Chapter 248

Vivian didn't expect Adrian to defend her when the truth came out.

But every piece of evidence she gathered strengthened her position against his first love.

Gwendolyn entered the dining room, carefully arranging the dishes.

She brushed past Vivian, heading toward Adrian while drying her hands. "Mr. Blackwood, Memorial Day is this weekend. My hometown is quite far, and I'd like to request additional days off."

Vivian's fork froze mid-air.

Her mother's memory flashed before her eyes.

She'd been so absorbed in work that she'd forgotten to visit her mother's grave.

Without Gwendolyn's reminder, Memorial Day might have completely slipped her mind.

Adrian glanced at Vivian. "You're in charge of household matters. Discuss it with her."

Vivian spoke softly, maintaining her composure. "Take the week. Message me if you need more time."

"Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood," Gwendolyn replied quickly.

Vivian met Adrian's gaze. "I'm visiting my mother's grave in my hometown for Memorial Day. I won't be returning with you."

After Catherine's death, Richard had been preoccupied with his new wife, leaving funeral arrangements to Eleanor, who had taken Catherine's ashes home.

"I have business there. I'll accompany—" Adrian began, interrupted by his ringing phone.

His hesitation was evident as he looked at Vivian.

Vivian instantly recognized Serena's call. She turned away, continuing her meal. The lightly seasoned dishes perfectly suited Adrian's taste—another reminder of how Gwendolyn catered to his preferences.

Adrian hesitated before answering.

Serena's sugary voice carried through the receiver. "Adrian, I'm free Memorial Day. Let's visit Silverpine?"

His response was cool and distant. "Serena, the Emberglow County development has sparked interest in neighboring areas. I need to assess renovation potential. I'll send you a card—buy whatever you like. I'll arrange company for you."

Vivian stabbed a shrimp with unnecessary force, biting into it as if it were Adrian himself.

As Gwendolyn passed by, she muttered just loud enough to hear, "Mr. Blackwood is always so generous with Ms. Whitmore. She must be drowning in money by now."

Vivian caught the barbed comment, wondering if it was directed at her.

Not that it mattered.

Money wasn't the issue—Adrian had always been lavish with her too.

What hurt was the difference in how he treated her versus Serena.

For Serena, he offered explanations and reassurances. For Vivian, only blank checks and cold indifference.

After two years of marriage, she remained excluded from his business and personal life.