Chapter 245

Vivian's fingers hovered over the keyboard as she reread Julian's message. There was something unsettlingly familiar about his commanding tone that reminded her of Adrian's forceful demeanor.

She blinked rapidly, dismissing the absurd comparison.

Julian was all warmth and charm, the polar opposite of Adrian's brooding intensity.

This was what happened when you spent too many late nights writing dramatic scripts - your imagination started seeing connections where none existed.

With careful politeness, she typed: "That's very kind of you, Julian, but I wouldn't want to impose. You've just gotten back to Crestwood and must have your own affairs to handle. I can take care of this myself."

His reply came instantly: "We're friends, aren't we? It's no trouble. I have connections in the industry that might prove useful."

He'd boxed her into a corner with his persistence, leaving no polite way to refuse.

Exhaling slowly, Vivian sent back a heart emoji with folded hands.

Just then, Audrey's message popped up: "You'll never guess who I ran into today!"

Not in the mood for games, Vivian typed bluntly: "Julian Montclair."

The three bouncing dots appeared immediately, followed by Audrey's shocked response: "What the—how did you know?"

"He mentioned it. Offered to help with the investigation," Vivian replied.

Audrey's excitement exploded across the screen in a rapid-fire barrage of texts:

"Don't you think he's way too involved in your life? That moment at the harbor when he and Adrian locked eyes—straight out of a romantic rivalry scene!"

"Seriously, after your divorce, you should give Julian a shot."

"He's just as gorgeous as Adrian but actually treats you with respect. Adrian's all brooding intensity while Julian's a proper gentleman!"

"And remember when you thought he wasn't into women?"

"Maybe it's because he's been secretly in love with you this whole time! What if he came back specifically for you? The universe works in mysterious ways. You've always played second fiddle to Serena, but to Julian, you're the leading lady."

Vivian stared at her phone, momentarily speechless.

Finally, she typed: "You should be writing scripts, not me. Stop spinning fairy tales. I told him I'm married."

Audrey remained undeterred: "So? Marriage isn't a life sentence. You're practically divorced already. The timing couldn't be more perfect!"

Vivian massaged her temples as a dull ache began forming.

Desperate to change the subject, she asked: "Want to come over for dinner tonight?"

After a brief pause, Audrey replied: "Can't. Dominic booked us at this impossible-to-get-into restaurant. No way I'm missing this!"

The mention of Dominic made Vivian recall how he'd shadowed Audrey at the harbor incident.

What she'd dismissed as coincidence now seemed suspiciously deliberate.

"When did you and Dominic get so... close?" Vivian typed, curiosity getting the better of her.

Audrey's defensive reply came instantly: "I swear it's not what you think! I didn't betray you! We met by chance, and I had no idea he was Adrian's friend at the time!"