memorable bowl Beatrice had prepared - the one Serena had shamelessly claimed for herself.

A flicker of irritation crossed Gwendolyn's features before she schooled her expression. "Please try again, Mrs. Blackwood. This was prepared by a Michelin-starred chef personally recommended by my son."

The chef in question had been sending lavish gifts to Gwendolyn ever since her son suggested him to impress Adrian.

While the soup was certainly palatable, Vivian set down her spoon decisively after Gwendolyn's persistent urging.

Adrian intervened smoothly, "If Mrs. Blackwood isn't enjoying it, there's no need to force the matter."

"Of course, Mr. Blackwood," Gwendolyn murmured, bowing her head to hide her bitter expression.

Since Vivian's return, Gwendolyn had been systematically cut off from her usual lucrative schemes.

Vivian was preparing to establish some boundaries when her phone buzzed with Lydia's call.

"You're dismissed," she told Gwendolyn with a wave before answering. "Lydia? What's happened?"

"Vivian! Have you checked Twitter? Isabella just publicly defended you! Sebastian's fans are actually calming down!" Lydia's excitement crackled through the speaker.

Vivian frowned. "What exactly did Isabella say?"

Before she could process the information, Adrian had already pulled up the tweet on his tablet. Instead of handing it to her, he drew her close against his side, sharing the screen in an intimate embrace.

Too absorbed in reading, Vivian barely registered the protective gesture.

Isabella's post painted a detailed portrait of Vivian's relationship with Sebastian - one of mentorship and sibling-like care, emphasizing Vivian's positive influence without any ulterior motives.

She revealed Vivian and Sebastian shared a history that would be explained after their current project due to contractual obligations.

The message stressed their bond was built on mutual healing and genuine affection, completely devoid of romantic or exploitative undertones.